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Volume 64 Number 6 Lubbock, Texas 79493 Copyright $12.00 Per Year June 1996 |
Are Primitive Baptists Right or Wrong? Deacon Ordination Primitive Baptist Form of Church Service The Kingdom of God According to the Scriptures Tour Through the Bible She is a Rock Church Burned Beatrice [Huckaby] Findley Sister Grace Guess Ola Eveline Goode Sister Granny Gunter Sister Rosa Notgrass-Everett My First Communion Service Elder Lacy Fried Fell
2nd Tim. 2:15 instructs us to "Rightly Divide the Word of Truth." Back to the days of the Apostles, yes, The Apostle Paul, as he told young Timothy to be sure to "Study--rightly dividing the word of truth." Have we been doing this? If we trace our doctrinal and practical lineage back through the history of the centuries, the Dark Ages, and finally back through The regular Strict Baptists, Ana-Baptists, Lollards, Albigenses, Waldenses, Paulicians, Paterines, Donatist, Novatians, Montanist, Tertulian, Polycarp. The Apostles including Paul, Jesus Christ and John The Baptist, we find that the very same points of doctrine and practice have been tenaciously embraced. If we read the old fathers back through the centuries, we find they also strove diligently to adhere to the same.
I have noticed in the news that the Worldwide Church of God which was founded by Herbert W. Armstrong, has changed their doctrinal position. Their long held beliefs and practices of the past have been abandoned. They admit in print that they have been wrong and beg forgiveness from their followers. I quote from their recent writings, "At the he art of those changes has been acceptance that salvation is by grace through faith. While this was preached in the past it was always coupled with the message that God owes a reward for our works that build holy righteous character.
For decades we regarded scrupulous adherence to the law as the basis of our righteousness. We attempted to relate to God through old covenant rules and regulations in our fervent desire to please Him. Our flawed doctrinal understanding clouded the plain gospel of Jesus Christ and led to a variety of wrong conclusions and unscriptural practices. We have much to repent of and apologize for. We were judgmental and self-righteous condemning other Christians, calling them "so-called Christians," and labeling them "deceived" and "instruments of Satan." We required adherence to burdensome regulations of the Old Testament code. We exercised a strongly legalistic approach to church government. Our former old covenant approach fostered attitudes of exclusivism and superiority rather than the new covenant teaching of brotherhood and unity. We overemphasized predictive prophecy and prophetic speculation." [end of quote].
They have vacated the "End-Time" Prophecies, Seventh Day Sabbath as a "holy time," including obligation to observe the O. T. annual feasts commanded to Israel in Lev. and Deut., abstaining from eating certain foods as unclean, including tithing, and other "cult-type" speculations. Their new premise is generally what I would term "Typical Armenian Doctrine" such as "Gospel Means, Gospel Regeneration, Hearing, Believing, Repenting, Confessing, Accepting, etc.
It is still a "works system" but now different works. Have they really improved themselves doctrinally? They have aligned themselves more uniformly with the general "works system" denominations. My question to them is still "You have come a long way, but I submit that just maybe you may still have a long way yet to go before you finally reach "full truth."
I am not necessarily trying to single them out, but only using them as an example. Maybe we P. B. should be careful about deciding to "change" our position on various scriptures, "meanings" contexts and doctrinal premises.
There seems to be a current tendency for "new found" light and "new revelations" which are invading the old school, old line, old fathers historical position, which trace itself all the way back to the days of The Apostles. If the old fathers did not embrace this "new found" position, is it not dangerous for us to assume that now late in the 20th century, God has singled us out and given us "new light and vision" that was not shared by the ancient old fathers?
Back through the centuries my historical research has brought me to the attitude that "Latter day saints "with" special new views are to be shunned. If the old fathers did not mention it, and also The Apostles did not proclaim it, then why should I risk declaring such? There has been more fractures, splinters and splits in the Baptist Church over new fangled concepts, i.e. Hollow Log Doctrines, Soul Sleeping, Two seedism, No bodily resurrection, No literal hell, gospel means, [and as of late this attitude "well, the gospel is not the means, but it does Assist.] no eternal sonship of Christ, sheep and goats, Jacob and Esau, Cain and Abel, Isaac and Ishmael, Judas Iscariot, on and on.
A few years back came the Garden of Gethsemane" blood redemption theory. This caused trouble that rumbled across the USA. Recently some have advocated "tithing as our base" for living. A few are advocating the need of training in addition to the preached gospel. Some old Baptists are in a continued controversy over the Millennium question, ad infinitum. We must not compromise The Bible Truths. My Dad told me many years ago that all verses in the scriptures have at least a two fold meaning the contextual and also the Principle, one being as important as the other. We must not amply the one and ignore the other.
The attitude in conclusion should be clear to us all that if John the Baptist, Jesus or the Apostles did not teach or proclaim it, then we better leave it alone. If we need to "change" the clear admission must be, "that we have been wrong all these centuries, therefore it is mandated that we change and get right." Or if we have been right all these years, then "why change and become wrong".
If the Worldwide church of God [so-called] can make a mistake, then finally admit it, what about other denominations? Then, if they have "changed" how will they know when they have "changed far enough" to be "100% doctrinally correct." They admitted they had been wrong for all these years, and now they are striving to "get right."
If Old Baptists have been wrong, then my heart-rendering question is, "How much change do we need to make in order to become 100% right." When will we know when we are "just right?"
I submit to you, that we need not change "at all whatsoever." Let us continue to "stay the course in the Old Paths" and "remove not the ancient landmarks which our fathers have set." "Let us continue to earnestly contend for the faith once delivered to the saints." Jer 6:16; Prov. 22:28; Jude 3.
Clovis, New Mexico
The Clovis Primitive Baptist Church of Clovis, N.M. on Saturday, May 4 at 2:00 p.m. ordained Brother Phil Jackson to the office of deacon.
The presbytery was composed of ministers: Elders: Bernard Gowens, Gayle NcCoy, T. Ray Little, Bob Allgood, Wayne Venable, Vernon Venable, Kenneth Martin, and Lyman Little. And deacons: Jack Denton, Walter Baldock, David Norton, Cecil Richardson, Fred Nixon, Opal Vandiver, Preston Cargile, Albert Fox, Doc Jones, and Harvey Bass.
The presbytery was called to order by Elder Bernard Gowens, pastor or the Clovis Church. Brother Harvey Bass was elected clerk, assisted by Brother Jack Denton, Elder Vernon Venable was elected moderator. Brother David Norton gave the ordination prayer with Brother Walter Baldock questioning the subject. Brother Jackson is the son-in-law of Brother Walter Baldock.
Elder Bernard Gowens gave a very able charge noting the close ties of the ministry and the deacons, how they should work together for the good of the Cause of Christ and the Church.
The laying on of the hands by the presbytery followed the able prayer by Brother David Norton.
The right hand of fellowship was extended by the presbytery and the Church. Brother Phil Jackson was delivered to the church a fully ordained deacon.
PICTURES IN THE BANNER
I was told by a friend, she liked to read articles I wrote in the paper. I thought of the saying, "a picture is worth a thousand words."
I feel that a picture of our Primitive Baptist people and the story of the pictures in the paper can better take the place of anything I can write. It is good for readers to see and look how the dear ones' we haven't seen or heard from in a while.
I am glad to see so many pictures of our young people and to learn and know they are enjoying attending church. Sometimes we say, "The young people are of our church tomorrow," but I believe they are also our blessings of the church today.
I was glad to read about little Nathan Montgomery joining the church. I knew his mother, Robbie Kay, when she was just a child. Robbie Kay and Brother
David, I am rejoicing with you that your child has joined. I feel he will have many years of enjoying the blessings of the Church.
Now that some of us are getting up in years and can't see as we once did to read, we like to look at the pictures.
Sister Opal, I want you to know that many dear folks love to read the Banner and see the good pictures.
Lutishia Watson
APPRECIATE THE BANNER OF LOVE
I appreciate all the work you do on the Banner of Love. I enjoy reading it very much. It is so refreshing to me, somewhat like news from home.
I pray the Lord will continue to lead, guide, and bless you in your continued service in His Kingdom.
In Brotherly Love,
Tim Montgomery
Hot Springs, Arkansas
CONCLUDED
Ezra also instituted the "System of Traditions" or "Traditions of the Elders, " called the "Mishna," the "Gemara," and the "Talmud," which our Lord often showed so great and so just indignation. The synagogues were good, but the systems of traditions were evil, however, we will refrain writing more concerning this presently.
It is reasonable to assume that the synagogues received the order of their services from the Psalms of David, for example, in Psalms 100, "Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands. Serve the Lord with gladness, come before the Lord with gladness; come before his presence with singing. Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise; be thankful unto him, and bless his name. For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all Generations." In Psalm 95, "O come, let us sing unto the Lord ; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation. Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms. For the Lord is a great King above all gods," In Psalm 105, "Sing unto Him, sing Psalms unto Him, talk ye of all His wondrous works."
We find recorded in Acts 2:42-47, "And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. And fears came upon every soul; and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. And all that believed were together, and had all things common: And sold their possessions and goods, and parted to all men, as every man had need. And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, Praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved."
We often speak of the primitive church and the appeal of it, and to the history of it; in these verses we have the history of the truly primitive church, of the first days of it, its state of infancy indeed, and in its state of greatest innocence. The "True Church" has kept the primitive form of worship unto the present day. Baptism by immersion, the Lord's supper, washing of the saint's feet, singing, praying, the right hand of fellowship, and preaching of the gospel, and nothing more, are all given to the church to be used in their worship services, so that they like birds of a feather should continue with "gladness and singleness of heart." The order in which they are used is of little importance, however, we must keep this simple form of worship as instituted by the apostles, for to bring in any of the inventions of men, so common in the denominational churches, will certainly serve to destroy the joy of the New Testament Church.
When the primitive churches were forced to flee to the mountains to escape the persecution of their enemies, as early as the first century, took with them the scriptures, and their form of worship. This pure and simple form of church government, by the grace of God has continued unchanged unto this present day.
The following is taken from "The Apostolic Fathers," second edition, page 4, from under the heading , Christianity at the End of the Apostolic Period: "Congregations enjoyed the benefits of being ministered to by both resident pastors and itinerant apostles and prophets. Hymns and spiritual songs took their place alongside the Scriptures [especially the Psalms] in worship, for which Sunday had become the firmly established day. These hymns, forms and creeds contributed to and in turn became a part of the church's still developing and steadily clearer sense of self-identity and understanding. In addition, the church now possessed several documents explicating the substance and implications of its beliefs, largely because of the efforts of Paul of Tarsus and his predecessors and colleagues. In sum, to borrow to borrow a phrase from the author of the Acts of Apostles, it could still be said that "so the churches were strengthened in the faith and increased in number daily" [Acts 16:5]. This was in A.D. 65, just thirty-two years after our Lord's ascension; five years before the destruction of Jerusalem. By this we see that "The Primitive Baptist Form of Service," is truly the primitive and authorized form of worshipping God.
We copy the following from "History of The Welch Baptists," by J. Davis, pages 86,87; which was taken from the records of Dolau Church, in the county of Radnor, South Wales, 1646 A.D. "In the time of persecution, when the followers of the Lamb, were holding their meetings in secret places, for fear of being discovered by the wolves, the agents of the infernal foe, they were under the necessity of making as little noise as they could, and consequently never had any singing [which shows that singing was a part of their services]. They became; so habituated to this custom, that they would not suffer it to be introduced among them for many years after the time of which is commonly called the liberty of conscience, and it was with some difficulty that it was at all admitted into this church. When it is recollected that the original constituents of the first Baptist Church in Pennsylvania were formerly members of Dolau, and that they left Wales in the time of persecution, the citizens of the western world, will cease to wonder, that there has been a dispute in the church of Penepeck about "singing of psalms."
History records, that leaving the primitive practice or doctrine, in any way, will soon, without fail, lead to further falling away.
Dear brethren, please let us not fail to walk in the old paths, for it is a matter of life and death. "Thus saith the Lord, Stand in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein," [Jeremiah 6:16.] Amen.
CONCLUDED
Does the Scriptures teach that the "Messiah" would ever set on the natural throne of David and rule His Kingdom from the Physical temple in earthly Jerusalem? or does Scriptures teach that the "Messiah " would establish a "Spiritual Kingdom and rule over his people and reign with His Saints in a spiritual kingdom on earth until that Kingdom be delivered up to Eternal Glory: The answer to the first question is no. The answer to the second question is yes. But we must prove it from Scriptures or surely the cork will pop from the bottle This will take more space than what we have remaining, but we will begin. Please read the scripture references.
God rules from heaven: God dwells not in temples made with hands: This is a well established fact, but the Postponed Kingdom Theorist have failed to understand it. Solomon who built the first Temple, [David, being a man of war could not build it See:[1 Chron. 22] said, "Will God indeed dwell on earth? behold, the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain thee; how much less this house that I have builded? [1 Kings 8:22-30.] The temple in earthly Jerusalem was to be a House of Prayer, not the dwelling place of God. Jesus cast out the money changers who sold doves and defiled the Temple and said, "It is written, my house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves." [Mat. 21:12-13.]
Steven, the Deacon, who was stoned by Christ rejecting Jews who trusted in the Temple, said "Solomon built him [God] a house. Howbeit the most High dwelleth not in temples made with hands; as saith the prophet, Heaven is my throne, and earth is my footstool; what house will ye build me? saith the Lord: or what is the place of my rest?
Hath not my hand made all the things? Ye Stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye" [See: Acts 7:37-53 and Cf Romans 2:28-29]. These unregenerate or apostate Jews had put their emphasis in Temple worship, and did not understand true worship which is in spirit and in truth. [Jer 7-1-16, John 4:23-24.] God has never desired or delighted in animal sacrifices or burnt offerings on a natural altar in a physical temple. Those "Burnt Offerings" were only types and shadows to point men to Jesus the Christ [Ps 51:16-17, Jer 7:21-24, Heb 9:19-28, Gal 3:19-25,] We are able to worship the Lord from the heart in the beauty of holiness [Ps 29-2, Matt 22:36-38, Phil 3:3.]
Paul, the Apostle, who preached All the counsel of God The whole truth All of the revealed word of God - Both old and new- - Acts 20:26-27,] said; "God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, Dwelleth not in temples made with hands; neither is worshipped with men's hands---" [Read: Acts 17:22-31.] Now if God dwells not in temples made with hands, and is not worshipped with men's hands, how say some that God in Christ is coming back to this earth to dwell in a natural made temple? For Christ is God with us.
Paul wrote to Timothy "These things have I written unto thee--that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the House of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth. And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God has manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory" [1 Tim 3:14-16].
At one point in our Lord's ministry "When Jesus therefore perceived that they [the Jewish people would come and take him by force, to make him a King, he departed again into a mountain himself alone" [John 6:15]. Does that sound like someone who "offered himself" as a King but was rejected? Jesus said, "My Kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence" [John 18:36-37].
That doesn't sound like someone who could not have been King on earth had he wanted to. Christ was God manifest in the flesh. He could have called twelve legions of angels to install him as an earthly king, had that been his will [See Matt 26:53.] No force on earth could have kept him from becoming a king on earth and reigning from an earthly throne had that been the purpose of God. But that was not God's "eternal purpose in Christ Jesus our Lord."
No man took his life from him, he had the power to lay it down and he had the power to take it again, Because He and the Father are one. [See John 10:14-18, 24-31]. He gave His life for his sheep - the elect children of God - chosen in Christ before the foundation of the world - And "when he had by himself purged our sins, Sat down on the right hand of the majesty on high--" and God the Father said to God the son -"Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever--Sit thou on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool." {Hebrews 1:1-13]. Praise God, He Reigns Today!
...... LOOK FORWARD TO THE BANNER
Enclosed is a check for the Banner of Love. I look forward to it each month. How I wish you could come to our July meeting; we so much look forward to it. Seems we are so far away, so it does my heart good to see the dear ones come. come in for our July meeting.
In Christian Love,
Ruby Smart
P. S. Sister Smart, I have wished so many times that I could attend your meeting. It seems all our meetings are at that time. Love to you all. O. Richards.
DON'T WANT TO MISS ANY ISSUES
Enclosed is my check for another year. Don't want to miss any issues.
May God bless you to continue sending the good news to us.
In Hope,
Earline McCormack
Eastland, Texas
NINETY EIGHTH BIRTHDAY
Sister Sarah [Trancy] Williams observed this ninety-eighth milestone last April 15th. Sister Trancy is well known in Texas and Oklahoma, especially among Primitive Baptist.
She is the faithful widow of the late Elder R. H. Williams. She now lives in a comfortable apartment in Ardmore. If you wish to write her - the address is 1711 9th N.W. #106, Ardmore, Ok. 73401. Sister Williams is a very faithful member of the Cornish Primitive Baptist Church in Wilson, just west of Ardmore;
Her father, Elder Wood, served this church many years ago.
Sister Trancy is at ninety-eight a joy to visit - a very special sister in Christ. The included poem by her daughter tells a beautiful story of her profitable life.
Elder Hylton Crain
Polished by time and circumstance A beautiful luminous little rock
A gem stone as rare and precious,
As any God ever made.
She is fragile and strong; compassionate and tough; and durable as goodness.
Intelligent, curious, resourceful - her mental and physical energy leaves no room for boredom.
Truth, honor, fair-play, love and loyalty, perseverance are not just words to her, they are her way of life.
Don't bother to ask her to represent something other than the way she sees it.
She leaves a legacy of love, laughter, ability to grieve, feel indignation, anger, and - sometimes briefly even hate.
The love she gives her children will live forever all through the generations to follow.
She has a love and respect for God, He obviously loves and respects her.
He must have sent her to make a warm spot on earth, where whoever stands near feels the warmth,
Absorbs some of her kindness, and faith, and forever remembers it.
Sarah Transylvania Wood Williams is her name,
She is our mother Thank you God.
By her daughter,
The late Mrs. Fern Crighead
SEND THE PAPER TO MY NIECE
I am sending in my subscription for another year, as I don't want to miss a paper with all the good writings.
Please send the paper to my niece and use the other anyway it is needed. Keep this good work going and thanks to all that help you. May God richly bless everyone.
A poor sister in Christ,
Veta Casey
Waco, Texas
Note: Sister Casey, thank you for the extra. O. Richards.
YOUR ADHERENCE TO THE TRUTH
I appreciate your adherence to the truth and your careful editing of the articles you publish. Adherence to order and truth will stand the test of time. Also, our strength depends upon it.
God will reward you in the days to come.
Our church remains faithful and God loving.
In Christian Love,
Elder Perry N. Miers
Anacoco, LA
P.S. two years subscription.
Rogersville, MO
Ozark Primitive Baptist Church, located north of Rogersville, MO. was burned by arson on the night of May 4, 1996. There was insurance on the building , but not enough. We are going to rebuild and trust in the Lord that we will accomplish the task.
The 1996 "Ozark Association will now be held with Bethel Church, east of Flat, MO., August 23, 24, and 25. Church on night of August 23, also.
Charles E. "Edd" Lawson,
Deacon, Ozark Church
Rt 1 Box 47
Fordland, MO 65652
Phone 417-738-2273
VERSES ENCOURAGING
The following verses are very encouraging:
Ps. 34:19, "Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the lord delivereth him out of them all."
Ps. 119: 105,"Thy Word is a lamp unto my path."
Our dear Lord will see us through. May He bless you all each day.
In Dear Hope,
Sister Loretta Lilly
Akron, Ohio
A SOLDIER OF JESUS CHRIST
Enclosed is my subscription for another year. May issue of the Banner of Love, the article by Elder Vernis J. Stanaland got my immediate attention.
I have known him for many years and he is indeed "A soldier of Jesus Christ, marching under His Banner."
In Christian Love,
Doris D. DeSpain
Knoxville,TN
Mary Ruth Beatrice [Huckaby] was the oldest of nine children born to Elder Loren R. and Rhuea Huckaby. Born in Van Alstyne, TX August 24, 1909, she married Frank Leslie Findley on January 2, 1927, and departed this life, Wednesday, January 31, 1996.
Sister joined the Little Vine Primitive Baptist Church, near Paris, Texas in 1919, and lived a devoted life to the church until her death. She was a member of Golden Gate Church, Fremont, at the time of her death, where she was a charter member in 1940. Sister and Frank, as they were fondly called by family and many friends, had a home filled with hospitality and was always opened to the needy of all ages.
Their first set of twins were born December 4, 1927; Frank Findley, Jr. was the survivor of the two baby boys. Frankie was a pleasure to his parents as well as to his Huckaby uncles, aunts and grandparents. However at age 18, he was stricken with a brain tumor, lay in a coma several weeks, and as he recovered, during that period of silence, suffered a stroke which paralyzed his left arm and hand, and left him blind.
God blessed Sister and Frank with a baby daughter, Rhuea Patricia, Jan. 30, 1948, and on August 28, 1950 a second set of twin boys with Stephen James, the survivor of their second set. Though they raised two families according to life span, they made many sacrifices to raise their younger children, giving of themselves, just as they had their eldest in their younger years.
Time seemed to run out for Frank and Sister, and they became inactive in their older years, both physically and mentally. The loving care of their children as well as family made it evident that they were dearly loved, even in their infirmities. Frank preceded Sister in death, laying claim to that blessed home which he had been given in the work of the Covenant of Redemption, even before he was born, one about which he had been taught, and on which he based his hope through the years!
It was a time of grieving for us, but it was not a time of distress and hopelessness! For though it took several days, it seemed that our beloved Sister laid her head on Jesus breast, slowly, and without a pain, just just closed her eyes, and breathed her life out sweetly there.
Sister is survived by her children, Patty Petersohn, Stockton, CA. Stephen, San Jose, CA, grandchildren, Kay Findley Prewitt, and Debbie Findley Osborn, Kimberly and James Petersohn, and six great-grandchildren; three brothers, J. W. Huckaby, Mena, Ark., Eugene Huckaby, Manteca, CA, Elder Bill Huckaby, Okla. City, OK, two sisters, Bonita Wall of Napa, CA, and Lura Ivey, Livermore, CA. Sister was preceded in death by her husband of 69 years, Frank Findley, and son, Frank, Jr. Findley, brothers Elder Thurman and Elder Addison Huckaby.
A majority of her family, and many of her friends, paid respects to Sister during the formal service. Prayers were prayed, words of comfort were spoken and songs were sung by those who loved her, who had been mothered by her as children and growing teenagers, counseled as young married couples and parents and above all taught, through example, the real meaning of unconditional love.
Her brother, Elder Bill Huckaby and his son, Elder Sonny, along with Elder Allen [son of Brother Eugene] reminded us of those principles which we had been taught since childhood, and brought comfort to our aching hearts. God gave them the grace to comfort us, even though they, too felt the loss of their beloved one. As we gathered round her graveside, the congregation, both family and friends, joined in harmoniously as niece, Pegg Wall led "Precious Memories how they linger," each of them holding their personal memories dear and as the song ended, Elder Bill raised his hands directing voice to join him as he sang, "Amazing Grace How sweet the sound, and in a beautiful four-part harmony. sang the dear old hymn.
While the large procession drove away, leaving her in the "Silent City of the Dead," it seemed that the air rang clearly of the Amazing Grace on which we depend!
Written by her beloved sister,
Bonita Wall
1550-Park Ave
Napa, California 94558
The New Hope Primitive Baptist Church of San Angelo, TX mourns the passing of our beloved Sister in Christ, Sister Grace Guess. Exodus 19:5 says, "Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people; for all the earth is mine." Sister Grace was our precious treasure while on earth for her church brethren, friends, and family .
In her latter days on this earth, a visit to her would cheer you instead of the other way around. She frequently would say, although in pain, "the Lord has been so good to me." We will miss that mischievous smile and twinkle in her eye as she was about to pull your leg a little. Her most requested song personified her life - "God has been my refuge daily, Every day shall be to praise Him, - and as her time on earth was done - He will take me home at last.
We are selfish and don't want to let go of such a wonderful person as Grace, but she's in a far better place now. She will be "Amazing Grace" to me and all who knew and loved her.
Your Sister in Christ
Kathy Coburn
New Hope Primitive Baptist
Church, San Angelo, TX
GRACE MAE GUESS
Grace Mae Guess, 86 of San Angelo, Texas, passed away Monday, April 22, 1996, in a local nursing home.
She was born June 24, 1909 in Jiba. She married Elder Clifford W. Guess, Feb. 10, 1930 in Hugo, Okla. He preceded her in death in July 1983. She lived in San Angelo more than 60 years, and was a member of the New Hope Primitive Baptist Church.
She is survived by her son, Clifford D. Guess and wife, Pattie, of San Antonio; four grandchildren, Clifford D. Guess, Jr. and wife, Susan of Highland Village, Sharon Edwards of Brownwood, Michael Guess of Denton, and Karen Guess of Abilene; three great-grandchildren; Brandon Guess of Macon, GA. Christopher Guess of May and Kara Edwards of Brownwood; one brother, Jesse Osborn and wife, Margaret of Paris; three sisters in-law; Belle Guess and Lila Holland, both of San Angelo, and Gladys Osborn of Palestine; and a special niece and nephew, Mildred Harrison and Claude Bunch, both of San Angelo, among other nieces and nephews. She is also survived by many friends, including her special friends, Nelle and Bob Drummond of Midland and Marie McGowen of San Angelo.
Grace was devoted to God, her family and her friends, and never wavered in her faith. She found joy in laughter and in making others laugh. She never met a stranger and loved everyone she met. We will miss her but know she is eternally happy and at peace in the presence of our Lord.
Funeral services were held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, April 26 in Johnson's Funeral Home with Elder Howard Jernigan of Colorado City officiating.The burial followed in Fairmont Cemetery, conducted by Elder Troy Barrington of Midland.
Pallbearers were: Freddy Coborn, Wesley Harrison and W. C. Wilson, all of San Angelo, Bob Drummond of Midland, Gilbert Chancey of Colorado City and Sammie Goodwin of Brady.
Funeral services for Sister Ola Eveline Goode, 85, of Van, Texas were held at 2:00 p.m. at Hilliard Funeral Home Chapel, in Van with Elder Vernis Stanaland and Brother John Bolden officiating. Sister Goode died in a Van Nursing Home.
She was born Nov. 12, 1910 in Garden Valley to the late Jordan A. and Nicie Meyers Smith. She was a member of the Primitive Baptist Church.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Clifton Goode, in 1976, and a son, Jerry Goode, in 1974.
Survivors include a son and daughter-in-law, Donald and Maxine Goode, of Van; a daughter, Evelyn Hawkins, of Van, eight grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren and a great-great-grandchild.
Pallbearers were: Billy Smith, Ronnie Goode, Leo Smith, Ralph Smith, Gary White, and Randy Goode.
We, the friends and loved ones of Sister "Granny" Ola Gunter gather in this reading, for a few moments of spiritual embrace, on behalf of one another and especially for her family left here by her passing.
Sister Ola Gunter died on Sunday, Feb. 4, 1996. She is survived by her daughters, Wanda Albright Hopkins and husband, Gene Hopkins of Baytown, Texas, Carolyn Sue Barron and husband, Dorman Barron of Panama City, Florida; four grandchildren, Laura Albright Moseley and husband, Bobby of Baytown, Texas, Brian Barron, Brooks Barron and Chad Barron, all of Panama City, Florida, and her great-grandson, Zane Moseley of Baytown. On Feb. 7, 1996, the family of Sister Granny was joined by many of her friends and loved ones in the singing of a few of Granny's favorite hymns as funeral services were held at Earthman Funeral Home.
Services were officiated by Elders Billy Moseley and Mark Rowell with loving remarks by her nephew, Mr. Larry Dean, following which her body was laid to rest at County Line Cemetery.
Granny had lived and raised her family in Baytown, TX since 1935. She had been a member of the Primitive Baptist Church in Baytown for many years and she moved her membership to Grace Primitive Baptist Church in 1975.
Granny was one of many sweet sisters who were truly "mothers of Zion." She adorned the church through the past years and now blesses our memory. The affection she showed for all, and especially the little children is as important service to the Lord as any other, and the Lord uses it to bind the hearts of the congregation. It was her gift, given to us from God through Granny, and she shared it faithfully, and always to His Glory.
Granny has written several verses of poetry such as the following, all pertaining to her Lord and Savior and His Church.
When you see the flowers blooming and you see the trees so tall, Could you ever doubt your maker or ever say there is no God.
Her faith declared in her words as it was in her life. She lived her life as a joyous song of praise, a source of inspiration and encouragement for those who knew and loved her, yet directed all glory to her God and Savior. The strength she drew from her faith was always evident, especially in the hard last years, when although her body was failing and confined her to bed she continued, to the end to greet her friends and loved ones with good cheer and give God praise and thanks at every passing day. She wrote also:
God please don't let my mind go blank, but keep it keen to learn and think Then I can say, Thy will be done, And see you sitting on the Throne.
We thank God for answering her prayer, and for blessing our lives with hers.
Written at the loving request of Grace Primitive Baptist Church, Houston, Texas.
Therefore they shall come and sing in the height of Zion and shall flow together in goodness of the Lord; And their soul shall be as a watered garden; and they shall not sorrow any more at all."
Sister Rosa loved working in her garden with the warmth of God's sunshine on her back and her gardens flourished so that she could share beautiful flowers and harvest of vegetables and fruits with her family and her many friends. As she chose her best to share with others, so God has chosen her to fill His heavenly bouquet.
Sister Rosa Notgrass-Everett was born on September 5, 1908, in Baird, TX. She left this life on March 13, 1996, at Winters, TX, making her life span eighty-seven years, five months, and twenty-seven days. She had a long life in which she was blessed of the Lord and a blessing to all who knew her,.
She married James Gordon Notgrass on March 2, 1927. He preceded her in death in 1987. She married Jim Everett on April 23, 1994, in Odessa. He preceded her in death in July 1995.
She was the mother of five sons: Burt, Troy, Buddy, Dale and Randall Notgrass, and three daughters: Nita Howard, Orita Smith, and Lynn Dell Ramsey. She is also survived by 29 grandchildren, 35 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.
Sister Rosa joined the Primitive Baptist Church in August 1935 in Stanton, TX and was baptized by Elder W.R. Dale. She joined the Midland Primitive Baptist Church by letter on Feb.15, 1981.
Funeral services were held at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, March 16, 1996 at Ellis Funeral Home in Midland with Elder Troy Barrington officiating. Burial was at Rest Haven Memorial Park in Midland.
As the poet has written: His promise is the light by which we see our loved ones safely home. We thank our heavenly Father for the time we were permitted to have her with us.
Written at the request of Midland Church while in regular conference April 14, 1996. A copy to be sent to her family; a copy placed on the church records, and a copy sent to the Banner of Love in her memory.
Committee: Thomasine Crawford, Eileen Boen, Nelle Drummond
I just wanted to write this letter to say, "thank you," to Elder George Johnson, pastor of the Lubbock Primitive Baptist Church, of which I am a member, for helping me to make it through my first communion service on April 28, 1996.
He knew I was a little nervous so he called me up in the front and said he wanted to have the honor of being the first person to wash my feet.
After he finished, with some help from my cousin, Daniel Gowens, I had the honor of washing my pastor's feet.
The other part of the communion service, which is the partaking of the unleavened bread and wine, is very significant to all of us. The unleavened bread and wine symbolizes the body and blood of the Lord Jesus Christ. The unleavened bread part is a symbol that He knew no sin.
Being a participant in a service such as this, makes me very happy that I finally joined the church in April.
In closing, I just wanted to say, "thank you," again to my pastor for making things go a lot smoother for me on that very special day that I will never forget for the rest of my life.
I am already looking forward to the next communion service which will be on the fourth Sunday in September.
In God's Love,
Jerry Bass
LOVE THE BANNER
Always look forward to getting the paper. And I read it almost all in one day. I especially enjoyed the article on "Displaying the Banner." in the last issue.
We are enjoying some good meetings here at the Burnet Church. Remember us in your prayers.
Bob and Gracie Weitner
Burnet, Texas
I felt like I should let you know that Elder Lacy Fried, who is the husband of the former Lorene Poss fell at the grocery store, Friday, May 15th, hit his head and broke his elbow. He and Brother Wayne's mother are having a hard time, since she is hardly able to get around, and now Brother Lacy can't hardly help her either. Last week he had to have another surgery on that same arm at the wrist, because he lost most of the feeling in his fingers. We ask prayers for them as well as all of our little bunch. we're having a hard struggle to get along.
Since our personal savings is all gone and we had to use our church account, we are borrowing it from the church, but if we don't get any more money to replace it, we can't pay the church back. We are trying to sell our home, but have only had a couple of lookers in more than six months. Brother Wayne is getting his medical from the Veteran's, and I am getting medical help from the county, which we are thankful for. He now gets his social security, which is barely over $600.00. Our car is ten years old and needing lot of expensive repairs. I realize there are probably others who have bigger problems than ours, but at the rate we are going, we will have to sell the church building and that is where we planned on living if we sold the house. With our mothers both at the age they are they should not have to worry about having to move, though they are getting so feeble it may be necessary. My mother, Lola Mullins is 89, will be 90, July 31st. Wayne's mother was 89 April 17th.
We have been blessed to pay most of the debt back to the Church, we borrowed, with the help the Lord blessed us with, from dear brothers and sisters in Christ, who have sent us help, but our chief concern yet, is the church funds, being so low; every thing we have to do as far as repairs. They charge us twice the amount because churches are considered commercial property out here. Our only contributors are the two dear sisters, and they are on social security.
Your friend in Christ,
Effie Lou Poss
San Jacinto, CA