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Volume 58 Number 5 Lubbock, Texas 79493 Copyright $9.00 Per Year May 1991 |
Personal Election, Effectual Calling Our Kingdom Works Equals Salvation The Authority of the Word of God Heave Offering Rules to visit the sick, mourning Risen in Christ I Will Lift Mine Eyes Unto the Hills Brother Hank Matthews Sister Ada DeGarmo Cora Alice Bush Sister Pauline Barrington Mollie Ryan Sister Ida May Cooper
[Editors note: The following article was submitted by Elder G. H. Crain at the request that he provide his thoughts regarding the Doctrine of Personal Election and Effectual Calling.]
Personal election is the foundation doctrine of the Bible, for our salvation. It is very plainly set forth in God’s word; that those which shall finally live in heaven, are foreknown in the covenant of redemption; predestinated, called, justified, and glorified. Each of the elect, sometime between conception and the death of the body, will be born again (quickened by the Spirit - or regenerated) and this work will forever remain valid.
By request, I will, with God’s help, give my views on Romans 9:11-12-13. I doubt very much I should have written on this subject, had I not been requested to write. In this effort I seek not controversy, but will briefly state what I believe.
(For the children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth;) It was said unto her, The elder shall serve the younger. As it is written, Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated.
These scriptures, with a number of others that could be given, to my mind and understanding, Absolutely, declare the doctrine of personal election and calling. Paul, in verses fourteen through twentyfour answers every argument of opposition to this inviolable truth; cutting up the objections of men root and branch.
I will list and, try to answer, arguments and objections to the above teaching. (1) It is unfair. Answer: What does man know about equity? He is a creature and God is the Creator, not only is he (Mankind) a creature, but a fallen one at that. He is in the depth of sin, and without strength without will or power to come to Christ; dead in sin-spoken of in God’s word, In his best state altogether vanity, and whose righteousness in the sight of God, as filthy rags. Psalms 39:5 Isaiah 64:6.1 Man in nature is depraved. That seems right unto him are the ways of death. Proverbs 14:12. He loves sin and hates God and his word.
What could possibly reach his case, but electing love! Then when convinced and convicted of sin by the Holy Spirit he is made to realize God would be just to damn him forever! .
Obj. (2) God loves everybody. John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. Answer: Our text states—Jacob have I loved and Esau have I hated. The word world in John 3:16 could not possibly refer to every son and daughter of Adam. Four thousand years passed before Jesus was made flesh. In I John 2:2 And he is the propitiation for our sins; and not for ours only, but for the sins of the whole world. To show that the word world is used in a limited sense, please compare I John 5:19 - And we know that we are of God, and the whole world lieth in wickedness. When John the Baptist saw the Lord Jesus Christ he exclaimed, Behold the Lamb of God which’ taketh away the sin of the world. He, the Lord Jesus Christ, is the Saviour of all that the Father gave him. All the elect among Jew and Gentiles whose sins he put away by the sacrifice of himself.
To rightly divide the word of truth, there is the world of the saved in one group, who are saved in the Lord with an everlasting salvation; and a world which lieth in wickedness, the unsaved.
Jesus said in John 17:9, I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for them which thou hast given me; for they are thine. Since God does not change, those He loves, he will love forever. I am the Lord I change not therefore, ye sons of Jacob are not consumed. Malachi 3:6.
Obj. (3) “The choice of Jacob and rejection of Esau was not for eternity or unto eternal life, but for blessings in time: for example, both the descendants of Jacob and Esau became nations, and God blessed the nation of Israel with innumerable blessings. Not only so, but it was through the posterity of Jacob that Jesus Christ came according to the flesh; so the choice of Jacob, and his posterity, was to this end; also his chosen to worship under the ceremonial law service. Answer: For the Lord’s portion is his people; Jacob is the lot of his inheritance. He found him in a desert land, and in the waste howling wilderness; he led him about, he instructed him, he kept him as the apple of his eye. Years later when, when Jacob was left alone; and there wrestled a man with him until the breaking of day. Jacob’s name was changed from Jacob to Israel. For as a Prince hast thou power with God and men and hast prevailed. Genesis 32:24-28., Deuteronomy 32:9-10. And in Isaiah 45:17, But Israel shall be saved in the Lord with an everlasting salvation; Ye shall not be ashamed nor confounded world without end. Who could deny that Jacob was included in this group that is saved in the Lord with a everlasting salvation. Therefore, Jacob was blessed in time and Eternity.
If I could find in all of God’s word that; Esau was blessed with the gift of eternal life; I assure you I would present it; instead I find to the contrary. Sad, but true Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated. Paul does not stop here, but in Hebrews 1:16 refers to Esau as a profane person.
I have said this before and will say it again; If anyone can prove by God’s word that Cain and Esau are under the cleansing efficacy of the blood of Jesus Christ; I fear this world would force me to join the universalist camp.
Ob j. (4) When the word hate is used in scripture it means to love less. Proof. If any man come to me and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brothers and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. Luke 14:26. Answer: Admitting that the word hate, in this text does mean to love less, does not prove it to be so in Romans 9:13.-The meaning must be determined by the tenor of the verse, and the context; also the agreement with the scriptures in general. Paul reasons thus - There is no unrighteousness with God. God forbid. He has mercy on whom he will have mercy, and compassion on whom he will have compassion. God is, sovereign, holy too wise to err. Calling and election are not of him that willeth or of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy. It is a wonderful miracle of grace! that God would love any of the fallen sons and daughters of Adam. How precious the words of John, I John 4:8-16- God is love.
Obj. (5) Jacob represents the Spirit and Esau the flesh; the old man and the new man-etc. Ans. There is- the- text in all of God’s word, Genesis~ through Revelation, that one should make such an analogy? If any argument is based on what is said in the Old Testament, where the actions of Jacob and Esau are described, before the Lord appeared to Jacob, on the way to Padanaram; you may say Jacob was a deceiver and a Mama’s boy- Esau is the better of the two. (The world no doubt would choose Esau) If there is none righteous and none good, of what use is the word better? The scriptures affirm, there is none righteous, no not one; none good but one that is God every mouth is stopped, and the whole world guilty before God. Matthews 19:17 Romans 3:10-19. Since the choice was not made on the actions and works of Jacob and Esau, but that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth; we must conclude - Paul was not speaking and teaching figuratively, but literally to establish the doctrine of personal election.
The effects of this choice brought about a wonderful change in the heart of Jacob. He prays, he believes, fears, trusts, wrestles and serves God. What a testimony is recorded in the New Testament, I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. He is not the God of the dead, but the God of the living. Mark 12:26-27. In the Psalms 55:19 we read, Because they have no changes they fear not God, “Jacob” had a change.
Most of the theological world disagrees with what I believe; saying it is a hard doctrine who can hear it. I truly hope I know this experimentally and by God’s word; That glorious truth, God’s electing love and grace, treasured in the Lord Jesus Christ, is the only way one can be saved.
By the late Elder J. E. Norman
Any individual who can speak in terms of my, mine, or ours, does so with a certain degree of pride. I believe Christ gave His Kingdom to His children to live in here in this world, to possess it, rejoice in it, and to respect it as the kingdom of and from our Saviour.
Fear not little flock, for it is your father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Luke 12:32.
Jesus taught many parables to His disciples and left them on record for His people even down to this day and age in order to describe this kingdom that we might find it and know it. The prophet Daniel spoke of the coming of the kingdom which shall never be destroyed; and shall not be left to other people. Let me say here to those who feel to be the least, the poorest and the most unworthy, this is your kingdom, with Jesus as your King, also you are joint heirs with the King Himself. The troublesome clouds of loneliness, sadness, sorrow, and perils never get too dense or so heavy to keep this from being true.
Now He wants you to see this kingdom and know what it is when you see it. He describes it from many angles; HE describes it as a sower going forth to sow. He describes it as a grain of mustard seed, but when it is grown it is the greatest of all herbs. Yes, the old church from a worldly view point is the most insignificant institution in the world, but when she materializes in glory she is going to be the greatest, most sublime, powerful, most magnificent and glorious kingdom ever in existence and will fill every seat in the temple of heaven. Not one little vacant seat.
He describes this kingdom while it is here on earth as leaven which a woman took and hid three measures of meal.
He describes it as a treasure hid in a field the which when a man hath found he hideth and for love thereof, goeth and selleth all that he hath and buyeth that.
Yes, I have seen them find the old Church and the first thing they would do would be to hide what they had found then they would begin to sell what worldly possessions they had and when they are completely sold out they will take the Church for their joy, peace, love and riches.. Many times it is hard to sell all their worldly cares.
Again it is like unto a merchant man seeking goodly pearls. It is like unto a fishing net. It is like ten virgins, five wise and five foolish. He mentions many of the things that are in these parables such as the five foolish virgins, the bad fish, the tares, but He says when all the evils are separated from the good then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the Kingdom of their father.
The Banner of Love Dec. 15, 1943
A REMINDER
The church at Caruthers, CA. would like for you to print a reminder in the paper, that we are stifi without a pastor.
If there is an Elder who feels a desire, and the Lords will to be directed to the Caruthers Church, please contact:
San Joaquin Valley Primitive Baptist Church c/o Sister Thelma Morrison, Church Clerk 35709 Marciel Ave. Madera, CA. 93638
Sincerely,
In Christian love,
Thelma Morrison, Church Clerk
The word heaven is derived from “heaved up,” and so to the heights, Praise ye the Lord from the Heavens: Praise Him in the heights,” (Psalms 148:1,). A heave-offering, then, is a heaved up, offered up, or heavenly, offering to God.
The word “offering” is a peculiar word in the Hebrews, signifying something that is lifted off the ground and presented on high; and is the word translated heave offering. All the various offerings brought by the Israelites as contributions for forming the tabernacle, and enumerated in (Exodus 25:2-7) are called heave-offerings.
So our Lord Jesus Christ has been lifted up, first on the cross to pour out His blood as a ransom for many, and secondly, He has been exalted, and made very high, to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins, Acts 5:31
Aaron and his sons were the order of the high priests and gave lineage for the future priests. They offered, as high priests, heave-offerings for the people and for, themselves. In Exodus 29:26 the offering is the breast offering, the breast of a ram was heaved up and waved back-and-forth in the air as a wave-offering and as heave-offering unto the Lord.
The hope of consolation in our breast is our blessed Lord, for we, like the Apostle John, lay our head on Jesus’ breast. The head is where all the organization of thought exists; the head is where all our desires, emotions, and prayers arise, for without a mind we could do nothing. So we lay our head upon His breast in a prayerful and hopeful way, and, I trust, under the influence of the Holy Spirit, with a form of love and expression of tenderness: from within our breast toward our Saviour, then, we truly make a heave-offerings.
The breast is where the heart is, representing spiritually the innermost, part of man, or the sanctuary of the spiritual man. It is where the Lord comes to meet with him. We lift up our heart in prayer; it is a heave-offering unto the Lord. Prayer is a sincere desire from the heart, so let us approach the Throne of Grace with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water, (Hebrews 10:22).
In Exodus 29:27, the shoulder of the heave offering is waved. The shoulder (it was always the right shoulder) of a ram was heaved up and waved for a heavenly offering unto God. It alludes to the complete separation of Jesus Christ to do the Father’s will. The burden was on His shoulder to bring all that the Father had given Him spotless and without blame before Him in love, and that He should in no wise lose any. See Ephesians 1:4, and John 6:37-39.
We read in Isaiah 9:6, For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The Almighty God, the Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. The significance of the shoulder here spoken of is that all the responsibility of the Lord’s people would be on the shoulder of the Son, and that He should by His own meritorious works and His heave-of-offering bring all things into fruition in accordance with the eternal counsel of the Godhead, and that He alone would bear the burden on His shoulder to bring all the family of God together as one, for the Praise of His glory.
The strength of His shoulder has been proved for He has been lifted up on the tree, bearing the heavy burden of all our guilt, misery, and sin, and He has borne it away forever. That same shoulder of Almighty Power now upholds in glory the names of God’s children, and will bear them on until He shall present them faultless in the presence of His glory with exceeding joy.
So, when we offer up our sincere prayers of thanksgiving, let it be a heave-offering unto our God for His ultimate gift of love in our behalf, the gift of His darling Son who was numbered among the transgressors, who finished the work that He must do, and now we have a Man (Jesus) in Heaven High and lifted up. We soon shall see Him with our own eyes and not another.
It is written, Salvation belongs unto the Lord; and The salvation of the righteous is of the Lord; and God will bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil. Ps. 3:8; 37:39. Acts 2:12 tells us that there is no salvation in any besides Christ Jesus, for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.
So Paul has written to all the saints in Christ Jesus, which were at Philippi, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; he also tells them that it is God which worketh in them both to will and to do of his good pleasure. Then he has written to the Saints and to the faithful in Christ Jesus, which were at Ephesus, saying, For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves; it is a gift of God: not by works lest any man should boast. Also telling them that they are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which he hath before ordained that they should walk in them. And in accord with these teachings, he has said of himself, Wherefore I also labor, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.
Also we can read where Christ has spoken of his own works, saying, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and finish his work. And my Father worketh hitherto and I work. Therefore he declared, I have glorified thee on earth. I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do. Christ also tells us that is God’s work that we believe on him whom he sent.
And Paul has written to the Romans, concerning salvation, if by grace, then it is no more works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work. Yet, to the church of God, which was at Corinth, them that were sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that were in every place calling upon the name of Jesus Christ, Lord of both, he wrote, Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is. If any man’s work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward, If any man’s work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.
James, in his writings unto the twelve tribes which were scattered abroad, has said, Count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. He then ask them this question, What doth it profit, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? Can faith save him? Going on essential; if we are to make a proper application. Phl. 1:1- tells us that Paul and Timotheus, servants of Jesus Christ, are addressing all the Saints in Jesus Christ. Therefore we can rightly conclude that only those sanctified, set aside in Jesus Christ, are under consideration. Therefore the instructions of working out your own salvation follows the declaration that God has exalted Christ Jesus, and given him a name which is above every name: that every knee should bow: and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. And it is followed by the statement, For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. Now we can rightly conclude that the elect children of God, the saints, can accomplish (work out) their own salvation; this being translated from “mattath” which is a present; a gift. Thus because God has given them salvation, and worked in them to will (desire) and to do (ability) they should work out (accomplish) that which is God’s good (acceptable) pleasure: that is to bow down before Christ Jesus; and confess that he is Lord; to do so is to the glory of God the Father.
It must be noted, as with those in Phil., the Ephesians being addressed as saints; and to those who were faithful in Christ Jesus: Also identified as those blessed by God; the Father of their Lord Jesus Christ who gave them all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ being chosen in Christ before the foundation of the world; being predestinated unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of God’s will, to the praise of the glory of God’s grace, wherein God had made them acceptable in Christ Jesus, His beloved Son. These are those who had been quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins. Therefore it was said of them, By grace are ye saved through faith; and not of yourselves; it is a gift of God; not of works, lest any man should boast. Yet this salvation, which is by grace through faith, is not without the work of God; who hath quickened (made alive). Thus stated for we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them The gift of life (saved by grace through faith) is God’s creative workmanship; which no man can merit): being those chosen in Christ Jesus from the foundation of the world. And those who are created in Christ have been prepared (ordained) to walk in good (suitable): acceptable works that they should do so is so stated. Thus we may concluded that there is no life without the works of creation. And as God has created mankind; He has also created the new creatures; which is in Christ Jesus. And as the natural man must work to sustain his life, so must the Spiritual. As the word has taught us, only the work of God can produce great, life; man can only work to sustain quality of life.
So those addressed in Corinthians were members of the church of God which was at Corinth, and them that were sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our lord, both theirs and ours: (thus to every one of God’s saints, that call upon the name of Jesus Christ.) Therein, Paul tells them he could not speak to them as ones being spiritual, but as carnal, even as babies in Christ; Saying, For ye are not carnal, whereas there is among you envying, and strife, divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men? This congregation of God’s church were not walking to the good works that they had to be ordained unto; For they were fussing over which apostle they should be followers of. So the question is ask, who are these men, but ministers by whom you believed, even as the Lord gave to every man? Paul then said, I have planted, Apollos watered; and gave God the increase. Then he goes on to teach them about the trying of the fire of their works, saying, Every man’s work shall be made manifest; for the day (light) shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is. Thus he tells us that when our works abide the trying we shall be rewarded; but if our works are burned, we shall suffer loss; but we will not be destroyed, but are saved by the fire. We then conclude, that which is worked by God, will not be destroyed; in fact in Rom. 8:38, 39 it tells us nothing can separate from God’s love. But if we want the good life, which is peace with God, we must work the good work.
This also gives us an understanding of what Jesus has taught; The trying of our faith worketh patience, and we can see that faith without works is dead. And why it is written. All things that are reproved are manifest by the light; for whatsoever doth make manifest is light. Wherefore, he saith, Awake thou that sleepeth, arise from dead, and Christ will give thee light. So Christ has said, to John, Unto the church write: I know thy works, and I will give unto everyone of you according to your works.
May we understand, that salvation does come by works: the eternal life by the eternal loving God the Father, and the keeping of our lives, that was given in Christ Jesus, needs to be done by working that which is good and acceptable in His sight. We should know that which God works cannot be obtained by our works of righteousness, yet it can be maintained therein.
Your Servant in the Word; Clem E. Cook, Elder
SO VERY ENCOURAGING
It’s so very encouraging to think of the special experiences our Dear Lord made His dear ones able to overcome the Old Testament and New Testament, recordings in scripture. So good to know our Lord is always faithful to see us through. May He strengthen you all.
Romans 8:37-39 is always so very encouraging no matter what our experience might be.
In dear Hope,
Sister Loretta Lilly
Akron, Ohio
It is always a struggle for me to visit, with those that are very sick, or those that are mourning from the loss of a loved family member or friend. I many times feel awkward, and uneasy about what to say or how to act.
A trip to the hospital or the funeral home is a tough job for anyone at anytime. When it is not us who are personally involved with the sickness or death, we find ourselves uneasy and at a loss of the exact words to provide comfort to those of whom are directly affected.
The Lord has provided us with some basic lessons in this regard. Like most things, if we would take some time early to study the Scriptures, we would know how to address these and similar types of matters that we encounter in our daily lives.
A number of good examples are given to us through the Scriptures in the form of those who visited with perhaps the sickest person ever to have lived: Job. In the first chapter of the Book of Job, we learn some background into Job’s life. He was a righteous man who bad been blessed with a good family and a good worldly fortune and was known throughout the area for his excellent reputation of character.
Satan approached the Lord, and in a detailed discussion of Job, Satan asked the Lord permission to take all Job’s blessings from him. Satan then set about taking away all Job’s vast holdings of stock, servants and family. Still, Job worshiped the Lord. Satan then asked to tempt Job further by placing Job in great physical harm, but the Lord required Satan stop short of taking Job’s life. (Job 2:6) Satan then made Job undoubtedly perhaps the sickest person who has ever lived (Job 2:7 covering Job with sickness from head to foot such that his friends could not recognize him 2:12).
There is, of course, major teachings through these verses regarding Job, but a separate lesson regarding how to visit the sick and mourning, is also given to us here with regard to how those who visited Job did some good things.
First, Job’s closest friends did go to visit him. 2:11. We have the duty to visit our friends when they need help (Ecci. 7:4, James 1:27, Matt. 25:36.) By visiting the sick and mourning we can help not only those we visit, but also ourselves because of the lessons which can be learned from their afflictions, and their instruction. We can become more wise and humble in such visits.
Second, Job’s friends “had made an appointment together” to go mourn and comfort him. We know they probably did not receive an invitation from Job (See Job 6:22), but instead made an appointment among themselves (“together”). This teaches us it is helpful to call one another and go in small groups. In doing so we bind ourselves together, encourage each other to do good works of comfort.
Third, in verse twelve, we learn the visitors mourned with Job and tried to share his afflictions. They tore their clothes and sprinkled ashes upon themselves. They sat on the ground with Job (2:13) to place themselves into the same humble and uneasy place as Job.
Fourth, they sat in silence because they saw how great Job’s grief was. (Job 2:13). One of the greatest lessons here is that the unspoken word can be greater many times than ‘that which is’ spoken, especially if silence is more important. The very sick or mourning person needs rest and does not necessarily need a lot of words. The simple fact that you have come to visit them and placed yourself in such an otherwise awkward and uneasy position - all because you care about your friends - says the most. You should not worry about having all the right words - no words can take the place of a short visit, a sincere hug or a squeeze of the hand.
Finally, Job’s friends allow Job to express his grief and his anger. (Job 3rd chapter). In other words, they listened.
There are many lessons to be learned in the remainder of Job, one of which is that his friends rebuked him because they did not understand the basic reasons Job was undergoing his grief. We should be careful not to instruct those we visit with our analysis about why they are grieved.
The lessons we
learn from this are that we should visit our sick and mourning friends.
MOVED INTO TOWN
We are renewing our subscription for a another year. We have moved into town. We’re about two blocks north of the village market. We invite our friends to come see us at the corner of 5th and Pine St., 411 Pine.
In Christian love, Elder and Sister Steve Sims Colorado City, TX
By Elder Ed Kirkpatrick Of Midland, Texas
The Lord’s people as a whole are in the midst of difficult and troubled times. This is far from the first time in history that this has happened and the conditions that accompany a famine or desolation are always very similar.
I would like for us to examine some past periods and see if perhaps we can find a cure for our problems. Matt. 22:37 says, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. If we would do that as it is stated we would be much better off. Most of us however, fit the description of Jerusalem in Isaiah 29:13, Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men.
Now let us hear what the Lord says he will do as a result of such professed outward hypocritical piety, Therefore, behold, I will proceed to do a marvelous work among this people, even a marvelous work and a wonder; for the wisdom of their wise men shall perish and the understanding of their prudent men shall be hid.
Jerusalem. Jerusalem means founded on peace, but Ariel means lionlike. What a stark contest. In the place of peace it became a place of warring. Proverbs 6:16, 17, 18, and 19, These six things doth the Lord hate: yea, seven are in abomination unto him: A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren. With these in our midst the only peace we can have is one that is professed, and not real. Jeremiah 6:14 They say peace, peace, when there is no peace.
In I Samuel 15:3 Saul was given a very simple command to go out and utterly destroy the Amalekites, everyone and everything. Like the people of today, Saul thought he had a better idea, so he spared King Agag and the best of the animals. His excuse in someways makes more sense than many of the arguments today against exclusions. Saul is told to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken then the fat of rams. 15:23 For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the Lord, he hath also rejected thee from being king. Upon hearing this, Saul pleaded that he feared the people and obeyed their voice and asks Samuel to pardon his son and return with him that he might worship the Lord. Samuel refuses to have any company with him and leaves with the warning that the Lord hath rent the kingdom from thee this day. Samuel slays Agag and cuts him into pieces. Samuel came no more to see Saul until the day of his death. Samuel continued to mourn for Saul but did not keep company with him.
We firmly state that we believe the King James version of the scriptures are divinely inspired and the only rule of faith and practice. We profess the Bible’s Authority in all matters. Does our practice agree to that, No. You know as well as I that we have become reluctant in disciplinary matters. Removing one from the rolls would be the absolute last thing we would do. The scriptures plainly teach gospel steps in Matt. 18 for a matter of personal trespass or offense. Four steps are set out to either save or remove a brother. Even his removal is in hope he will see the error of his way, repent of the wrongdoing and return. Please read II Thess. 3:14, 15, Romans 16:17, 18.
The scriptures make it equally clear that in the case of a public offense or one that has become common knowledge, to attempt to insert our opinion and save the offender, whomever it be, is utter rebellion and in complete defiance of that KJV. Now let us hear from the Bible. I Cor. 5:7 says, Purge out therefore the old leaven that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us. Nowhere in the context of I Cor. 5 can you find an opening for further Gospel labour. Paul even intimates it is better to company with the fornicators of this world than it is to have company with one who is called a brother yet is indeed a fornicator. He is not encouraging you to keep bad company. He is telling you how grossly wrong it is to have such named among you.
God’s commandment to Saul was very simple. Saul was rebuked for rejecting the word of God. Did Saul refuse to hear the, word? No. Did he understand the command? Yes. Then where is the rejections? He rejected the absolute Authority of the word by refusing to obey it in every detail. Eccl. 12:13 says, Fear God and keep His commandments.
For this is the whole duty of man. Do we have Samuels with us today? No. Do we have the word of the Lord today? Yes, in the K.J.V. Is it intended to governor our lives? Yes, Saul had the kingdom taken from him for not obeying the word of God. Saul died at the hands of his enemies. What will be our end? Prov. 16:25 There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.
We are in a similar position today. If we reject the Authority of God’s Bible in our lives as Saul did, we could lose the Lord’s protection. We then would be facing the severity of God rather than his goodness. May we read God’s word and love it enough to live by it as we wait for Lord’s return.
For in him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in him … in whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ: Buried with him in baptism wherein also ye are risen with Him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. And you, being dead in your sins … hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses. (Col. 2:9-15)
What does quicken mean and how are we quickened? Well, quicken means to make alive and we are quickened through the operation of the Holy Ghost. Being that we already have life (which is natural) then if we are quickened, we must be born again (which is spiritual). You see, we were dead in trespasses and in sins. We were separated from God by sin, but now we are alive. How? Because the … handwriting of ordinances that were against us … were … nailed to his cross. The law of the Spirit of life in Christ hath made us free from the law of sin and death. We are freed because Christ fulfilled the law and took our sins to the grave. Therefore, we have been raised up from death in the law to a life in Christ Jesus. But what of the term … Buried with him in baptism...?
Should water baptism precede the washing of regeneration? No. Peter tells us that water baptism is the answer of our good conscience toward God. We get this conscience from God. Therefore we are baptized by the Holy Ghost before we ever have a true desire to be baptized in water. Water baptism is indeed a symbol of the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ; and we should walk in the newness of life after being baptized. But couldn’t we say that the; baptism of the Holy Ghost is also a death, burial, and resurrection? This old body, though we won’t be in perfection until the last day, is put aside and we now have a desire to seek the kingdom of God first. We know we cannot ignore sin for Paul himself talked of a warfare in his members. However, we now have in Christ Jesus the, ability to fight sin; and we are now risen to a new life of joy in Christ. So if we be risen, in Christ, what should we now do? Paul says in Col. 3:1, If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. If we are seeking those things above then we are presenting our bodies indeed as a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God.
Believing, through faith, that we are indeed risen in Christ by His circumcision, we must now seek the things which are above. How is this done? Well, there are a number of ways in which we can seek those things above.
Jesus Christ tells us in Luke 12:31, But rather seek ye the kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added unto you. The kingdom of God here is the church. The next verse reads, Fear not little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. You see, God has given us the kingdom. The church is our oasis in the world. This is the place where Jesus Christ sings praises in the midst of us to God. So you see, the, church is a place of seeking the things above. We seek God in our singing. We seek God in our praying. We seek God in our preaching. We even can seek God in our fellowship! We also have the ability to seek God when the church is not assembled together. When we study the Bible, whether alone or with others, we are seeking the things above. The things are brought to light in the Bible. Though Paul says we see through a glass darkly, we should study to grasp what God sees fit to give us. We will never have all the answers here in this world but we should persevere in our endeavors to understand as much as we can. Why? Because there is comfort in knowing that our salvation is by grace. There is comfort in knowing that we have been predestinated to be conformed to the image of Jesus Christ. There is a comfort in knowing that we have an inheritance that will never fade away. There is comfort knowing that we are in the hands of the unchanging God. There is comfort knowing that we are in the hands of the unchanging God. There is a comfort in knowing that Jesus Christ is sitting at the right hand of God making intercessions for us. These and many more reasons are why we study the Bible. Reading is seeking. But still we cannot understand these things without the guidance of the Holy Ghost, so we must pray.
When we pray, whether alone or with others, we are again seeking the things above. We seek comfort. We seek reconciliation. We seek counseling. We also seek the Spirit of God who will guide us in all truths. Paul tells us to put on the armor of God so we will be able to withstand Satan’s works. But if we try to put on this armor without prayer we will surely fail. Therefore we must pray for guidance when we seek after God. When we are truly blessed to seek after God and we are guided by the spirit then we can truly ride the high places and forget about this flesh for a time.
If we mortify the deeds of the body we will be seeking the things above. In the continuation of Col. 3, Paul tells us to turn away from worldly things and seek Godly things. Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering … and above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly... (Col 3:12-16). I think that we can truly say here that, If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them. (Joh. 13:17) Let the peace of God rule in your hearts... (Col. 3:15)
In Christian love, Mark D. Rowell
LOOKS FORWARD TO THE PAPER
I promised a year ago I would renew our subscription before this May, but I didn’t tell you our time really goes.
Sure like the paper and look forward to receiving it every month.
Enclosed a check for this years’ renewal plus another year.
C.A. and June Poss
Hamilton, TX
HAVING GOOD MEETINGS IN ABILENE
Am sending in money for renewal of paper. We sure enjoy it and look forward to it every month. We are having good meetings at Abilene and coming right along on the new building.
Our love and prayers, Jesse and Lorene Harris
Don, we enjoy your writings in the paper so much. Always read it first. Seems we hear from our family.
By Elder Alphonso Hurst
From a sermon preached at the Phoenix Primitive Baptist Church, May 21, 1987
I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from which cometh my help. Hills play a very important and decisive part in the lives of God’s children in all the world: in every nation, tribe and people. Sometimes I glory in the fact that I was born near the tri-state corner of Kentucky, Tennessee and Virginia, where I could stand with one foot in each state simply by turning or pivoting on the marker All three of these states are made up mostly of rolling hills and valleys. A thousand hills indeed; with grazing most of the year around. Dear hearts:, you find the cattle of a thousand hills in either one of these states. A canaan land in the land of the 'free and the brave.' A land of hills and valleys, and drinketh of the rain of heaven. See Deut. 11:11, 12. Some folks only think of hills and valleys in Canaan (the church), never coming to the knowledge that it is a blessed land. A blessed (church)’: Where Gods’ humble poor can lift up there eyes unto the hills from which cometh their help; while there is peace in the valley and meat and drink on the Masters table. Verse 12 A land which the Lord thy God careth for; the eyes of the Lord thy God are always upon it, from the beginning of the year even unto the end in it. Children let us praise the Lord in that He too lifted up His eyes unto the hills from whence cometh our help. Yes praise His name in that He who was rich in glory, became poor that, we through His poverty might be made rich.
Our Saviour also, while dying on the hill (Golgotha) lifted up His eyes to whence, His help would come from, to the ancient and great mountain of God’s holiness, the great store house of Gods’ love, mercy spiritual strength and perseverance. It was these we hear our Blessed Saviour cry! My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?
It was there on this hill we hear the Father say, (Isa. 54:7) For a small moment have I forsaken thee; but with great mercies will I gather thee. It was there Christ paid our debt in full while the Holy Father hid His face for a moment that our Lord might bear our sins while hanging on an old rugged cross.
As it was erected, dropped into a hole dug in the earth with a horrible thud. Oh, the pain; the agony; as His precious blood marked the trail all the way up the bill of the skull. Children, it was there on this hill, also, called Calvary, that complete atonement was made for every blood bought heir of King Emmanuel. Yes, from the still born that never slept in its mothers bosom to the last one that shall fall asleep in Jesus. (words from Jesus) Sleep in and take your rest. Do you know that Jesus did just that He slept three days and nights and was the first fruit of them that slept that His bride would be awakened one morning to fall asleep no more.
Asleep in Jesus blessed sleep
from which none ever wake to weep.
A calm and undisturbed repose
Unbroken by the last of foes.
Our Saviour fell asleep on a hill Bless God to make to sleep no more; and dear hearts; I don’t find where He did, but rather for forty days and nights He appeared superalively (alive in the highest degree) never to sleep, never to slumber. appeared through barred doors, walked through the valley of the shadow of death (piercing its shadows, as He bore in His person; the eternal flame.) Oh yes, He was awake alright Awake when His disciples thought they had seen a spirit and He ate a piece of broiled fish and honeycomb. Awake: as He said, Peace be unto you, and breathed on them and they received the Holy Ghost. And dear readers; after the forty days and. nights were fulfilled, He took His leave still awake when He lifted up His hands and blessed them, as He was carried up into heaven. Amen? Amen? No wonder Psalm 121 a song of degrees says, I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills which cometh my help. (Father, Son and Holy Spirit) Proof? Verse 2, My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth.
THE PRECIOUS THINGS
In Deut. 33, Moses in blessing the children of Israel before his death speaks of Joseph in verses 13-15 with these words, And of Joseph he said, blessed of the Lord be his land, for the precious things of heaven, for the dew, and for the deep that coucheth beneath. And the precious fruits brought forth by the sun, and for the precious things put forth by the moon, and for the chief things of the ancient mountains. And, for the precious things of the lasting hills. The scripture speak of hills hundreds of times. I firmly believe that the ancient mountains and the lasting hills in Deut. 33 are figurative of our Saviour who said that He is from everlasting to everlasting. Thus dear child of God, we have God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Ghost. These three are one. I love Moses blessing upon Joseph for the two also were figures of Christ two hills of God unto which the children of Israel often lifted their eyes from which came their help naturally and providentially.
THE CATTLE UPON A THOUSAND HILLS
Psalm 50:10
As we read Gods’ word we find more and more that hills are figurative in a lot of instances. I preach and try to teach their importance in our spiritual life. It wasn’t just a coincidence that our Lord carried His cross up hill all the way to Calvary, as its crude splintery corners dug into His whip-lashed back as His blood ran down His soon to be wounded side. No it wasn’t a coincidence at all! It was part of His suffering. The yoke He bore on top of the 40 furrow they plowed with a whip in the halls of Pilate. Furthermore that wasn’t the only hill He had climbed. He knew the Hills of Galilee better than you and I know the back of our hand. Yes, He was acquainted with the hill country alright. Please read Luke 1:39-43. Dear heart; those hills were part of His life six months before He was born.. Oh, how He was acquainted with this one hill. He was there long before the psalmist sang this song of degree, in His glorious state as creator. But now we see Him who owned the cattle of a thousand hills become totally depraved of any strength to save Himself.. but dear lovers of God there was enough truth in His last three words, enough power in His last breath, enough love in His last heart to save eternally on the spot (on that hill) all of the elect family of the Father as He gave up the ghost.
Dear heart; in closing the same one that had cried, No greater love hath no man than he that layeth down his life for his friends, will cry with a loud voice from clouds of great glory from much higher than Calvary as He calls Lazarus and all of His elect to a home in glory.
Until our Lord and Master gives us sleep in Jesus, let us lift up our eyes unto the hills from which cometh our help. Most of us are going to sleep awhile. Amen.
Do come and attend our fifth Sunday meeting in June at the Phoenix Primitive Baptist Church, 3525 West Lewis Ave., Phoenix, AZ
SO FULL OF GOOD THINGS
We enjoy The Banner so very much. each issue is so full of “good” things - those things that our fore-fathers believed, and rejoiced in the same.
May the Lord continue to bless you to publish those precious truths, is our prayer.
In love, B. E. and Amy McKay Aurora, Co.
“And I heard a voice from haven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die m the Lord from henceforth. Yes, saith the Spirit, that ‘they may. rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.” ... Revelation 14:13
Divine authority from heaven it self commanded these words to be written as a perpetual record to comfort and edify God’s children throughout the ages. These words form the preface to John’s vision of the harvest and the vintage. A vision which shows forth the felicity of the saints and the terrible judgment executed against the wicked. Although death is spoken of in the scripture as the final product of sin, as our great enemy, and a bitter dross in the waters of time, yet Christ through His redemptive work has sweetened these waters through the trees of the cross, and has reduced death from a fearful monster to a conquered foe! O death where is they sting? O grave where is thy victory? [lCor.15:55] What a blessed rest is promised to those chosen in Christ before the world began, and brought by God’s grace to love and obey the truth! Their labours of service unto God are highly valued in the memory of those left behind, in the lives of their families who have witnessed their unwavering faith, and before the Holy throne of God itself, as a testimony to the efficacious nature of grace.
All fruits do not get ripe for harvest at the same time, likewise, all God’s children are not gathered at the same age as some die very young and others very old. Sister Pauline Barrington was born Jan. 5, 1906, in Hon, Ark., and passed away Feb. 28, 1991 making her stay on earth in excess of 85 years. She married Clarence Barrington Aug. 23, 1931 in Carlsbad, N.M. He preceded her in death, having passed away, March 7, 1983. To this union was born two children, Dale Barrington, of Mesquite, TX and Mary Kennemer of Big Spring, TX At the time of her passing, Sister Pauline had six grandchildren, and. six great-grandchildren. May God fill the void in their lives with His great love and peace. Amen!
Sister Pauline grew up around the Primitive Baptist Church at Lawn, TX and as a young girl sat under the preaching of her great-uncle, Elder Ruben Pyle, and several more ministers. She had a desire to join the church then, but felt so unworthy to do so. She withstood the impressions to join the old Baptists, and since she married, moved to an area that did not have a Primitive Baptist Church near. She and her husband raised their family in the Southern Baptist Church and attended faithfully for many years.
Shortly after her husband’s death, she moved into the Canterbury Retirement Home. This excellent facility has different ministers from the community hold services for them each Sunday evening and it was there that Sister Pauline and I met. What a joyous memory that will ever be to my poor soul. She exclaimed, "I thought all the Old Baptists were gone, hearing you preach was like stepping back through the door of time! You preach just like they did when I was a little girl!" She went to church with us that very evening, and attended faithfully up until the time of her death. Her dear presence is missed by both the young and old alike.
On Sunday, Jan. 17, 1988, at the age of 82 years, I had the privilege of baptizing this precious sister in Christ. She described her experience as a “coming home,” and I am so thankful to God that He allowed me to be a small part of that home coming. Although she enjoyed her church home here so much, yet it pales in comparison to her heavenly home where she now resides. In. that wondrous home where are no aluminum walker, no cancer, no heart trouble, no sorrow, no tears, no darkness, and precious Lord, no farewells.
Written by request of the church, who loved her so.
Elder L. Jeff Harris, Pastor; Philadelphia Primitive Baptist Church Big Spring, Texas
Read and accepted while in regular conference, April 14, 1991.
Sister May passed away in October of 1990 at Cozad, Nebraska She had been a faithful member at Mt. Zion Primitive Baptist Church at Cozad, Nebraska for many years.
Her faithfulness and sincerity was a strength and encouragement to all that knew and loved her and she will be missed in our fellowship here. However, we rejoice now that she is in the presence of Our Lord until the resurrection day when we will meet Him un the clouds to forever be in Glory.
Sister May was the daughter of the late Elder W. S. Craig. She is survived by three children and several grandchildren.
May God bless you,
Elder Donnie Halbgewachs, Pastor
Little Hope Primitive Baptist Church is saddened to report the passing of a beloved sister in Christ, Sister Mollie Ryan. Sister Mollie was born April 16, 1897 in Yell County, Ark. and passed away Jan. 23, 1991 in Madera, CA.
Sister Mollie was married to Brother Jerry Ryan July 14, 1917, in Blue Mountain, Ark. To this union was born three sons and. two daughters. Brother Ryan preceded her in death in 1965. One son, James Alfred, passed away in infancy in 1937 and their oldest son, Alton, passed away in 1973. Left to mourn are two daughters, Ruby Anderson and Georgia Baldridge, and one son, Harold, all of Madera; eighteen grandchildren and thirty-five great grandchildren.
Sister Ryan received a hope in Christ at it an early age. Her father-in-law was Elder J. J. Ryan. She was baptized in 1944, at age 47, while attending an association service at Ada, OK. She and Brother Ryan moved to Calif. in 1946 to be closer to their children. They moved to Madera, CA. in April, 1952 and, after finding a Primitive Baptist Church to attend, came asking for a home with a little Little Hope Church in July of that year. They were unanimously received.
Sister Mollie lived a beautiful Christian life. She cared for her mother and a brother until they passed away. She and Brother Jerry not only raised their own children, but also raised or helped to raise about five generations of other children. She gave of herself in a much loving way. She was always mindful of the church and always asked that visitors would come and stay with her and Brother Jerry. Sister Mollie was loved by all who met her. She always set a wonderful example to all in the church as well as others about her. She was Mom, Grandma, Aunt Mollie, and Sister Ryan to so very many.
Sister Mollie’s funeral service was beautiful. Flowers were beautiful and abundant. Services were conducted by her pastor, Elder D.A. Layne, and Brother Kenneth Hendrickson. Sister Mollie Ryan was laid to rest next to Brother Jerry, there to await that morning for which all mornings were made when Jesus will gather up His children. May God comfort both her natural family and her church family and bless everyone according to His most holy will. The Lord giveth and the Lord taketh away. Blessed by the name of the Lord.
Submitted by Little Hope Primitive Baptist Church
Elder D.A. Layne, Moderator
Brother Howard Ryan, Clerk
Be it resolved that we of the Cisco, Texas Primitive Baptist Church, bow in humble submission to the will of our Heavenly Father in taking from our midst one of our beloved deacons, Brother Henry “Hank” Matthews, Jr. He was 69 years of age when he passed away. Jan, 26, 1991, following a severe stroke a month earlier.
He and his dear wife, Winters, have always been faithful members of our church, as they traveled from their home at Munday, TX to attend services here in Cisco.
Brother Matthews was a kind, gentle and quiet man with a smile on his face, who always sat on the front bench at church and listened intently to the pastor. He often led us in some of the sweetest and most humble prayers I have heard. His voice often broke revealing his deep and sincere love for God, the Church, his family, his country and his fellow-man.
Brother Henry “Hank” Matthews and Brother Henry Burkman both thought they had difficulty leading songs. So the two Brother Henrys stood up together as a pair to lead our songs. they supported each other and were stronger individuals for the experience they shared. Now as one Brother Henry stands alone to lead our songs, he is strengthened by the memory of his former “partner” in song.” We were secure in the knowledge that our older other Brother Henry now stands with his loved ones gone before him, singing and basking in the sunlight of Gods eternal love.
Funeral services for Brother Henry “Hank” Matthews, Jr. were held at the Munday Church of Christ with A. B. Martin officiating. Burial was at the Johnson Memorial cemetery.
Brother Matthews was born at Calallen and was a resident of Munday for 45 years. He was a retired rural route mail carrier and a veteran of World War II.
Survivors include his wife, Winters Groves Matthews of Munday; a son, Dowell Matthews of Anson; two daughters, Susan Burgin of Groom, and Vickie Albert of Rio Rancho, N.M.; six sisters, Nelda Perrin of Georgetown; Patsy Followill of Boulder, Colo., Betty Brockett of Alamagordo, N.M., Nancy Alexander of Katy and Jonnye Yandell and Cheryl Dickerson, both of San Antonio; four brothers, Glenn Matthews of Huntington, W.Va., Bobby Ray and Jack Matthews of Piedmont, OK.; seven grandchildren.
To Sister Winters, Dowell, Susan, Vickie and all the family, we wish to express our love and deepest sympathy. May your sweet memories and the God of all comfort and consolation continue to sustain you. Words from one of the songs sang at his services express it all, “We’ll Understand It all By and By.”
Written by request of the church while seated in regular conference March 3, 1991. One copy to be sent to the family, a copy to be sent to The Banner of Love for publication, and a copy to be placed in the church records.
Cisco Primitive Baptist Church
Elder James E. Robertson, Moderator
Mrs. Belva Yeager, Church Clerk
We, the Elk Creek Primitive Baptist Church wish to acknowledge the passing of our beloved Sister Ada Belle DeGarmo, on February 12, 1991. Sister Ada was a member in good standing and. will be greatly missed.
Ada was born August 13, 1911, in Blue Mountain, Arkansas and passed away Tuesday, February 12, 1991, at the age of 79.
She moved with her family as a young girl to settle on a farm west of Elk City. She was married to Melvin A. DeGarmo on July 8, 1939, where they farmed until 1960. In 1960, they moved into Elk City. She was preceded in death by her husband, Melvin, On January 23, 1981. She was a devoted housewife and mother.
Survivors include three sons and one daughter: Allen, Albert Gary DeGarmo and Linda Cook, all of Elk City. Three sisters;: Lola Mae Sapp of Elk City, Margaret Sapp of: Cave Spring, Ark., and Leona Jones of Warrenburg, MO. Four brothers: Otis Loyd of Elk City, Oran Loyd of Bella Vista, Ark., Bill Loyd of Tulsa, OK., and O. B. Loyd of Norman, OK; also 12 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Beside her husband, she was preceded in death by three brothers: Jack, Orvan, and Oral.
Funeral services were conducted at Martin Funeral Chapel, Elk City, Ok. on Feb. 15, 1991, at 2:00 p.m. with Elder Henry Newman and Elder Phil Jones officiating. Burial was at Fairlawn Cemetery, Elk City, Okla.
The Elk Creek Church wishes to express its deepest sympathy to the loved ones of Sister Ada, and pray that they will find comfort in knowing she has found a better place and is at rest with the Lord Jesus Christ.
Elder Henry Newman, Moderator
Lee Griffee, Clerk
We, of Friendship Church at West Riverside, CA. are truly saddened by the death of our dearly beloved Sister Bush. She was a true Old Baptist and had a strong belief in the doctrine of Jesus Christ; she also was strong in the Primitive Baptist faith and practice.
Sister Bush joined our church on Nov 8, 1981 and was a faithful member of our church and was a help to us in lots of ways, and also with financial support. Her physical problems got worse as time went by and finally they got so bad she couldn’t come to the last several meetings. To know Alice Bush was to love her. We surely will miss her.
Sister Bush was a native of Missouri. She was born on Aug. 19, 1912 and died on Dec. 29, 1990. Her life on earth was 78 years, four months and ten days. She is survived by one sister, three nieces and one stepson, and many other relatives and friends.
Memorial services were held at the Grace Community Church in El Toro, CA on Jan. 7, 1991 at 2:00 p.m. Officiates were Elder Franklin Kays of Friendship Primitive Baptist Church of West Riverside,. CA. and her stepson Pastor Richard Bush of the Grace Community Church of El Toro, CA. Written by request of Friendship Primitive Baptist Church. while in conference on Jan. 13, 1991.
Elder Frank Kays, Pastor and Mod.
Brother William Edwards, Church Clerk
ALL THE GOOD NEWS
Thank you so much for all the good news.
Brother Ben Magee
Sebring, Fla.