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Volume 58 Number 12 Lubbock, Texas 79493 Copyright $9.00 Per Year December 1991 |
The Language of Prayer Church Sovereignty Water Baptism Santa Claus Believe ... Who Can Believe? The Lesson of Leprosy Minister Enjoys California Trip
By Elder Freddy Boen
Prayer is certainly taught in the scripture. But, who teaches prayer? Educational institutions may teach a lot of things but I doubt they teach prayer. The reason is very simple. There is only one true teacher of prayer and his name is Jesus. There are many things that will bring us to pray; trials and afflictions and even great blessings will cause us to pray. Yet, mot any of us pray as we should or could.
The thing that has been of great comfort to me of late is the very language of prayer. very often we will hear a good brother us a word or phrase and we will copy that word or phrase. Borrowing from some one else is good only when we have something of our own to put with it, else we become a parrot. We just say what someone else has said. This is not good. Several years ago I began to hear a word used in prayer that bothered me greatly. Since that time many of our brethren have picked up on that same word and used it very extensively. This word is not consistent with the language of prayer as taught by Jesus Christ. He is our pattern and I would like to see our brethren return to this proper use of Biblical language when it comes to prayer. The word is You! In Matthew Chapter 6 verses 9-15, and again in Luke 11: 2-4, we will find the pattern of prayer that uses a language that honors God above anything we could use today. There is nothing better than the language of this wonderful model prayer. That is the purpose or reason of changing the "thee" and "thou" to you and yours. Some will say that it is easier to understand and that it will bring it up to a modern day language. Yes, the men that wrote the New King James Bible undoubtedly thought the same thing. The thing about it is that you and your is used as many times if not more in the bible than thee and thou are. This being the case when the Holy Spirit directed the word thee to be uses there must have been a reason behind the term. Psalms 12:6-7 (Quote....). I take this to mean that every word of the Bible has been given by God and that he has preserved it. Why will we now change the word of God to lessen it's meaning? How can we change the word of God?
I do not believe that we are showing the proper respect unto God when we address him as you. Dear reader, God deserved all and more of the respect that we can give him. I cannot address him using the word you for I feel I cannot bring him down. even through the use of language. One of the articles of faith that we say we believe in is that the 1611 King James Bible is the Only rule of faith and practice. And yet, we will follow a pattern of prayer that is set by a popular preacher of the world rather than the beautiful language of Jesus Christ. I suppose we should then start singing, "How great You Art." Please read the prayer in Matthew 6:9-15 and let us all be found giving God the respect that Jesus taught us in this wonderful prayer.
Written by one that loves the cause of the Master.
I have been requested to write on Church Sovereignty, and the relation between churches. I do so with fear and trembling, realizing that I am so imperfect, I might err. But trust you will consider what I write in the same spirit it is written.
When we say we believe in Church Sovereignty, we do not mean that she is independent of all earthly institutions or earthly authorities God does not deal with a church through political or civil bodies. Neither does He deal with a church through other churches. Where in the Bible did He ever tell one church how to deal with another? An orderly church of Christ has as much authority as a thousand orderly churches: she has more authority than a thousand councils or associations. In fact the local church is absolutely the only body on earth that has an Ecclesiastical authority.
But we do know that there is a relation between churches. for we receive letters from other churches and otherwise recognize their official works. This does not mean that one church is responsible to other churches, not at all. Bur it does mean that any local church must strive to conduct her business in an orderly way if she expects other churches to affiliate with her.
If a church feels sure that she has positive knowledge that a sister church has departed from a fundamental point of doctrine or practice she sho9uld go to the supposed erring church and submit the matter into their judgment. This should be done in love, never in malice. If the erring (?) church disavows the act that is considered such a grave error as to be sufficient to unchurch her, or if there is any doubt, whatever, that she has forsaken the fundamentals, then the laboring church should return home and prayerfully let patience have her perfect work, The object of labor should be to save; never to destroy.
If upon investigation, this sister church finds that the supposed departure is in reality one from the fundamentals, and there is no ground whatever for a misunderstanding about it and the erring church openly avows the act, the sister church should withdraw affiliation until the error has been corrected. She should do this in self defense. It is also being faithful with erring churches, But she has not authority over her. Her life is in God's hand. If He does not remove the candlestick. it can not be removed.
Our big mistake in the past has been that we never labor to save, but to destroy. We never wait for a church to depart; we kick her our. We never wait for God to remove the candlestick; we try to cut off the light.
If we will all work around our own doors, we won't have the time to go abroad... Feb 1, 1936, The Banner of Love
It is the time of year for Santa Claus.
I have a son who is anxiously awaiting for the arrival of Santa Claus and all the excitement legend has built into that tradition over the years.
Santa Claus is an interesting concept. It is for the kids, but parents seem to get as much enjoyment and benefit out of it as the kids get. It is a good, fun tradition that I personally enjoy. My parents observed it with me as I now observe it with my own child.
It is important though, that we recognize, and know the difference between, the concept upon which Santa Claus operates, and that upon which we are taught by the Gospel. We need to recognize the difference so that we can be sure to teach our children the difference.
Santa Claus is a concept of man. It is a good, fun tradition, built on good intentions. But it is not based on the same fundamental concept as our salvation.
As the Santa Claus tradition goes, I go over with my child that he must be on a certain behavior in order to secure the presents that Santa Claus can bring. Santa “makes a list, checks it twice” to determine whether and which children will get a visit from him.
Santa is based on a system of law, with certain merit gaining end results. It is only natural that the world would develop this type of concept because it is one which is so natural for us to comprehend and understand and follow.
Thank the Lord, however, that our eternal salvation is not based on the same type of law system. Few, if any (certainly not this one) would qualify under the law at the standard which would be required for such an everlasting treasure as eternal life.
A legal system is what we know and want to understand. We feel we must do good deeds, perform specific acts, “accept” in our minds certain concepts in order (like we do with Santa Claus) to gain the ultimate reward. However, God through Christ, did not base our salvation on legal standard:
“For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.” Born. 6:14.
God did not send His Son into our world to be a judge of our merit under the law. Christ was sent., to be our Saviour under grace “For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that through Him the world might be saved” John 3:17. Matt. 1:21, Luke 9:56.
“...the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world.” L John 4;14.
We would be thankful that our “eternal salvation was not created by the Lord based on our same concept in man’s creation of the legend of, Santa Claus, otherwise, someone right now would be “making a list and checking it twice” A burden too high for us to overcome. ‘
We enjoy the tradition of Christmas and the legend and fellowship that comes with our children in the form of Santa Claus It is a good tradition, but is a man-contrived tradition. It is important that we recognize the difference, something that can be easily distorted. .
Should we reject good works because we are not under the system of law for eternal life. We know we should not. It is simply that because we have been abundantly showered with grace that we should obey the law.
“What then? shall we sin because we are not under the law; but under grace? God forbid.” Eph. 2:10.
Grace was given to us first, we should follow with good works. It is important that we understand that basic difference with so many things of the world (like Santa Claus), in which we are taught that only good works will result and merit the prize.
Celebrate Christmas and enjoy the legend of Santa Claus with your kids and your family; but understand the basic fundamental difference between man’s easy-to-understand system of law, and God’s plan of grace through Christ. Raise your children also to understand the difference.
1st Peter 3: 21 - “The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.’
The New Testament has much to say about Baptism, especially “water” baptism. The above text declares such is a “figure”. A figure is that which represents and points toward - a shadow of the “Real Substance” The “Substance” is Jesus Christ and Him Crucified - Death, Burial and Resurrection. Baptism is from the Greek word -Batizo, which only means - to make whelmed (fully wet); to plunge under; overwhelm; to inundate, overflow.
Some think “sprinkling” is baptism. Sprinkling does not even point to, represent or cast a shadow toward” the true definition of Baptism. Sprinkling is not even a “figure of the figure.” The “figure” must be like, similar, represent, teach the principle of, lead you to think of, be alert to the process of “plunging under and “completely submerging” which in turn will amplify and accentuate Only The Death, Burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
With the afore-stated, we are convinced and conclude that Water Baptism must be according to remind you of, and lead you to the true substance. When such is clearly seen and understood, then those who are touched in their hearts that Jesus Christ is who really saved me from my sins, and not some “act of mine” - ever so righteous it may be, then and then only, you meet one of the four requirements of Scriptural Water Baptism.
I am now proclaiming the highlight of this writing. I stress my utmost burden for this brief analysis - the Four (4) Requirements of Water Baptism. Some of God’s elect, born-again children, have been baptized by some minister into some denominational order, then later come to the knowledge of The Truth in The Bible concerning the Finished work of Jesus Christ in His Crucifixion. They at this point desire to join the old original, ancient (Primitive) Baptist Church Then comes the real problem and distressful complexity. They learn they cannot join because they must be baptized, as Jesus put water baptism at the door of the Church for entrance. The initial feeling is “Well, I have already been baptized” Why must I be re-baptized.” Well, the truth of the matter is simply, they are not required to be re-baptized, but for the first time “Scripturally baptized” in water.
The heart of the problem goes much deeper than the initial surface in order to carefully examine, we must go all the way back to the Apostles Doctrine of the Ancient True Church, set up in the days of John the Baptist, and built by Jesus Christ himself during His ministry on earth. This True Church Jesus built, and submitted to Water Baptism by John The Baptist himself, and set this ordinance at the door of entrance - therefore, it is a “Baptizing Church’ - The Baptist Church of Jesus Christ. This Church has continued in harmony with the prophecy of Dan. 2:44 - “...and it shall stand forever” - and like links-in-a chain, by succession and perpetuity still stands today, with the same Doctrine, Practice, Fellowship, Duty, Discipline, Prayer, Breaking of Bread, Washing Feet, and Water Baptism.
If any link in the chain is broken, then Scriptural Baptism cannot be administered.
Now for the four requirements:
1. Proper Subject - Born-again believer.
2. Proper Administrator - God called Minister, ordained by Jesus Christ, and honored with the Ceremony: Prayer and Laying on of hands by the Presbytery of the True Ancient Original (Primitive) Baptist Church. - Heb. 5:4.
3. Proper Mode-water, by plunging under completely.
4. Proper Motive (Reason) - Being as a “Figure” of The Death, Burial and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, and that only … Such display is manifestly seen before the witnesses of The Church and Jesus Christ Himself, that you are declaring by your Water Baptism, that Jesus Christ saved me eternally and not by “any acts of mine” however righteous they may be, The act or Water Baptism does not save me eternally, nor ever assists whatsoever.
Another acid test of these Four (4) Requirements is found in Number #2 and #4 above. If the Proper Administrator (Preacher) is baptizing you in water, for the wrong motive (number #4 above), then such improper motivation renders the Administrator “out of order”. You will find by careful historical examination, that Item #4 above - The proper motive will only be administered by (number 2 above, a proper administrator - Minister or preacher. The wrong motive is usually found to be baptizing you to save you eternally and not just as a figure of who really washed away your sins by His precious blood which was shed on Calvary, and completed by His death, burial and resurrection, which is the true substance that water baptism is only a figure.
In the opening text - 1st Peter 3:21, we learn that water baptism only now saves timely, and not eternally. Water baptism will not put away the “filth of the flesh” - Depravity in Sin. Only the blood of Christ put away the depravity - dead in sin, by his death, burial and resurrection, once for all. Heb. 10:14
Think on this seriously, and pray for God to grant further light...
In Much Loving Concern
Hulan F. Bass (Elder)
Lockhart, Texas
Choctaw, Oklahoma
When the question is asked, who can believe, the answer most like1y would be, anyone that is mentally capable. But when we begin to think of the question it is realized that additional information is required before a proper answer is given. It depends upon the subject matter under consideration. If the subject matter is spiritual data the answer most likely will be different than if the subject matter is natural data. The most common mistake is to assume that there is no difference between who can believe spiritual data and who can believe natural data.
A review of a man’s natural mental capabilities will be addressed prior to entering into the spiritual realm.
The first natural fact that needs to be set forth is that one has natural life before he can exercise any mental ability (such as hearing, seeing, believing,, and etc. did not bring about nor assist him in obtaining natural life in any way. Secondly, every person born mentally competent has the natural capacities of faith, belief, will and etc.
The act of believing is a mental process whereby data is analyzed and if the data is accepted as valid it then is believed, otherwise unbelief is the result. Belief has never changed the information from bad to good or good to bad. To believe or not to believe a thing has never altered a thing. Belief is a position of the mind and of its self has no ability to perform or accomplish any task. It is however, a prime benefit to man to guide him along a prescribed avenue of thought to accomplish those tasks in keeping with his belief.
Every individual born without mental defect has the ability to receive information, mentally analyze it and come to a conclusion of acceptance (belief) or rejection (unbelief). Faith (confidence) is the element in the analysis process that judges the data to determine if the data is valid or not. It is evident that if faith (confidence) is misguided, then belief in false data results. A proper conclusion can only be achieved when, during the analysis process, faith properly identifies factual data. Data is stored in memory (of the mind) for future use based on faith in that data being true. Through faith in previously stored data being true, mental evaluation is applied to new information to determine if it is true or false. Thus, this process continues throughout ones life. If then can be said that faith (confidence) precedes belief in the natural mental process.
Man’s will is that portion of the mental process, which is stimulated by belief and it then motivates him toward action (mental or physical). A sequence of the mental process could be stated as follows: Faith is exercised upon incoming information to facilitate belief; belief brings about a will to accomplish that which is believed; the will motivates action.
The spiritual realm parallels the natural realm in many ways. As one must be born naturally before one, can perform any natural task (mental or physical) so it is also in the spiritual, one must be born spiritually before one can perform any spiritual task (mental or physical..) As hearing, seeing, believing or the exercise of the will does not bring about nor assists natural birth in any way.
Likewise, hearing, seeing, believing or exercising the will does not bring about nor assist spiritual birth in any way. Further, as natural faith is required in the mental analysis process to determine factual information to facilitate belief, so it is with spiritual faith. Natural faith is manifested after natural birth, likewise spiritual faith is from the natural parents (Mom and Dad) through natural birth. Spiritual attributes are received from our spiritual parent (God) through spiritual birth.
To validate some of these statements, a biblical review of one phase of faith as recorded in the scriptures is as follows: (Note: Comments within brackets are inserted in some scritures quoted to clarify the lesson by the writer.)
A. Faith is discussed by the Apostle Paul in 2 Thes. 3:2, And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men; for all men have not faith. The faith that Paul has under consideration is a faith which is not naturally common to man because he states that unreasonable and wicked men do not have this faith and infers that righteous men do have this faith. Since the righteous have this faith and the unrighteous do not, it is needful to determine the source of this faith and how one comes by it. Paul answers this question in Rom 12:3, For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith. This verse identifies God as the source and dispenser of spiritual faith to every man. The term “every man” cannot include all mankind because Paul writing by the inspiration of God states, “for all men have not faith.” When other scriptures are reviewed it becomes evident that the “all men” under consideration are all those born of the Spirit.
B. The necessity for the faith that is dispensed from God is surely recognized in Heb 11:6 “But without faith (spiritually) it is impossible to please him (God) for he that cometh (in prayer, meditation, etc. to God must (without exception) believe (a believer thru faith) that He (God) is (the living God), and that He (God) is a rewarder of them (that believe that He is) that diligently seek (look for) him (God). This scripture states that it is impossible for one that does not have this faith to please God. It could then be stated that one is void of all righteous acts both mental and physical until one is born of the Spirit and comes into position of spiritual faith. An objection may be raised to the use of the term “spiritual faith” but the term is validated by Gal 5:22-23, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance; against such there is no law.” One of the fruits of the Spirit is this same faith; therefore, it is referred to as spiritual faith. For an individual to manifest this faith the Spirit must be in him and if the Spirit is in him he has already been born again (it is impossible to have fruit without the tree.)
C. As natural faith (confidence) is required to analyze incoming natural information to determine if it is true or-not, in like manner spiritual faith is required to rightly divide incoming spiritual data to come to the knowledge of the truth. Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. For by it the elders obtained a good report. Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear. Heb 11:1-31.
Notice this faith provides substance and evidence of spiritual things, therefore, through faith we can come to a position of understanding or belief, of truth. Paul addresses this fact in 1 Cor 2:9-12 when he states, But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man (natural man), the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them (things) unto us by his Spirit; for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? Even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. Now we (those born of the spirit) have received, not the spirit of the world (man is born naturally with this), but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. Remember one of the fruits of the spirit is faith and without faith we cannot please God or understand the simplest of spiritual truths. But the natural man receiveth not the spirit of God; for they (spiritual things) are foolishness unto him; neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. The natural man (one not born of the spirit) is completely helpless to perform any of the following actions spiritually; hear, see, believe, will to do something, to think upon God or even to pray. The natural man may very well read the Bible (a spiritual thing) and understand in detail the historical, cultural, social and governmental teachings and be able to talk with knowledge on these aspects of the Bible, but he cannot understand or believe one spiritual teaching without faith.
Some religious orders teach that a natural man must accomplish some act or condition, such as hearing the gospel, believing, accepting Christ or some other condition and when the man accomplishes the prescribed teachings he then will be born. All acts that man can accomplish can be divided into two groupings, mental or physical work. In the preceding scriptures the impossibility of a natural man mental addressing spiritual things was noted. Since this dogma is so widely believed, other scripture will be cited for consideration. In Rom 8:5-9 a lesson is set forth which declares that natural man (one not born of the spirit) cannot perform any mental activity concerning spiritual teachings. . V. 5. For they that are after the flesh [natural man with natural attributes] do mind [attend] the things of the flesh [natural devotions] but they that are after the spirit [spiritual man with spiritual attributes] the things of the Spirit [spiritual devotions]. V. 6, For to be carnally minded [natural mental process] is death [separation from God] but to be spiritually, minded [spiritual mental process] is life and peace [fellowship with God]. V. 7, Because the carnal [natural] mind is enmity against God: for it [natural mind] is not subject [exposed] to the law of God, neither indeed can be [impossible to be subject or exposed by man]. V. 8, So then they that are in the flesh [natural state] cannot [without exception] please [perform a righteous act] God. V. 9, But ye born [those born of the spirit] are not in the flesh [natural state], but in the spirit [spiritual for the spiritual state.] Now if any man have not the spirit of Christ, he is none of his [statement declaring that one is not a living child of God through Christ until spiritual born.]
In Romans chapter nine, Paul speaking about the children of promise says in verse 11, For the children being not yet born [naturally] neither having done any good or evil [before they have accomplished any mental or physical works], that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works [works is plural, signifying all kinds of work], but of him [God] that calleth; V. 16 So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that showeth mercy. Notice the terms willeth and runneth. These terms denote mental and physical work respectively. Paul writing under the inspiration of God states that mental or physical work does not assist or bring about spiritual birth in any way; but rather it is accomplished by the God that sheweth mercy. Remember life must precede belief in the natural as well as the spiritual.
John 1:12-13, But as many as receive him [Christ], to them gave he power to become the sons of God [manifest sons], even to them that believe who can believe on his: [Christ] name: Which were born [this is how they were born of the spirit which gives them the ability to receive Him and believe on His name as stated in verse 12], not of blood (not of any blood line), nor of the will of the flesh (mental process of natural man,) nor of the will of man (mental process of any one else), nor of the will of man (mental process of any one else,) but of God. This scripture teaches as do many others that one is born again or quickened by the sovereign act of God. Ephesians 2:1 And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins.
Who can believe? The answer comes from the inspired word of God as set forth in many verses of scripture only children of God can believe! Paul states in Act 13:4: 8, And when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad, and glorified the word of the, Lord; and as many as were ordained [assigned, disposed, appointed or determined] to eternal life believed. Birth brings about activity, belief is the evidence of spiritual life. Jesus said in John 10:26-28 But ye believe not, because ye are not of my sheep, as I said unto you. My sheep [children of God] hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me; and I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. Who can deny the words of Jesus? All God fearing children should accept these truths gladly because they give God all the glory and teach that our eternal destiny is not based upon any mental or physical condition, work or attitude of weak and sinful man but in the hands of a sovereign; loving, merciful God that cannot lie or fail. The words of Jesus states, Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on Him [God] that sent me, hath [has] everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life [John 5:24.]
The question, “Who can believe?” can be answered as follows: Regarding natural data, all that are physically alive and are mentally competent. Regarding spiritual data, all that are spiritually alive and are guided by spiritual faith.
My prayer is that the grace and mercy of a loving God be upon you in accordance with His sovereign will and the Comforter will guide and direct you in all of your studies of the scriptures. I will close with a verse from 1 Cor. 1:31, That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.
In bonds of love,
Elder Bill Caraway
To have a good understanding of the teachings about Leprosy, we need to have a good understanding of the physical disease. Therefore, before trying to study the reason for the prominence of this disease in the word of God, I researched all the literature that I could find on this subject.
I found it to be a communicable disease, but not one of the more highly contagious. Yet there is one thing that distinguished it from all the other communicable diseases; in that it is a disease that attacks the peripheral nervous system; those known as pain sensors.
There are two main types: The Cutaneous, called leproma or Nodular, which causes massive distortion of the external extremities of the body; and the Neural or Neculo, which is known as the Ana esthetic type, which causes paralysis, usually followed by ulceration and gangrene Further study showed that these types are usually found together, and therefore known as Mixed Leprosy.
Leprosy is caused by a mycobacterium “Lepree.” Being one of the lesser contagious communicable diseases, it is also one of the lesser life threatening but it has a severe effect upon the quality of life of those who become afflicted.
Also in my studies, I found that it is known as “The painless disease”: this because it attacks the neurons which are the pain sensors of the external surface of the body. I also found that is one of the most difficult disease to diagnose in it’s early stages having the same characteristic as hundreds of other skin diseases, or disorders. It is not until it reaches it’s latter stage of Anaestheticness, that the effected area will become contaminated by infections, and thereby destroyed. Being painless it causes one to leave the effected area untreated, allowing infection to set in and continue therein until the area is destroyed; concluding in the loss of limbs and other external parts of the body. Leprosy does not destroy the body, but allows the infections to do so without pain.
This is a very brief description of the total disease, yet I hope it is enough to help you understand why it was chosen by our Lord God, to teach the congregations of his elect. That they may understand Spiritual Leprosy. We should know that He is purposeful in all His teachings; using natural things to teach us concerning the Spiritual; and the nature of his spiritual congregations while they dwell here on earth.
Thus He has used the natural body to show us the church and how it is to function; teaching us that Christ is the head thereof. (The central nervous system.) Which governs the whole body. Teaching us that He has formed the body and put every part thereof in it’s proper place; that it may function as a complete body. Rom 12: 1 Cor. 12; Eph 4:1-16. (Every physical body, except that of Adam and Eve, was completely formed in the womb: including the body of Christ. Thus we are taught, from the words that are translated “womb,” that the congregations of God’s children are formed in the bosom of passion; cherished and loved by the Lord God.)
Also having studied and worked in the, rehabilitation of the human body, I know that it can, and will, function though it be not whole. Yet it must function as an incomplete (disabled) body. And I also know there are circumstances when It will be necessary to remove part of the body which will do harm; sometimes even causing death to the whole body. Leprosy is a disease that can/and will destroy, by gangrene if the infection is allowed to continue untreated.
The law of leprosy was given to Moses and Aaron, Lev. 13, and was for the purpose of instructing the priest in proper diagnosing procedures; and to protect the congregation from the plague. Therefore if one was suspected of carrying the plague they were to be examined by one of the priest. We are taught that the church is made up of royal priest. I Pet.2:9.
Notice, in Verse 2, Chapter 13, of Leviticus, Those having a rising, a scab, or bright spot in the likeness Of the plague of leprosy were to be examined; remembering there were many things that appeared (had the same characteristic symptoms) to be the plague. Only leprosy will attack the communication system that keeps all parts of the body connected to the central nervous system; The Head. If there was any doubt about the diagnosis that man (person) was to be isolated for seven days, and examined again on the seventh day to make sure of the diagnosis. If there was no further spreading of the affected area, and no sign of infection, he was declared to be clean; not having the plague of leprosy. (Such is spoken of in Rom. 14) If he was found to have further spreading of the affected area and diagnosed as having the plague of leprosy, he was to be pronounced unclean. This did not end his examination; for it is taught: When the plague of leprosy is in a man, then he shall be brought unto the priest: and the priest shall see him; and behold, if the rising be white (the word white use with the word rising is the same as the term bright spot, meaning an inflammation) in the skin, and it have turned the hair white, and there be a quick raw flesh in the rising; it is an old leprosy in the skin of his flesh, and the priest shall pronounce him unclean, and shall not shut him up; for he is unclean. Even here there is a safeguard written in case the diagnosis be wrong; telling us if the leprosy continues to spread over the whole body and turns white (produces scarring) then the priest shall consider; and behold, if the leprosy have covered all flesh, he shall pronounce him clean that hath the plague... (the white hair is an indication of an active infection, whereas the white skin, scarring, is an indication of healing.)
The 13th chapter continues to list various skin conditions that have the same appearance as the plague of leprosy, and the procedures are the same for all. The final step in this diagnostic procedure comes when one is examined and found that the infection (plague) has spread over the whole body and there is no healing; the symptoms being; open ulcerations, inflammation, and raw flesh; which will have killed all the body hair, and a complete anesthetic condition is present.
There is no external pain at this stage. It is said of one in this condition, He is a leprous man, he is unclean; the priest shall pronounce him utterly unclean; the plague is in his head. And the leper in whom the plague is, his clothes shall be rent, and his head bare, and he shall put a covering upon his upper lip and shall cry, unclean, unclean. All the days wherein the plague shall be in him he shall be deified; he is unclean; he shall dwell alone; without the camp shall his habitation be. (In this condition spiritually, the effected one will have no remorse of their sin; being cut off from the head, Christ: and there will be no repentance of the sin.) If the condition is truly leprous, their very life is severely endangered; and most will die from the complications of the disease unless treated.
But this does not finish the instructions giving concerning this one who has been pronounced utterly unclean. Because of the fallibility in diagnosing that plague which is leprous, and the fact being that God can and does heal the lepers, further instructions are given; Lev. 14:1-32. These instructions pertain to that which is called, “The law of the leper in the day of his cleansing.” Herein the instructions are for the priest to go forth out of the camp; and examine the leper. Paul gave similar instructions to the church at Corinth: 2 Cor. 2:4-11. When, this one who has been excluded from the congregation, is found to be clean/healed from the plague, they are to be admitted back into the congregation.
Be sure, we are not to break bread, eat at the Lord’s table with one that is living in a sinful condition, which will expose all the congregation, and endanger their continuation with their communication with their head; Jesus Christ, our Lord, and Master. But we need to look at this lesson very closely, for it teaches us that we are not to make hasty diagnosis concerning a condition of sin that requires the congregation to exclude one of its members. And when we do determine that the conditions is one which has cut a member from Christ (having lost all feeling of remorse, and continuing in sin), and we excluded them from the congregation (church membership) let us remember that we can even then be mistaken in our decision; also that God does cure; turn his children from their sinful ways. In either case we are to continue to examine that one who has been excluded; lest they be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow.
Written in love of the truth, and a sincere desire to teach it. May we be always be found attending to the things of our Master: The Head of the Church; Jesus Christ our Lord.
Your Servant in The Word; Clem E. Cook
By Elder Hulan Bass
Jacque and I flew out to Ontario, California Tuesday afternoon, Nov. 5th. Elder Joe Holder met us at the airport. We drove to Bellflower, to Little Zion Primitive Baptist Church; 7 p.m. Singing Worship service. After a noble prayer, I preached the sermon. It was a sweet fellowship and renewal of old acquaintances. It was so good to again see Brother Jesse Galloway, Brother Jim Trautner and wife, also. I have been to this church many times, but this was my first visit since 1988. I met Sister Lorene (Poss) Fried’s new husband Elder Lacy Fried. We were the overnight guests of Joe and Sandra Holder in Riverside. A wonderful sweet fellowship. A cousin, Linda Langford, is a member of Little Zion, and she stayed overnight with us also. So good to see her again.
For the first time, we met Brother Clifton and Sister Rose Ivey. Wed. A.M. we drove North to Santa Paula, where Elder Jesse Stripland is their pastor. I preached this night there. I had visited this church before, in 1988. We were overnight guests with Elder Jesse, and Sister Eileen. What a wonderful couple. The church seems to be so happy to have them, and vice-versa. They are starting to build a new building. God bless their efforts. Brother Jesse works for Brother John Hall on an avocado ranch.
Brother Clifton and Sister Rose drove us on North through the San Joaquin Valley to Lindsay for noon lunch with Brother Richard and Sister Evelyn Fox. She is the daughter of Elder Troy and Sister Floy Mae McCarty. Sister Floy Mae lives next door to them. Elder Troy passed away on the same day, my Dad, (Elder Jesse Bass) died, Oct. 3, 1990. It was so good to see them. Brother Richard owns a nice Orange/lemon/olive Orchard. I preached this Thursday night at Lindsay P. B. Church. I had also been here before in 1988. Jacque and I were overnight in the home of sister Floy Mae. She is in a wheel chair, but so very faithful to go to church. It was so good to see Elder Tao De Montalvo again at this service. Sadly, I must report, before the evening services we went by the home of Elder Cecil Anderson, whose health is failing, and seemingly his time is limited. I led in prayer, asking for reconciling grace. He has been a faithful servant for many years in this area. He is still the pastor of Lindsay Church. Please pray for them.
Next morning, we again rode further north with Brother Clifton and Sister Rose to their home in Manteca. We stayed with them this night. This Friday night, I preached at Salida Church. Elder John Conley was their pastor for 11 years; however he had just resigned. He and his family, Debbie, Philip and Sarah were packing and preparing to move on Monday, Nov. 18th to near Hattiesburg, Miss., where he is to be the pastor. It was sure good to see he and Debbie again. I had never met their children. God bless you, brother John and family. Also, this night I again renewed fellowship with several old friends, including Elder Lyman Little. This night, for the first time, I had the privilege of meeting Elders D. A. and Elvin Layne. I had heard of them for many years. It was so good to be in close fellowship with them both. We stayed overnight in home of Brother and Sister Rose.
Saturday morning, Nov. 9th, Brother Clifton drove us to Fremont - Golden Gate P. B. Church. Elder Mike Ivey is their pastor, however, he was away, out of state, so I missed him. I have been with Elder Mike before on several Occasions. I treasure his fellowship. Elder Allen Huckaby was Moderator of this meeting. He is a very dedicated Elder in this church. This was my first visit here. I preached this morning. We had noon lunch in the church dining room. I also met Elder Charles Partin. I met many good Old Baptists this day, in fact, too numerous to list them all. A partial list would include Bros. O. E., Holbrook, Tracy Frederickson, Jerry Anstey, John Ivey, and their families; and Sister Essie Phariss. They are wonderful. This church building is in one of the most beautiful natural settings, situated in a somewhat long narrow, winding valley between two mountains. It is most inspiring just to see it. During the afternoon services, Elder Lyman Little preached on “Attentiveness.” Elder Charles Partin followed with a good sermon on John 3:16. We had a nice afternoon of sweet fellowship and learning more about the members and this church. We had supper in the church dining room. The night services were well attended also. Elder John Conley preached on “Salvation.” I then preached the closing sermon of the day. What a wonderful day! We were then overnight guests of Brother LeRoy and Sister Lura Ivey in Livermore. They are the parents of Elder Mike, and Brother John.
Second Sunday morning, at Fremont Golden Gate Church we again met for worship service. Incidentally the weather all during this trip was mild and most delightful, however, they are in a six-year drought and need rain desperately. I pray for such for them. This beautiful Sunday morning was endowed with the Spirit of the Lord as the saints gathered in. Singing was sweet, the prayer was heard, and I again preached. Incidentally, Linda Nowlin (Joel’s daughter) is a member of this church. So good to see her again. She seems so happy. After the noon lunch in the church dining room, we drove back to Livermore to the home of Brother LeRoy and Sister Lura. What a lively couple - much zeal for the “Cause of Truth.”
This second Sunday night, I preached at Livermore Primitive Baptist Church, where Elder Lyman Little is their pastor. It was well attended. Elders D.A. and Elvin Layne, Homer Shamblin, John Conley and Lyman Little were there. This was my first visit here. Elder Elvin prayed such an able prayer. It touched my heart. This night, Brother Clifton drove us back to their home in Manteca.
Monday morning, a mild nice day, Jacque, Brother Clifton and I went for a nice long walk. He is so very interesting. He worked for Ford Motor Co., Assembly Plant in San Jose for 31 years. He is close to 80. He is still going strong. He loves the church do dearly. He drives a new 92 Mercury - wonder why? Sister Rose travels right along with him. He knows more about California than almost anyone I ever talked with. Incidentally, Brother LeRoy is also a retired employee of Ford Motor Co. Brother LeRoy also drives a 92 Mercury - what else? Mid-afternoon, we four drove to Madera to home of Sister Mary Burleson, widow of Elder Wayne F. Burleson. She prepared a wonderful supper for us and then we all drove to Caruthers church for night services. This was my first visit to this church. Brother and Sister Elmer Scarbrough are members here. It was so very good to see them again. Sister Mary has a son, Marshall Brown, a member of this church and another son. Elder Travis Brown of Texas. We four were overnight guests in Sister Mary’s home. How wonderful to find such devoted old Baptists in California.
Tuesday morning, Sister Mary had to go to her job, and we four drove back to Manteca to Brother Clifton and Sister Rose’s home. In the latter part of the afternoon we four drove to the home of Elder D.A. and Sister Mildred Layne. She prepared a wonderful supper. They live in Hughson in a very lovely home.
Incidentally almost everywhere we went there are orchards of peaches, avocados, almonds, grapes, oranges, lemons, grapefruit, walnuts, olives, etc. Most everyone also has a tree or vine of some fruit in their backyards. So does Brother Layne.
This night we attended worship services in Harmony Church in Hughson. Elder D. A. Layne is pastor. Elder Elvin Layne also preaches here. Many visitors attended this service. I preached the sermon. This was my first visit here Jacque and had the honor of being the overnight guests in the home of Elder D.A. and Sister Mildred Layne. What a joy to be with them.
Wednesday morning, Nov 13th, they drove us to Oakdale to the Hershey Chocolate Plant. What a place! Thousands of square feet in the facility, and it all smells like chocolate. We were even given our choice of which, candy bar we desired. They then drove us East on Hwy 120 to Sonora and Columbia. In the Western foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range, where many of the Old Gold mines of the 1849’s were - what beautiful country! During the afternoon we drove across deep canyons and high bridges, seeing large lakes, and inspiring scenery.
Back to their home, rested, studied, supper and we prepared for worship service again in Harmony Church in Hughson. A large assembly of saints gathered in the somewhat quaint building. I preached my final sermon on this trip. What a wonderful experience. I shall never forget this trip the many churches and members - - all so wonderful. God is so good!
Jacque and I went back this night to Manteca to the home of Brother Clifford and Sister Rose Ivey. Tired, but happy in the Spirit! A good nights rest was so refreshing. Brother LeRoy and Sister Lura Ivey were also overnight here. Brother LeRoy is the brother of Brother Clifton.
We all arose early Thursday morning to a good breakfast. Incidentally, I have not yet said much about Brother John Ivey, brother of Elder Mike. Brother John drove to Brother Clifton’s home this morning in his Ford Aerostar Minivan (what else but another Ford?) Brother John is very dedicated with much zeal, and interest in the Bible and the Cause.
We all loaded in his Minivan and drove East on Hwy 120 in to the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range on into Yosemite National Forest for the day. Jacque and I had never been here before. This time of the year is breathtakingly beautiful. It is awesome! The colors of the leaves turning, the giant trees, the various waterfalls, shear cliffs of stone, the mountain’s, little valleys, plateaus, meadows, streams, wildlife of deer and birds, etc, are all really too much for just one day. Jacque took many pictures. Surely Yosemite manifests without doubt, just a small token of the greatness of God. We all returned to Manteca, home of the Clifton Ivey’s by nightfall, tired but very inspired. A day to be long remembered.
Friday morning, Nov. 15th, they drove us to Oakland Airport. We boarded the plane to Phoenix, then on to Austin, Texas, arriving at 7:00 p.m. Kenneth Bass met us and drove us to Elgin, Texas to the home of Mother, Stan and Ken. Jacque and I drove on home to Lockhart by 9:15 p.m., tired, but happy to be home, and thankful to our Great God for a safe wonderful trip among The Elect Children of The Lord way out West in California.
As a closing note, I found all the Old Baptist Churches out there in sweet harmony, love, unity and fellowship. Seemingly all the old fences are gone. Praise Him! They are in need of more ministers - Pastors, especially; but I found this to be somewhat a need in other areas. Let us all pray for such.
God bless you all in California, for making our visit so wonderfully precious to us.
In Much Tender Love,
Hulan and Jacque Bass
Lockhart, Texas