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I B I O L A
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b road ca ste r Monthly Publication o f the BIOLA FELLOWSHIP Voi. 3 No. 2 FEBRUARY, 1963 CONTENTS HITTING THE TRUTH OF GOD .. 3 W H AT THE LAW DOES .......... 5 DELIVERED FROM THE L A W .... 7 PANEL DISCUSSIONS ............. 9 CHILDREN OF GOD .................13 PARABLES AN D PEARLS .......... 15 SHARON GARDENS .................16 THE PEACE IN K N O W IN G ........ 17 HOW TO BECOME A CHILD OF GOD .................... 19 SONS OF GOD IN A WORLD OF M EN .................21 W H Y LIVE FOR CHRIST? ........ 23 SAVED W ITNESSES .................25 ILLUSTRATIONS ......................28 TUESDAY-THURSDAY BIBLE STUDIES .................... 33 COVER PICTURE: See page 31 9:00 P.M. Monday through Friday 50,000 watts K 6 0 STAFF President.... S. H. Sutherland Editor................. A l Sanders Production Virginia Schwepker Printing .......... Church Press Published monthly by the Radio Dept. BIBLE INSTITUTE OF LOS ANGELES 558 S. Hope St., Los Angeles 17, Cal. Controlled circulation postage paid at Los Angeles, California.
Bakersfield-Wasco KAFY Chico-Marysville KHSL Fresno-Dinuba KCIB 94.5 KRDU Los Angeles KBBI KWSO
550 1050
7:30A.M. 9:30A.M.
Sun. MTWTF
1290 (FM) 1130
8:30 A.M. Sun.
6:30 P.M. 8:30 A.M. 8:30 A.M. 9:00 A.M.
MTWTF MTWTF MTWTF M T W TF MTWTF TWTF
107.5 (FM)
KTYM 1460 Los Angeles-Long Beach KGER 1390
11:00A.M. 12:30AM.
KGER KOXR
1390
Oxnard-Ventura-Santa Barbara '
910
8:30 A.M. MWF 8:00 AM . MTWTF
Redding-Red Bluff ROMS San Bernardino KFXM
1400 590 1350
Sun. MTWTF MTWTF MTWTF Sun MTWTF MTWTF MTWTF MTWTF
7:30 A.M. 9:00 A.M. 8:00 A.M. 8:30 P.M. 7:30 A.M. 8:45 A.M. 7:35 P.M. 9:00 P.M. 9:00 P.M.
KCKC San Diego XEMO XEMO
860 860 910
KDEO
San Francisco KFAX
1100
REAR KGO
97.3 (me)
810 RGO-FM 103.7 (me)
Santa Maria RCOY Turlock
1440
7:00 A.M. Sun. 9:00 A.M. Sun.
RHOM 93.1 (FM)
OREGON
Albany-Eugene RWIL Ashland-Medford RRVC Coquille-Coos Bay RWRO RWIL
790 790
8:00A.M. 3:00A.M. MTWTF MTWTF 8:30 A.M. MTWTF 8:30 A.M. MWF 11:30 A.M. MTWTF 11:30 A.M. MTWTF 11:30 A.M. MTWTF 5:30 P.M. MTWTF 11:30 A.M. MTWTF 11:30 A.M. MTWTF 1:00 P.M. MTWTF 8:00 A.M. MTWTF 8:30 A.M. MTWTF 8:30 A.M. MTWTF 11:00 A.M. MTWTF 8:30 A.M. Tues.-Thurs 1:00 P.M. MTWTF 3:30 P.M. Tuss. 7:00 P.M. MTWTF 10:00 P.M. MTWTF 9:00 A.M. MTWTF 8:30 A.M. MWF 8:00 AAA. MTWTF 8:00 A.M. MWF 7:00 A.M. MTWTF
1350
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Portland RPDQ KPDQ
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93.7 (FM)
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Blalne-Vancouver, B.C. RARI 550 Seattle-Tacoma RGDN 630 Spokane RCFA 1330
RCFA
1330 1490
Walla Walla RTEL
OTHER STATES
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730
94.1 (FM)
910
1150
Denrer
RLIR
990 590
Glendive, Montana RGLE Lapeer, Michigan WMPC Madison, Wisconsin Miantlsburg, Ohio WFCJ Phoenix, Arizona RHEP 1280 Pueblo-Colorado Springs RFEL 970 Tuecos RAIR 1490 1230 WRVB 102.5 (FM) 93.7 (FM)
truth
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■ f t * W IT H IN T H E RELIGIOUS p h il o s o p h i e s of man there are two divergent ven. One is occupied with work, achievement, and merit. “If I do this, or if I do that; if I am good to others, when the day comes to stand before God, the record being open, I will stand and have no difficulty getting through the gates of heaven.” Based upon the only sure and written record of hea ven, such an appraisal of eternal life
is completely false and erroneous. On the other side of the picture, the true believer knows that the only way to heaven is summarized in the word “done.” This comes by claiming the finished work of the Lord Jesus Christ when He died for us on Cal vary’s cross. It is coming to the Sav iour with the declaration, “nothing in my hand I bring, simply to Thy cross (con tin u ed on n ex t page) 3
opinions on the subject of going to hea
spotless, immaculate record. No doubt we would be pleased with this (for no one except Christ has ever done so). We might think that God would be pleased with this. But not only does He want us to have a perfect record for twenty years, in order to merit sal vation by our own goodness or merit, we must keep the law, absolutely, from the cradle to the grave. When our blessed Lord came to earth, it was not His holy purpose to rescind the law. By His own words we read, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets. I am not come to destroy but to fulfill” (Matthew 5: 17, 18). The word “destroy” means that He did not come to loosen the stringency of the law, or to find a “loophole” in it, but rather to fulfill it in the absolute sense. This is one clear evidence why man does not keep the law, for he is always endeavoring to get around it; he plays “hide and seek” with it. There is a certain religious organi zation which doesn’t believe in eating certain meat, but yet they have found an artificial product which tastes just exactly like the meat they ought not to eat. They have it, yet they do not have it. This is deception of purpose. We do not quarrel with those who are trying to keep the law. But there is one thing you must do, and that is to keep it impeccably from the cradle to the grave. Yet you doubtless must say, “But I have broken it already!” Then, my friend, you, like all of the rest of the human race, are under the curse of the law. What you do in the present or what you may achieve in the fu ture will not take away your sin. This is why you need, and we invite you to come to, the Lord Jesus Christ. For, you see, He kept the law perfectly for you. He kept it to the point of paying the penalty for the broken law. This is how He fulfilled it. Free from the law, O happy condition. Jesus hath bled and there is remission; Cursed by the law and bruised by the fall, Graoe hath redeemed us once for all. 4
The Truth of God (continued) I cling.” It is the difference which goes back to Cain and Abel. There is a very positive law, with most exacting demands, concerning sal vation and the promise of heaven. The Bible tells us, “For whosoever shall keep the whole law and yet offend in one point, is guilty of all!” (James 2:10). We all readily recognize that there are many good people in the world, in fact some are “downright” excellent; morally good. Many of these people have virtues and traits which outshine mine. These are people with whom one likes to associate. Since these people are good enough for themselves, and for us, they may have reason to boast of their goodness. But, we are not going to each other’s heaven, for there is only one heaven, one God, and one standard for entering heaven. So, though we may be good enough for one another, yet man, in his own standing, falls far short of God’s per fect and holy standard. When the Bi ble tells us that perfectness is based on keeping the whole law, it does not mean ninety per cent, nor even ninety- nine and forty-four one-hundredths per cent. If Ivory Soap were a person it still would not have a chance for it is evidentally fifty-six one-hundredths per cent impure. Read the Scripture again, “Whosoever shall keep the whole law and yet offend in one point, is guilty of all.” Let us look at another “homey” il lustration. Perchance you have lived 90 years and to this day, have only slipped once. It is that little point that would keep you out of heaven. This is even as one little germ in one of the millions of cells of your body may spell your death. It is the demand of the law that one must keep it per fectly. Let us read another verse, “For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse, for it is written, Cursed is every man that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law, to do them” (Ga latians 3:10). Suppose that a person could keep all of the law for 20 years, with a
JANUAR Y RADIO MESSAGE
What The Law Dees by Dr. Ralph Keiper S o m e pe o pl e have the mistaken and erroneous impression that the law is a yardstick by which one can judge his own efforts in contributing to his personal salvation. In a careful study of the Bible we find that the law in deed is a “yardstick,” not to show one how good he is but rather how bad he is. Paul makes it very clear that the law cannot save when he writes, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, “For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God, send ing His own Son in the likeness of sin ful flesh and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh, that the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit” (Romans 8:3). The law never saved anyone. That was not the purpose for which it was given. Israel, to whom the law was originally given, has never been saved by it. There is not one Jew living on the face of the earth, nor from times past, who was ever saved -by the law. When the commandments were given at Sinai, the sacrificial lamb was also provided. There was the purpose of the observance of atonement: it symbolized the covering of human s in ./‘Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law, that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world become guil ty before God” (Romans 3:19). The law does not save, it condemns; it does not deliver, it damns; it does ,not bring
our own sight, or justified in the sight of our church, but it is not our heaven, or the church’s heaven to which we wish to go. We must be justified in God’s sight and by His perfect stand ards. He specifically tells us that the law will not justify us in His sight. The law, you see, demands a perfect score and that is why it can never save us. Our salvation is not based upon “do-, ing,” but rather our Christian faith’ rests upon the word “done.” This is what the Lord Jesus finished in coming to this earth. Christ did not come to condemn and to blame, He came to seek and to save that which was lost. How are you trying to get to heaven? THE GIFT OF FAITH He gave me faith to trust Him when the way was hard and drear And earthly hopes lay shattered at my feet; I felt His love surround me and I knew that He was near; I sought His will — His fellowship was sweet. And now, with Time's revealing, I can see the way He led Is all my gain — a greater good I've found. What matter that my little plans and self-raised hopes are dead? 'Tis that I might in greater things abound. O Love of God that lays in store the good I cannot see And leads my way far better than I know! Even through pain, or darkness, my Lord shall give to me A gift of faith to trust Him as I go. Is it by your own way, or by your mother’s way, or by your church’s way? Unless it is by the way of the cross, it will end in eternal death. But on the other hand He has provided for us a new and living way, “For there is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the ends thereof are the ways of death.” “The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Will you take His way and find forgiveness and peace? 6
The Law (continued) salvation, but judgment!
Sometime ago I was traveling from Boston to Philadelphia. I struck up a conversation with the stewardess as we drank coffee. Sitting in the rear of the plane, near the galley, one could see for miles on that cold winter February night. Our conversation finally was brought to spiritual matters. She told me she was a member of a certain church. She spoke of all its marvelous facilities. She was even sure that since it was the only true church, there were no problems about her own salvation. There was no use arguing. At that point the voice of the captain came over the loudspeaker. “Folks, it’s a beautiful night in New England. The visibility in Philadelphia, however, is very, very low. We may need to make an instru ment landing. Cheerio,” he said. I turned to the stewardess and said, “Miss, suppose we land in Philadelphia by instrument, but instead of making the field we crash land in the Dela ware River? As a result we’re drowned, and we are, what people call, dead. Then the next voice we hear is that of Almighty God who says to us both, ‘What right have you to enter my heav en?’ What would you say?” She paused for what seemed to be an eternity. Then looking at me straightly and sob erly, she answered, “You know, I don’t think I’d have a thing to say!” I went on to ask, “Why not. You told me about five minutes ago that you be longed to a church. You told me it was a good church, and that your sal vation was assured. What has made the difference?” “Mr. Keiper,” she began, “God knows far more about me than does my church!” You see, this stew ardess was actually quoting Romans 3:19 though she did not know it. As she was confronted by the law, in the light of her life, her mouth was stopped and she had become guilty before God. That is exactly our position as well, and it is true of every individual who has ever lived. “Therefore, by the deeds of the law, there shall no flesh be justified in His sight,” Paul continued in verse 20. We may be justified in
by Dr. Ralph Keiper Evangelical Foundation, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
A FEATURED JANUARY RAD IO MESSAGE
why John the Baptist declared under the Holy Spirit’s inspiration, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). The Lord Jesus Christ came to this earth so that He might not only do something for us, but also that He might do something to us. His divine purpose is to make us new creatures in Him that we might fulfill the right eousness which we, in the flesh, could not fulfill according to the law. The Lord Jesus Christ condemned sin in the flesh that the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit! This forgiveness of sins He accom plished through His death. Because of His imputed righteousness and through His resurrected life, we partake of the risen life of our Lord Jesus. In this man ner we are able to do that which is pleasing in God’s sight. The law, good as it was, had one great limitation. It did not have the enabling power to cause us to do what it advised. When the Lord Jesus Christ came, however, He provided, in our salvation, the pow er to live for Him and to exist day by day in a way pleasing to God. The law demands that we live a perfect life from the cradle to the grave. No one except Christ, of course, has ever done that. Therefore we are under God’s curse. When the Saviour died on (co n tin u ed on n e x t page) 7
H ave you ever felt like crying out with Job, “How can a man be right with God?” Many have experi enced the sheer frustration of endeav oring to merit God’s favor of their own. This can never be accomplished. Look at Scripture for the authentication, “For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God send ing His Son in the likeness of the law might be fulfilled in us who walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit” (Romans 8:3, 4). Why can’t men fulfill the law? Is it because the law is bad that we need to be delivered from it? No, immediate ly we point out that the law is ex cellent and perfect. God gave the law at Sinai to demonstrate His supreme and divine holiness. Herein He sets forth His requirements for a holy peo ple. God, of course knew 'that He had given a perfect law to an imperfect people. That is why, at Sinai, He also provided Israel with the sacrifices and atonements for sin, as prescribed in the book of Leviticus. The priests minis tered daily in the tabernacle, and later in the temple. They carried on the services of God in mediation on behalf of the people. Every Jew brought a sacrifice for himself and for hi? family after his own means. Every Jewish heart knew that these sacrifices could not take away sin. It was done in type looking toward the Messiah. That is
Delivered From The Law (continued) Calvary he bore the curse of the law, “Being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hang- eth on a tree” (Galatians 3:13). The Saviour in going to Calvary’s cross be came our curse that we might become His righteousness-; He died for us that we might live for Him. Consequently, because of His death, no longer need we be haunted by a past which has repeatedly broken the law. All our past history, filled with defeat, disgrace and shame, is under the blood. We can rightly sing “Free from the law, O hap py condition; Jesus hath died and there is remission.” The Bible tells us, “For he (God) hath made him (Christ) to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him” (II Corinthians 5:21). The won derful thing about our salvation is that the Saviour has made it possible for us, not only to know the forgivness of sin, "I SHALL BE SATISFIED” Not with my life-work, finished, past, Shall I be "satisfied" at last; Not with the gifts I brought my Lord, Nor with my knowledge of His Word; Not with the witness these lips gave Unto the One Who died to save; Not with my service, not my love, Shall I be "satisfied" above. Faulty and weak is my poor "best." Needing cleansing with all the rest. Only from Christ comes grace and power, Sure "sufficiency" every hour, He is my Glory and my Song— He, Who has led me all along: And, in the Light no cloud can dim, I shall be "SAT ISF IED " with HIM. Florence L. Bond but, also to live righteously for Him day by day. This is why we are not to walk after the flesh; after our own selfish desires, but rather after the Spir it. So, hearing the Word of God, and being obedient to it, we have been de livered from the law to live righteously for Him. This is what it means to be a new creature in Christ Jesus! (II Cor inthians 5:17).
A listener recently wrote, "The way you talk about your school over the air, it seems it is the only place for young people to attend. What can you offer to those who don't want to be come full time missionaries, pastors or Christian workers?" We full well realize everyone is not called to one of Biola's five schools. Thank God for the other schools He has raised up in these crucial days. Just as there is a need for Christian workers, so we need doc tors, lawyers, engineers and other business and professional men who are "full-time" Christians. But regardless of the field a young person selects, he should have a firm Biblical foundation. For this reason **iola has instituted a program called "Bible for Graduates." We offer this course not as a sub stitute for theological seminary edu cation or the Bible Institute diploma program, but to give graduates of oth er schools, who have not had a good solid basis in the Word of God, such vital truths. This course leads to a certificate upon satisfactory comple tion. It is designed to impart to the graduate student sound Biblical knowl edge through the three principal sys tems of Bible study: Survey, Analysis and Exposition. This type of study fosters indepen dent growth and maturity in the Word. The 12 units within the framework of this program gives the student a broad Biblical background in a relatively short period of time. The student comes for one year and takes an in tensified series of Bible courses. This gives him the practicality of the Scriptures and stands him in good stead, no matter what trade or pro fession he may enter. This is just another way by which Biola not only trains the missionaries and spiritual leaders of tomorrow, but also equips those who are going into other fields with the truths of God. We need to "Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman who needeth not be ashamed."
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Panel Discussions
(Interesting questions sent in by radio listeners)
that, however, to show our appreciation for all that He had done, not in order that we might merit salvation or' get to heaven thereby. Q . Los Angeles, California —- “We named our first child ‘Alpha.’ A neighbor told me that this was wrong because ‘Alpha’ is a name applied only to God in the Bible. Have we done wrong?” A. The Word “Alpha” comes from the first letter of the Greek alphabet. From the first two letters, we get our word, “alphabet.” By naming your child Alpha, you doubtless did not have in mind minimizing the glory or the majesty of God. It is not right for neighbors to make you feel you are doing something contrary to God’s will in this matter. If we took offense at this then we have a number of people in the Old Testament who would be out of line. “Joshua” means “Jesus.” Elijah’s name means, “My God is Jeho vah.” The important thing is to rear that child in the nurture and admoni tion of the Lord. It would be a pretty impossible life if we had to do every thing to please our neighbors. Let us seek rather to please the Lord. People purposely, put the name of God into their own name not to be putting God down on their level, but rather to magnify Him. Q . Escondido, California — “Why don’t we use the word ‘Passover,’ or some such description, insfead of ‘Easter.’ Easter represents the Teutonic goddess of spring, doesn’t it?” A. To the Christian, Easter has be come the period the time which graph ically speaks of the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. The word itself dates far back of the Teutonic age. In Baby lonian custom, the heathen goddess who (continued on next page) 9
Q . Atascadero, California — “Judas was the son of Simon, but was he the son of ‘Simon Peter’ or of a different ‘Si mon’?” A. When Scriptures give names of the disciples it refers to Simon who is called Peter first. Actually in John’s Gospel we read, “Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life. And we believe and are sure that Thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God” (John 6:68, 69). Jesus an swered him, “Have not I chosen you twelve, and one of you is a devil?” He spake of Judas Iscariot the son of Simon (John :70, 71). Judas is son of Simon Iscariot. The word “Iscariot” has reference to where he came from, as we would say that man from Los An geles was an “Angelino.” No, Judas was not the son of Peter, nor is there indication of any relationship whatso ever. Q . Lancaster, California — “What are the minimum essentials needed to get into heaven?” A. They are the exact same as the maximum essentials, that a man must believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and be saved. There is not one thing more a person can do to get into heaven. “He that believeth on Him is not con demned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God” (John 3:18).
Jesus paid it all, A ll to Him / owe,
Sin had left a crimson stain, He washed it white as snow!
After we have accepted the Lord as Saviour there are, of course, many things we will want to do, by way of living Christ-honoring lives. We do
Panel Discussions (continued) represented springtime was known as “Easter.” The word itself is not signifi cant; it is what it represents. Similarly, there is much made over the date of Christmas, however, the important fact is that Christ did come, and that He did live a sinless life and that He was put to death for our sins and that He did rise again, and that He is coming back for all those who have put their faith and trust in Him. Q . Burbank, California — “W ill we see God in eternity?” A. Revelation 22:3, 4 gives us an af firmative answer: “And there shall be no curse; but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and His servants shall serve him: and they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads.” Q . Vancouver, British Columbia — “Do you believe that the Great Tribulation is now upon the earth?” A, First, the Great Tribulation is not now upon this earth, but is prophesied for a coming hour when the wrath of God is poured out on sinful men. There is, of course, tribulation, tur moil, and trouble now, however, it cannot begin to compare with that which is to come to pass. The Great Tribulation takes place after t h e Church has been taken up to meet the Lord in the air, and “so shall we ever be with the Lord.” Q . Modesto, California — “/ have talked against relatives, friends, and neigh bors. Should / confess it to them and make any necessary restitution?” A. According to Scripture that is the Christian thing to do. (See Matthew 5:23, 24.) All confession should first be to the Lord. Then, as is necessary, where forgiveness of our fellow man needs to be obtained, we should make things right. We should seek the Lord’s leading that we do not foolishly make amends for things which are already under the blood and need not have recompense made for them.
Q . Scottsdale, Arizona — “Does God put sickness on backsliders in order to bring them back to Him?” A. Sometimes people get sick because of their own foolishness and careless ness. Do not blame God for all sick ness on the part of human beings. There are times, however, when God puts a man on a bed of sickness in or der that He might get hold of him, and that the man might realize his days are in the Lord’s hands. Again, God may bring a person to a bed of sickness not because he is a backslider, but simply in order to enable him to get rested. Dr. A. T. Pierson was on a world mission tour having tremen dous success and making a great im pact on the mission stations. While in the Orient he got very sick. They had to bring him back on the fastest steam ship of the time so that he might have proper medical help. It was his state ment, “You know, the Lord had some things to say to me, but I was so busy I didn’t have time to listen. So, He just put me on my back where I could be alone and He could get at me.” Sometimes we never look up into the face of God until we are on our backs and are forced to look up. Q . Chico, California — “What does Jesus mean when He says that when we bring our gifts to the altar, we are first to seek reconciliation? This is if we know someone has ought against us before offering our gift. (See Matthew 5:23, 24) I have seen hard feelings result from a person’s confessing unkind feel ings to another.” A. Notice that the Lord mentions bring- ing “gifts” to the altar. There was an altar in the temple at Jerusalem during those days. Although this verse has an earthly setting, there is a principle for proper application. Suppose our heart begins to condemn us because someone has something against us. The Scrip ture indicates we ought to make it right with them first in order that our hearts may be clear before God. Otherwise the Lord sees an element of insincerity, and of an unforgiving spirit. It is too bad, 10
yet true, that feelings often enter into the picture. Strangely enough, some times the person to whom the confes sion is made isn’t in the same frame of mind and conviction by the Spirit of God. All that you can do, and all you’re responsible for, is following the Word of God in your own life. Reaction of others is between them and the Lord. But let it all be in the true spirit of Christian love. Q , San Mateo, California — “It has been ■said in our church that home missions are more important than foreign mis sions? True?” A. The Lord said, “The field is the world.” With God there is no such thing as home missions or foreign mis sions. “Ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, (that is right in our locality), and in all Judea, (that is in our area), and in Samaria (that is in the surrounding territory), and unto the uttermost part of the earth” (Acts 1:8). Those who say foreign missions are more important than home mis sions have a good point. It is only fair that everybody should hear the plan of salvation and redeeming love at least once, before others hear it over and over again. On the other hand, it is necessary to keep the “home fires burn ing” before we can send out mission aries and financial help for the work. But there is no difference in the sight of God between home and foreign mis sions. Let us get the word out wher ever we possibly can. Q , Los Angeles, California — “M y hus band was married before he married me. Although we have five children and have been married 12 years, our minister insists that we are living in adultery. I am beginning to believe that he’s right. 1 find myself wanting to get a divorce from my husband.” A. This question has many facets. It should be dealt with in private. The minister, insisting that these are living in adultery, is going quite far indicat ing she should get a divorce from this man after being married for 12
years. Five children are in that home. Have they been taken into considera tion? Think of their future, stability, emotional equilibrium, and spiritual outlook. Seek the counsel and opinion of another minister; one who perhaps has been in the ministry for a longer period of time. Search the Scriptures and see how God does indicate that which pleases Him. Two wrongs will certainly not make a right! Q . Santa Monica, California — “In He brews 10:26 and 27, we read, ‘For if we sin w illfully after that we have re ceived the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.’ Does this mean that there is no hope for one if he sins after accepting Christ?” A. We must understand the purpose and intent of the Epistle to rightly see God’s truth. Hebrews does not have in view believers only. Saved individ uals are not spoken of in this 10th chap ter. The writer says, “If there are any among us who sin willfully after that we have received the knowledge of. the truth.” It doesn’t say, “If we sin will fully after that we have been saved.” This is a graphic picture of a man who has had merely head knowledge. No believer will sin willfully, or as the Old Testament word suggests, “pre sumptuously.” Now this doesn’t mean that a believer will not sin. This pas sage doesn’t indicate that at all. First John 1:8 takes up the subject in a thor ough manner. “If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.” Such is just fooling ourselves, “If we say that we have not sinned (sinned in practice), we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.” (I John 1:10). Thus we read, “My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not (that you don’t live a life of sin). And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous” (I John 2:1). Nowhere does the Bible (continued on next page) 11
graphy. The Atlas is so organized as to follow the Scripture narrative. This special feature makes the Atlas most valuable as a Bible study aid, and for use as a textbook. An enlightening resume of the Bible Lands today is given. An outstanding feature of this Atlas is its Geographic Gazetteer, giving in concise form the location and other data on geographic names significant in Scripture. The course consists of 27 open-book quizzes, and two examinations. The Correspondence school, under the direction of Mrs. Eleanor Blue, is one of the ministries of the 54-year-old Bible Institute of Los Angeles, Incor porated, Dr. Samuel H. Sutherland, President. your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4). Parents have the divine responsibility of cor recting their children. There must not be any needless or even heedless har- rassing of the children. The Scripture says, don’t provoke your children to wrath but nurture them in the chasten ing and admonition of the Lord. “A child can sometimes be straightened up, by being bent over.” Q. Billings, Montana — “Why do church es serve communion so often? Our minister says it should be observed only once a year. A. There are some churches which ob serve communion every week. The Bi ble says, “As often . . .” The purpose of the communion is that we might draw nigh in a very particular and specific way, considering our relation ship to the Lord Jesus'Christ; We need to be sure that any wrong on our part has been corrected; any sin has been forgiven and is under the blood. The service shall never be perfunctory, or it will lose all its value. Observe com munion as often as you find any defi nite blessing coming to your own heart by so doing. 12
| Because of the wealth of material newly available on Bible Geography, the Biola Correspondence School is of fering a completely new and exhaus tive course of study in this field. Colored maps, photographs, special outline study guides, and many pages of fascinating background information on significant Biblical sites are included in the course. In addition, important data on archaeological research in Bib lical countries is presented. The spe cially prepared material is available for home study through the Biola Cor respondence School, 558 S. Hope Street, Los Angeles 17, California. The price of $10.00 includes a recently published 333-page Bible Atlas as the textbook. This volume puts the emphasis on geo- Panel Discussions (continued) teach that there is no hope for one who sins after he accepts Christ as Saviour. Q . Boise, Idaho — “Da angels appear in the flesh as if they were human be ings?” A. Throughout Scripture, there have been angels who appeared in the flesh, as though they were human beings. In the Old Testament we read of the “An gel of the Lord.” No doubt this refers to the incarnate Christ who appeared in human flesh. “While they looked stedfastly toward heaven as He went up, two men stood by them in white apparel, “Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven?” (Acts 1:10, 11). It would seem necessary for an angel with a mes sage to deliver it by using human flesh. Otherwise, it would be startling to merely hear a voice without any per son being visible or present. Q . Walla Walla, Washington — “/ am con fused about Ephesians 6:4, Provoke not your children to wrath. Does this mean that parents should not correct their children?” A.The remainder of that verse actually answers it. “Ye fathers, provoke not
Children of God / by Dr. Ralph L. Keiper T h e r e is a great necessity for each of us to have a vital witness for
growth, strength and maturity. We are not to be “tossed about by every wind of doctrine.” The second interesting aspect is, “thoroughly furnished.” It simply means to be completely equip ped. This provision is to come in the form of diversified good works. My wife has been learning to drive, our car. She took her lessons at a driv ing school back east. While having a lesson she said to me one day, “Dear, you know that there’s something in teresting about this driving school. I’ve learned a great spiritual lesson.” Al ways interested in practical illustra tions I asked what it was. She said, You know, they not only teach us what to do if it seems an accident is imminent, but also they tell us how to avoid, such situations. Now, I’m not looking forward to an accident, dear, but sometimes I feel I would really (continued on next page) 13
our blessed Lord. The world is not so ¡much impressed with our words as it is with our works. In the light of this, of what exactly should our works con sist? What can we do for the Lord Jesus Christ so that we may assuredly give a witness which is pleasing to Him. The answer can only come from the Word of God. That is why Paul, under the inspiration of the Holy Spir it, brought this to the mind of young Timothy. “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, thor oughly furnished unto all good works” (II Timothy 3:16, 17). Two words in this last verse stand out in my mind. First of all, “that the man of God may be perfect.” This suggests spiritual
term. It is the idea of probing. The Holy Spirit does this in awakening our consciousness of sin. This is the way we know whether or not we are in line with the Word of God. When I came West, I was given a camera. It has an interesting view find er on it. For instance, I focus on the tower of a church. In order to be sharp, I must bring two images perfectly to gether. It will all be a blur unless I bring the two as one. So it is in spiritual matters. When the Holy Spir it and the Word of God are out of focus we can tell something is wrong. But as we look to the Holy Spirit and God’s Word and our heart is lined up with them, then we know that we are in proper spiritual focus. Now, this is where the correction comes in. The Word of God tells us when we are out of focus, but it also tells us how to come and make necessary .corrections or adjustments. It is vitally necessary for us, as mature Christians, to make necessary changes in *order that our lives may be aligned with the Word of God. Now this is exactly what the Holy Spirit will do. “But the Com forter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, what soever I have said unto you” (John 14:26). As our Lord went back into heaven He gave us the blessed Holy Spirit to guide us and to bring to our remem brance those things He would have us do. Peter gives us another wonderful example, “For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that we should follow in his steps” (I Peter 2:21). By reading the Gospels and dis covering the details in the life of our Saviour, we see the many things He faced, always victoriously, with which we, too, must be confronted. To each one who is bom again, we look to the Saviour as our blessed example. Let us get in the habit of studying His life, and then in obedience to the Holy Spir it, live a life which will be pleasing and glorifying to Him. 14
love to experiment with this new knowledge.” (I was glad she wasn t too enthusiastic about the latter. There are too many accidents in Philadelphia already.) What is the lesson? Often the reason we do wrong or sinful things is because we just do not know what the right really is. This is why every Christian needs to be thoroughly “furn ished.” Look again at verse 16 of II Timothy 2 and see what a study of God’s Word will do. It will teach us doctrine giving our minds higher truths on which to dwell. This is what Jesus meant when He exhorted His followers, “Learn of me and ye shall find rest for your souls.” Incidentally that word “learn” "DO I HAVE TO GO TO SUNDAY SCHOOL?" My Daddy thinks it's nice for me To go to Sunday school, To hear the helpful lessons, And to learn the Golden Rule. And if some Sunday morning, Something else I'd like to do, My Dad looks very stern and says, While Dad hunts up his paper, And decides he'll stay at home. Now I've wondered and I've wondered, Yes, time and time again. Why Sunday school's so good for boys, But not for grown-up men. is very interesting. It literally means, “Figure Me out.” Once we have been able to solve a problem, we are per fectly at home in it. When we know what we are to do under given circum stances, we move ahead with confidence and certainty. Bible study offers us this as we feast daily upon the Word of God. Beyond knowledge, however, is the ■oft-necessary reproof. We need to be told when we are wrong. The Holy Spirit takes the Word of God and says to responsive and atuned hearts, “This is the way, walk ye in it!” The word “reprove” here is actually a medical " I am surprised at you!" So I dress up very neatly, And I travel off alone;
parables and pearls
(AS FEATURED OVER THE BIOLA HOUR)
God's Constant Companionship It has been well said that God may remove His workmen, but His Word goes marching on. The secret behind all Christian ministry is the Lord. A Chinese youth named “Lo” had been told the Gospel story, yet he could not comprehend how Christ would meet his every need. That this Supreme, divine One would in dwell in his life through the Holy Spirit, never to leave him again, was more than he could grasp. He pro longed a decision for the Saviour. Then one day he read Matthew 28:20. When his eyes fell upon these words, his whole countenance brightened for he read, “Lo, I am with you always.” “Lo” being his name, he applied the sacred truth to his own heart, and well he should! Whatever your name is, you can put it there as “Lo” did. “lohn,” “Betty,” “Bob,” whoever, Jesus as sures, “I am with you always.” T h r o u g h the difficulties? Yes. Through the trials? Yes Through the domestic problems? Yes. What ever the need our Saviour says, “Fear not, for 1 am w ith you al ways.” * * * Always put off until tomorrow what you shouldn't do at all. TEENAGE TRENDS Young people in our United States represent a tremendous volume of business for the merchandiser. For instance, American teenage girls spent twenty million dollars on lip stick last year, eight hundred thirty seven million on back-to-school clothes, and nine million on home permanents. Teenagers in general spent seventy-five million dollars on entertainment. They own ten mil-
lion record players and one and a half million of them own automo biles. No wonder we're living in such a materialistic, secular atmosphere of life. Thank God no matter what the trials or experiences may be we have a solid core of young men and women at Biola who are dedicated to the Lord Jesus Christ and who have purposed in their lives to serve Him wheresoever He may call. * * * Some of the best preaching is done by holding your own tongue. * * * It May Be Today World and national events noted on every hand clearly indicate the imminent return of the Lord Jesus Christ. A European traveler visited Villa Areconati which is known as the beauty spot of the Alps. The gar- dner conducted him through exqui site surroundings. Everything was in perfect care. “How long have you been here?” the gardner was asked. “Twenty-five years.” “And how of ten has the owner been to see his estate?” “Four times.” “When did he come last?” “Twelve years ago.” “He writes to you, I suppose?” The caretaker shook his head, “No nev er.” “Well, who looks after these matters?” ‘Oh, I’m left pretty much alone. Seldom do I even see a strang er.” “But you keep the garden so beautifully prepared and in proper order, one would think you were expecting the owner tomorrow.” The gardner smiled, “No sir, I expect him today!” M y friend we as God’s children need to live not as if we expected the Lord to return tomorrow, but rather today. “Watch therefore, for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come!” Even so come Lord Jesus! 15
Retirement w ith a Christian Atmosphere
s h a r o n g a r d e n s
Phoenix, Arizona
It was in 1957 that a minister chal lenged a Christian businessman, Clar- enc'e Wheeler, with the suggestion, “Phoenix needs a retirement center for evangelicals.” At personal sacri fice, Mr. Wheeler founded Sharon Gardens which adjoins the Arizona Bible Institute Campus, 3025 West McDowell Road, in “The Valley of the Sun.” A visit to the ten-acre, beautifully- landscaped Christian center introduc es one to retired missionaries, pastors, teachers, and others from various walks of life. Facilities include houses, bungalows, duplexes and apartments in the attractive two-story King David Court. Some are completely furnished. With the Bible Institute of Los An geles, Inc. now responsible for A.B.I., it will also be operating Sharon Gardens. All facilities are air-condi tioned for both winter and summer. An attractive building is provided for inspirational meetings and commu-
Mr. Clarence Wheeler (left), talks with Mr. Roy Yoder, retired Belgian Congo missionary. nity projects. Within the Phoenix city limits, facilities are available for lease or purchase. “Life care” plans are now being studied by the Biola ad ministration.
Offices of the Berean Mission are located in Sharon Mr. Wheeler and Mrs. Marie Fick Gardens. On left is Mrs. Beulah Amy who translated the New Testament while in the Congo. Miss Amanda Johnson is on the right!
S c r iptu r es teach us some very won derful things in relation to our being the sons of God by faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. First of all, we are sons of God through the new birth. Then, we are the sons of God through adoption. Because of these two posi tions it is the desire of our heavenly Father that we become His sons in daily experience. “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not” (I John 3:1). Here the apostle seems over whelmed by the fact that he enjoys this relationship. The expression, “What manner of love” is very inter esting to me. It indicates love that is really “out of this world.” This love has been brought down to man by the Lord Jesus Christ. John explains this when he says, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). Most religions are indifferent to man and to his personal needs. But the great truth of the Christian message is that God takes those who are lost and spir itual outcasts and makes them His own children by adoption. We become chil dren through the new birth. As Jesus said, “Except a man be bom again, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.” “That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is bom of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto you, Ye must be born again” (John 3:6, 7). The second thought goes beyond our status as sons of God through the new birth and considers our relationship as adopted heirs. “For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth wit ness with our spirit, that we are the children of God” (Romans 8:15, 16). Here the law is satisfied. We were sin ners and have been condemned. We (co n tin u ed on n e x t page)
TORREY CONFERENCE MESSAGE
by Dr. Ralph Keiper I Evangelical Foundation, Philadelphia
sins have been forgiven. We are not slaves of the law for we have not re ceived the spirit of bondage. We now have a right to use the name of God in the most intimate relationship as we call Him “Abba, Father.” “Adoption” is a very beautiful word. It has the word “eye” and “optic” be hind it. Taking the word apart and translating it into English, adoption simply means that God through His wonderful grace, has His eye upon us! That is what the hymn writer had in mind when he wrote, “I sing because I’m happy; I sing because I’m free, for His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me!” Let us remember that God doesn’t watch us as a judge would watch a criminal. Rather He watches us with pride and joy as a fond Father looks with gladness upon His child. The work of the Holy Spirit each and every day is to bear testimony to this wonderful truth. The Spirit Himself beareth wit ness with our spirits that we are the children of God. So we are the sons of God through the new birth by adoption that all of this may be brought to reality and fruition in our daily lives. John tells us, “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” (John 1:12). So often this verse has been misquoted. Some say, “But as many as received Him to them gave He the power to be the sons of God.” The word is not merely “be” but rather “become!” This verse is ac tually written to the saved; to believ ers. It is the will of our heavenly Fa ther that we move into the privileges of our great salvation. We should never be merely satisfied with being sons of God. There^is a practicality to experi ence in our daily lives. So, having been bom again, freed from the law, let us ask ourselves, “Am I enjoying the daily benefits and bless ings of fellowship with my heavenly Father?” This is every believer’s in heritance here and now if he has placed his personal trust in the Lord Jesus Christ as Saviour. 18
Peace in Knowing (continued) know that the wages of sin is death. This brings great fear to our hearts. But now that we know the Lord Jesus YOU CANNOT LEAVE GOD OUT Though you may try in many ways To circumscribe your life, To plan your time and chart your course Amid the varied strife; You may spurn heavenly guidance, Turn from it with a laugh— But somewhere in the plan of things God will cross your path. It may be in the spring of youth He makes a bid for you. You laugh Him off, there're other things You must have time to do.. He tries again in middle life, You turn away in wrath, You need Him not, you're satisfied— But God will cross your path! Somewhere on down the road from you— You cannot see it yet, The God who made this universe Will not let you forget. He'll rearrange your little life In ways ypu never knew, And when you least expect Him there. He'll cross the path with you! In the stillness of the night-time When you think you are alone, And no one sees, and no one knows, There comes a warning tone. The omnipresent God of love Speaks in Christ's behalf Startles you from your compromise— God has crossed your path! You cannot leave God out of life, I care not how you try. Though you may dodge and shake Him off.. Sometime you've got to die. You'll meet Him face to face that day Not in His love, but wrath, And all life's bravado will flee— God has crossed your path! — M. R. Warren
Christ as our own personal Saviour, we have the blessed assurance that our
TORREY BIBLE CONFERENCE MESSAGE
I n o n e o f ou r discussions we have talked about the various aspects to be ing sons of God. Frequently, those who are awakened to their need of the Sav iour may rightly ask, “How may I tru ly become a son of God?” I enjoy good illustrations, but actually the best il lustration is the Word of God itself. Peter tells us that once we have re ceived salvation we are to “grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ” (II Peter 3:18). Growth is always tied into a living act. A snowball doesn’t grow. It may get larger as children roll it. Growth symbolizes that which truly has life within it. Before we can grow spiritually, therefore, we must first of all have the relationship of the new birth and believe in the Lord Jesus Christ. Then see the next step in develop ment. “As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: If so be that ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious” (I Peter 2:2, 3). Peter begins at the very alphabet of our Christian life. He re gards us as babes newly delivered. Just as an infant needs to grow phy sically, so a spiritual infant needs to grow! One important part of a baby’s diet is milk. Eager mothers and fa thers watch their children grow daily
thereby. The muscles develop, legs be come strong, and each day seems to bring some new achievement. We, too, must grow through spiritual milk. We are living in a day of substitutes. Con sequently there are formulas for al most everything. Even in Christian circles we are in the days of substi tutes. Yet, Peter reminds us that we should be interested primarily in the Word of God for true growth. Permit me to digress a moment again to an swer the question, “How does one be come a spiritual infant?” Very simply, this happens by being bom again, not by joining a church, or by being bap tized, or by reciting a creed. You be come a child of God through personal faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. One of the first evidences of spiritual growth is through the experience, in the power of the Holy Spirit, of over coming sin. “My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous” (I John 2:1). Sin, of course, will be in our lives until the time the Lord calls us to be with Him self. But thank God it need not possess or overcome us, and it will not, if we are truly growing in grace. When sin does come, we can turn to our Attor- (continued on n ex t page) 19
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