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Volume 63 Number 2 Lubbock, Texas 79493 Copyright $12.00 Per Year February 1995 |
The Story Behind the Picture Prayer Matthew 6 Satan's Angels A Psalm Of Deliverance Attributes of God The Denial Elder Harold Russell Did God Really Say That? Brother and Sister Hutchins Sister Eva Miller Elder Jerry Newman The Servant's Path Wilbur Cooper Sister Dixie Belke New Pastor at San Angelo Abortion A Tribute to My Daddy Pastors to Write Sermons Brother Gail Faries Liberated Elder Stephen Bloyd at Crosbyton Singing Tape Available Wonderful Surprise and Blessings Groundbreaking
I marvel at the gift that some folks have to paint pictures, especially those that can paint portraits of people; they are able to paint them so life like, they seem to catch the twinkle of the eye, or even a faint little smile; they sometimes look so life-like that you would expect them to speak to you Some have a special talent to make photographs, they seem to have a special ability to know just what will make a good picture. They are able to use the effects of light, shadows, and background scenery, to make a better picture. One time I took a picture of an old woolen mill, my son-in-law, who is a professional photographer, took a photo of the same mill; his was so much better than mine that I could hardly believe it.
Some people are able to carve sculpture in stone, and others mold figures in clay, some are able to carve wood into many different shapes. I recently saw a wood carving of a little humming bird, it was so lifelike that it made you want to touch the feathers. I am truly made to wonder how these folks could have all of this talent and yet I don't seem to have any ability along these lines. I thank God, however, that He has sent these special gifts long to share their special talents with us.
But, however beautiful a painting, photograph, sculpture, or carving might be, it is a lifeless copy of the real person, scene, or thing that God made. Most paintings and sculptures of persons are only the artists conception of what they see in their minds eye, being what they think the person may have looked like, that is when they haven't actually seen the person. The pictures that we see of Jesus and other Bible characters are all images from the minds of men, some are portraits of men or women, that they felt best resembled the particular character they were painting. We want to keep in mind that the Lord said, "Thou shalt not make any graven image, or likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. [Exodus 20:4.]
No picture, sculpture, or any other effort, no matter how great the work may be, can be compared to the works of God. Solomon built a great kingdom with beautiful buildings and furnishings; Bathsheba said, concerning his kingdom, "The half has never been told." But Jesus said, "Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin; And yet I say unto you, that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these," [Matthew 6: 28-29]; and Jesus ought to know. He was saying that the puny efforts of men are not to be compared to the mighty works of God, they can be no more imitations.
Now we know that all of us have a collection of pictures of those that we love. We cherish these pictures of our children and other love ones, and I certainly can't see that there is anything wrong about this. Every grandma and some grandpas carry some pictures of their grandchildren, and if you don't believe me you just ask them if they have some pictures of their grandkids and you will soon find out that I am right, for they are proud of them.This is all commendable, but we wouldn't want to have them hang their pictures in the church. Neither should we hang any other pictures in the church, not even the pictures of Jesus, so called.
The picture in the mind of God's little children is a precious thing to them; we all have some sort of picture in our imagination as what we think that Jesus might look like, and it's our very own. Probably the picture of our imagination is different than that of anyone else, and it is theirs alone. Although we may not have any artistic abilities, we do have the God given ability to paint these pictures in our mind. As we read the Bible and hear preaching along the course of our lives the picture probably changes. The way we see Jesus as a child may be different than what we see in our adult lives, and still different yet in the declining years of our lives. The many experiences of grace and mercy that we receive from our Lord daily present pictures before us that are of an ever increasing panorama. They are the living, moving, and ever changing experiences in our life. I have in my mind many precious pictures that I have captured through the years of my life, but no man would be able to paint these pictures, even if I could explain them, which of course I can't.
But we must be careful what sort of pictures we paint in our minds, for we may, if we aren't careful, be influenced by some of the so called religious paintings to "change the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like unto corruptible man."
[Romans] 1:23, We need to remember that the Lord has said that we are to "drive out all of the inhabitants of the land from before you and destroy all their pictures, and destroy all their molten images, and quite pluck down all their high places." [Numbers 33:52.]
Pictures painted by men grow old and decay, they fade away. Photographs of family and friends may be cherished today, but they probably can't even be identified by future generations. For instance, I see pictures of a group of ministers, of just a generation or two ago, published in some of our different church papers where some of the ministers are identified, but most are not known. How soon we are forgotten.
God could have, if it had been His will, moved men to paint pictures, as He did to write the Scriptures, but He didn't do this. And whatever His purpose may be He didn't, and we should accept it for we know that He knows best. We should be thankful that He has given us His Written Word, for they have millions of pictures in them. Many men have spent their lifetime trying to paint some of these word pictures, that they have received from the Spirit, and when they think they have one about completed the Spirit may open up a whole new panoramic view of that particular scripture that they had never seen before. It has been said that, "a picture is worth a thousand words," but in this case that just isn't true.
I see religious pictures in some of our churches as we travel hither and yon, and I never say anything about them; however, if any of these folks had asked my opinion of these pictures, I would have told them I feel that it would have been better not to have them. I would have told them The Story Behind The Painting of The Last Supper. This is the picture we most often see in the churches; and I must confess that one of these hung on the wall in one of the church I served for a long time, but thank the Lord, we did, after considerable effort, finally take it down without hurting the feelings of anyone. I can tell you it was a lot easier to put that picture up than it was to get down; it is best to never put up these so-called religious pictures, because they will hang there a long time before someone will be convicted enough to make an effort to get them down.
A number of years ago a member of a church that I was serving brought her little grandson to church with her; he was being raised Catholic, and he had never been in an Old Baptist church before. When they came inside his eyes examined the bare walls and the modest furnishings with no statues or pictures of Jesus and Mary, he loudly asked with surprise and amazement in his voice, "but where is Jesus?" The Jesus that he knew was only the image that was in his church, and he was obviously disappointed that we didn't have a statue, or even a picture of Jesus in our church.
Now in closing let me pass on to you an article taken from the front of my sisters' family Bible concerning the famous painting of the Last Supper, by Leonardo da Vinci, I think you may enjoy it, and I feel it hits the nail on the head.
THE STORY BEHIND THE PAINTING OF THE LAST SUPPER
There are two instructive incidents connected with the painting of The Last Supper which teaches the greatest lesson of impact upon the life of any person who, by wrong thinking, leads his life down the path of disaster.
A famous artist, Leonardo da Vinci labored for seven years to complete the masterpiece of The Last Supper using live subjects to depict Christ and the twelve Apostles.
After an intensive search, da Vinci found a young man of nineteen whose face and disposition were innocent and beautiful, without signs of degeneration caused by sin, and spent six months carefully painting him as the central figure, Christ.
Eleven more were chosen during the next six years to represent the Apostles with the exception of Judas Iscariot, for thirty pieces of silver, betrayed Christ to his executioners.
Finally, after many discouragements's, da Vinci received word that a man whose face was callous and scarred by avarice, deceit, hypocrisy and crime, sentenced to die for murder, was lying in a Roman dungeon. Da Vinci immediately went to Rome and studied this man in the strong sunlight. He saw a dark, swarthy and vicious man with long, shaggy and unkempt hair. He looked every inch a man who had sunk to complete ruin. At last, da Vinci had found the man he was to paint as Judas, the betrayer.
The man was brought to Milan, by special permission of the King where he sat for da Vinci hours every day for months while the great artist transmitted his face and character to the canvas as Judas. When he finished, he turned and said, "I have finished, you may a take the prisoner away."
The man wretched himself away from the guards and flung himself at da Vinci, crying, "O, da Vinci, look at me! Do you not know who I am?"
Da Vinci, whose eyes had been trained for the study of seeing character in the faces of men, looked again upon the face he had seen before him constantly for six solid months and said, "No, I have never seen you in my life until you were brought before me out of the dungeon in Rome."
The prisoner cried toward heaven, "Oh, God, have I fallen so low? He returned his gaze fully upon the gifted painter and cried, "Leonardo da Vinci! Look at me again, I am the same man you painted just seven years ago as the figure of Christ."
This is a true story of the painting of The Last Supper. This man was so pure and unspoiled by sin and whose innocent face was fit to be used to represent Christ, had, in seven short years fallen in sin and crime and presented a face perfect enough to be used as the most traitorous character ever known in history of the world.
May God exercise your mind toward these things, and may He bless you with His attendance always!
Elder Kenneth W. Clevenger
Cameron, MO.
Azle, Texas
"Our Father which art in heaven" - When we have humbled our self to pray and we come calling to God, remember who we are speaking to. Our mind should be on God, the Father. He is the one to whom we speak. We recognize His position. He is God, there is no other. When we say, "Our Father," we embrace the work of our Savior. And we have the promise that He has redeemed us from our sin and we await the summons to come up to His house in heaven. Our love for Him gives desire to feel His presence. We love because He loved us first.
When we say, "Which art in heaven," we recognize that His position is higher than any other. Still knowing that He is present everywhere, even knowing the thoughts and intents of our heart.
"Hallowed by thy Name," yes Holy, Holy, Holy, the three in One, to us the only one that is Holy.
"Thy Kingdom Come," in a sense it has already come and has been with us since Jesus set it up here on earth. We really desire the consummation when He shall come in the clouds and call us to meet Him in the air
"Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven," yes we have a great desire that everyone in the world would live in a way that would be pleasing to our God, especially, His elect children. He has said, "come out from them and be ye separate." Can you envision what this country would be like. He would bless us beyond measure, materially and spiritually. He has given His church that we might come away from the toils of life to worship together and praise Him in song and meditation of His Word. We can let our light [which is Christ in us, the hope of glory] shine out to the elect which walk in darkness, when the Holy Spirit stirs their heart.
"Give us this day our daily bread." - Yes, we should ask every day when we arise from sleep, giving thanks for rest, knowing that He has kept us through the night and then to ask for that spiritual bread which we must have to be happy and to praise Him more.
"And forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors." We should be careful with this phrase. Is this the limit that we want to be forgiven? Have we fully forgiven our brethren? Jesus has freely forgiven us and washed us clean.
"Lead us not into temptation, [trials] but deliver us from evil," yes we need very much to be delivered from trials and temptations. Those things which distract our mind from the things of our Lord. Yes, Lord, deliver us from the glamour of this world that we might see the glory of thy kingdom for thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever, Amen."
Oh Lord, I pray for wisdom that I might know how to pray and to walk in a way pleasing to you.
Elder Frank Baker
ANGELS #3
You also should know that Satan's messenger's have been among God's children from their beginning: to pervert the word of God. These perversive messengers have continued through out the ages, and remain with us this day. Such perverseveness prevails in the volumes of nonscriptural appearances of angels, and spiritual beings. Some of these synchronisms have become the source of the false doctrines that are amongst us: dating back to ancient teachings of the Babylonians, Chaldeans, Persians and Greeks This being one of the main sources of the corruption of the use of the word "angels". It is such unscriptural teaching that the latter Day Saints were founded upon.
Any, and all appearance of angels, imagined or real, who bring any message other than that which Christ has brought is from Satan. It is for that reason that we are instructed, "Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world." In the word, as spoken to Jeremiah, we are told not to hearken to such prophets, nor diviners, nor dreamers, enchanters, nor to sorcerers, which speak unto us not according to the word of God. And Paul, speaking by the authority of God, warned that there are those who will teach some other gospel: which is not another; but that which will cause trouble, perverting the gospel of Christ. Saying, "Though we, or any angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you let him be accurse."
We are also taught, concerning the prophet which prophesiath peace, when the word of the prophet shall come to pass, than shall the prophet be known, that the Lord hath truly sent him. We are also told, by the word of God, if any teach not the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the doctrine which is according to godliness; such is proud, knowing nothing, being one who dotes about questions and strife of words. That such comes from perverse disputings of corrupt minds, and is destitute of the truth. Such can have the form of godliness, but they deny the power thereof. And even though they are learning, they are never able to come to the knowledge of the truth, and will not endure sound doctrine. Such we are to beware of and avoid.
Let us be assured that everyone who says, Lord, Lord, is not of God. Therefore, we are warned, saying, There are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore, it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; who's end shall be according to their works.
By Brother Coy Thomas
[CONCLUDED FROM LAST ISSUE]
Sometimes, we have to be brought down low and removed from the mountain tops in order to see our state of need. This reminds us of our total dependence on God not only in an eternal since, but also in our daily walk. After being brought down low, we see and appreciate how high the mountain stretches into the sky. Most of us would rather be on top of the mountain than to sit at the foot. But what do we do when we find ourselves staring up at a huge mountain? In verse eight, David gives some advice on relieving some of our trouble. "I cried unto thee, O Lord." Remember that supplication is making a request to God to fill a need. [James 4:3].
Verse nine has the turn-a-round statement. It is very close to Psalm 6:5. It is necessary to point out that the pit in this verse is different than the one in verse three. This pit is one of destruction and utter corruption. Compare this corruption with 1 Corinthians 15:42-44, 51-55.
Verse ten is a verse to memorize. The time to recall this verse is each and every morning. All our necessities of the day can rest in this one saying, "Hear, O Lord, and have mercy upon me: Lord, be thou my helper." When our joy comes in the morning or when we face the troubles of another day, this verse is the hallmark of our supplication to God. When the Lord hears His children and draws upon His vast storehouse of grace and mercy there is an assurance throughout each day for us. This is something we can truly trust in. He is our strength and our peace each and every day. And what better statement can we make than to ask the Lord to be our helper? This is a statement made by people who plan to be very busy each day and realize that they need the help of the Lord in all things that they will undertake to do. This also pleases God that we have no desire to be spiritually, physically, or emotionally lazy as we begin each day.
David finishes off his Psalm with a summary. David tells us that his morning [sadness] has been turned to dancing; [gladness] and his outer appearance [an expression of depression, gloom, and doom] has been put away and replaced with the outward display of gladness. This outward appearance is a reflection of his inward man. It is on the inside that God has been working. David now manifests this inward working of God with his outward joy. This leads to the conclusion of the psalm.
Why would God have this great mercy upon someone who is a proven sinner and really deserves to dwell in the consequences of his sin: David says, "To the end that my glory [the joy that was given him by God] may sing praise to thee." The joy and happiness of David sings praises to the Lord. God heals us of spiritual and emotional sufferings for a purpose - because Jesus Christ has bought and paid for us and He owns us. It is glory and praise to His Name and greatness to raise us from our downtrodden state and set us on the mountain top. This shows the breadth and depth of His mercy and grace. This is something for us to always focus on when we get in just such a state. God will not forsake us or let us stay in such a state. This directly applies to each day of our life on this earth.
Jesus Christ said it best in Matthew 5:16, "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."
An attribute is a quality which is essential to the existence of a being. The attributes of God are those qualities that belong to and identify His Divine nature. Our precept of God must be derived from our knowledge of His attributes. It is impossible to understand God apart from His attributes as revealed unto us through His Word.
His Divine holiness, power, supremacy immutability, love, hate, wisdom, knowledge, understanding, mercy, judgment, wrath, goodness, faithfulness, grace, patience and etc. are all attributes of God set forth in the Bible that we may understand that He is the only true and living God.
This article does not address all the attributes of God. Neither does it go into great depth on these attributes addressed. The intent of this article is to stir up your pure minds to view God as the scriptures portray Him and not as portrayed by the religions of the world.
The Sovereignty of God: In order to be eternal, self-existent and self-sufficient God must be sovereign. If He is accountable to anyone or thing, then He is not God nor is He sovereign. He is supreme in authority, power, rank and ability and completely independent which identifies Him as a sovereign God. In order for Him to function as God He must exercise His attributes. If His attributes are not equal to His sovereignty then He ceases to be God. Thus, it is understood that to be sovereign, each attribute must be absolute. To be sovereign or absolute demands perfection which means that each attribute can not vary in degrees nor diminish in effectiveness. When God administers an attribute it must be in harmony with all other attributes, such as wisdom, purpose and etc. otherwise discord will follow.
God being sovereign, He exercises His supremacy by doing absolutely as He pleases, when He pleases and where He pleases. If we can grasp such greatness then the scriptures will become much more meaningful to us for it is primarily through this means that God reveals Himself to His people.
A review of the following scriptures may open the eyes of our understanding to the Majesty, Supremacy and Sovereignty of the Most High. God which sets on the throne of His glory independent of all, as seen in Isa. 46:9, "Remember the former things of old; for I am God, and there is none else; I am God and there is none like me."
His wisdom, word, counsel and purpose is sovereign; Isa. 46:10-11, "Declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times, the things that are not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure; Calling a ravenous bird from the east, the man that executeth my counsel from a far country: yea, I have spoken it, I will also bring it to pass; I have purposed it, I will also do it." Also in Psa. 3:9 and 11, "For he spake, and it was done; he commanded, and it stand fast. [V:11] "The counsel of the Lord standeth forever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations."
His pleasure is sovereign: Psa 115:3, "But our God is in the heavens: he hath done whatsoever he hath pleased." And in Psa. 135:6, Whatsoever the Lord pleased, that did he in heaven, and in earth, in the seas, and all deep places."
Creation was sovereignly effected: Gen. 1:1, "In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth." Also in Psa 33:6, "By the word of the Lord were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth." And in Job 1:1-3, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God, All things were made by Him; and without Him was not anything made that was made."
His power and will are sovereign: Dan. 4:35, "And all the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing: and he doeth according to His will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay His hand, or say unto Him, What doest thou?" Also in Isa. 43:13, "Yea, before the day was I am He: and there is none that can deliver out of my hand: I will work, and who shall let it?" And in Matt 28:18, "And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is give unto me in heaven and in earth."
He acts upon mankind in many ways which manifests Him sovereign power:
1. He loves and hates sovereignly; Rom 9:13, "As it is written, Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated."
2. He extends mercy sovereignly. Romans 9:18 "Therefore, hath He mercy on whom He will have mercy, and whom He will be hardeneth."
3. He predestinates, calls, justifies, and glorifies according to His sovereign foreknowledge and purpose: Rom 8:28-30, "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose. For whom He did foreknow, He also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom He did predestinate, them he also called, and whom He called, them He also justified, and whom he justified, them He also glorified."
4. He saves sovereignly: 2 Tim.1:9, "Who hath saved us and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began,"
5. He keeps His children sovereignly: 1 Pet. 1:5, "Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time."
These are a few examples of how God extends His sovereign power to execute His will. To know He is sovereign should cause us to rejoice for all of our hope is based on the truth of His word.
The Power of God: God's power is absolute, it is not conditional nor partial, neither can it diminish. God's power is the life and activity of all His attributes. His other attributes would be worthless without the power to implement them.
In creation His power is revealed, Jer 32:17,"Ah Lord God! behold, thou hast made the heaven and the earth by thy great power and stretched out arm, and there is nothing too hard for thee:" And in Rev. 4:11, "Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things and for thy pleasure they are and were created."
In purpose and action His power is absolute. In Job 23:13, "But He is one mind, and who can turn Him? And what His soul desireth, even that He doeth." Also in Matt 19:26, "
"But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, with men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible." And in Psa 115:3, "But our God is in the heavens: He hath done whatsoever He hath pleased."
His power towards man is revealed, Jam 4: 12, "There is one lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy: who art thou that judgest another?" We see the two directions of His power, one in salvation and the other in judgment. This is evident in Rom 9:13, "As it is written, Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated" And also man cannot hinder Him for in Dan 4:35, "And all the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing: and He doeth according to His will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth; and none can stay His hand, or say unto Him, what doest thou."
God's power towards His people is seen in Psa 110:3. "Thy people shall be willing in the day of thy power, in the beauties of holiness from the womb of the morning: thou hast the dew of thy youth." Also in Eph 2:1 "And you hath He quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins:" And in 1 Pet 1:5, "Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time."
The Immutability of God: God's immutability [constancy] is almost completely ignored by the Churches of the world today. They portray God as changing from day to day as events and circumstances dictate. If God changes He would have to change either to a better or worse state. Any change necessitates a move forward or backward, therefore if He changed to the better He was in error before the change, which reduces him to being imperfect, hence He is not God. If he changes to the worse He ceases to be God for He has moved to a position of error. In this we see that to be perfect and to remain perfect He cannot change. This attribute then identifies an inherent characteristic of a perfect being called God. Scriptures declare Him to be unchangeable:
Mal 3:6, "For I am the Lord, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed."
James 1:17, "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning."
Num 1:17, "God is not a man, that He should lie: neither the Son of man, that He should repent; hath He said, and shall He not do it? or hath He spoken , and shall He not make it good?"
God identified Himself to Moses as immutable in Exo 3:14, "And God said unto Moses, I am that I am; and he said, Thus shall thou say unto the children of Israel, I Am hath sent me unto you."
God uses the Rock to teach that He is immutable , in Deu 32:4, "He is the Rock, His work is perfect; for all His ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is He."
Paul declares Jesus to be immutable in Heb 13:8, "Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day and for ever."
His word is immutable: Psa. 119:89, "Forever, O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven."
His faithfulness is immutable: Psa 119:90 "Thy faithfulness is unto all generations : thou hast established the earth and abideth."
His love is immutable: Jer 31:3 "The Lord hath appeared of old unto me, saying, yes, I have loved thee with an everlasting love; therefore with loving kindness have I drawn thee."
His mercy and truth is immutable : Psa 100:5, "For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting; and His truth endureth to all generations."
His counsel is immutable: Heb 6:17 "Wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of His counsel, confirmed it by an oath:"
His thoughts and purposes are immutable Isa 14:24, "The Lord of hosts hath sworn, saying, Surely as I have thought, so shall it come to pass: and as I have purposed, so shall it stand."
These scriptures as well as many others provide proof that our God is an immutable God. His power, love, hate, wisdom, knowledge, holiness, understanding, mercy judgment, wrath goodness, faithfulness, grace, patience, and etc are all immutable attributes of the only perfect God. Therefore, in His immutable nature He is self-existent and self-sufficient, which identifies Him as the only eternal and infinite being.
Humanity is mutable, and as a result of Adams sins all humanity in nature is opposed to God. In this state we are referred to as 'wandering stars' in Jud 1:13, "Raging waves of the sea, foaming out their own shame; wandering stars, to whom is reserved the blackness of darkness forever." Since we are in this deplorable state in nature His children need stability above all else. Stability comes only from a stable force. Stability first comes to a child of God by his quickening Spirit which brings eternal life. With eternal life comes the indwelling of the Spirit and the work of the Comforter which enables them to embrace the attributes of God thorough His word and take hold of the glorious promises, teachings and doctrine which brings purpose and hope to an unstable being.
If we do not believe God to be immutable then His word, promises, commandments, laws etc, are changeable therefore He is reduced to the same state as humanity. But if we believe that He is immutable, then we can see Him in His excellency as Moses did in Exo 15:11. "Who is like unto thee, O Lord, among the gods? Who is like thee, glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, doing wonders?"
The Love and Hate of God: God's love is absolute and perfect, and His hate is the same. These attributes reflect inherent abilities of God. None can question why He loves or hates.
Each attribute of God manifest His divine nature. To limit either His love or hate reduces His nature to something less than God. To deny his ability to hate, forces God to love sin! God forbid.
To say God loves one less than another is to accuse God of being imperfect. If God does anything in degrees He is imperfect and has the same attributes of man. God forgive us of this error. Man does everything in degrees but God is God and accomplishes every act perfectly.
Since God is eternal, His attributes are eternal. This means He loved and hated before He created the heavens and earth and all that is within creation. This is manifested in Rom 9:11-14, "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. What shall we say then? Is there unrighteousness with God? God forbid." God has the sovereign right to love whom he will and hate whom he will. Notice in the text that God's love and hate was not based upon good or evil, but upon His Sovereign election.
Those sinners which are embraced in His eternal love are given to His Son to save and the sinners which He hates is left to stand in judgment by His perfect law. All the human race was condemned by God's law, therefore all merited His hatred and abhorrence but He favored the objects of His love by drawing them to Him effectually. In Jer 31:3, "The Lord hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love; therefore with loving kindness have I drawn thee." God's love and hate is eternal, hence His love and hate was not dependent or influenced in any way by the acts of mankind.
His eternal purpose toward those He loves is reflected in Eph 1:4-6, "According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love; Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of His will. To the praise of the glory of His grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved." These scriptures state that God bestowed the blessings cited, according to the good pleasure of His will.
God's love reaches down through time and provides the means to save those he loves from eternal wrath as stated in 1 John 4:10. "Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins." The fulfillment of His saving love is recorded in Rom 5:8-10. "But God commandeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more than, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of His Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life."
God's divine love is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost when we are born spiritually and will abide there eternally. Paul reveals this wonderful truth to us in Rom 8:35-39. "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril or sword? As it is written, for thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
John addresses the finished work of Divine Love in 1 John 3:1, "Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God; therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not."
The attributes of God as set forth in the scriptures declare Him to be a living, self-existent, self-sufficient, eternal, omnipotent, omnipresent, and omniscient God. It would be inconsistent to believe that His attributes could not support Him. It would be inconsistent to believe that God is perfect and His attributes imperfect. It would be inconsistent to believe in God and not believe in His attributes. It would be inconsistent to believe in God and His attributes and not rejoice in His promises.
In conclusion, each attribute of God is like a facet of a diamond. When the glorious light of truth shines upon a facet and that facet together with all the other facets sparkle with the brilliancy of divine revelation, then and only then do we begin to see the perfection and glory of the entire Diamond.
And Peter remembered the words of Jesus, and went out and wept bitterly. Matt. 26:75 All four gospels relate to agreement this affair, of Peter through fear denied his Savior, of which Jesus had predicted that Peter would do.
In no way would I criticize the apostle for his weakness, but perhaps learn a lesson from his experience, not only his experience but from bitter memories of the many times I have denied my Lord, and when His word is remembered it brings weeping and sorrow into the heart, that I would be so weak as to deny the one who took my sins and carried them to the cross.
I have denied Him, in turning aside, after He has said, deny thyself, take up thy cross, and follow me. Christ said, My peace I leave with you.
Have I kept the peace that Jesus left? Have I obeyed Him in agreeing with my adversary, quickly while in the way with Him? This does not mean to agree with the wickedness of worldly men, but this speaks of your brother who is in the way with you. The world is not in the way with you.
Once a brother with whom I had walked many miles, tried to compel me to walk an extra mile, which I refused to do. Thus, we no longer walk together. I had denied my Lord's command, "Whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile with him, go with him twain."
But, I might say, this command is wrong, a brother has no right to compel me to go a mile with him, and if he does why should I go two? Paul gives the answer in Romans 15:1. We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak and not to please ourselves.
When I fail to bear the infirmities of the weak, then I prove that I am not strong and seek to please myself, which the apostle said that Christ did not do.
I have denied my Lord, in that I do not love my enemies, nor pray for them that despitefully use or persecute, neither have I always let my communication be Yea, yea, Nay, nay, but have returned railing for railing, neither have I turned the other cheek after being smitten. How can I expect the Lord to fight my battles, if I do my own fighting.
Peter had cause to weep bitterly, feeling that he had failed his Lord, who had said when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren. But there came a time when he was a source of strength to the church. This is the apostle of whom his enemies took knowledge, that he had been with Jesus, and who was willing to go to prison, even to death for Him, whom he once denied, for he learned to humble himself under the mighty hand of God, no doubt he never forgot the night he went out and wept bitterly; but also he remembered the words of Jesus, and the gospel which he received of his Lord, he proclaimed boldly.
As the apostle had cause for weeping, and as Peter went out into the night away from the face of the Lord, so in all my denials I leave Jesus, leaving his teachings, leaving his presence and alone in the night repent with bitter weeping.
Though we never read that Peter denied the Lord again, but I seem to live a life of continually denial of Christ. Not his doctrine of love and grace, for this is all my hope. Then why is it that I cannot remember the words of the Savior, and in remembering, heed them, then there would be no cause for bitter weeping. Just three times Peter denied Jesus and wept bitterly. How many times have I denied him? I have no idea. But as we know that the Savior never ceased to love the apostle who denied Him. There is hope for a poor weak, and faithless sinner like me.
There is no record that Christ ever chided Peter for his brief lapse from faithfulness, but after His resurrection, Christ appeared quickly to the apostles, and after asking Peter if he loved Him, gave him the sacred trust of feeding His sheep. Here was an example of kindness, love mercy and forgiveness. An example which we should emulate, then perhaps we will never have to experience bitter weeping because we have denied the Lord.
The Banner of Love, Feb. 1, 1964
Elder Harold Russell moved to LaPryor, Texas in 1956. He joined the LaPryor Primitive Baptist Church by letter 7-7-56. Elder Russell was ordained in LaPryor Sept. 9, 1956. He was called by the LaPryor Church as their pastor, Dec. 10, 1955, where he served as their loving pastor and ministering to all the loved ones spiritual need and kindness through all the many years.
Elder Russell passed away Dec. 2, 1994 in Uvalde, TX after a long illness from cancer. The vacant place in this church and this community will be long missed.
Survivors include his wife, Darlene Russell of LaPryor, Tx, daughter, Teresa Ann Mashue of Houston, Texas, grandchildren, Leslie Michelle Thompson and Lance Anthony Thompson, both of Austin, Texas; sisters, Gladys Shipley of Alamo, Texas and Maxine Richter of Waterford, CA.; brother, Jarvis Russell of Sunny Vale, CA., half brothers, Lewis Cole of Waterford, CA., Coy Russell of Lake Tahoe, Nev.; half sisters, Myrtice Busterbaum of Lamesa, Texas, and Ara Bess Crundwell of Teague, Texas.
He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, half sister, and half brother.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, December 6, 1994 in Bethel Primitive Baptist Church in McMahan, Texas with Elder Hulan Bass officiating. Burial was in Jefferies Cemetery, in McMahan under directions of Rushing-Estes-Knowles Mortuary.
Church Clerk, Manerva Andrews
BROTHER GEORGE AND SISTER VIOLA HUTCHINS
It was a double loss for both the family and church of Brother George and Sister Viola Hutchins when the much loved couple passed away within three weeks of each other.
George P. Hutchins was born Sept. 1, 1908 and died Jan. 8, 1994. Viola Mae [Foster] Hutchins was born Feb. 20, 1916 and passed away on Dec. 14, 1993.
Pastors Freddy Boen and J.D. Walters conducted both services.
Brother George had been a devoted member of the Lebanon Primitive Baptist Church for 65 years, and Sister Viola for 64 years. Brother George was ordained as deacon in the church on July 12, 1941. As a deacon he was always active in the care and well being of the church up until the time of his death.
Sister Viola's father, Elder John C. Foster was pastor of the Lebanon Church for many years. He baptized both George and Viola and performed their marriage ceremony and also conducted the ordination service for Brother George.
The couple is survived by four sons: Vondal Hutchins, Dorval Hutchins, Alvin Hutchins, Elvin Hutchins and two daughters; Georgia Wagner and Barbara Vaught; 26 grandchildren and 37 great-grandchildren. The couples' brothers and sisters include; C. G. Hutchins, B.F. Hutchins, Edna Foster, A. B. Foster, and Laverne Scott.
We miss this dear couple very much, but find comfort knowing that they are with our Savior, where all is peace and love.
Written by request of the Church.
Elder Frank Robertson, Pastor
Julia Wheeler, Church Clerk
Houston Primitive Baptist Church was deeply saddened by the passing of a dear mother in Israel, Sister Eva Miller. Sister Eva was born Dec. 12, 1916 and passed to an upper and better kingdom, September 26, 1994 at the age of 77 years, nine months, and 14 days. She is survived by her husband of 53 years, Joseph J. Miller; three sisters; Ida B. Nimmo, Vera Sangster, and Lois Sparks; a brother, Claude Lunsford; sister-in-law, Gladys Lunsford, and numerous nephews, nieces and friends. She was laid to rest at Rosewood Memorial Park Cemetery, Humble, Texas. Services were conducted by Elders Vernis J. Stanaland, and Frank McMillan.
Sister Eva was married to Joseph J. Miller on January 18, 1941 and soon after joined herself to Corinth Primitive Baptist Church in Appleby, TX, where her husband was a member. She and her husband united with Houston Primitive Baptist Church, Sept. 18, 1965. Sister Eva remained a loving and faithful member who regularly attended services as long as her health allowed. She immensely enjoyed hearing the Gospel preached and singing the songs of Zion.
She will be sorely missed by her companion, family, church members, and friends, but we know and pray that she is sweetly resting in a better place, where there is no sorrow, pain or suffering. We extend our most sincere sympathy and prayers to all who knew and loved Sister Eva Miller.
In loving Memory,
Houston Primitive Baptist Church
Brother Tommy Atchley, Clerk
Elder Jerry Cleburn-Pastor
"Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints." Ps. 116:15
We at Bethlehem Primitive Baptist Church of Purcell, OK bow in humble submission to our Almighty God in that He has called His servant, our beloved pastor, Elder Jerry E. Newman, home to rest. We acknowledge that the Lord called Elder Newman to the ministry and sent him to tend the little flock at Bethlehem. We thank God that he watched out for our souls and lead us by following the footsteps of Christ Jesus.
Elder Newman lived his religion, and the greatest sermon he ever preached was his daily walk. His God given humility caused him never to seek his own glory. Rather, he cautioned us to follow him only as long as he followed Christ. And he urged that we "search the scriptures daily, whether those things are so." Acts 17:11. At his funeral his son, Elder Henry Newman, Elder Dennis Kreie and Elder Mike Hughes, and his yoke-fellow in the ministry, Elder Hylton Crain, all cautioned us against praising Brother Newman. God, alone, is worthy of our praise.
Elder Newman began serving our church in July 1955 and was called as co-pastor in April of 1956. He became our pastor in July of 1957 serving until his death August 24, 1994. In his almost 40 years of service to our church and churches at Sulphur, Amber, Ada, Oklahoma City, and Duncan. He never wavered from the truth or his desire to keep unity in the church. We are thankful that the Lord gave him [and us] his precious wife, Sister Faye, his children, Elder Henry Newman, Sister Celia Kreie, and Sister Marilyn Hughes. That his sons-in-law, daughter-in-law, and all his grandchildren are faithful members of the church, is an example of his works following after him. We extend our sympathy to them and long for the day of the resurrection when we shall join Elder Newman to sing the praise of God in perfection.
Written by order of Bethlehem Primitive Baptist Church, Purcell, OK.
Elder Mike Hughes, Pastor
Committee: Sister Ranae Hamilton, Sister Pam Winchester, Sister Karen Winchester
Written for Elder Jerry E. Newman
by Pam McCarthy Winchester
'Tis sweet to see a humble soul
Walking in God's way;
A servant's path he chooses,
His Master he obeys.
A servant's life is not his own,
He lives not for himself;
He serves to please his Master's will,
Not knowing fame of wealth.
He lives a life of sacrifice,
But God yet grants sweet peace;
And promises His servant rest,
'Tho his labors never cease.
The righteous serve with
gladness,
The faithful serve in love;
A joyful noise is made unto
Our Lord of Heaven above.
Let us this great example take,
And heed the servant's ways;
Serving others and our Lord
All our remaining days.
"I am the resurrection and the life," our Lord tells us, and it is this hope that sustains us in the loss of our loved-ones. The Crosbyton Church was saddened by the loss of our brother, Wilbur "Bill" Cooper.
Brother Bill was born in Irkster, North Dakota, on May 25, 1920. He passed from this life on September 13, 1994.
In November of 1982, Brother Bill was baptized by Elder George Johnson. He continued as a member of the Crosbyton Church until his death.
He worked in the oil fields of New Mexico, as well as a carpenter in his later years. Brother Bill was always willing to do repairs and improvements on the church house. World War II veteran, he was loved for his down-to-earth personality and good sense of humor.
His widow, Sister Tina (Palvadore) Cooper, resides in Crosbyton and is also a member of the church. Brother Bill is preceded in death by a son, and survived by three sons, two stepsons, a stepdaughter, a sister, and several grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Submitted by the Crosbyton Church
Elder Michael Rodgers, Pastor
Brother Joe Taylor, Clerk
SISTER DIXIE BELK
Dixie Faught Belk passed from this life and to be with her Lord, December 12, 1994. She was born January 29, 1914 to William Franklin and Naomi Melton Faught in the Nix community, near Lampasas, Texas. She would have been 81 years of age Jan. 29, 1995.
She married H. A. Belk July 27, 1933. He preceded her in death in 1981. To this union four children were born. Her survivors are: her children: Jane and James Alexander of Sonora, Texas, Gainell Minnick of Dimmit, Texas; H. Allen and Elsie Belk of Winters, Texas; Jimmy and Sherry Belk of Eldorado, Texas. She also leaves eleven grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren; a sister, Velma Lively of Lampasas survives her. A grandson, Robert Jody Minnick, II; three brothers; Milton Thaxter and Johnny Faught preceded her in death.
Sister Dixie joined the Zion Primitive Baptist Church at Nix, Texas at the age of nine years. She joined the Eldorado church by letter from Zion Church on the third Sunday in May, 1929.
She was a faithful member.
She was the first to arrive at the church on meeting days. One could always find her in the sanctuary studying her Bible; waiting for others to arrive. She loved discussing the Scriptures. She always wanted to know more about her Lord. Her humble faithfulness was an example of the life she lived. We, at Eldorado Primitive Baptist Church have a custom of singing around the dinner table, after lunch. Sometimes we sing on hour and a half; sometimes two hours. How Sister Dixie loved to sing the songs of Praise to her Lord. She had attended church; our singing, enjoyed it all on Sunday. Then Monday evening she passed away; seemingly with little suffering. How gracious is our Lord!
Her funeral was held Thursday, December 15, 1994 at 3:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church, with her pastor, Elder Steve Sims, conducting the service. Burial was in Eldorado Funeral Home.
May it be resolved that this be sent to The Banner of Love for publication; a copy for the church records and copies made for her children. Written by all of us at Eldorado Primitive Baptist Church. We loved her.
Elder Steve Sims, Moderator
Clemens Sauer, Church Clerk
On January 22, 1995, the New Hope Primitive Baptist Church of Sam Angelo, Texas, while in conference, called Elder Howard Jernigan for pastor to take the care of the Church. To our pleasure, he did accept, and will serve the church on second and fourth Sundays of each month.
We love him and enjoy his sermons and feel that he is the one to serve the church as pastor.
Since the passing of our beloved pastor, Elder Duane McCarty, on November 14, 1990, we have had many fine ministers who have and are serving us, and we surely appreciate and thank them all.
We extend an invitation to all that might have a desire to come and visit with us.
With love for the Cause,
Raymond Young, Church Clerk
.......... PAPER GOOD BETWEEN MEETINGS
I enjoy the paper so much. Am enclosing a check for renewal for another year.
I pray the Lord will continue blessing you all. We have services only one Sunday a month. The paper is so good between meetings. Elder Phil Jones is our pastor.
In Hope,
Mrs. James Shaw
Rolla, MO.
[With child, without child]
For the last 22 years, our country has been taken into the advent of legalized murder of members of the human race. Thousands of lives of the unborn have been taken in this slaughter.
We had hoped to see a Supreme Court that would overturn the decision of Roe vs Wade, but have seen these hopes almost destroyed by recent appointments to the court. It is difficult to imagine that nine people making a decision could so affect several generations of our citizens.
I well remember a statement made by one of my sisters about the time of Roe vs Wade. I will quote her now, "They're going to make murderers out of our little girls."
I would like to deal with the subject of "Abortion" from the meaning of words, and of course, the standard we go by, The King James Bible.
The Webster Dictionary, copyright 1964 gives the word definitions as follows:
Abortion - The act of miscarrying or producing young before the natural time.
Clinic - A medical institution in which a group of physicians jointly examine and treat patients.
Physician person skilled in the art of healing; one whose profession is to prescribe remedies for disease.
Patient - One who or that which is passively affected; a sufferer from an ailment; a person who is under medical care.
Fetus - The young viviparous animals in the womb, and of oviparous animals in the egg after it is perfectly formed.
Feticide - The destruction of the fetus in the womb ; the act by which criminal abortion is produced.
Infant - A child in the first two or three years of life.
Child - A son or daughter of any age.
With child - Pregnant
Child Bearing - The act of producing or bringing forth a child, travail.
Babe, Baby - An infant, a young child of either sex.
We hear much use of the word, fetus, in connection with abortion. This word is not a Bible term, so I will consider it under the dictionary's definition. First, it refers to animals in the womb. The word, viviparous [from alive and to bear], means producing young in a living state. Certainly, animals are not human, but the same thought should be considered for the human race, when we would use the word, fetus; to bear that which is alive.
The proper word used in the Bible for the unborn is; with child. I will show several scriptures in the Old and New Testament that deal with one that is pregnant - with child.
The first Bible account of birth is recorded in Genesis, chapter 4 and verse 1. "And Adam knew Eve, his wife; and she conceived, and bare Cain, and said, "I have gotten a man from the Lord." Certainly this scripture would let us know that life begins with conception; that human life comes from God.
I want to deal now with the Bible term: with child. This term means there has been conception, and now there is a life in the womb.
Genesis 16:11 - The angel of the Lord said unto her [Hagar], "Behold thou art with child, and shall bear a son," etc. Other accounts are: Lot's daughter, Gen. 19:36, and Tamar, Gen 38, verses 24 and 25.
2nd Samuel chapter 11 verse 5 states: And the woman [Bathsheba] conceived, and sent and told David, and said, "I am with child."
In Ecclesiastes 1, verse 5, Solomon gives this account of life before birth. As thou knowest not which is the way of the spirit, nor how the bones do grow in the womb of her that is with child: even so thou knowest not the works of God who maketh all. Isaiah states in chapter 26, verse 17; Like as a woman with child, that draweth the time of her delivery [giving birth] etc. Also read 2 Kings 8:12, 15:16, Isaiah 54:1, 66:7, Jer 31:8, and 1 Kings 3:17.
I now go to the New Testament account of the words, with child.
Matthew states in chapter one verse 18 of the birth of Jesus; before they [Mary and Jesus] came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. Also read Matthew 24:19, Mark 13:17, Luke 2:5, 1 Thes 5:3, Rev. 12:5, 12:13, Heb 11:11, and Child Bearing 1 Tim 2:15.
Each Bible account we have with the words, with child, lets us know of a woman, and with her there is a child. I would conclude from these Bible teachings, that a woman who enters a so called abortion clinic, being with child, leaves that place without child. The child was not a disease to be dealt with by physicians, but was murdered by men or women who have the profession of taking life from the womb.
I have been speaking of abortion on demand, or of a profession of the murder of infants. I would like also to consider victims of criminal acts; rape and incest. A woman young or old, should be given the right to choose in the matter of rape and incest.
The terrible thing brought on our nation 2 years ago by a single court decision that has caused so many deaths, should be overturned in the same place the decision was made, The Supreme Court of the United States. If it cannot be done there, then our Congress should address the matter of the murder of infants.
So many married couple want to have children and can't have them.
So many want to adopt a child and have to wait, wait, and wait.
So many have desired to be mothers, and have not been able to bring a child to birth.
Let us pray that the turn to the right last November in our nation will mean there is hope in this so great a cause of dealing with human life, born and unborn.
KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK
Enclosed is $25.00, please renew for two years and us the extra anyway it can help.
Keep up the good work. God's continued blessings, we pray will be yours.
Elder Bruce Crawford
Lampasas, Texas
Note: We appreciate you, Elder Crawford.
DON'T WANT TO MISS A COPY
Enclosed is money for the Banner of Love for another year. Enjoy it so much; I don't want to miss a copy.
Since I am alone, I enjoy the Banner of Love and reading my Bible. When I don't get to go to church, I have much joy in reading the Banner. Thank you for all the good reading in the January Banner.
May the Lord continue to bless you all.
Much love,
Vesta Stewart
Dill City, OK.
CARD OF THANKS
The Russell Family thanks you for your many prayers, blessings of food, cards, flowers, contributions, letters and calls, as well as visitors, before and after his passing.
There is much peace in our hearts for each and every one of you, and the comfort in knowing you care.
Darlene Russell
Teresa Mashue
HAROLD D. RUSSELL
He left behind my mother, Darlene Russell, a devoted trooper and wife of 51 years. Many of you knew my daddy as the sweet old man who resided in Armistad #1 for the last five months. His last days there was not easy and we thank you for your compassion, love and understanding of his illness.
Many knew him as pastor of LaPryor Primitive Baptist Church. The position was held devotedly for 38 years. The Church ordained him 9-9-56. He built the new LaPryor Church. Many knew him as owner and operator of the Russell Lumber and Construction Co. He touched many hearts and many lives through his building, remodeling and sales. Beginning in 1960 many homes throughout the southwest were constructed by my Daddy.
His contribution to others were numerous in all areas of his life, whether it was ministry, friendship, husband or father. He leaves behind a great legacy, for all he touched.
He is survived by my mother, Darlene Russell, myself, his only daughter, Teresa Mashue, a devoted son-in-law, Tom Mashue, and two beautiful grandchildren, Lastly Michelle and Lance Anthony Thompson.
Written in Love,
Teresa Mashue
LIKE AN OLD FRIEND
It's hard to believe another year has passed. We enjoy the Banner of Love so much and look forward to it's arrival; like an old friend.
My wife's brother was visiting from West Virginia and read some of our back issues and thoroughly enjoyed them. Please add his name to your subscribers list, so he can continue to read these good scriptural articles.
Looking forward to seeing you at Doss in July.
In Christian Love,
Norman Miller
Stratton, Texas Primitive Baptist Church
To you who work faithfully to keep this dear paper coming out to us, my dear ones.
I wonder if some of our good pastors would write a sermon on the fifth verse of St. Matthew, chapter 5: "Blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the earth." I would like to hear Brother Hulan Bass speak on this. Many others could too.
I love you all,
Janie Clark
Poteau, OK
ARE IN MY PRAYERS
I have received my Banner and am enjoying it very much. Thank you for your fast and excellent service. You, your family, and the Banner are in my prayers.
Michael Hackfeld
San Angelo, Texas
The church while in conference in January 1995 voted to liberate Brother Gail Faries. Brother Gail seems to have promising gifts and graces for this great work. We, the Friendship Primitive Baptist Church at Brownfield, Texas, do hereby liberate him to preach in public.
If God wills and the Church is edified by his preaching and his rod should appear to bud, blossom and bear fruit like Aaron's rod, we will know that Brother Gail has a great and solemn work ahead.
We pray and ask that you pray also for Brother Gail as we labor in this sacred function.
Our only and great concern is the honor and glory of God and the prosperity of the churches and that Christ might be glorified.
For the Cause,
J.C. Dorsett
Brownfield Church
REPORT ON PORTALES, N.M. MEETING
I want to report on the most wonderful meeting at Portales, N.M. We had 18 Elders.
We want to thank everyone that came to our meeting. We hope they got as many blessings as we did. I never saw so much love. We want to thank our sister churches and sisters for all the food they brought and all the brothers help. They were wonderful to us.
We want to thank our pastor Elder Wayne Venable, who did a good job of hosting the meeting.
We enjoy the Banner of Love. We want to thank the staff for the good job they are doing. May God bless you. Brother Don, I enjoy your articles that you write for the Banner.
Brother Doc Jones
Muleshoe, Texas
CAN'T LIVE WITHOUT IT
Dearest Ones: Please send the Banner of Love for two more years. Can't live without it.
Fred J. Lewis
Brea, California
ELDER STEVEN BLOYD AT CROSBYTON
The Church at Crosbyton, Texas, was blessed to have Elder Steven Bloyd recently as a guest preacher. Elder Bloyd filled the stand on Saturday night, February 11, and Sunday, February 12.
On Saturday night, Elder Bloyd preached on the subject of prayer. He was blessed to give instruction on going to our Heavenly Father, humbly beseeching His guidance. On Sunday morning Elder Bloyd spoke from Colossians chapter 3. He encouraged us to seek those things which are above, putting off ungodliness and putting on the holy things. It is important for us to not only put off the bad, but to also put on the good. If we don't fill our lives with Godly pursuits, then the world will fill us with the desires of the flesh.
As many of you know, Elder Bloyd moved from the Crosbyton Church about three years ago to pastor the Mt. Carmel Church in Bel Air, Maryland. Since that time, the church has been blessed with about 35 new members, with about 24 baptisms. We rejoice with these saints in their season of grace.
The Crosbyton Church sincerely appreciates the saints who visited with us during this meeting. We want to invite one and all to come and visit with us on any Sunday.
Elder Michael Rodgers, Pastor
The Mt. Carmel Primitive Baptist Church in Bel Air, Maryland, has recorded a congregational singing tape. The tape is called "Faith of Our Fathers" and contains 25 songs. The Church is located just 90 miles from Washington, DC, where our forefathers founded this country on Godly principles.
We have this tape available by writing to me at 6503 2nd Street, Lubbock, Texas, 79416. Or you may call (806) 793-6377. The suggested donation to cover the cost of the tape is $5, but will be sent regardless.
Submitted: Elder Michael Rodgers
WONDERFUL SURPRISE AND BLESSINGS
We had prayed so earnestly that we might have more visitors at our home church in Colorado, City, TX but Sunday morning when we began to see our prayers being answered right before our eyes. I could not restrain shouting praises to God as the members of Bethel Church in Colorado City began to enter the church building, together with Sister Faries, from Big Spring Church; whose husband is in the hospital here; and Brother Gail Faries, wife and children from Brownfield Church, Elder Neely Richardson from Springlake Church had already come for our meeting on Saturday before.
Following the beautiful singing, Elder Neely Richardson offered a wonderful prayer. Then Brother Gail Faries went forward and taught a wonderful message from 11 Cor. 12:9, "My Grace is sufficient for Thee," followed by my husband from 11 Cor. 10:4 The weapons of our warfare are not carnal, etc. Both discourses were well seasoned with Grace and Love and such that would build up and edify God's people.
We cannot thank God sufficiently for all these wonderful blessings. Please come again.