Q. Denver, Colo. "What is the sig nificance of using ashes for mourn ing as we find in the Bible?" A. This is a custom well-known in the Near East. Clothing would also be torn to signify a brokenness of heart. Ashes indicated something that has been burned down to in effectiveness. Ashes give a picture of nothingness and worthlessness (Genesis 18:27). This is a humble recognition of one's own failure and low estate in the sight of God. Q. Portland, Ore. "Who are the cloud of witnesses mentioned in Hebrews 12:1? Could they possib ly be departed Christians who have gone on before to heaven?" A. There are some who believe those who are now home with the Lord can see all that is going on down here. Since we are not told specifically that this is true, and if it brings comfort to someone to hold such a concept as a believer, we would not argue the point. A better view would be to see the context of the verse which immed iately follows the great "hall of fame" faith chapter. This great company of saints lived, fought and died through personal faith in God. What a tremendous witness even for us today. This cloud of witnesses is not those who are watching us, but it is the cloud of those who have witnessed the mar velous grace of God in their lives throughout Old Testament times. It is a fact that heaven is an ideal place. There you will find perfect bliss and contentment. How can our loved ones in heaven be su premely happy if they should look down at us and see the mess we find ourselves in today? No, they
are so enthralled and so engrossed in the beauties and glories of the Saviour as they await our coming. Let us not be so selfish as to want them to be looking at us. We should rejoice with them in the glories being revealed. Q. Henderson, Nev. "I know the Bible does not speak very highly of borrowing, but how can it be avoided in the light of modern day economic factors?" A. You may have reference to the Roman passage where we are told not to owe a single thing to any one, only to love one another. We need to consider the Scripture in the light of the cultural context of that day. No one could borrow without practically forfeiting his own freedom. This is why in the Old Testament so many times a kinsman had to redeem his near relative who had been sold into slavery. This was due to bankrupt cy. It could not be written off as we do in our courts today. The cost of borrowing was absolutely pro hibitive. (It is becoming that way here, too, with such high interest rates.) Still, our modern day econ omy is vastly different. Credit buy ing does not need to affect one's freedom unless he goes unwisely into debt. We thank God that Biola, through the wisdom of its Board, has taken the position that it would not go into economic debt since it would endanger the very structure of the work. The question is really an individual matter. Borrowing at any time should be done in great moderation. Make it a matter of sincere prayer first of all. Make sure you do not overlook your personal stewardship for the Lord either. Page 33
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