The Devaluation of Theology by Dr. Jeff C. Barger, 2024
Theology is Bible doctrine, teaching. A theologian is an individual who is a dedicated student of... more Theology is Bible doctrine, teaching. A theologian is an individual who is a dedicated student of the Bible. 1 A theologian studies the Bible in order to discover for himself what it teaches. He is not concerned with what others say about the Bible. By definition, a theologian aspires to master Bible doctrine. He studies with a goal of understanding how all Bible teaching fits together in a harmonious whole. Most theologians are Bible teachers. What one teaches reflects his personal study efforts and his labor of thinking. His chief aim is accurate communication of the meaning of God’s Word. He aspires to make the Word understandable so that those who hear him can make their own informed responses. 2 A theologian is not a facilitator of emotional experiences; he is a reporter of what is present in the Bible.
The purpose of this article is to provide clarity on the meaning and application of James’s words... more The purpose of this article is to provide clarity on the meaning and application of James’s words concerning the ability of God’s Word to save the souls of his readers. To achieve this purpose we first consider the words save and soul that occur in verse 21. These words are as source of confusion. Of particular interest is the word soul. James’s intended meaning of these words is restricted and defined by the context in which he used them. We accomplish our goal by considering key contextual details and, particularly, what was the spiritual condition of James’s readers. The spiritual condition of James’s readers cancels the common interpretation of his words.
A Study of Disciple Compiled and Presented by Wm. Bekgaard, 2024
This paper presents Disciples demarcated according to three distinct and different forms: There a... more This paper presents Disciples demarcated according to three distinct and different forms: There are disciples given to learning the art or skill of craftsmanship or academics. Other disciples follow causes or ideologies. Last there are those disciples who are attached to or followers of individuals thus making them their masters. The first class of disciples are given over to learning a trade or academics and has little in common with the other two. The last two types are not always separate; often they exist together, thus making them a follower of both a cause and a person.
PROFITING FROM THE WORD: THE LORD'S ILLUSTRATION OF THE TWO BUILDERS by Dr. Jeff C. Barger, 2024
Presuppositions about the meaning and application of Bible texts and teachings are not inherently... more Presuppositions about the meaning and application of Bible texts and teachings are not inherently bad. A presupposition that is based on honest investigation of Scripture evidence, is doctrinally sound, biblically supportable, theologically consistent and can be reasonably articulated is a solid presupposition. The problem is that many presuppositions about Scripture are not qualified by these things. Many, rather, are based on what someone says about the Bible, and not what the Bible actually teaches. In such circumstances, analysis does not occur.
James 2:14-26 pose an interpretational problem for some Bible interpreters. This is because James... more James 2:14-26 pose an interpretational problem for some Bible interpreters. This is because James seems to be in direct conflict with Paul’s teaching about justification (salvation) by faith alone. For those who believe that one receives eternal salvation as a free gift of God’s grace and absolutely apart from any meritorious works, a common solution is to force James to say that saving faith” will invariably and consistently produce observable good works. A common statement is: “Faith alone saves, but saving faith is never alone.” Works are made a test of whether or not one is “truly saved.” One should not be comfortable with this.
The study of the doctrine of hell must involve itself with death. More specifically with the issu... more The study of the doctrine of hell must involve itself with death. More specifically with the issue of the destiny of the body and soul of man after death.
Is the Name of Jesus an Absolute Necessity for Salvation? by Dr. Jeff C. Barger, 2024
Many preachers and teachers are unlikely to be confronted by their own inconsistencies in their t... more Many preachers and teachers are unlikely to be confronted by their own inconsistencies in their theological positions. Many are able to “skate” because they never have to deal with serious challenges to their theological positions. Most church members don’t seriously study the Bible for themselves, and thus are in no position to identify, let alone question, the pastor’s or teacher’s inconsistencies. One who will seriously study out Acts 4:12 in its context and think through the implications of the traditional meaning evangelical preachers assign to it will be able to ask questions that will twist up many pastors and Bible teachers.
On Heresy and Heretics by Dr. Jeff C. Barger, 2024
Implied in the modern religious use of heresy and herec is a standard of orthodox doctrine. Orth... more Implied in the modern religious use of heresy and herec is a standard of orthodox doctrine. Orthodoxy is an accepted doctrine, or system of doctrine, that is held to be an authoritave standard. In a religious sense, one is labelled a herec whose teaching on one or more points do not conform to a religious group’s (church, associaon, denominaon) orthodox doctrines about the what the Bible teaches. The one group assumes their views of Scripture are correct, and as is oen the case, not subject to queson or challenge.
One Page Summary of Eschatology by Rick Howard, 2024
The "end times" began with the life, death and especially the resurrection of Christ, for the res... more The "end times" began with the life, death and especially the resurrection of Christ, for the resurrection of the dead is an end time event, as such, the reader can notice a succinct expression of the core elements of the eschatological realities of Christ as each final feature unfolds. This summary affords an enumerated list of eschatological events both initiated and consummated by Jesus Christ.
The meaning of "Salvation has Come to the Gentiles" in Romans 11:11 by Dr. Jeff C. Barger, 2010
This exposition calls the readers' attention to the insight one achieves by noticing the distinct... more This exposition calls the readers' attention to the insight one achieves by noticing the distinctions, applications, and contextualized meanings of the term "salvation;" specifically, as it appears in the phrase, "salvation has come to the Gentiles."
Three Key Words Describing Christ's Return by Rick Howard, 2024
This paper reviews by comparison 3 "Key Words" that describe the Return of Jesus Christ, noticing... more This paper reviews by comparison 3 "Key Words" that describe the Return of Jesus Christ, noticing how closely they are related, by the original authors' use of the terms, "Coming, Appearing & Revelation."
This Analysis engages the account of the Rich Young Ruler, and considers factors which indicates ... more This Analysis engages the account of the Rich Young Ruler, and considers factors which indicates an original perspective that more often remains unnoticed due to preconceived ideas, and previously established understandings, allowing the reader to perceive the lesson according to objective analysis void of blind spots. Dr. Barger's analysis helps make the "obvious no longer obscure."
What Happened to the Theif on the Cross by Jeff C. Barger, 2024
While we can’t be dogmatic in this case, I think we should consider the possibility the repentant... more While we can’t be dogmatic in this case, I think we should consider the possibility the repentant thief could have been an already eternally saved man. Here could be an example of an individual who trusted God to forgive his sins and save him when he was a young boy. We can’t rule out the possibility that his mother was a godly woman who taught him about God and the promised Messiah, yet who, when he became a young man drifted away from his religious training and got mixed up with the wrong crowd. It’s possible that, while dying on his cross, he remembered things his mother taught him about God and His promises, and he became a repentant child of God. In this man’s case we could have an example of a mother’s prayers for her saved, yet wayward son, being answered at his death.
The first mention of "Born of God" is in John 1:11-13. Jesus, Peter and John taught and establish... more The first mention of "Born of God" is in John 1:11-13. Jesus, Peter and John taught and established the doctrine of "Born of God." 11 He came unto his own, and his own received him not. 12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: 13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. (John 1:11-13 KJV) (More precisely, verse 12 should read. "to become children of God," rather than sons of God.) Powerfully, Jesus makes it clear that this rebirth is not of the blood of man, nor of the flesh. nor by man's will. This rebirth is of God. It is through the operation of the Holy Spirit. Further, it is not by any works or other means that this birth comes about. It is by faith, receiving Him.
This chart diagrammatically presents the Holy Spirit according to His "Three Offices," highlighti... more This chart diagrammatically presents the Holy Spirit according to His "Three Offices," highlighting His relation and function to the unsaved, the saved, and the Church.
The study of spirits. Pneumatology is the very complex study of spiritual beings. There are quite... more The study of spirits. Pneumatology is the very complex study of spiritual beings. There are quite a number of theories, opinions, misunderstandings, superstitions and sentiments concerning them. However, for this thesis the Bible is used as the sole authority for our study of the subject.
Observation(s) that many sovereign grace brethren also eventually fixate on recursive loops that ... more Observation(s) that many sovereign grace brethren also eventually fixate on recursive loops that find them hopelessly concluding that if all the elect persevere, and the scriptural place to do that is in a local N. T. church, then only these will be in the kingdom! They all make the church everything. It becomes ecclesiatical eccentric.
This paper highlights "core features" of permeating perspectives that have become historically kn... more This paper highlights "core features" of permeating perspectives that have become historically known as "Newlightism." The author identifies six principle ideas that he considers representative of "New Light" doctrines.
The Devaluation of Theology by Dr. Jeff C. Barger, 2024
Theology is Bible doctrine, teaching. A theologian is an individual who is a dedicated student of... more Theology is Bible doctrine, teaching. A theologian is an individual who is a dedicated student of the Bible. 1 A theologian studies the Bible in order to discover for himself what it teaches. He is not concerned with what others say about the Bible. By definition, a theologian aspires to master Bible doctrine. He studies with a goal of understanding how all Bible teaching fits together in a harmonious whole. Most theologians are Bible teachers. What one teaches reflects his personal study efforts and his labor of thinking. His chief aim is accurate communication of the meaning of God’s Word. He aspires to make the Word understandable so that those who hear him can make their own informed responses. 2 A theologian is not a facilitator of emotional experiences; he is a reporter of what is present in the Bible.
The purpose of this article is to provide clarity on the meaning and application of James’s words... more The purpose of this article is to provide clarity on the meaning and application of James’s words concerning the ability of God’s Word to save the souls of his readers. To achieve this purpose we first consider the words save and soul that occur in verse 21. These words are as source of confusion. Of particular interest is the word soul. James’s intended meaning of these words is restricted and defined by the context in which he used them. We accomplish our goal by considering key contextual details and, particularly, what was the spiritual condition of James’s readers. The spiritual condition of James’s readers cancels the common interpretation of his words.
A Study of Disciple Compiled and Presented by Wm. Bekgaard, 2024
This paper presents Disciples demarcated according to three distinct and different forms: There a... more This paper presents Disciples demarcated according to three distinct and different forms: There are disciples given to learning the art or skill of craftsmanship or academics. Other disciples follow causes or ideologies. Last there are those disciples who are attached to or followers of individuals thus making them their masters. The first class of disciples are given over to learning a trade or academics and has little in common with the other two. The last two types are not always separate; often they exist together, thus making them a follower of both a cause and a person.
PROFITING FROM THE WORD: THE LORD'S ILLUSTRATION OF THE TWO BUILDERS by Dr. Jeff C. Barger, 2024
Presuppositions about the meaning and application of Bible texts and teachings are not inherently... more Presuppositions about the meaning and application of Bible texts and teachings are not inherently bad. A presupposition that is based on honest investigation of Scripture evidence, is doctrinally sound, biblically supportable, theologically consistent and can be reasonably articulated is a solid presupposition. The problem is that many presuppositions about Scripture are not qualified by these things. Many, rather, are based on what someone says about the Bible, and not what the Bible actually teaches. In such circumstances, analysis does not occur.
James 2:14-26 pose an interpretational problem for some Bible interpreters. This is because James... more James 2:14-26 pose an interpretational problem for some Bible interpreters. This is because James seems to be in direct conflict with Paul’s teaching about justification (salvation) by faith alone. For those who believe that one receives eternal salvation as a free gift of God’s grace and absolutely apart from any meritorious works, a common solution is to force James to say that saving faith” will invariably and consistently produce observable good works. A common statement is: “Faith alone saves, but saving faith is never alone.” Works are made a test of whether or not one is “truly saved.” One should not be comfortable with this.
The study of the doctrine of hell must involve itself with death. More specifically with the issu... more The study of the doctrine of hell must involve itself with death. More specifically with the issue of the destiny of the body and soul of man after death.
Is the Name of Jesus an Absolute Necessity for Salvation? by Dr. Jeff C. Barger, 2024
Many preachers and teachers are unlikely to be confronted by their own inconsistencies in their t... more Many preachers and teachers are unlikely to be confronted by their own inconsistencies in their theological positions. Many are able to “skate” because they never have to deal with serious challenges to their theological positions. Most church members don’t seriously study the Bible for themselves, and thus are in no position to identify, let alone question, the pastor’s or teacher’s inconsistencies. One who will seriously study out Acts 4:12 in its context and think through the implications of the traditional meaning evangelical preachers assign to it will be able to ask questions that will twist up many pastors and Bible teachers.
On Heresy and Heretics by Dr. Jeff C. Barger, 2024
Implied in the modern religious use of heresy and herec is a standard of orthodox doctrine. Orth... more Implied in the modern religious use of heresy and herec is a standard of orthodox doctrine. Orthodoxy is an accepted doctrine, or system of doctrine, that is held to be an authoritave standard. In a religious sense, one is labelled a herec whose teaching on one or more points do not conform to a religious group’s (church, associaon, denominaon) orthodox doctrines about the what the Bible teaches. The one group assumes their views of Scripture are correct, and as is oen the case, not subject to queson or challenge.
One Page Summary of Eschatology by Rick Howard, 2024
The "end times" began with the life, death and especially the resurrection of Christ, for the res... more The "end times" began with the life, death and especially the resurrection of Christ, for the resurrection of the dead is an end time event, as such, the reader can notice a succinct expression of the core elements of the eschatological realities of Christ as each final feature unfolds. This summary affords an enumerated list of eschatological events both initiated and consummated by Jesus Christ.
The meaning of "Salvation has Come to the Gentiles" in Romans 11:11 by Dr. Jeff C. Barger, 2010
This exposition calls the readers' attention to the insight one achieves by noticing the distinct... more This exposition calls the readers' attention to the insight one achieves by noticing the distinctions, applications, and contextualized meanings of the term "salvation;" specifically, as it appears in the phrase, "salvation has come to the Gentiles."
Three Key Words Describing Christ's Return by Rick Howard, 2024
This paper reviews by comparison 3 "Key Words" that describe the Return of Jesus Christ, noticing... more This paper reviews by comparison 3 "Key Words" that describe the Return of Jesus Christ, noticing how closely they are related, by the original authors' use of the terms, "Coming, Appearing & Revelation."
This Analysis engages the account of the Rich Young Ruler, and considers factors which indicates ... more This Analysis engages the account of the Rich Young Ruler, and considers factors which indicates an original perspective that more often remains unnoticed due to preconceived ideas, and previously established understandings, allowing the reader to perceive the lesson according to objective analysis void of blind spots. Dr. Barger's analysis helps make the "obvious no longer obscure."
What Happened to the Theif on the Cross by Jeff C. Barger, 2024
While we can’t be dogmatic in this case, I think we should consider the possibility the repentant... more While we can’t be dogmatic in this case, I think we should consider the possibility the repentant thief could have been an already eternally saved man. Here could be an example of an individual who trusted God to forgive his sins and save him when he was a young boy. We can’t rule out the possibility that his mother was a godly woman who taught him about God and the promised Messiah, yet who, when he became a young man drifted away from his religious training and got mixed up with the wrong crowd. It’s possible that, while dying on his cross, he remembered things his mother taught him about God and His promises, and he became a repentant child of God. In this man’s case we could have an example of a mother’s prayers for her saved, yet wayward son, being answered at his death.
The first mention of "Born of God" is in John 1:11-13. Jesus, Peter and John taught and establish... more The first mention of "Born of God" is in John 1:11-13. Jesus, Peter and John taught and established the doctrine of "Born of God." 11 He came unto his own, and his own received him not. 12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: 13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. (John 1:11-13 KJV) (More precisely, verse 12 should read. "to become children of God," rather than sons of God.) Powerfully, Jesus makes it clear that this rebirth is not of the blood of man, nor of the flesh. nor by man's will. This rebirth is of God. It is through the operation of the Holy Spirit. Further, it is not by any works or other means that this birth comes about. It is by faith, receiving Him.
This chart diagrammatically presents the Holy Spirit according to His "Three Offices," highlighti... more This chart diagrammatically presents the Holy Spirit according to His "Three Offices," highlighting His relation and function to the unsaved, the saved, and the Church.
The study of spirits. Pneumatology is the very complex study of spiritual beings. There are quite... more The study of spirits. Pneumatology is the very complex study of spiritual beings. There are quite a number of theories, opinions, misunderstandings, superstitions and sentiments concerning them. However, for this thesis the Bible is used as the sole authority for our study of the subject.
Observation(s) that many sovereign grace brethren also eventually fixate on recursive loops that ... more Observation(s) that many sovereign grace brethren also eventually fixate on recursive loops that find them hopelessly concluding that if all the elect persevere, and the scriptural place to do that is in a local N. T. church, then only these will be in the kingdom! They all make the church everything. It becomes ecclesiatical eccentric.
This paper highlights "core features" of permeating perspectives that have become historically kn... more This paper highlights "core features" of permeating perspectives that have become historically known as "Newlightism." The author identifies six principle ideas that he considers representative of "New Light" doctrines.
Basic Bible Study Skills by Dr. Jeff C. Barger, 2022
The self-descriptive name of this course is Basic Bible Study Skills. The goal is to provide the ... more The self-descriptive name of this course is Basic Bible Study Skills. The goal is to provide the student with knowledge and skills that will enable him or her to become their own interpreter of the Bible. Though Basic is part of the course name, this is a seminary-level course of instruction. In this course, we’ll discuss general rules and principles of Bible interpretation. We’ll discuss what are challenges and barriers to correct interpretation. Some things an interpreter might have to un-learn. I will challenge you to be become aware of and to think about your thinking. As we go, we’ll buttress principles and concepts with abundant biblical examples, and we’ll put our skills to practical use.
There seems to be quite a bit of controversy within Missionary Baptist ranks these days surroundi... more There seems to be quite a bit of controversy within Missionary Baptist ranks these days surrounding the indwelling Holy Spirit. Some want to make this doctrine a test of fellowship, while others do not. It is no secret as to where much of Protestantism lies with regard to this doctrine. They view the Holy Spirit’s ministry as basically having only one dimension; that being to indwell ALL the saved. They see EVERY SAVED PERSON INDWELT by the Holy Spirit, and EVERY SAVED PERSON functioning as an individual TEMPLE of the Spirit. This indwelling of the Spirit, they say, happens when one accepts Jesus as his Savior. Such error of interpretation, being an outgrowth of the universal church theory, is not limited to the Protestants for it has even found its way into many Landmark Baptist churches. Many Landmark churches who purportedly reject the universal church theory have been deceived into swallowing this element of the universal church doctrine as held by Protestants, Universalists, Interdenominationalists, Charismatics, etc. But what does the Bible reveal concerning this important doctrine? The Bible reveals actually a two-fold ministry of the Spirit: The Spirit’s Ministry to the World The Spirit convicts the world of sin...of righteousness...and of judgment (John 16:7-11). The “world” would of course involve all people including the unsaved, the unfaithful saved, and faithful saved. Those people in New Testament churches are still convicted of sin, righteousness and judgment even after salvation for they are still in “the world.” The Spirit does not discontinue this ministry with them simply because they are in the Lord’s church. When an unsaved individual responds to the Spirit’s conviction of sin, righteousness and judgment, he is saved from hellfire and is given the gift of life by the Spirit. Upon the individual’s salvation from hell, his own inner spirit is made alive by the operation of God’s Spirit upon him. Jesus said, “That which is born of Spirit is spirit” (John 3:6). Man cannot save himself; the Holy Spirit must first convict him and the man’s spirit must be made alive by God’s Spirit. Once a man’s spirit has been saved from hell, he cannot lose his personal salvation so as to end up in hell; such salvation is a gift from God (Ephesians 2:8, 9). The question, however, is when one trusts in Jesus as his Savior and is saved from hell, does the Holy Spirit INDWELL that individual? Does the Bible even mention an indwelling of the Spirit? If so, what is the purpose for indwelling? We will address these questions, but first let us briefly consider the second ministry of the Holy Spirit:
The Spirit’s Ministry to the Church
Most Missionary Baptists agree that the Holy Spirit has a special ministry to the church as well as a ministry to the world. Most Missionary Baptists would no doubt admit that the Spirit was given to the church on the Day of Pentecost as a special Comforter, and Guide into all truth. They will usually admit that through scriptural baptism and service in a true church, one can gain a greater insight toward the Scriptures and have a closer walk with Christ. But again, the argument centers around the idea of the Spirit INDWELLING a person simply because he is saved. What do the Scriptures actually teach about the indwelling of the Holy Spirit? Is the word “indwell” ever used in relation to the Spirit? If so, are we to apply it to all saved, or to only the church?
If we are going to use biblical terms and concepts such as the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, then we are limited to using them in the manner in which we see the Lord teaching them in the Bible; we are not at liberty to make additional applications freely at will as do the Protestants.
They see the word “church,” for instance, in the Bible and rather than use it in a local sense as intended by the Lord, they RE-apply it to refer to ALL THE SAVED. This is a dangerous practice; and yet many Landmarkers are making the same mistake when they so carelessly apply the biblical concept of the indwelling Spirit in a way in which God never intended. Whatever stand we take on any issue, the Bible must always be our rule of faith and practice. Everything must line up with the Word of God and must line up with the overall purpose of God as revealed in His Word. Upon investigating the Scriptures for a particular truth, we must always remember to allow the Word to speak to us and show us what it says rather than make it say what we want to believe. Since the Bible is divided into two major parts -- the Old Testament (Covenant) and the New Testament (Covenant), Landmark Baptists should therefore approach the Bible from the standpoint of those covenants and make application of Scripture first and foremost to the covenant people of God (of which Landmarkers are) unless, of course, the sense or context of the passage necessitates a broader view to include those outside of covenant relationship.
After all, as previously stated, the Bible is divided into the Old Covenant and the New Covenant, and mainly concerns the special relationship one may enter with God through fellowship under His covenants.
Now, let us proceed with the foregoing questions of whether or not when one trusts in Jesus as his Savior and is saved from hell, does the Holy Spirit INDWELL that individual? Does the Bible even mention an indwelling of the Spirit? If so, what is the purpose for the Spirit’s indwelling?
The HARDEMAN-BOGARD DEBATE, held at Little Rock, Ark. from April 19
to 22, 1938, was an outstandi... more The HARDEMAN-BOGARD DEBATE, held at Little Rock, Ark. from April 19 to 22, 1938, was an outstanding religious discussion of more modern times. The speakers of this occasion were: N. B. Hardeman, president of Freed-Hardeman College, Henderson, Tenn., and a prominent evangelist of the churches of Christ; and Ben M. Bogard, dean of the Missionary Baptist Institute, Little Rock, and pastor of the Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, of the same city. Both disputants were at their best, and every possible arrangement had been made for the success of the effort. Two sessions each of two hours' duration were held daily, each speaker delivering two thirty-minute addresses at each assembly. At first it was planned to alternate the services between the church of Christ, at Fourth and State Streets, and the Baptist Church, Twenty-Second and Brown Streets. However, after the first day, taking into consideration the extra accommodations of the Fourth and State Streets building—a greater seating capacity, more accessible location, loud-speaker connections, and radio facilities—it was decided by all concerned that it would be best to conduct all meetings at the church of Christ. E. R. Harper, minister of the Fourth and State Street Church, acted as general spokesman for the discussion, except at the night session on Tuesday at the Antioch Baptist Church. In addition, Brother Harper was moderator for Brother Hardeman, and rendered also an extraordinary service in handling details of the meetings, radio broadcasts, and being host to the many visitors. Brother Harper and his pleasant, untiring companion were faithful servants of those who traveled far and near to hear the discussion. A more orderly debate and on such a high plane could scarcely have been planned and conducted, and to the Harpers must be attributed much of the credit for its success. On the one night (Tuesday, the nineteenth) the discussion was held at the Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, at Twenty-Second and Brown Streets, where also the Missionary Baptist Institute is conducted, Dr. J. Louis Guthrie, president of the Institute, was "master of ceremonies." He, too, was moderator for Dr. Bogard, and a more pleasant, capable one could not have been found. The house that night was filled to capacity and hundreds remained outside to catch the words of the speakers in whom they had the utmost confidence. Members of the Baptist Church rendered every possible service and extended every possible courtesy to all those who attended, and a general spirit of good will and respect prevailed. It must be added, also, that members of the Baptist Church at Twenty-Second and Brown Streets cooperated in many ways throughout the four days of "combat" to make the discussion worth while from every point of view and to cause every auditor to feel that it was good to have been there. An unusual number of preachers were in attendance, which was an indication of the importance of the meeting of these two representative men. Hundreds came from almost every part of the United States—young preachers and men of experience and long years of service mingled together with the keenest interest in truth. Both Baptist and Christian preachers filled the greater part of the available space. Taking into consideration the number of people in attendance, numbering approximately one thousand each service, the vast radio audience (for all save one session were broadcast over Little Rock stations), and the great number of those who will read the book, it has been conservatively estimated that more than a quarter of a million people will have come into contact with the truth taught on this occasion. The speakers are too well known to command attention or eulogy from this limited writer. That both men were and are outstanding in and with their particular congregations throughout the nation goes without suggestion. Probably no other living man has had as many—and certainly not more—debates than Ben M. Bogard. A representative of Baptist people and Baptist doctrine for almost half a century, the author of many books, and an editor of long standing reputation, he is easily the champion of the Baptist faith. What he says is accepted as authentic. His ability has never been questioned. Therefore, the reader may expect the best possible in this book that can be presented from the Baptist point of view. N. B. Hardeman, speaking in behalf of the churches of Christ in the series of meetings, is not only an educator of no mean reputation, but an evangelist whose efforts are known and appreciated everywhere. He speaks with a ready mind, a sincere heart, and a conviction which cannot be gainsaid. Those directly concerned were not only willing to trust him with the task of upholding the truth during the four days, but they were unusually well satisfied when the task was finished. Two stenographers—Misses Kitty Cook and Virginia Lamb, both of Nashville, Tenn.—were employed during the discussion. The first day's work was taken both in shorthand and on the steno-type under the supervision of this writer. When it was found that the treatise would extend to about 140,000 words, instead of 75,000, as we originally had estimated, and when it was seen that each speaker covered his territory in 200-words-a-minute fashion, it was deemed wise to take the last three days by record method. Through the courtesy of the Democrat Printing and Lithographing Company, of Little Rock, distributors for Ediphone, we obtained the necessary equipment and wax records were made, and from them the transcriptions were made. Hence, we may pledge an accurate account of the happenings. The writer of this foreword took notes and examined carefully every manuscript in connection with the discussion, and after transcripts were made from the records re-listened to the voice-writing and checked every word in the manuscript, and we thus pledge that this is an accurate account of the addresses delivered. Vital themes were discussed and live issues were ever made prominent. Each subject is stated by the speakers themselves and a table of contents has been given in the back of the book, thus making reference to any topic an easy matter. Only a few changes have been made, mostly pertaining to English construction, and only irrelevant matter such as announcements and unnecessary courtesies has been omitted. The comment on Acts 22: 16 is new material and one or two other points have been added by the consent of both disputants with each having the opportunity to know what the other had said. Those who heard and read will recognize the exactness of the manuscripts. The publishers, in presenting this to an eager public, realize the importance of its content, and bespeak for it a ready reception and a joyful response on the part of every thoughtful reader to the truth found therein. We therefore submit this, the HARDEMAN-BOGARD DEBATE, as an accurate account and a fair representation of all concerned. L. O. SANDERSON, Business Manager, Gospel Advocate Company.
With envisioned words, and joyful anticipation toward His church
that it “might be filled with al... more With envisioned words, and joyful anticipation toward His church that it “might be filled with all the fulness of God," Jesus prayed: "Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; That they all may be one, as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me" (John 17:17-23). Paul, “according to the wisdom given unto him,” said: “For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of Cod. Now unto him that iB able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that wor\eth in us, Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end" (Eph. 3:14-21). “To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory” (Col. 1:27).
“Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord” (II Cor. 3:17-18). “My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ be formed in you" (Gal. 4:19). “I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth . . . Behold, I stand at the door, and knock, if any man hear my voice and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me" (Rev. 3:15-16, 20). The contents of this book will in no wise develop the fulness and beauty of its title, “CHRIST IN YOU," for they are merely elementary matters. This is to say that this book is laying the foundation for a much more meaningful and delightful study that will proceed far into the unsearchable riches of Christ. To say that the present study is elementary does not mean that these things are without significance, for without them our understanding of the riches of God's grace would be exceedingly frustrated. No new doctrine is being set forth. It is hoped, however, that the message of this book may help us to find a more solid footing on certain matters which have been held dear at least in a measure in all the days since the Lord established His church nearly two thousand years ago. May the Spirit of God and of Christ, about Whom the following pages speak, grant to each reader a diligent, and believing heart. S. E. Ford
Dr. Ben M. Bogard states: "To fail to understand the Bible doctrine of hereditary depravity and t... more Dr. Ben M. Bogard states: "To fail to understand the Bible doctrine of hereditary depravity and the work of the Spirit in salvation is to fail in every way in the understanding of the way of salvation and all that pertains the Christian life.... The doctrine of the depravity of the human race is fundamental. Wrong in that doctrine-all else will be wrong" (Total Hereditary Depravity, 1983 Ben M. Bogard).
The Bible is the all-sufficient rule of faith and practice and it is
as much a rule of practice a... more The Bible is the all-sufficient rule of faith and practice and it is as much a rule of practice as it is of faith.
The commission given by our Master in Matthew 28:19, 20, commands the church to “teach all things whatsoever 1 have commanded you.” The specification of one thing is law is the prohibition of everything else. Since what the church is to teach is specified, viz., “all things whatsoever I have commanded,” it follows that all things not commanded are forbidden. It follows that the church is shut up to the things commanded. There is therefore no place for the exercise of private opinion except it be in our effort to understand the things commanded. Any doctrine or institution that is outside of the purview of the Scripture is wrong.
In 2 Timothy 3:16,17, we said: “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.”
If this is true, and to dispute it is to contradict the words of inspiration, it follows that we are “thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” Then we do not need to invent plans for work, since the Scripture “thoroughly furnish us unto all good works.” If the work we propose to do is good we can learn all about it in the Scriptures for “the man of God is thoroughly furnished unto all good works.”
From these passages we are compelled to conclude that there must be a “thus saith the Lord” for all we do. We dare not organize a church, a prayer meeting, a convention, an association, a school, a board, a committee, an evangelistic movement, or any thing else without a “thus saith the Lord,” because the Scriptures “thoroughly furnish us unto all good works,” and we are to “observe all things whatsoever the Master has commanded,” no more no less.
The man who gave these lectures was well known to me. I am the oldest of
his five children. It wa... more The man who gave these lectures was well known to me. I am the oldest of his five children. It was not my purpose when I was given these transcripts to provide them to others. However, some of my brethren began asking for copies and the result is this work. I would be dishonest to take any credit for the work herein. I did type the pages from work already transcribed for Bro. Clayton Shook while he was an instructor at the school in Minden, La. I express my appreciation to Bro. Shook for his efforts. It is my understanding that this transcript was taken directly from tapes of the lectures. There was little editing done when I started to work on them. I have taken the liberty to change many of the contractions Dad was prone to use. Hopefully, this will make the material easier to read. Paragraphs, some sentences and such grammatical changes are mine. The sole purpose for these changes is to make the material easier to read. It may be noted that if you are reading any of the Scriptures in the King James Version, or for that matter any other version, you will note a difference in the wording quite often. He was quite literate in the Hebrew and the Koine Greek and many times he preached from either or both texts without any other Bible with him as he preached. He made some doctrinal stands on which I can’t completely agree. This is a failing on my part and in no way do I mean to indicate he was wrong. If he were alive and aware of this effort, he would strongly encourage the reader to carefully study this and use whatever you can. Don’t just accept this as fact. Don’t try to make it work for you just because Fred G. Stevenson said it. He spent a substantial portion of his life in the classroom of the Missionary Baptist Seminary in Little Rock, Ark. I believe one of his greatest pleasures in life was to see the God-called preachers leave there knowing how to better study the Bible. He did not attempt to make disciples of Fred Stevenson, but disciples of Jesus Christ.
Dr. Mason was pastor of Buffalo Avenue Church for 29 years. During this time he edited the church... more Dr. Mason was pastor of Buffalo Avenue Church for 29 years. During this time he edited the church paper which is called "Faith and Life," and for many years he preached over the largest chain of radios daily of any pastor in the country. Dr. Mason still conducts radio programs over five radio stations sponsored by Buffalo Avenue Baptist Church, some of these stations carry the program daily. "Ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free."-Jesus
An Introductory Workbook for Theocentric Students: First Semester Focus, 2023
This Introductory Workbook will serve as the "First Semester Focus" for students in the LAMP Theo... more This Introductory Workbook will serve as the "First Semester Focus" for students in the LAMP Theological Institute. The Field of primary interest will be Theocentric Physicalism.
ABOUT THEOCENTRIC PHYSICALISM
Theocentric Physicalism shows that descriptive terms of scientific language can be reduced, and transposed into terms which can explain things, events, and creatures within the spatio-temporal realm of both space and time, along with the multivariate properties of each one. Theocentric Physicalism sees God as both the spatio-temporal realm’s Creator, and its active sustainer: He is, therefore, the central focus of Theocentric Physicalism.
Theocentric Physicalism evaluates both the correlative and the antithetical factors which indicate themselves to be useful data points in the development of viable theories within the purview of both the Divine Creator, and all created things. A protracted approach catalyzed essential, research efforts, thereby sustaining the rigorous demands of developing theocentric theories according to the historical, wholistic interpretative process.
This author preferred the Theocentric Physicalist perspective, evaluating the Bible’s descriptions of the physical creation, as well as its physical creation events, like its “in-beginning-creation,” of both the heaven and the earth and “in time” creative reparations. Both forms of the physical universe, energy, and matter, along with innate, physical phenomena are frequently described in terms of space and time. Time within this publication, however, is described accordingly, as referential, and chrono-logical: Relative. Conclusions are analytically, and empirically evaluated insofar as logic and mathematics allow.
The Hermeneutic utilized in this "First Semester Focus" will be the Historical Holistic Hermeneutic Process.
The Historical Holistic Hermeneutic process encourages practitioners to elaborate according to correlative terms and concepts known both in the Bible and science. Implications in scientific Hermeneutics emerge by understanding how the process of hermeneutical science advances a practitioner’s knowledge: Aptitude in the knowledge acquisition process grows exponentially, augmenting one’s appreciation for the instruments of true science. HHH applies knowledge to the knowledge, that is, as with a priori gnosis: HHH applies “knowledge or things that we already know, not based on experiment, but deduced from axioms” to the same kind of a priori Bible knowledge.
“What is the significance of belonging to a New Testament
church?”
A NEW TESTAMENT CHURCH
A New ... more “What is the significance of belonging to a New Testament church?”
A NEW TESTAMENT CHURCH A New Testament church is not just, any group of religious people, nor is it just any group of saved people. Coming into church membership is not a part of the process of salvation, as many people believe today.
There were multitudes of people saved from Adam to Christ. The church had no part in their salvation, for it did not exist at that time. Neither did belonging to any other religious group contribute to their salvation.
The church was formed very early in the ministry of Jesus (John 1:35-37; John 2:1, 2). It was composed of people who were saved under the ministry of John the Baptist (Matthew 3:1, 2), and they were baptized by being immersed in the Jordan River (Matthew 3:5, 6). They were saved before they were baptized, but they solemnly committed themselves to serve the Lord according to His Word in their baptism (Romans 6:4; I Corinthians 10:1-4, 11).
A church is a group of saved people who believe the Bible is the Word of God and that the New Testament is the all-sufficient rule of faith and practice. Rules of life and conduct change from one age to another in the Bible; for instance, Israel had the law of Moses from Moses to Christ, and the church has the New Testament as its rule from Christ to the end of the church age. Some Bible doctrines never change: The doctrine of the total depravity of man has always been true since the fall of Adam back in the garden of Eden (Romans 3:23). The doctrine of salvation by grace never changes. (Ephesians 2:8-10). The doctrine of eternal security, that is, “once saved always saved,” never changes (John 5:24).
The Bible discusses in varying detail a thousand and one different subjects, but its essential story is the creation, the fall, and the redemption of the human race. The real church member commits himself to stand fast on the essential doctrines and practices of the New Testament. In so doing, he confesses that Christ has given him a wiser and more righteous rule of life than he is able to devise for himself. Every teaching, every ordinance, and every observance in the Scriptures is intended to impart to us some element of detail of divine truth. If we neglect or reject any of these details, we contribute to the warping of the Bible pattern of God’s truth and righteousness. In other words, we begin to misrepresent God instead of rightly conceiving of Him ourselves and rightly presenting Him to the world. And, since Jesus left, the church is supposed to be the light of the world (Matthew 5:14).
There will be differences among the saved both in the Millennium and in Heaven. The former is clearly set forth at Matthew 19:28. In substance, this says that the faithful will reign with Jesus in the Millennium. Ephesians 3:21 states there will be glory to Christ in the church forever. This certainly implies the faithful church will have an identity as such forever.
So far as salvation is concerned — that is, the new birth — one saved person is as much saved as any other. Furthermore, all the saved will be finally and fully prepared for Heaven in the resurrection and in the Millennium. In these senses, all the saved will be equal in Heaven. But there are two things which nothing will ever change. First, if we have led sinners to salvation, we will have them for companions forever. If we have not led sinners to Christ, we will not have this companionship.
Second, if we have been faithful to the Word in this life, the time of testing, nothing will ever change that fact nor the manifestation of it in eternity.
The work now before the reader will increasingly commend itself to him as
he diligently reads, ru... more The work now before the reader will increasingly commend itself to him as he diligently reads, runs references, re-reads, and prayerfully studies the contents. That is to say, this is no shallow or perfunctory handling of a theme so often treated as a mere satisfier of curiosity. In the Last Trump is a prayerful and soul-searching study of the end-time, one which truly honors the Coming King and recognizes the complete authority of the Bible. My own soul has been thrilled, challenged, and made to tremble at this study. Tradition is given a minimum of consideration. For that reason this work will be discounted by many, though this is to be regretted, for it will challenge the very “foundations” of much religious thinking. My own heart has been overwhelmed as I have read and re-read much of this manuscript. I have been called to repentance for past error; my own preaching has been affected. The careless or light reader many never finish this book: the prejudiced denominationalist or traditionalized man may soon close his mind, his heart, and then the book, in favor of his traditions. This word of caution is a challenge for such to read on, turning to the many references cited, reading each in context, daring to lay his prejudices and preconceived ideas down long enough to consider the author's viewpoint, then only picking up what one can honestly retain after such study. Geo. N. H. Peters, in his monumental work, The Theocratic Kingdom, with seer-like wisdom, says in his Introduction: “It has, however, been the fate of some authors to be so far in advance of their contemporaries that, appreciated only by the few discerning or candid, it has required time, or the necessity of the Church, or the endorsements of a line of students to give importance and weight to their statements While the deepest thinkers freely admit that new and valuable contributions to theology are reasonably to be anticipated, that such are absolutely required at the present juncture (1883), and that such can only be found in i he rich resources of the Word, yet it is remarkable that a contribution thus given will, especially in the hands of those whose minds are controlled by human traditions and by an exalting of Church authority above that of the Scriptures, be rejected and anathematized on the ground of its being in opposition to their preconceived and favorite formula of doctrine.” I count Bro. Sharrel Ford my warm personal friend and brother in Christ While I have been his teacher in the classroom he has become my teacher in many ways. His zeal for the Truth of the Bible is only matched by his love for the souls of men. He is presently spending himself in the interest of the multitudes in Japan who do not know our Wonderful Saviour. To know the man would help much in appreciation of this work, for it would point up a fact often overlooked by theologians: that scholarship alone is not the prime requisite for knowing God's will. The Spirit-breathed ideas of the Book, being matched with Spirit-taught words, are only spiritually discerned. This book will commend itself to the humble, Truth-hungry student, not by its literary style or flowing language, but by its simple earnestness, its deep perception of little understood prophetic Truth, and its keen appreciation of “that blessed hope.” You are now challenged to pull off your spectacles of tradition and read with an eye single to Him — that “one-eyed” faith vision. -Edward Byrd
BROTHER J.C. JAMES is widely known as an evangelist, pastor and professor. His pastoral work amon... more BROTHER J.C. JAMES is widely known as an evangelist, pastor and professor. His pastoral work among the churches of the American Baptist Association has been in Arkansas and Kentucky. Many churches have called for his services as an evangelist and lecturer. His “Second Coming" messages have been well received. As an instructor, he has served the Missionary Baptist Seminary well for a number of years. His ability in the Hebrew and Greek languages is recognized as second to none. His research in the languages has made his writing of this book most valuable. He is esteemed as a theologian of no mean ability. His work in this book is hereby recommended to the reader for study, with the admonition to weigh well this timely message as the glorious RETURN OF CHRIST grows near. L.D. Capell, Dean Missionary Baptist Seminary Little Rock, Arkansas
This book was written to give the world in general and
Missionary Baptists in particular a commen... more This book was written to give the world in general and Missionary Baptists in particular a commentary and translation of the book of Revelation. The need for such a book, free from the taint of sectarianism and unbiased in its nature, has long been felt. If there is such a work on the Revelation of Jesus Christ in existence anywhere outside of this one, then those responsible for this publication know nothing of it.
This writing treats the Revelation of Jesus Christ from the standpoint that it is literally an unveiling of Jesus Christ from the time of His appearance until the creation of the new heaven and the new earth and that this is given by the direct revelation of God to John and he, in turn, to the churches, with the accent upon the word churches. This is stated, not from the viewpoint that all denominational bodies are churches of the Lord, but from the view of the Lord’s true people being local congregations and in opposition to any thought of a universal, invisible body constituting “the church."
The value of Revelation has been recognized by only a few in the last few centuries. Its worth, however, is coming more and more into realization as the end of the age approaches. There are those small minds who say that the book of Revelation cannot be understood, therefore, do not study it, and others who contend that man has the right to place his own interpretations it—interpretations that will not conflict with his ideologies.
There is a definite blessing pronounced for those who study and hear the words of this prophecy, and if the church and individuals in the church would understand the place they occupy in the present world and the events that are transpiring about them, they must read this Revelation of Christ. The church and the minister who best understands the book of Revelation is very likely to be the busiest and best servant of the Lord.
Dr. Fred G. Stevenson is perhaps the best qualified man on earth to write the book of Revelation from a Missionary Baptist standpoint. He is a scholar unquestioned and while a Baptist, a minister and a theological instructor, he has retained the virtue of thinking freely as God reveals His Word to him through the ancient languages. The fact that some of our brethren have disagreed with him is evident that he has not attempted to think, teach nor write from a traditional standpoint.
It is not even suggested that those reading this book will agree with the writer from every standpoint. That is your privilege but all should bear in mind that this work is the product of some thirty years of intensive research into the languages of the Bible and profound thought, intermingled with prayer. Dr. Stevenson has not striven to retain personal friendships, nor to place a sweet morsel in the theological mouths of his brethren, neither has he written from a mercenary standpoint, for it is very evident that a work of this nature will not be overwhelmingly received by the masses, even of Christianity. It is therefore, very evident that he has intended to give to us a true, orthodox translation and interpretation of a very important book in the Bible.
This Volume I comprises the first eleven chapters of Revelation and Volume II the remainder of the book. As president of the Missionary Baptist Seminary, I wholeheartedly recommend this work to the reading public and to Missionary Baptists in particular. May there grow out of this an intensified effort on the part of God’s churches to evangelize until the Lord returns, which, undoubtedly, will not be long. L. D. Foreman
R. Graves
“Why call ye me Lord, Lord, and do not the things I command you? “Ye are my friends, if... more R. Graves “Why call ye me Lord, Lord, and do not the things I command you? “Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. “If a man love me, he will keep my words “—commandments.”—Christ. The above are the words of Christ, and fraught with meaning of the utmost moment to each one of us. The reasonable inference from the above solemn declaration is, That Christ accounts no one as his friend, in fact, that no one loves him, unless he obeys whatsoever things Christ commands him. Now Christian immersion stands first and foremost among the commands Christ enjoined upon all who profess to love him—the first and representative of all future obedience—since, embraced in its profession, is the pledge of unqualified and continued obedience in all the requirements of Christ. The questions proposed to be discussed, therefore, are I. Has Christian immersion any connection with salvation? II. If any, what is that relation? III. In what circumstances should we consider ourselves unsaved, —no friends of Christ unless we obey his command to be baptized? There are those who evidence impatience at the announcement of such a topic, because, in their opinion, the Scriptures do not furnish the shadow of a reason to justify any one in supposing that immersion in water—an overt act, and contingent entirely upon the will of third parties—can, in any way, by a merciful Savior, be connected with our eternal salvation; that simple faith in Christ is the one and all—sufficient thing that Christ requires of a believer to secure his richest blessings here, and salvation hereafter. If there be no semblance of a connection between baptism and salvation, how can we account for the fact, that every denomination of professing Christians, save the Baptists, do, in the published Symbols of their faith, whether called "Decrees of Councils," "Confessions of Faith," "Creeds," or "Disciplines," teach that there is a [2] vital connection—i.e., that, where baptism is wanting, no salvation can exist; and base their constant practice upon this doctrine? There must be a relation of some sort, or we can not rationally account for the almost universal belief and perpetuation of so gross an error through so many ages. Naked error can not endure the light, and it must have the outer semblance of truth with which to clothe itself. The theory that baptism is essential to salvation, and that, in the use of this rite as the effectual means, the blessings of remission of sins and regeneration are obtained, and all the benefits of Christ’s mediation secured to the recipient, whether adult or infant, is commonly known as "baptismal regeneration;" and it might better be called baptismal salvation, since a regenerated person is, without doubt, a saved person. Now, this theory is held and practiced today by the overwhelming mass of professed Christians, by all Catholic and by all Protestant sects, as well as by many hundreds of thousands who do not class themselves with Protestants; as the Campbellites, Mormons, and lesser sects.
The Book of Daniel is a companion to the Book of Revelation. The following is an overview of the ... more The Book of Daniel is a companion to the Book of Revelation. The following is an overview of the book. Daniel, the author, like Ezekiel, was a captive in Babylon. He was brought before King Nebuchadnezzar while young, and trained in the Chaldean language and sciences. His career resembled that of Joseph. He was promoted to the highest office in the realm. He maintained his spiritual life in the midst of a heathen court. The main theme of the Book is the Sovereignty of God over the affairs of men in all ages. The pagan king’s confessions of this fact constitute the Key Verses of this book. Section I is largely a narrative of personal biography and local history. It contains an account of thrilling events and divine interpositions unsurpassed in the Old Testament. It refers to six moral conflicts in which Daniel and his companions participated. The first conflict is between pagan self-indulgence and conscientious abstinence, in promoting health. We find in chapter one that abstinence wins. The second conflict is between pagan magic and heavenly wisdom in the interpretation of dreams. We find in chapter two that divine wisdoms wins. The third conflict is heathen idolatry arrayed against loyalty to God. In chapter three we find that loyalty to God wins. The fourth conflict is a pagan king’s pride arrayed against Divine Sovereignty. We find in chapter four that God wins and the king is turned out to eat grass. The fifth conflict is impious sacrilege arrayed against reverence for sacred objects. In chapter five we find that reverence wins. We also find the handwriting on the wall and Belshazzar being dethroned. The sixth conflict is between malicious plotting and the providence of God over His saints. In chapter six we find that providence wins with the lions’ mouths being stopped. Section II gives us the visions and prophecies relating to the controlling hand of God moving the scenes in the Panorama of History, chapters 7-12. The Book of Daniel is a companion to the Book of Revelation. Both of these books contain much imagery which appears mysterious. The attempt to fit the the prophecies of Daniel and Revelation into the facts and events of human history has usually produced an endless conflict of opinions. The reason for this is that the true interpretation of the details of the visions is not always clear. There are two facts that are generally acknowledged by most scholars: (1) That the prophecies represent a partly veiled Revelation of Future Events in secular and sacred history. (2) That the visions point to the ultimate triumph of God’s Kingdom over all Satanic and World Powers. In chapter seven, many commentators see the Four Beasts as representing the Four great Empires, Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece and Rome, followed by a vision of the coming Messiah. In chapter eight, another period of Medo-Persian and Grecian history appears under the figure of a beast. In chapter nine we find Daniel’s prayer and a veiled prophecy of the time of the coming of the Messiah. Chapters ten to twelve contain additional far-reaching predictions and revelations of future events. These three chapters have been the battleground of theological controversy with many varied interpretations. (Adapted from Thompson’s Chain Reference).
Some time ago I was teaching Baptist history in our church. While I
always had a love and deep ap... more Some time ago I was teaching Baptist history in our church. While I always had a love and deep appreciation of the history and heritage of the Baptist, I hadn’t made a critical study on the subject. I had read Th e Trail of Blood by Carroll and the works of men such as Armitage, D. B. Ray, John Christian, Orchard, and S. F. Ford. In the course of our lessons I wanted to bring out more on the Anabaptist than I had at hand. I searched the internet and constantly found sites which placed the origin of the Anabaptists in 1525 with the Swiss Brethren. In my library I have a book entitled Th e Anabaptist Story, by William Estep, with a decal stating Commemorating the 450th Anniversary of Anabaptism. It is from this book that much of the material on internet about the Anabaptists is drawn. I knew this was wrong and was saddened that such an error was being accepted without challenge. I thought, “Someone should have a rebuttal web site to give the alternative view of the Anabaptists.” Whenever I have these thoughts I often have a small voice (fi guratively) saying, “Why don’t you do it?” No, God doesn’t orally speak to me. So I began to read, and read, and read. I talked with others who also had a compassion for our history. They recommended material, gave, and loaned me their books. I noted the references and footnotes to the works of other authors and decided to research as many of them for myself as I could. I went on a buying binge. I found many rare books, some of which were unknown by my fellow companions of history. For some of the works I could only fi nd portions of the manuscripts. The History of the English Baptist by Ivimey is one example. My research took over three years. At the outset it was never my intention to repeat the eff orts of the historians, but rather to glean from them. It was always in my mind that the subject was the issue of Church Succession. I had to omit much valuable material on points such as the martyrs, secular governments and politics, and the development of aberrations of doctrines and practices. I found stories of horror and beauty. I discovered in many cases not only what people did but why they did it. Many questions were being answered and more were arising. I found some things were not as I had believed. I had to change opinions and beliefs about certain churches. If any study is to be of merit it must be based on the truth of the evidence, and I have tried to remain faithful to the facts. An example of this is the Paulicians in their Th e Key of Truth. In much of the history written by Baptists the Paulicians are highly regarded and given great esteem in the lineage of the Church. But I found their origin in all probability was not apostolic, but much later. Moreover, they denied the deity of Christ and believed that He, as a man, was of lower stature than John the Baptist. I found no evidence contrary to this position. Truth is not always pleasant, but it needs to be respected and given its rightful place. To address church succession we must begin with the foundation of the nature of the church. If the church is misunderstood, then succession is like a wild weed and can go in any number of directions. For this reason the larger part of this work is on the nature of the church. I have investigated, as far as I could, to know and understand all the positions of the church. Using scripture and reason I evaluated each position and the claims made of the church. I took many positions to their logical conclusions and tested them against biblical truths. It is not my intention to belittle or misrepresent those whose positions are different from mine.
Theocentricity: A Theory of Every Created Thing, 2021
The reason why is it important to teach the truth about Jesus Christ
and creation is found in the... more The reason why is it important to teach the truth about Jesus Christ and creation is found in the Bible. According to Scripture, we are to give glory to God in the church and this is to be done, “by Christ.” The more we praise Jesus Christ in the church, the more glory we give to God. Ephesians 3:21, “Unto Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.” When He is given praise and honor for His love for people and for the earth, we see the truth – that man is of the earth, earthy. The earth was created for man, and man was created from the earth to dress and keep the earth. I Corinthians 15:47, “The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is the Lord from heaven.” God is glorified when the truth is taught in the church. When people know what Jesus did in creation, He is given preeminence. The word preeminence means to be given the first place in all things. Colossians 1:16-18, “For by Him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by Him, and for Him: And He is before all things, and by Him all things consist. And He is the head of the body, the church; who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things He might have the preeminence.” As I write what I believe the Bible teaches concerning the creation of the earth, I will not attempt to prove any points by quoting from any scientist or scientific material. If what I believe about creation cannot be proven by the Scriptures only, then we cannot teach that the Bible is our only rule of faith and practice. I am not qualified to write as a scientist, for my education and training does not lie in that discipline. However, I will quote from theological material and incorporate the writing of theologians in this essay. Please, do not misunderstand, qualified scientists contribute much to our comprehension of the earth’s uniqueness and purpose. We should thank God for those who are trained and qualified both in the earth sciences and in theology to write that which elevates our understanding of this topic.
The Book of Hebrews has been called "The Fifth Gospel". The four Gospels describe Christ's minist... more The Book of Hebrews has been called "The Fifth Gospel". The four Gospels describe Christ's ministry on earth, but this book describes His ministry in Heaven at God's right hand. The book of Hebrews exalts the Person and Work of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. Our eyes are fixed upon Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). He is set before us "crowned with glory and honor" in the heavens (Hebrews 2:9). When we realize all that we have in and through Him, we have no desire for anyone else or anything else. This book was written primarily to Jewish Christians at Jerusalem who were wavering in their faith and were in danger of lapsing back into Judaism. Because of the taunts and jeers of their persecutors, the Jewish Christians were beginning to think that they had lost everything—the altar, priests, sacrifices—by accepting Christianity. The writer proved that they had only lost the shadow to be given the substance, the Lord Jesus Christ. They were undervaluing their privileges in Christ, were becoming discouraged and were thinking about going back to Judaism as a form of worship.
The interactive nature of life is observed between dual causal participants, demonstrating the du... more The interactive nature of life is observed between dual causal participants, demonstrating the dual- causal ratio between the two; namely, the Causal Creator and His causal creatures.
Radiometric dating is allegedly in conflict with known chronological data; however, rather than v... more Radiometric dating is allegedly in conflict with known chronological data; however, rather than viewing the data as "fictitious," one might consider that which the data is actually measuring; namely, the Geo-phenomenal factors.
Uploads
of confusion. Of particular interest is the word soul. James’s intended meaning of these words is restricted and defined by the context in which he used them. We accomplish our goal by considering key contextual details and, particularly, what was the spiritual condition of James’s readers. The spiritual condition of James’s readers cancels the common interpretation of his words.
One who will seriously study out Acts 4:12 in its context and think through the implications of the traditional meaning evangelical preachers assign to it will be able to ask questions that will twist up many pastors and Bible teachers.
only these will be in the kingdom! They all make the church everything. It becomes ecclesiatical eccentric.
of confusion. Of particular interest is the word soul. James’s intended meaning of these words is restricted and defined by the context in which he used them. We accomplish our goal by considering key contextual details and, particularly, what was the spiritual condition of James’s readers. The spiritual condition of James’s readers cancels the common interpretation of his words.
One who will seriously study out Acts 4:12 in its context and think through the implications of the traditional meaning evangelical preachers assign to it will be able to ask questions that will twist up many pastors and Bible teachers.
only these will be in the kingdom! They all make the church everything. It becomes ecclesiatical eccentric.
part of the course name, this is a seminary-level course of instruction. In this course, we’ll discuss general rules and principles of Bible interpretation. We’ll discuss what are challenges and barriers to correct interpretation. Some things an interpreter might have to un-learn. I will
challenge you to be become aware of and to think about your thinking. As we go, we’ll buttress principles and concepts with abundant biblical examples, and we’ll put our skills to practical use.
It is no secret as to where much of Protestantism lies with regard to this doctrine. They view the Holy Spirit’s ministry as basically having only one dimension; that being to indwell ALL the saved. They see EVERY SAVED PERSON INDWELT by the Holy Spirit, and EVERY SAVED PERSON functioning as an individual TEMPLE of the Spirit. This indwelling of the Spirit, they say, happens when one accepts Jesus as his Savior.
Such error of interpretation, being an outgrowth of the universal church theory, is not limited to the Protestants for it has even found its way into many Landmark Baptist churches.
Many Landmark churches who purportedly reject the universal church theory have been deceived into swallowing this element of the universal church doctrine as held by Protestants, Universalists, Interdenominationalists, Charismatics, etc. But what does the Bible reveal concerning this important doctrine? The Bible reveals actually a two-fold ministry of the Spirit:
The Spirit’s Ministry to the World
The Spirit convicts the world of sin...of righteousness...and of judgment (John 16:7-11).
The “world” would of course involve all people including the unsaved, the unfaithful saved, and faithful saved.
Those people in New Testament churches are still convicted of sin, righteousness and judgment even after salvation for they are still in “the world.” The Spirit does not discontinue this ministry with them simply because they are in the Lord’s church. When an unsaved individual responds to the Spirit’s conviction of sin, righteousness and judgment, he is saved from hellfire and is given the gift of life by the Spirit.
Upon the individual’s salvation from hell, his own inner spirit is made alive by the operation of God’s Spirit upon him. Jesus said, “That which is born of Spirit is spirit” (John 3:6). Man cannot save himself; the Holy Spirit must first convict him and the man’s spirit must be made alive by God’s Spirit. Once a man’s spirit has been saved from hell, he cannot lose his personal salvation so as to end up in hell; such salvation is a gift from God (Ephesians 2:8, 9).
The question, however, is when one trusts in Jesus as his Savior and is saved from hell, does the Holy Spirit INDWELL that individual? Does the Bible even mention an indwelling of the Spirit? If so, what is the purpose for indwelling? We will address these questions, but first let us briefly consider the second ministry of the Holy Spirit:
The Spirit’s Ministry to the Church
Most Missionary Baptists agree that the Holy Spirit has a special ministry to the church as well as a ministry to the world.
Most Missionary Baptists would no doubt admit that the Spirit was given to the church on the Day of Pentecost as a special Comforter, and Guide into all truth. They will usually admit that through scriptural baptism and service in a true church, one can gain a greater insight toward the Scriptures and have a closer walk with Christ.
But again, the argument centers around the idea of the Spirit INDWELLING a person simply because he is saved. What do the Scriptures actually teach about the indwelling of the Holy Spirit? Is the word “indwell” ever used in relation to the Spirit? If so, are we to apply it to all saved, or to only the church?
If we are going to use biblical terms and concepts such as the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, then we are limited to using them in the manner in which we see the Lord teaching them in the Bible; we are not at liberty to make additional applications freely at will as do the Protestants.
They see the word “church,” for instance, in the Bible and rather than use it in a local sense as intended by the Lord, they RE-apply it to refer to ALL THE SAVED. This is a dangerous practice; and yet many Landmarkers are making the same mistake when they so carelessly apply the biblical concept of the indwelling Spirit in a way in which God never intended. Whatever stand we take on any issue, the Bible must always be our rule of faith and practice. Everything must line up with the Word of God and must line up with the overall purpose of God as revealed in His Word.
Upon investigating the Scriptures for a particular truth, we must always remember to allow the Word to speak to us and show us what it says rather than make it say what we want to believe. Since the Bible is divided into two major parts -- the Old Testament (Covenant) and the New Testament (Covenant), Landmark Baptists should therefore approach the Bible from the standpoint of those covenants and make application of Scripture first and foremost to the covenant people of God (of which Landmarkers are) unless, of course, the sense or context of the passage necessitates a broader view to include those outside of covenant relationship.
After all, as previously stated, the Bible is divided into the Old Covenant and the New Covenant, and mainly concerns the special relationship one may enter with God through fellowship under His covenants.
Now, let us proceed with the foregoing questions of whether or not when one trusts in Jesus as his Savior and is saved from hell, does the Holy Spirit INDWELL that individual? Does the Bible even mention an indwelling of the Spirit? If so, what is the purpose for the Spirit’s indwelling?
to 22, 1938, was an outstanding religious discussion of more modern times. The speakers of this occasion were: N. B. Hardeman, president of Freed-Hardeman College, Henderson, Tenn., and a prominent evangelist of the churches of Christ; and Ben M. Bogard, dean of the Missionary Baptist Institute, Little Rock, and pastor of the Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, of the same city. Both disputants were at their best, and every possible arrangement had been made for the success of the effort. Two sessions each of two hours' duration were held daily, each speaker delivering two thirty-minute addresses at each assembly. At first it was planned to
alternate the services between the church of Christ, at Fourth and State Streets, and the Baptist Church, Twenty-Second and Brown Streets. However, after the first day, taking into consideration the extra accommodations of the Fourth and State Streets building—a greater seating capacity, more accessible location, loud-speaker
connections, and radio facilities—it was decided by all concerned that it would be best to conduct all meetings at the church of Christ.
E. R. Harper, minister of the Fourth and State Street Church, acted as general spokesman for the discussion, except at the night session on Tuesday at the Antioch Baptist Church. In addition, Brother Harper was moderator for Brother Hardeman, and rendered also an extraordinary service in handling details of the meetings, radio broadcasts, and being host to the many visitors. Brother Harper and his pleasant, untiring companion were faithful servants of those who traveled far and near to hear the discussion. A more orderly debate and on such a high plane could scarcely have been planned and conducted, and to the Harpers must be attributed much of the credit for its success.
On the one night (Tuesday, the nineteenth) the discussion was held at the
Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, at Twenty-Second and Brown Streets, where also the Missionary Baptist Institute is conducted, Dr. J. Louis Guthrie, president of the Institute, was "master of ceremonies." He, too, was moderator for Dr. Bogard, and a more pleasant, capable one could not have been found. The house that night was filled to capacity and hundreds remained outside to catch the words of the speakers in whom they had
the utmost confidence. Members of the Baptist Church rendered every possible service and extended every possible courtesy to all those who attended, and a general spirit of good will and respect prevailed. It must be added, also, that members of the Baptist Church at Twenty-Second and Brown Streets cooperated in many ways throughout the four days of "combat" to make the discussion worth while from every point of view and to cause every auditor to feel that it was good to have been there.
An unusual number of preachers were in attendance, which was an indication of the importance of the meeting of these two representative men. Hundreds came from almost every part of the United States—young preachers and men of experience and long years of service mingled together with the keenest interest in truth. Both Baptist and Christian preachers filled the greater part of the available space. Taking into
consideration the number of people in attendance, numbering approximately one thousand each service, the vast radio audience (for all save one session were broadcast over Little Rock stations), and the great number of those who will read the book, it has been conservatively estimated that more than a quarter of a million people will have come into contact with the truth taught on this occasion.
The speakers are too well known to command attention or eulogy from this
limited writer. That both men were and are outstanding in and with their particular congregations throughout the nation goes without suggestion. Probably no other living man has had as many—and certainly not more—debates than Ben M. Bogard.
A representative of Baptist people and Baptist doctrine for almost half a century, the author of many books, and an editor of long standing reputation, he is easily the champion of the Baptist faith. What he says is accepted as authentic. His ability has never been questioned. Therefore, the reader may expect the best possible in this book that can be presented from the Baptist point of view.
N. B. Hardeman, speaking in behalf of the churches of Christ in the series of meetings, is not only an educator of no mean reputation, but an evangelist whose efforts are known and appreciated everywhere. He speaks with a ready mind, a sincere heart, and a conviction which cannot be gainsaid. Those directly concerned were not only willing to trust him with the task of upholding the truth during the four days, but they were unusually well satisfied when the task was finished.
Two stenographers—Misses Kitty Cook and Virginia Lamb, both of Nashville, Tenn.—were employed during the discussion. The first day's work was taken both in shorthand and on the steno-type under the supervision of this writer. When it was found that the treatise would extend to about 140,000 words, instead of 75,000, as we originally had estimated, and when it was seen that each speaker covered his territory in 200-words-a-minute fashion, it was deemed wise to take the last three days by record method. Through the courtesy of the Democrat Printing and
Lithographing Company, of Little Rock, distributors for Ediphone, we obtained the necessary equipment and wax records were made, and from them the transcriptions were made. Hence, we may pledge an accurate account of the happenings. The writer of this foreword took notes and examined carefully every manuscript in connection with the discussion, and after transcripts were made from the records re-listened to the
voice-writing and checked every word in the manuscript, and we thus pledge that this is an accurate account of the addresses delivered.
Vital themes were discussed and live issues were ever made prominent. Each subject is stated by the speakers themselves and a table of contents has been given in the back of the book, thus making reference to any topic an easy matter. Only a few changes have been made, mostly pertaining to English construction, and only irrelevant matter such as announcements and unnecessary courtesies has been omitted. The comment on Acts 22: 16 is new material and one or two other points have been added by the consent of both disputants with each having the opportunity to know what the other had said. Those who heard and read will recognize the exactness of the manuscripts. The publishers, in presenting this to an eager public, realize the importance of its content, and bespeak for it a ready reception and a joyful response on the part of every thoughtful reader to the truth found therein. We therefore submit this, the HARDEMAN-BOGARD DEBATE, as an accurate account and a fair representation of all concerned.
L. O. SANDERSON, Business Manager,
Gospel Advocate Company.
that it “might be filled with all the fulness of God," Jesus prayed: "Sanctify
them through thy truth: thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me
into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for
their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the
truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe
on me through their word; That they all may be one, as thou, Father,
art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world
may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me
I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them,
and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world
may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast
loved me" (John 17:17-23).
Paul, “according to the wisdom given unto him,” said: “For this
cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom
the whole family in heaven and earth is named, That he would grant
you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might
by his Spirit in the inner man; That Christ may dwell in your hearts by
faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and
height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that
ye might be filled with all the fulness of Cod. Now unto him that iB
able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according
to the power that wor\eth in us, Unto him be glory in the church by
Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end" (Eph. 3:14-21).
“To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory
of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of
glory” (Col. 1:27).
“Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is,
there is liberty. But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the
glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory,
even as by the Spirit of the Lord” (II Cor. 3:17-18).
“My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ
be formed in you" (Gal. 4:19).
“I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would
thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither
cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth . . . Behold, I stand at the
door, and knock, if any man hear my voice and open the door, I will
come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me" (Rev. 3:15-16,
20).
The contents of this book will in no wise develop the fulness and
beauty of its title, “CHRIST IN YOU," for they are merely elementary
matters. This is to say that this book is laying the foundation for a much
more meaningful and delightful study that will proceed far into the unsearchable riches of Christ. To say that the present study is elementary
does not mean that these things are without significance, for without
them our understanding of the riches of God's grace would be exceedingly
frustrated.
No new doctrine is being set forth. It is hoped, however, that the
message of this book may help us to find a more solid footing on certain
matters which have been held dear at least in a measure in all the days
since the Lord established His church nearly two thousand years ago.
May the Spirit of God and of Christ, about Whom the following
pages speak, grant to each reader a diligent, and believing heart. S. E. Ford
as much a rule of practice as it is of faith.
The commission given by our Master in Matthew 28:19, 20,
commands the church to “teach all things whatsoever 1 have
commanded you.” The specification of one thing is law is the prohibition of everything else. Since what the church is to teach is specified, viz., “all things whatsoever I have commanded,” it follows that all things not commanded are forbidden. It follows that the church is shut up to the things commanded. There is therefore no place for the exercise of private opinion except it be in our effort to understand the things commanded. Any doctrine or institution that is outside of the purview of the Scripture is wrong.
In 2 Timothy 3:16,17, we said: “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.”
If this is true, and to dispute it is to contradict the words of inspiration, it follows that we are “thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” Then we do not need to invent plans for work, since the Scripture “thoroughly furnish us unto all good works.” If the work we propose to do is good we can learn all about it in the Scriptures for “the man of God is thoroughly furnished unto all good works.”
From these passages we are compelled to conclude that there
must be a “thus saith the Lord” for all we do. We dare not organize a
church, a prayer meeting, a convention, an association, a school, a
board, a committee, an evangelistic movement, or any thing else without
a “thus saith the Lord,” because the Scriptures “thoroughly furnish us
unto all good works,” and we are to “observe all things whatsoever the
Master has commanded,” no more no less.
his five children. It was not my purpose when I was given these transcripts
to provide them to others. However, some of my brethren began asking for
copies and the result is this work.
I would be dishonest to take any credit for the work herein. I did type the
pages from work already transcribed for Bro. Clayton Shook while he was
an instructor at the school in Minden, La. I express my appreciation to Bro.
Shook for his efforts.
It is my understanding that this transcript was taken directly from tapes of the lectures. There was little editing done when I started to work on them. I
have taken the liberty to change many of the contractions Dad was prone to use.
Hopefully, this will make the material easier to read. Paragraphs, some
sentences and such grammatical changes are mine. The sole purpose for
these changes is to make the material easier to read.
It may be noted that if you are reading any of the Scriptures in the King
James Version, or for that matter any other version, you will note a difference in the wording quite often. He was quite literate in the Hebrew
and the Koine Greek and many times he preached from either or both texts
without any other Bible with him as he preached.
He made some doctrinal stands on which I can’t completely agree. This is a failing on my part and in no way do I mean to indicate he was wrong. If he were alive and aware of this effort, he would strongly encourage the reader to carefully study this and use whatever you can. Don’t just accept this as fact.
Don’t try to make it work for you just because Fred G. Stevenson said
it. He spent a substantial portion of his life in the classroom of the Missionary Baptist Seminary in Little Rock, Ark. I believe one of his
greatest pleasures in life was to see the God-called preachers leave there
knowing how to better study the Bible. He did not attempt to make disciples of Fred Stevenson, but disciples of Jesus Christ.
ABOUT THEOCENTRIC PHYSICALISM
Theocentric Physicalism shows that descriptive terms of scientific
language can be reduced, and transposed into terms which can explain
things, events, and creatures within the spatio-temporal realm of both
space and time, along with the multivariate properties of each one.
Theocentric Physicalism sees God as both the spatio-temporal realm’s
Creator, and its active sustainer: He is, therefore, the central focus of
Theocentric Physicalism.
Theocentric Physicalism evaluates both the correlative and the
antithetical factors which indicate themselves to be useful data points
in the development of viable theories within the purview of both the
Divine Creator, and all created things. A protracted approach catalyzed
essential, research efforts, thereby sustaining the rigorous demands of
developing theocentric theories according to the historical, wholistic
interpretative process.
This author preferred the Theocentric Physicalist perspective,
evaluating the Bible’s descriptions of the physical creation, as well as
its physical creation events, like its “in-beginning-creation,” of both
the heaven and the earth and “in time” creative reparations. Both
forms of the physical universe, energy, and matter, along with innate,
physical phenomena are frequently described in terms of space and
time. Time within this publication, however, is described accordingly,
as referential, and chrono-logical: Relative.
Conclusions are analytically, and empirically evaluated insofar as
logic and mathematics allow.
The Hermeneutic utilized in this "First Semester Focus" will be the Historical Holistic Hermeneutic Process.
The Historical Holistic Hermeneutic process encourages practitioners to elaborate according to correlative terms and concepts known both in the Bible and science. Implications in scientific Hermeneutics emerge by understanding how the process of hermeneutical science advances a practitioner’s knowledge:
Aptitude in the knowledge acquisition process grows exponentially, augmenting one’s appreciation for the instruments of true science. HHH applies knowledge to the knowledge, that is, as with a priori gnosis: HHH applies “knowledge or things that we already know, not based on experiment, but deduced from axioms” to the same kind of a priori Bible knowledge.
church?”
A NEW TESTAMENT CHURCH
A New Testament church is not just, any group of religious
people, nor is it just any group of saved people. Coming into
church membership is not a part of the process of salvation, as
many people believe today.
There were multitudes of people saved from Adam to Christ.
The church had no part in their salvation, for it did not exist at
that time. Neither did belonging to any other religious group
contribute to their salvation.
The church was formed very early in the ministry of Jesus
(John 1:35-37; John 2:1, 2). It was composed of people who
were saved under the ministry of John the Baptist (Matthew
3:1, 2), and they were baptized by being immersed in the
Jordan River (Matthew 3:5, 6). They were saved before they
were baptized, but they solemnly committed themselves to
serve the Lord according to His Word in their baptism (Romans
6:4; I Corinthians 10:1-4, 11).
A church is a group of saved people who believe the Bible is
the Word of God and that the New Testament is the
all-sufficient rule of faith and practice. Rules of life and conduct
change from one age to another in the Bible; for instance, Israel
had the law of Moses from Moses to Christ, and the church has
the New Testament as its rule from Christ to the end of the
church age.
Some Bible doctrines never change:
The doctrine of the total depravity of man has always been
true since the fall of Adam back in the garden of Eden (Romans
3:23).
The doctrine of salvation by grace never changes. (Ephesians
2:8-10).
The doctrine of eternal security, that is, “once saved always
saved,” never changes (John 5:24).
The Bible discusses in varying detail a thousand and one
different subjects, but its essential story is the creation, the
fall, and the redemption of the human race.
The real church member commits himself to stand fast on the
essential doctrines and practices of the New Testament. In so
doing, he confesses that Christ has given him a wiser and more
righteous rule of life than he is able to devise for himself. Every
teaching, every ordinance, and every observance in the
Scriptures is intended to impart to us some element of detail of
divine truth. If we neglect or reject any of these details, we
contribute to the warping of the Bible pattern of God’s truth
and righteousness. In other words, we begin to misrepresent
God instead of rightly conceiving of Him ourselves and rightly
presenting Him to the world. And, since Jesus left, the church
is supposed to be the light of the world (Matthew 5:14).
There will be differences among the saved both in the
Millennium and in Heaven. The former is clearly set forth at
Matthew 19:28. In substance, this says that the faithful will
reign with Jesus in the Millennium. Ephesians 3:21 states there
will be glory to Christ in the church forever. This certainly
implies the faithful church will have an identity as such forever.
So far as salvation is concerned — that is, the new birth —
one saved person is as much saved as any other. Furthermore,
all the saved will be finally and fully prepared for Heaven in the
resurrection and in the Millennium. In these senses, all the
saved will be equal in Heaven. But there are two things which
nothing will ever change. First, if we have led sinners to
salvation, we will have them for companions forever. If we have
not led sinners to Christ, we will not have this companionship.
Second, if we have been faithful to the Word in this life, the
time of testing, nothing will ever change that fact nor the
manifestation of it in eternity.
he diligently reads, runs references, re-reads, and prayerfully studies the contents. That is to say, this is no shallow or perfunctory handling of a theme so often treated as a mere satisfier of curiosity. In the Last Trump is a prayerful and soul-searching study of the end-time, one which truly honors the Coming King and recognizes the complete authority of the Bible. My own soul has been thrilled, challenged, and made to tremble at this study. Tradition is given a minimum of consideration. For that reason this work will be discounted by many, though this is to be regretted, for it will challenge the very “foundations” of much religious thinking. My own heart has been overwhelmed as I have read and re-read much of this manuscript. I have been called to repentance for past error; my own preaching has been affected. The careless or light reader many never finish this book: the prejudiced denominationalist or traditionalized
man may soon close his mind, his heart, and then the book, in favor of his
traditions. This word of caution is a challenge for such to read on, turning to the many references cited, reading each in context, daring to lay his prejudices and preconceived ideas down long enough to consider the author's viewpoint, then only picking up what one can honestly retain after such study. Geo. N. H. Peters, in his monumental work, The Theocratic Kingdom, with seer-like wisdom, says in his Introduction: “It has, however, been the fate of some authors to be so far in advance of their contemporaries that, appreciated only by the few discerning or candid, it has required time, or the necessity of the Church, or the endorsements of a line of students to give importance and weight to their statements While the deepest thinkers freely admit that new and valuable contributions to theology are reasonably to be anticipated, that such are absolutely
required at the present juncture (1883), and that such can only be found
in i he rich resources of the Word, yet it is remarkable that a contribution thus given will, especially in the hands of those whose minds are controlled by human traditions and by an exalting of Church authority above that of the Scriptures, be rejected and anathematized on the ground of its being in opposition to their preconceived and favorite formula of doctrine.”
I count Bro. Sharrel Ford my warm personal friend and brother in Christ
While I have been his teacher in the classroom he has become my teacher in many ways. His zeal for the Truth of the Bible is only matched by his love for the souls of men. He is presently spending himself in the interest of the multitudes in Japan who do not know our Wonderful Saviour. To know the man would help much in appreciation of this work, for it would point up a fact often overlooked by theologians: that scholarship alone is not the prime requisite for knowing God's will. The Spirit-breathed ideas of the Book, being matched with Spirit-taught words, are only spiritually discerned. This book will commend itself to the humble, Truth-hungry student, not by its literary style or flowing language, but by its simple earnestness, its deep perception of little understood prophetic Truth, and its keen appreciation of “that blessed hope.” You are now challenged to pull off your spectacles of tradition and read with an eye single to Him — that “one-eyed” faith vision. -Edward Byrd
As an instructor, he has served the Missionary Baptist
Seminary well for a number of years. His ability in the Hebrew
and Greek languages is recognized as second to none. His
research in the languages has made his writing of this book most
valuable. He is esteemed as a theologian of no mean ability. His
work in this book is hereby recommended to the reader for
study, with the admonition to weigh well this timely message as
the glorious RETURN OF CHRIST grows near. L.D. Capell, Dean
Missionary Baptist Seminary
Little Rock, Arkansas
Missionary Baptists in particular a commentary and translation of
the book of Revelation. The need for such a book, free from the
taint of sectarianism and unbiased in its nature, has long been felt.
If there is such a work on the Revelation of Jesus Christ in
existence anywhere outside of this one, then those responsible for
this publication know nothing of it.
This writing treats the Revelation of Jesus Christ from the
standpoint that it is literally an unveiling of Jesus Christ from the
time of His appearance until the creation of the new heaven and the
new earth and that this is given by the direct revelation of God to
John and he, in turn, to the churches, with the accent upon the
word churches. This is stated, not from the viewpoint that all
denominational bodies are churches of the Lord, but from the view
of the Lord’s true people being local congregations and in opposition
to any thought of a universal, invisible body constituting “the
church."
The value of Revelation has been recognized by only a few in the
last few centuries. Its worth, however, is coming more and more
into realization as the end of the age approaches. There are those
small minds who say that the book of Revelation cannot be
understood, therefore, do not study it, and others who contend that
man has the right to place his own interpretations
it—interpretations that will not conflict with his ideologies.
There is a definite blessing pronounced for those who study and
hear the words of this prophecy, and if the church and individuals in
the church would understand the place they occupy in the present
world and the events that are transpiring about them, they must
read this Revelation of Christ. The church and the minister who
best understands the book of Revelation is very likely to be the
busiest and best servant of the Lord.
Dr. Fred G. Stevenson is perhaps the best qualified man on earth
to write the book of Revelation from a Missionary Baptist
standpoint. He is a scholar unquestioned and while a Baptist, a
minister and a theological instructor, he has retained the virtue of
thinking freely as God reveals His Word to him through the ancient
languages. The fact that some of our brethren have disagreed with
him is evident that he has not attempted to think, teach nor write
from a traditional standpoint.
It is not even suggested that those reading this book will agree
with the writer from every standpoint. That is your privilege but all
should bear in mind that this work is the product of some thirty
years of intensive research into the languages of the Bible and
profound thought, intermingled with prayer. Dr. Stevenson has not
striven to retain personal friendships, nor to place a sweet morsel in
the theological mouths of his brethren, neither has he written from
a mercenary standpoint, for it is very evident that a work of this
nature will not be overwhelmingly received by the masses, even of
Christianity. It is therefore, very evident that he has intended to
give to us a true, orthodox translation and interpretation of a very
important book in the Bible.
This Volume I comprises the first eleven chapters of Revelation
and Volume II the remainder of the book.
As president of the Missionary Baptist Seminary, I
wholeheartedly recommend this work to the reading public and to
Missionary Baptists in particular. May there grow out of this an
intensified effort on the part of God’s churches to evangelize until
the Lord returns, which, undoubtedly, will not be long.
L. D. Foreman
“Why call ye me Lord, Lord, and do not the things I command you? “Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. “If a man love me, he will keep my words “—commandments.”—Christ.
The above are the words of Christ, and fraught with meaning of the utmost moment to each one of us. The reasonable inference from the above solemn declaration is, That Christ accounts no one as his friend, in fact, that no one loves him, unless he obeys whatsoever things Christ commands him. Now Christian immersion stands first and foremost among the commands Christ enjoined upon all who profess to love him—the first and representative of all future obedience—since, embraced in its profession, is the pledge of unqualified and continued obedience in all the requirements of Christ. The questions proposed to be discussed, therefore, are
I. Has Christian immersion any connection with salvation?
II. If any, what is that relation?
III. In what circumstances should we consider ourselves unsaved, —no friends of Christ unless we obey his command to be baptized?
There are those who evidence impatience at the announcement of such a topic, because, in their opinion, the Scriptures do not furnish the shadow of a reason to justify any one in supposing that immersion in water—an overt act, and contingent entirely upon the will of third parties—can, in any way, by a merciful Savior, be connected with our eternal salvation; that simple faith in Christ is the one and all—sufficient thing that Christ requires of a believer to secure his richest blessings here, and salvation hereafter.
If there be no semblance of a connection between baptism and salvation, how can we account for the fact, that every denomination of professing Christians, save the Baptists, do, in the published Symbols of their faith, whether called "Decrees of Councils," "Confessions of Faith," "Creeds," or "Disciplines," teach that there is a
[2]
vital connection—i.e., that, where baptism is wanting, no salvation can exist; and base their constant practice upon this doctrine? There must be a relation of some sort, or we can not rationally account for the almost universal belief and perpetuation of so gross an error through so many ages. Naked error can not endure the light, and it must have the outer semblance of truth with which to clothe itself.
The theory that baptism is essential to salvation, and that, in the use of this rite as the effectual means, the blessings of remission of sins and regeneration are obtained, and all the benefits of Christ’s mediation secured to the recipient, whether adult or infant, is commonly known as "baptismal regeneration;" and it might better be called baptismal salvation, since a regenerated person is, without doubt, a saved person. Now, this theory is held and practiced today by the overwhelming mass of professed Christians, by all Catholic and by all Protestant sects, as well as by many hundreds of thousands who do not class themselves with Protestants; as the Campbellites, Mormons, and lesser sects.
Daniel, the author, like Ezekiel, was a captive in Babylon. He was brought before King Nebuchadnezzar while young, and trained in the Chaldean language and sciences.
His career resembled that of Joseph. He was promoted to the highest office in the realm. He maintained his spiritual life in the midst of a heathen court.
The main theme of the Book is the Sovereignty of God over the affairs of men in all ages. The pagan king’s confessions of this fact constitute the Key Verses of this book.
Section I is largely a narrative of personal biography and local history. It contains an account of thrilling events and divine interpositions unsurpassed in the Old Testament. It refers to six moral conflicts in which Daniel and his companions participated.
The first conflict is between pagan self-indulgence and conscientious abstinence, in promoting health. We find in chapter one that abstinence wins.
The second conflict is between pagan magic and heavenly wisdom in the interpretation of dreams. We find in chapter two that divine wisdoms wins.
The third conflict is heathen idolatry arrayed against loyalty to God. In chapter three we find that loyalty to God wins.
The fourth conflict is a pagan king’s pride arrayed against Divine Sovereignty. We find in chapter four that God wins and the king is turned out to eat grass.
The fifth conflict is impious sacrilege arrayed against reverence for sacred objects. In chapter five we find that reverence wins. We also find the handwriting on the wall and Belshazzar being dethroned.
The sixth conflict is between malicious plotting and the providence of God over His saints. In chapter six we find that providence wins with the lions’ mouths being stopped.
Section II gives us the visions and prophecies relating to the controlling hand of God moving the scenes in the Panorama of History, chapters 7-12.
The Book of Daniel is a companion to the Book of Revelation. Both of these books contain much imagery which appears mysterious. The attempt to fit the the prophecies of Daniel and Revelation into the facts and events of human history has usually produced an endless conflict of opinions. The reason for this is that the true interpretation of the details of the visions is not always clear.
There are two facts that are generally acknowledged by most scholars:
(1) That the prophecies represent a partly veiled Revelation of Future Events in secular and sacred history.
(2) That the visions point to the ultimate triumph of God’s Kingdom over all Satanic and World Powers.
In chapter seven, many commentators see the Four Beasts as representing the Four great Empires, Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece and Rome, followed by a vision of the coming Messiah.
In chapter eight, another period of Medo-Persian and Grecian history appears under the figure of a beast.
In chapter nine we find Daniel’s prayer and a veiled prophecy of the time of the coming of the Messiah.
Chapters ten to twelve contain additional far-reaching predictions and revelations of future events.
These three chapters have been the battleground of theological controversy with many varied interpretations. (Adapted from Thompson’s Chain Reference).
always had a love and deep appreciation of the history and heritage of
the Baptist, I hadn’t made a critical study on the subject. I had read Th e
Trail of Blood by Carroll and the works of men such as Armitage, D. B.
Ray, John Christian, Orchard, and S. F. Ford. In the course of our lessons
I wanted to bring out more on the Anabaptist than I had at hand. I
searched the internet and constantly found sites which placed the origin of the Anabaptists in 1525 with the Swiss Brethren. In my library I have a
book entitled Th e Anabaptist Story, by William Estep, with a decal stating
Commemorating the 450th Anniversary of Anabaptism. It is from this book that much of the material on internet about the Anabaptists is drawn.
I knew this was wrong and was saddened that such an error was being
accepted without challenge. I thought, “Someone should have a rebuttal
web site to give the alternative view of the Anabaptists.” Whenever I have
these thoughts I often have a small voice (fi guratively) saying, “Why don’t
you do it?” No, God doesn’t orally speak to me.
So I began to read, and read, and read. I talked with others who also had
a compassion for our history. They recommended material, gave, and
loaned me their books. I noted the references and footnotes to the works
of other authors and decided to research as many of them for myself as
I could. I went on a buying binge. I found many rare books, some of
which were unknown by my fellow companions of history. For some of
the works I could only fi nd portions of the manuscripts. The History of
the English Baptist by Ivimey is one example. My research took over three
years. At the outset it was never my intention to repeat the eff orts of the historians, but rather to glean from them. It was always in my mind that the subject was the issue of Church Succession.
I had to omit much valuable material on points such as the martyrs, secular governments and politics, and the development of aberrations of doctrines and practices. I found stories of horror and beauty. I discovered in many cases not only what people did but why they did it. Many questions were being answered and more were arising. I found some things were not as I had believed. I had to change opinions and beliefs about certain churches. If any study is to be of merit it must be based on the truth of the evidence, and I have
tried to remain faithful to the facts. An example of this is the Paulicians
in their Th e Key of Truth. In much of the history written by Baptists the
Paulicians are highly regarded and given great esteem in the lineage of
the Church. But I found their origin in all probability was not apostolic,
but much later. Moreover, they denied the deity of Christ and believed
that He, as a man, was of lower stature than John the Baptist. I found
no evidence contrary to this position. Truth is not always pleasant, but it
needs to be respected and given its rightful place.
To address church succession we must begin with the foundation of the
nature of the church. If the church is misunderstood, then succession is
like a wild weed and can go in any number of directions. For this reason
the larger part of this work is on the nature of the church. I have investigated, as far as I could, to know and understand all the positions of the church. Using scripture and reason I evaluated each position and the
claims made of the church. I took many positions to their logical conclusions and tested them against biblical truths. It is not my intention to belittle or misrepresent those whose positions are different from mine.
and creation is found in the Bible. According to Scripture, we are to give
glory to God in the church and this is to be done, “by Christ.” The more
we praise Jesus Christ in the church, the more glory we give to God.
Ephesians 3:21, “Unto Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus
throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.” When He is given praise
and honor for His love for people and for the earth, we see the truth – that man is of the earth, earthy.
The earth was created for man, and man was created from the earth to dress and keep the earth. I Corinthians 15:47, “The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is the Lord from heaven.”
God is glorified when the truth is taught in the church. When people
know what Jesus did in creation, He is given preeminence.
The word preeminence means to be given the first place in all things. Colossians 1:16-18, “For by Him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by Him, and for Him: And He is before all things, and by Him all things consist. And He is the head of the body, the church; who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things He might have the preeminence.”
As I write what I believe the Bible teaches concerning the creation
of the earth, I will not attempt to prove any points by quoting from any
scientist or scientific material. If what I believe about creation cannot be
proven by the Scriptures only, then we cannot teach that the Bible is our
only rule of faith and practice. I am not qualified to write as a scientist, for my education and training does not lie in that discipline. However, I will quote from theological material and incorporate the writing of theologians in this essay. Please, do not misunderstand, qualified scientists contribute much to our comprehension of the earth’s uniqueness and purpose. We should thank God for those who are trained and qualified both in the earth sciences and in theology to write that which elevates our understanding of this topic.
This book was written primarily to Jewish Christians at Jerusalem who were wavering in their faith and were in danger of lapsing back into Judaism. Because of the taunts and jeers of their persecutors, the Jewish Christians were beginning to think that they had lost everything—the altar, priests, sacrifices—by accepting Christianity. The writer proved that they had only lost the shadow to be given the substance, the Lord Jesus Christ. They were undervaluing their privileges in Christ, were becoming discouraged and were thinking about going back to Judaism as a form of worship.