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Volume 66 Number 12 Lubbock, Texas 79493 Copyright $12.00 Per Year December 1998 |
The Parable of the Fishing Net My First Knowledge of the Church Lessons from Acts 15 God's Children Change Carnal Flesh My Grandfather Tour Through The Bible A Retraction Sister Vassie Scott Listen to His Voice At The Movies Newman Walter Lee Jackson Sister Hazel Jessie Crume Sister Jenettie Marriott Dorothy Naomi Biggs Eaton
Again, the Kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, that when cast into the sea, and gathered of every wind; which, when it was full, they drew to shore , and sat down, and gathered the good into vessels, but cast the bad away. So shall it be at the end of the world; the angels come forth, and sever the wicked from among the just; and shall cast into the furnace of fire; there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.
Concerning these wicked, Jesus said unto the centurion who had asked him to heal his servant, that many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven. But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Therefore Jesus had sent forth the twelve and commanded them, saying, "Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not; but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel." The world aion in this parable is the same world spoken of in the parable of the good seed and the tares; a symbol of the physical kingdom of Israel.
The furnace of fire; is figurative of a trying the burning of that which is not pure. We have God represented in Mount Sinai, because he descended upon it in fire; and the smoke thereof descended as the smoke of a furnace. And Isaiah, writes that the Lord's fire is in Zion. And Isaiah, writes that the Lord's fire is in Zion, and his furnace in Jerusalem. Ezekiel writes, saying, "Therefore thus saith the Lord God; Because ye are all become dross, behold therefore I will gather you into the midst of Jerusalem. As they gather silver and, and brass, and iron and lead, and tin into the midst of the furnace, to blow the fire upon it, to melt it; so will I gather you in mine anger, and in my fury, and I will leave you there, and melt you.Yea, I will gather you, and blow upon you to the fire of my wrath, and ye shall be melted in the midst thereof."
Both the parable of the tares and the net, were given to show the bringing in of the spiritual kingdom of God, and the destruction of physical Jerusalem; which was the end of that world. The angels, in both, represents the ministry of apostles. John told his disciples, "I indeed baptize you with water and unto repentance; but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear; he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost in the spirit of truth." In Mat. 12:31-37, Jesus is teaching concerning those who blasphemy against the truth. The fire is that which try the spirit. In the prophecy of Zachariah, Ch. 13, it tells of the tribulation of the last days that was to come upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem; how some would be cut off and die, and others would be brought through the fire. See 1 Cor. 3:13; 1 Pet. 1:7, 4:12; Rev. 3:18.
The wicked workers of iniquity were the children of God who were under the influence of Satan, and therefore did not believe that Jesus Christ was the Son of God. They could not see, nor hear his words. They had been blinded by the god of this world. Ref. Deut. 29:4, Isa. 6:9-11, Ez. 12:2, Mat. 13:14-16, Acts 28:25-27, Rom 11:7-8, 2 Cor. 4:3-4.
The outer darkness which they were cast into is symbolic of being on the outside with no understanding whatsoever. David prophesied of this in Psalms 69:20-24, as Isaiah did in 29:10-12; Jesus spoke of this in when he spake parables, Mat. 13:13-15, and Paul teaches this prophecy in Rom. 11:7-12.
Be assured, when Jesus speaks of the kingdom of heaven, he is not making references to the dividing of the eternally damned from the eternally redeemed. He is referring to a kingdom that He set upon this earth; wherein the eternally redeemed may work out their own salvation.
Isaiah wrote of this event, saying, "Behold, the Lord hath proclaimed unto the end of the world, Say Ye to the daughter of Zion. Behold, thy salvation cometh; behold, his reward is with him, and his work before him."
And Paul wrote to those saints at Philippi saying, "Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God that worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.
Also in Romans 10, saying, So faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. [Having faith in the word of God is different from that faith in God, which comes by grace; as taught in Eph 2:8]. There is an eternal salvation that comes through faith, which is by grace, and there is a timely salvation that comes by faith, which is through belief of God's word. Thus, Peter preached, on the day of Pentecost, saying, "Save yourselves from this untoward generation."
By Elder W. H. Richards
On the fourth Sunday in May 1896, I heard my first Primitive Baptist preach. His text was, "Thus it is written and thus it behooved Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His Name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem."--St. Luke 24:46-47.
I had gone there not to hear the preaching but to see them engaged in feet washing. I had been a constant student of the scriptures for 13 years and had been identified with the Missionary Baptist all that time and had been trying to get them to practice feet washing.
I had a great desire to behold God's people engaging in the humble ordinance. I didn't expect to hear the Primitive Baptists preach anything except "infant damnation or what is to be will be if it never comes to pass," as I had always heard them accused of such foolishness.
But in this I was gladly surprised, for Elder Biggs, [that was the preacher's name] preached and proved by the scriptures that in Jesus was everything treasured that the poor sinner needs for time or eternity.
He showed us, by the scriptures that our election was in Christ. Eph. 1:4; that God had predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ, Eph. 1:4 that our redemption was in Christ, Eph. 1:7; that our regeneration is in Christ, Tit. 3:6; that our preservation was in Christ, Jude 1:1- that our salvation was by grace and that Christ was full of grace, St. John 1:14: that our resurrection was to be by Christ. Now I could tell more about that wonderful sermon, but let the above suffice.
I was simply amazed, elated, and overjoyed. I had never heard anything like that. It got hold of me in a way that I have never forgotten.
The house was so crowded I could not get in, and there were more people outside the house than there was inside. But the brethren had taken a sash out and Elder Biggs stood in the window.
Well, when he was through preaching they communed and washed each other's feet. I stood at a window and beheld this act of obedience when I could see, for the tears, for they flowed profusely.
Now, this discourse put me to reading God's Word with a new zeal. It seemed that I could find those truths on every page. I began to think about asking for a home with them, and of course the things of the world came up before me. I was a Mason, an Oddfellow, was clerk of the church of which I was a member.
I did not have a relative who was an Old Baptist. But a text would present itself to me, "Except you forsake all these things you cannot be my disciple." I got into so much trouble that my dearest friends thought I was losing my mind.
One gloomy day I walked, out into a little woodland near my home to try to pray. I fell on my face in the sand and said, "Oh, Lord, show me my duty; make it plain to me and I will discharge it, if it leaves me without a friend on earth." And just at that juncture the language of Jesus came to me, "Whoever forsaketh father or mother, wife and children, for my sake and the kingdom, shall have fathers and mothers, children, houses and lands in the world a hundred fold, and in the world to come, everlasting life."
I arose from there with the determination to offer myself to the Old Baptists if I lived to get another opportunity, which I did.
While I have had my trials and afflictions, God has delivered me out of them all, and I have never regretted for a minute that I have joined the church.
W. H. Richards [Elder] Feb. 1, 1933.
By Elder Mike Ivey
CONCLUDED
The normal leadership of elders is apparently represented in context by the Apostles. Under the circumstance it seems reasonable that elders would defer to Apostles. The fact that Barnabas spoke indicates that preachers do have a voice in matters of interchurch conflict. However, it is clear that no one present, neither elders nor Apostles, forced their opinion upon the two churches. Neither is there any to suggest that any form of retaliation was threatened to persuade the churches to follow the Apostles' advice. They advised and then allowed the churches to follow the leadership of the Holy Ghost. If the Apostles did not take the liberty to impose and enforce policy upon the disputing churches it seems reasonable to conclude that in this day councils of elders certainly have no such authority.
Lesson 5 The course of action taken by the two churches to resolve the conflict was consensus among church members as directed by the Holy Ghost and revealed by democratic process.
Verses 22-23 Then pleased it the apostles and elders, with the whole church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas; namely, Judas surnamed Barnabas and Silas, chief men among the brethren: And they wrote letters by them after this manner; The Apostles and elders and brethren send greeting unto the brethren which are of the Gentiles in Antioch and Syria and Cilicia:
All the membership of the Jerusalem Church including the Apostles who, except for Paul, were all members of Jerusalem Church, and her elders agreed together with Paul, Barnabas, and others from Antioch as to the proper method for ending the conflict between the two churches. Undoubtedly, consensus was determined by democratic process. This must be the case. How else could they know they were in one accord as stated, "It seemed good unto us, being assembled with one accord..." [verse 25]
Consensus among all present indicates the working of the Lord in the matter. Bear in mind that some of those who now agreed that Gentiles did not require circumcision were the same ones who had previously promoted the idea. Also verse 28 indicates that the Lord directed their minds to the correct decision. "For it would seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden...."
Disputing churches which rely upon the word of God as their only rule of faith and practice while following the leadership of the Holy Ghost compose a scriptural and thereby sufficient council, having every necessary ability to resolve all manner of interchurch conflicts. While the context of Matthew 18:15-20 applies to matters of personal dispute the general principle of God blessing the efforts of those who meet together in His name to resolve conflict also applies to inter-church conflict. The power of God to work with sister churches to resolve interchurch conflict eliminates the necessity of unscriptural parachurch councils that seek to establish and impose rules for fellowship between churches.
Lesson 6 Antioch Church did not join together in a show of unity or resolve with other similarly offended sister churches against Jerusalem.
Verse 23; And they wrote letters by them after this manner: The Apostles and elders and brethren send greeting unto the brethren which are of the Gentiles in Antioch and Syria and Cilicia;
Evidently members from Jerusalem Church had promoted the same error to Syria and Silicia Churches. This must be so because Jerusalem Church sent similar letters to each of these churches. All three letters contained the same statement concerning brethren having gone out from Jerusalem Church who "troubled you with words..." [Verse 24] However, when Antioch Church determined to send Paul and Barnabas to Jerusalem they did not call upon similarly offended churches to join them in a show of force or resolve. As far as Antioch was concerned it was a matter between she and Jerusalem Church.
Obviously, Antioch did not believe that her authority extended to policing the activities of Jerusalem with their sister churches. There is no scriptural evidence to suggest that it is proper for churches to join together to build a case or present a show of force against a sister church who is in error. A local church, with the authority of Christ as her head and the Holy Ghost as her chief mediator is sufficiently equipped to address every potential of interchurch conflict. This fact eliminates every reason Antioch Church may have considered to call for a general council of elders from every church who had a similar problem with Jerusalem Church.
Antioch's isolated action also indicates that it is inappropriate for an association of churches to participate as a body to resolve controversy between sister churches. Associations have no scriptural authority to even address matters of disagreement between sister churches because they exist solely by the principle of Christian liberty and not by scriptural example nor directive. If their existence is nowhere mentioned nor specifically authorized in scripture, how then can Associations exercise any authority relative to church government?
Most Associational constitutions state that they have no such authority. Yet, historically, Association have frequently violated both scripture and their own rules by establishing themselves as a de facto government over member churches in matters of internal local church conflict between churches, and conflict with other Associations.
The phenomenon is somewhat remarkable since it is common knowledge that Associations are a latter day development. Historians note the earliest reference to an Association is the Abrigaviny in Wales which was constituted in 1651 A.D. Therefore questions must be asked if Associationalism is a proper method for maintaining order among Churches what did brethren rely on before 1651; and why is it necessary in this day to rely upon Associations to maintain order if earlier brethren did not? What has changed and what did Associational discipline replace? I suspect in some instances it replaced scripture as the only rule of faith and practice and faith in God's ability to govern His church.
Lesson 7. Once the controversy was resolved the matter was closed and was not discussed with uninvolved parties. Verse 33 "And after they had tarried there a space, they were let go in peace for the brethren unto the apostles."
After delivering the letter of resolution and tarrying for a time of fellowship Judas returned to Jerusalem Church. Silas tarried a while longer. Aside from the historical account recorded in Acts 15 there is no other mention of this episode in the New Testament. In fact, there is no scriptural indication that any member of either of the disputing churches ever mentioned this conflict again. This is very significant because the issue of circumcising Gentiles came up frequently during Paul's ministry.
Paul consistently employed the "spirit and truth" method of empirical spiritual experience confirmed by rational theological argument to oppose the practice. Nowhere in scripture is it found that he referred back to the action of the two churches as precedent which established a general policy and thus settled the matter for all the churches.
There are several probable reasons why Paul never cited the Antioch/Jerusalem dispute whenever the question of Gentile circumcision later arose. The most obvious is that the matter was concluded and its continued discussion could have caused renewed offense between the two churches. Also Paul probably realized that the circumstance of the Antioch/Jerusalem dispute and resolution was in certain ways unique to the churches involved and therefore could not be generally applied as a guideline for later disputes within or else between other churches. However, it is most probable that Paul did not cite it because he did not see the resolution setting a general precedent that was binding on all the churches.
Had he done so he would have been treating the Jerusalem/Antioch council as a centralized church government. Paul most likely believed that whenever a conflict arises it must be specifically addressed by those directly involved on the merits of its own unique circumstances and arguments, and, in so doing it will be resolved by the power of the Holy Ghost in bringing the disputing parties into faithful compliance with God's will.
The position eliminates the need for policy setting councils. Whenever brethren faithfully seek to obey the Lord they will resolve their differences regardless of what has transpired in the past. Furthermore, if they seek and follow God's will there will be scriptural confirmation which complements their decisions and actions.
Other lessons may be gleaned from Acts 15. They include issues relating to church identity, recognition, inter church fellowship, etc However, for the sake of brevity and expedience we have not discussed them.
REFERENCE THE ARTICLE BELOW
The following article below is in response to an article that appeared in the Editorial Page of the Avalanche Journal, Lubbock, Texas, October 1., regarding, "Bible Misconstrued" that Salvation comes from baptism.
Re: The letter, "Bible Misconstrued" [A.J, 10-1]. The letter writer was right on the mark in stating that salvation comes from baptism. A bit of water just does not possess the power to grant a person eternal salvation.
There are at least four excellent reasons as to why an individual should be baptized, none of them having anything to do with salvation. The answer to a good conscience toward God would be one of them. [1 Peter 3:21]. Another one of them would be in believing in the death, burial and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Third, a true disciple of our Savior is a baptized believer. Finally, because Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist [Matthew 3:16].
It is utterly absurd to think that the Lamb's Book of Life contains only the names of those persons who have been baptized. What about a baby who dies tragically at two or three years of age who has not been baptized? Is this child eternally doomed? The answer is definitely "No," because God's children are saved only by His amazing grace, [Ephesians 2: 8].
Whether you agree with me or not, that is the absolute truth!
Jerry Bass
Lubbock, Texas
By Brother Chris Crouse
The subject I would like to address is that of change. In life we see many things change.
People, churches, families, job, cities, and everything around us is constantly changing. There are several types of changes talked about in the Bible and the first I want to deal with is talked about in the first chapter of Romans.
Starting in 1:21; Because that, when they knew God, they glorified Him not as God, neither were thankful, but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. 1:22; Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, 1:23; And changes the glory of uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. 1:24; Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonor their own bodies between themselves; 1:25; Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed forever, Amen.
The rest of the chapter is dealing with man changing God 's pure holiness, into man's vile ungodliness.
Concerning Romans 1:21-25, I used 1:21 to place a setting of what is going on here. The beginning of the vain change is that man began to give glory to something other than to Almighty God. In 1:22, these men are telling folks or trying to seem wise, in doing so they became fools. Here is the change, 1:23, man changed God 's holy name and brought him down to our level. We know that God cannot be brought down to the human level. Why? Man is corruptible, mortal, unjust, and full of sin We cannot say that God is any of these things listed above.
God is perfect, holy, righteous, merciful, and above all, gracious. To bring God to our level is calling God a sinner. If God is a sinner, Christ is also a sinner, and therefore we do not have eternal life, because we needed a perfect sacrifice to save us from death and hell. So we cannot bring God down to man. 1:25 states that man changed God's truth and made it a lie. I want to make it clear, just because man changed God's truth in his own mind, doesn't mean it is changed in God's mind. Concerning 1:24, it says God gave them up to uncleanness, the reason God gave them up to uncleanness is because of the lust of their own hearts. I think, this is just my opinion, that this is man's greatest problem, the lust of the heart. Lust after another, after material things, the lust after pride, and countless other things that man lusts after.
Another type of change and the one I want to address with more importance. It is taken out of the third chapter of Philippians in the 21st verse. I would like to start in the 20th verse, 3:20; For our conversation [citizenship] is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Savior, Lord Jesus Christ: 3:21; Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto His glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.
Now let's break that down. Who, being Jesus, shall in the end of time on the resurrection day shall come and our bodies. this says that He shall change our vile body. Singular, yet Paul says he shall change our vile body, our, being plural, body being singular. Please keep that thought in mind. In the 15th chapter of Corinthians in the 52nd verse Paul says "In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump; for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.
Notice, that "we shall be changed" that's plural. Over in Philippians it was singular. The reason being that the change will take place at one time. The change will happen to many people. To some this may be confusing, but to me it is very clear.
What is change? Paul says in the 53rd verse, For this corruptible shall put on corruption, and this mortal shall put on immortality. 54th So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. 55th O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? 56th The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. 57th But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
To get back to the singular part of Philippians 3:21. With the thought of the change of our vile body, I would like to go to Romans 5. Romans 5:6 says that For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. 5:8. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. 5:9, Much more then, being now justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath through Him.
Before I go any further I want to notice something in that last verse, "being now justified by His blood" I know many people believe that we will be judged before we can enter heaven, and they are right, but as the text says, "being now justified by His blood" meaning we are justified, or judged through the blood of the Savior Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ was judged in our stead. The Armenian world thinks that the children of God will be judged in the end of time.
In Revelations 20:12-14, it talks about the judgment according to works, but that is speaking of those that are not in the lambs book of life. 20:12, And I saw the dead, small and great stand before God, and the books were opened; and another hook was opened, which is the book of life; and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. For one, we are not dead; we have been made alive by the atoning blood of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. It goes on to say in the 15th verse; And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast in to the lake of fire.
Therefore, we are not in that judgment. Back to Romans 5: 5-10, 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. 5:11, and not only so, but we have also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement. 5:12, Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned; 5:13, [For until the law sin was in the world; but sin is not imputed when there is no law. 5:14, Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgressions, who is the figure of him that was to come. 5:15, But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many. Let me skip down to the 19th verse, for as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.
All of this is saying since Adam transgressed against God, we were all made sinners, and since Christ came and died for sinners we were all made perfect. This is one of my favorite places to read in the Bible, it tells it all so simple. If you can count to one, you can figure it out, if God has given you the light to see His Sovereign Grace, and His perfect mercy.
The question may be asked, when will the change occur that is talked about in 1st Corinthians 15, and Philippians 3. Well, lets's go to 1st Thessalonians 4:16-18. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God; and the dead in Christ shall rise first; 4:17. Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air; and so shall we ever be with the Lord. 4:18. Wherefore comfort one an other with these words. Notice in the 16th verse where it says, "For the Lord Himself shall descend," I want to make it very clear that this is such an important matter that God is not sending angels, he is sending the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Now, I want you all to know even though men change, the earth changes, and men try to change the word of God, and God himself, God does not change. Since God inspired the writings of the Bible they do not change either. Malachi 3: 6 says, For I am the Lord and I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed. Now one more place and I'll close.
In the 13th chapter of the Hebrews letter and in the 8th verse, Paul says, Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, today, and forever. Isn't that such simple language, and yet men are trying to make even simpler. You know why? Because they do not have the light of God to see His word as it is, nor to see Jesus Christ as He is. That's a whole other subject, so I'll quit.
My dear kin in Christ, I hope I haven't gone in too many circles. If I have offended anyone, or if I have said anything amiss, I apologize, but please forgive me. I love you all and hope to see those that I have already met, again, and those I have not, I hope to meet you soon.
In brotherly love,
Brother Chris Crouse
Abilene Primitive Baptist Church
THE ONLY GOD CALLED PREACHER
Enclosed you will find a check for The Banner of Love. I have been reading some old copies of the paper and enjoyed it very much.
Most of all I enjoy the writings of the Elders and I believe that they are the only God called preachers on earth.
I have never joined a church, but am of the Primitive Baptist faith. In the '70 's I took the paper, and for some reason I let it drop. I don't really know why I quit taking it, but I want it again.
Yours in sweet hope,
Nita Morgan
Clovis, N.M.
REAL INTERESTING
Exodus 3 is real interesting, it reminds us that we have no part in God's Salvation. I believe the words, "pull off thy shoes, for the place wherein thou standeth is holy ground," is a reminder that God is pleased for us to leave off doing the thing in our human nature and stand in the way He has chosen for us to stand.
He will see us through. May He strengthen His dear ones every where.
In dear hope,
Sister Loretta Lilly
Akron, Ohio
Ps. 29:11 is real encouraging.
Rom. 7:14 says, For we know that the law is spiritual; but I am carnal sold under sin
Did all of you know that the word Carnal is not a bad word. Is of a Latin Derivative meaning simply - "Robed in flesh"
From this word comes the word "Incarnate" also meaning "Embodied in flesh, especially in human form." Funk and Wagnall's Dictionary...Jesus was Incarnate.
Adam was formed in the carnal - Gen. 2:7. Such was not bad. Gen. 1:31 God pronounced everything that he had made very good.
It was not until Gen. 3:1-6 that the carnal became bad. We are now bad in Carnal Flesh, as Adam multiplied. Rom 8:6-8 - "For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God." That has been the condition since Adam's fall. However, it was not always that way. There is and has been only one exception to this scenario, which was in the Carnal Body of Jesus Christ, the Son of Man.
Next, John 1:14 - Jesus was the word, and the word was life, and light, and was made flesh - Carnal. Please also notice that same lesson in Phil. 2:6-8; Heb. 2:17...None of this was bad carnal flesh. Jesus was perfect Carnal Flesh, and has always been, even when sin was loaded upon Him. Even in Rom. 8:3 - Paul says "He was in the likeness of Sinful flesh..." in fact it took Perfect Carnal Flesh in the likeness of sinful carnal flesh to condemn sin in the flesh. 1 Tim. 3:16 - "And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness; "God was manifest in the flesh..." Here God was carnal. Further 1 Peter 3:18 tells us that - "For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit." The only way to die is in the flesh. If you are not "in the flesh" you cannot die.
As "Spirit," Jesus Christ, the Divine Son of God, could not be seen, suffer or feel experimentally pain, sorrow, heartaches, nor know afflictions, tribulations and stress. He could have never satisfied the offended Justice of God, as "Spirit." Redemption and Atonement required the shedding of blood, and death. "Spirit" cannot shed blood, as it has no blood, and "Spirit" cannot die. Heb. 5:7-8 tells us some very important data - "Who is the days of His Flesh, when He had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared;
Though He were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered." In order to completely fulfill all the requirements, down to the jots and tittles, The Son of God became the Son of Man so He could experience suffering, pain, etc, and finally bleed and die, as a man. He could truly become us in - Phil 2:7-8 - "But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men; and being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and began obedient unto death, even the death of the cross."
He died not only as a man, but as the scum and offscourings of the baser sort of sorry total depraved humanity, he suffered, bled and died between two thieves on a Roman cross by Crucifixion.
As such a worthless ungodly man, yet without sin, was rich, yet for our sakes became poor that we through His poverty might be rich. 2 Cor: 8-9. Yet, the one unique factor was that HE was also the Son of God, and as the Son of man He had no flaws or faults, and wonder of all wonders, HE being of the Holy Ghost and Fathered from above had perfect blood to shed. There was no other blood in all the Universe, that would qualify for Redemption.
His flesh was perfect, as the Holy Ghost overshadowed the Virgin Mary - Luke 1:35 - "...and the power of the highest overshadowed her and therefore also that Holy Thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God." It had to be a virgin birth, no other would ever do. Next O. T. Prophecy foretold of this event and the effects and affects of such.
Isaiah 53:1-12 tells of His humble abject poverty. As a tender plant, but a root out of dry ground, no beauty, despised, rejected of men, a man of sorrow and acquainted with grief. We esteemed Him stricken and smitten of God and afflicted. He was wounded, bruised, chastised with stripes, oppressed, as a sheep is led to the slaughter and stood before his shearers, and opened not his mouth without a single complaint. Why? Because He was representing us before God's Court of Justice.
The only Carnal that is still perfect is the Body of Christ, in Covenant. 1 Cor. 2:7-8. Born of the virgin - Isaiah 7:14; Matt 1:21; at age 12 - Luke 2:49; Luke 3:23; in Gethsemane Luke 22:42-44; Before Pilate; John 19:4- who said,"I find no fault in him." Then on Calvary's Cross; In Joseph's New Tomb; On the morning and All the Day of the Resurrection; Upon His appearing before His Apostles, and many others and Upon His Ascension. Luke 24:51; Acts 1:9-11, and Stephen's saw him after the His Ascension and did not die because of the looking, but because of the stoning.
Acts 7:55 - "But he being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the Glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God." I wonder how he saw only his Spiritual, [non material substance] body? Well, the answer is simple. Jesus is still wearing His same body, that He was wearing on earth, which has always been glorious...Acts 7:56- "And said, behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of Man standing on the right hand of God." Notice, he saw the Son of Man [of Mary, in the flesh] standing [do spirits stand, sit or what?] on the right hand of God. Notice Jesus is in heaven after His Ascension out of mortal man's sight, yet Stephen still saw Him, and did not die from the looking, but only from the stones.
Yes, Jesus' Carnal body is in heaven right now. It is the only perfect carnal body since the formation, by the hand of God, of the First Adam. Jesus Christ in His "Carnal body" was the second Adam from Heaven, who dwelt upon the earth for a short span- only 33 1/2 years. He will never come in that body again and stand upon the earth ever again. That work was finished once for all.
Finally, rejoice in the fact of - 1 Cor. 15:49 - because of His carnal body and the Finished Work contained therein - "And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly." We looked like the first Adam earthy, and we shall also look like the second Adam who is currently in his Carnal spiritual Glorified Body in Heaven. Phil 3:21- "Who shall change our vile body that it may be fashioned like unto His glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself."
Be ever full of thankfulness praise, adoration, honour and glory for His Incarnation - His Carnal, Perfection Spiritual Body. Finally memorize this verse and say it over and over in your mind till it becomes part of your memory for all the remaining days left to each of us upon this earth. John 1:14 - "And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, [and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,] full of grace and truth."
LOOKING FORWARD FOR THE PAPER
When we lived in Brownsville, Texas we subscribed to your paper and really enjoyed reading all the news your paper has in it.
We are looking forward to receiving the Banner of Love again.
In Christian Love,
Sandra Case
Germantown, Tenn.
A lot of publicity is generated at various times over the actions of Hollywood’s movie producers. We have seen various types of public protests over the years because some group disapproves of a particular movie, or disagrees with the general philosophy of a movie or television production company. We see publicity being generated now over a new upcoming animated movie based on the biblical theme about Moses: "The Prince of Egypt."
We know very little about this new movie, having only see brief previews and witnessed early publicity. It is sure to generate broad discussion, and perhaps comments or protests from religious-based groups.
We have witnessed various attempts over the years as great protests are announced, only to result in increased publicity, therefore increased attendance by curious members of the public. I am somewhat cynical about such high-profile protests, because the publicity generated oft-times helps the protested cause, rather than achieves the intended result. A large part of my philosophy is undoubtedly influenced because of my background and education in the field of journalism.
Growing up in the print back shop of my father’s weekly newspaper plants, I vividly remember his instruction and guidance to me as he shared with me his philosophy about such events. As a newspaper we numerous times reported on such local events and were able to witness the results. Too many times we saw a public protest actually generate greater publicity for a protested event than it would have ever obtained without the protest. Curious members of the public became involved who would not otherwise have known about it.
As I went through schooling I remember one vivid example where my father’s guidance rang true. In college a small group of very liberal students formed a new organization and sought recognizable status. Initially they had less than half a dozen organizers and virtually no resources. A major protest was made against the formation of the group, with the protesters generating substantially more publicity than the original organizing group. Within a week dozens of more students joined the protested cause. Soon an attorney donated his services to the group. It soon became a major organization with all the publicity that it could not originally have paid for.
I did not personally care for the basic philosophy of the protested group. It was a cause for which my parents had specifically discussed with me prior to my ever attending college. The philosophy of the group was wholly inconsistent with the instruction of my parents. That’s where our basic duty as parents lies — instruction, not useless protest.
We are reminded of the tried and true saying at Prov. 22:6:
"Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it."
Combine that with the teachings of Christ at the conclusion of the Sermon on the Mount in chapter 7 of Matthew. We are told to beware of "false prophets" who appear friendly in "sheep’s clothing", but inwardly are "raving wolves." Then Christ provides us the real guidance for life. Read and study His words and teachings to prepare yourself a proper "foundation" for life. The wolves and false prophets will show up in our lives from time to time. If we know and a familiar with Christ’s teachings, then we have the proper foundation to withstand the ill winds that blow from time to time and fend off the wolves. Without that proper foundation, we can be easily fooled by those wolves in sheep’s clothing.
It all starts with getting a "good foundation" in our youth. If we teach our children properly, then we won’t have to worry about them when they are faced with temptations, half truths and untruths.
From all the publicity being generated prior to its official release (which may occur by the time you are reading this) a lot of people will be going to see this new animated movie about the life of Moses. I have read reports it is "reasonably" accurate by biblical historical standards. I know my own children already have expressed interest in seeing it.
I know by Hollywood standards it probably will be dramatized and fictionalized for effect.
Our duty as parents, as outlined in the Scriptures, is to properly instruct our children and give them the foundation they need to go through life. Give them the tools so they can recognize those wolves, even in sheep’s clothing. Give them the proper foundation to withstand the hard winds that will blow in their lives. If all parents would do so, there would be no need for protests to educate other people and other people’s children— our children will recognize wrong by themselves.
For this particular movie being released and appealed to children, before you go to it, read the second book in the front of the Bible, the Book of Exodus about the accurate historical story of Moses. Then tell it to your children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Lay in them the appropriate foundation. That is much more important and a better example than a public protest.
This is a good starting point. Give your children the benefit of your experience and guidance. Give them the truth.
Do that with all movies. Instruct your children with the proper foundation — whether its fact, fiction, horror or violent.
Give them that guidance with life. Give them the foundation set out by the Lord’s instruction. It is a lifetime lasting gift.
This past October 24th marked the 30th anniversary of the death of my grandfather, Henry Isom Bass.
This wonderful individual, born Nov. 23, 1873, was almost 95 years old when he passed away in Lubbock Methodist Hospital. He was a devout member of the Primitive Baptist Church and knew just as much about the Bible as most ordained ministers. All thirteen of his children, seven sons and six daughters, including my father, the late Arthur Bass, were Primitive Baptist members.
As most people know, my grandfather had a very large family with over fifty grandchildren and many, many, great-grandchildren. He was a model husband and father, bringing up his children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. He also possessed a tremendous personality, along with a great sense of humor.
For almost the 66 years he was married to the former Mary Evalina Jones, my grandmother, who passed away early in 1961.
Presently only three of their offsprings are still with us, my aunts, Minnie and Lomie and Uncle Harvey. At this writing, Aunt Minnie is almost 96 years old and Lomie is 93, and Harvey is 80.
The anniversary of his death brought some sweet memories for me, of all the good times I enjoyed with my grandfather many years ago.
He will always be alive in my heart and soul, never to be forgotten.
Written in love, by his grandson,
Jerry Bass
Lubbock, Texas
Dear Banner Readers,
Please notice in my last article, entitled Harmless Doves, that I, right in the midst of that lovely scene, offended some with the following statement:
When the great Baptist Split in 1832 came about did we gain anything by Fighting the New Schoolers? No, during the last 166 years, they have grown to about 16 million; and we P. B. are about, maybe 50.000 in the waning years of the 20th Century. The New Schoolers used honey, and we used "vinegar." The Trumpet or Morgan Baptists, when this division came, used vinegar, and we "Peace Baptists" used honey. We didn't fight them, they fought us. We won...Does that tell us anything?
My thinking and careless mind was following another objective and focal point, and I did not realize that I was writing offensively to the Morgan Baptist Folks, whom I love. Many of them are my dear friends and brethren in Christ, and yoke-fellows. I regret this statement and beg for you to Delete this statement referring to the Trumpet or Morgan Baptists. This statement, when I read it back seemed totally out of line and even arrogant. For this I apologize, and beg your forgiveness.
I am deeply sorry I caused this offense. Please pray for me, as I continue to write, striving for the Cause of Christ and the Good of His Remnant People in the Church on Earth. I am asking the Banner of Love to print this Retraction.
Again, if I could just learn to "practice what I preach."
Much Humble Loving kindness,
Hulan F. Bass
Celebrated her 100th birthday, July 5, 1998, in Paducah, Texas, where she makes her home.
AT 100 YEARS STILL ACTIVE
From covered wagons to space shuttles; from campfire light to laser beam surgery and computer conversation - just a small sample of the tremendous changes that one has seen when they have lived 100 years and Sister Vassie Scott has seen them all - and remembers them.
Her mind as sharp as a tack, and her tongue and wit just as sharp. She is still independently living alone and taking care of her yard and her little dog. She takes pride in her looks, especially her hair, and is in excellent health, though she doesn't understand why sometimes she feels tired.
The mother of twelve children, [four of whom have died], she remembers all their names and where they live, and the names of all 33 grandchildren, 59 great-grandchildren, and 12 great-great-grandchildren. She also can tell you to which family they belong.
She enjoys cooking, yard work, crocheting, going to yard sales, watching the TV soaps and wrestling, and still has a current Texas Driver's license. Her daughter says her mother dislikes lazy, dirty people.
Born July 5, 1898 in Pontotac County, Mississippi, her family consisted of nine children five girls and four boys, born to James and Martha Blagg.
When she was three years old, the family moved from Mississippi on a train, changing to a covered wagon to complete the trip to Gorman, Texas where they settled. In 1914, the Blagg family moved to Dumont in King County, where Sister Scott met and married H.V. [Pet] Scott, October 14, 1917 at the old courthouse in Paducah. Judge J. H. Milan, of the 50th Judicial Court, performed the ceremony.
The Scott's first home was in the Delwin community, where they raised their family of twelve children- Frank, Francis, Bobby, Pauline, Bill, Sue, Tommy, Helen, Charles, and Brenda. Two children died as infants. Frank died in WWII, and Charles [Jughead] died in 1974.
Sister Scott has attended the Primitive Baptist Church for over fifty years and she is the mother of Elder Francis Scott, a Primitive Baptist Minister in Plainview, Texas.
[Excerpts from Lubbock A. J, July 1998 issue.]
By Elder J.P. Dale Jr.
Matthew 1:21-22-23 "And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call His name Jesus for He shall save His people from their sins." Now all of this was done that it might be fulfilled, which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, "Behold, a virgin shall be with child and bring forth a son, and they shall call His name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us."
Never has any founder of ancient or modern religion had his birth pre-announced before or after Christ. Buddha, Socrates, Confucius, Mohammed or any other has ever had his coming, pre-announced. All prophesy told of Christ's coming, and all prophecy concerning Him was fulfilled to a jot and tittle. All others came into the world to live, but Christ came into the world to die.
Death was a stumbling block to these men, but death was the fulfillment of the life of Jesus. Only a few of His words or actions are understood without references to His cross. This sets Him apart from all other founders of world religion.
Jesus is what He claims to be, a Savior and Redeemer, so we need to follow Him and His teaching as our leader and guide in these perilous times.
Jesus stepped into the breach of death crushing sin, sorrow and despair for His people. We need to recognize Him as our Christ of today who can make cords and drive buyers and sellers from our temples of worship.
Let us listen to His voice as a raging sea, and hear Him talk of crosses and sacrifices. We need this Christ to restore moral dignity and spiritual awareness to our society. He will make us hate evil and love goodness where we can drink death like water.
He will make us conscious of the prevailing righteousness of the moral universe which is held in His hand, and gives us hope for victory in every battle of life.
Elder J.P. Dale, Jr.
Pastor of the New Hope Primitive Baptist Church
Fredericksburg, Texas
NEWMAN WALTER LEE JACKSON
Newman Walter Lee Jackson was born July 23, 1913, to Walter Lee Jackson and Myrtle Naomi Smith Jackson in Lakeview, TX near Floydada, TX. He passed the walks of this life on August 16, 1998 at the age of 85 years plus. He is survived by his widow, Mildred Jackson and daughter, Carla Ripple Dickson, and husband, Chris reside in Bastrop, TX, son, Gareth "Tug" Jackson and wife, Deby, are of California; son, Galen Jackson, and wife, Sue are of San Antonio.
There are 14 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren; his sister, Crystal Hobson of Midwest City, Oklahoma; and "adopted" family, Teddy and Julie Yang and two children of Columbia, Maryland. He is a Chinese student, who was raised by them, about 30 years ago. He has a son who was one of the pall-bearers, and was named Newman after Newman Jackson. There are too many cousins, nieces and nephews, and friends to list.
The funeral service of Newman Walter Lee Jackson [85] the son of Elder Walter Jackson, and brother of Elder Jim Jackson was as follows. DPS Trooper Honor Guard; Hulan Bass - Rom. 8:18; Obituary/ Prayer- Tait Moring - sang "Lord's Prayer"; Jim Bearden - Recollections; Marvin Moring - Personal Eulogy; Sermon; Hulan Bass- Texts: Ecc. 7:1; Luke 10:17-20. Subject: Good Name.
Prayer; DPS Honor Guard while viewing body in the Bastrop Funeral Chapel; Graveside services in Bastrop, TX Cemetery; Hulan Bass thanked everyone for their Comforting Support to the Family; Scripture 2nd Cor. 5:1-8; DPS Honor Guard played "Taps" Folded Texas Flag and presented it to Mildred Jackson; Large Chapel full of Attendance. The DPS stands for Department of Public Safety.
Newman Jackson's father was Elder Walter Lee Jackson, and his brother, Elder Jim Jackson, who were in the Constitution of the Muleshoe Primitive Baptist Church, back in the early '40's. His namesake was Elder Joe S. Newman. Elder J. S. Newman is buried in Stratton Community, between Cuero and Yoakum, TX, near Pilgrim's Rest P. B. C, which is now pastored by Elder Bill Walden.
Newman Jackson was Valedictorian of his class at Burkett, TX. He also attended many colleges and universities. He was dedicated to his search for enlightment. He continued his education with correspondence courses and constant research of many subjects throughout his life.
He began his career with the Texas DPS, Sept. 1941, as a Driver's License Examiner; transferred to Austin Headquarters in Jan. 1949; advanced to Chief of Inspection and Planning, Jan. 1974; and retired in 1978, after receiving many state and national awards for his work therein. He served as adviser in several states in reorganizing their driver safety and license programs and instructed many national safe-driving symposiums and conferences. He also served as chairman of the Amer. Assoc. of Motor Vehicles, International Model Driver Standards committee, Transportation Research Board, Nat'l Academy of Sciences, Traffic Law Enforcement Committee. Hewman was a highly recognized member and past president of the North Austin Rotary Club and was a Paul Harris Fellow.
He married Mildred Foster, daughter of Emory and Julia Foster, May 10, 1936, at Atwell, Texas. Their 62 years of married love, devotion, and happiness continues to touch the lives of many. Newman was finally known as "A.H." by his grandchildren. He was a very kind man of intelligence, humor, wit, curiosity, generosity, tolerance, compassion and spirituality. It was a great honor to me to officiate at his memorial service. He was not a Primitive Baptist, but he would have been a good one.
Written with love in my heart,
Hulan Bass, Lockhart, Texas
Sister Hazel Crume was born on Jan. 3, 1914 at Mountain View, OK. She was called home to be with Sweet Jesus on Oct. 10, 1998.
Sister Crume joined the Albuquerque Primitive Baptist Church on June 3, 1979. She was a beloved and faithful member an inspiration to her pastor, Elder Lonnie Wright, and to all who knew her.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Crume, in 1972. One son, Larry Crume, passed away in 1998.
Those left with precious memories include her daughter, Joan McCarley; sons, Thomas and Elbert Crume; daughter-in-law, Vickie Crume; brother, Donald Dodd; sisters; Alma Graham, Ruth Cather, and Ora Belle Kennedy; also seven grandchildren; and nine great grandchildren.
Sister Crume, a precious mother in Israel, will be greatly missed.
Submitted by Brother Jerry Foshee on behalf of the Albuquerque Primitive Baptist Church
Elder Lonnie Wright, Pastor
SISTER JENETTIE MARRIOTT
Whereas, our hearts are made sad when it pleased our Heavenly Father to call from our midst Sister Jenettie Marriott, we the members of the Zions Rest Primitive Baptist Church, McAlester, OK, bow in humble submission to God's Holy Will.
Sister Marriott was born Nov. 2, 1904 at Clay County, Ala. She departed from this life Oct. 17, 1998 to ever be with the Lord that she loved so dearly.
Sister Marriott was 93 years, eleven months and 15 days at her passing. She is survived by one daughter, and son-in-law; two sons and three daughters-in-law.
She was preceded in death by her parents, three husbands, one son, one grandson, one great -grandchild, two great-great -grandchildren; two sisters and one brother.
She was united with the Primitive Baptist Church, where she was a very faithful member until her death. Sister Marriott was a homemaker and faithful church member.
Be it resolved that we, the church, extend our deepest sympathy to her family. Resolved further that a copy given to the Primitive Baptist Publication. Done by the order of the church while in conference; date Nov. 15, 1998.
Moderator, Elder Davie Jones
Church Clerk Brother Chuck Campbell
Zion's Rest Primitive Baptist Church, Nov. 15, 1998, McAlester, Oklahoma
Nov. 11, 1998, we lost a dear member in the passing of Dorothy Naomi Biggs Eaton after a 15 year long battle with Alzheimer. She was born Aug. 13, 1908 to Neal and Lela Biggs in Santa Anna, Texas. Naomi met her husband, Earl Houston Eaton at a Primitive Baptist Church service and they were married on August 1, 1927 in Mullins, Texas. They had one son, Sidney Neal Eaton.
Earl and Naomi purchased the phone company in Blum. Earl and his son, Neal set the poles and installed the phone lines while Naomi ran the switch board. They operated the phone service from 1946 to 1952, when they sold the business and moved to Fort Worth.
It was evident of their love for God and the church as they traveled other states as well as Texas visiting many churches and associational meetings. Their travels continued until Brother Eaton's passing on, June 3, 1985. They celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary on August 1, 1977 at their home church, Mt. Zion Primitive Baptist Church in Fort Worth.
She was preceded in death by her father, Neal Biggs in 1928 and her mother, Lela Biggs in 1958, both of Santa Anna. She came from a long line of Primitive Baptists.
Surviving her are her son, Sidney Neal Eaton and wife, Laura Nell Bush Eaton of Mansfield, Tx, three grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren; three sisters, and many nieces and nephews.
Love, Joy, Peace, Longsuffering, Gentleness, Goodness, and Meekness. We have seen all these attributes in Nadine as she walked among us.
But it is hard to think of her without thinking of her husband, as they were such a close knit family. We, at Mount Zion have been blessed by their presence and know they are both enjoying more perfectly many pleasures they enjoyed here on earth in song and praise to the One who made it all possible.
In Love,
Billie Shaw Bell 11-2-98
Written by request of Mt. Zion Primitive Baptist Church, Fort Worth, Texas.