Letters to the Editor - November/December 2007

'A Bit of a Mistake'
(posted 12-20-07)
I enjoy Paul Williams’s weekly column, and I remember fondly living two doors down from his son at Milligan College. Just about every week he articulates some good point by means of seeing what we Christians are, sadly, often too busy to see. His column, most weeks, is the first thing that I read in the STANDARD.

That said, he did make a bit of a mistake in December 16’s column (“Who Is in Charge Here?”). Interpreting Judges 7:1-8, the text on which he based that piece, he says that after Gideon sent home those in his ranks who feared battle, “God sent the remaining army to the river and said everybody who got down on all fours and drank like a dog should also be sent home.” In fact verse 7, at least in the versions that I consulted, says (quoting the King James), “By the three hundred men that lapped will I save you.” Those disciplined enough to kneel and drink (that is to say, most of them) went away, each to his place.

The real marvel of God’s delivering Gideon is not that he took the most disciplined but that he took men who were as dogs and with three hundred of them put to rout the Midianites. May he do the same with this “Bulldog.”
—Nathan P. Gilmour
Athens (Georgia) Christian Church
University of Georgia

'Great,' Not 'Messy'
(posted 12-20-07)
Excuse us, Jeff Walling (“Messy Christmas!” December 16), the Bible we read tells us the birth of Jesus, the Son of God, was “great” and not “messy” as your Bible seems to suggest. In fact, we read your article three or four times and read the Gospel accounts of the birth of Christ three or four times and in the Gospel accounts we find the word great at least four times and the word messy not once!

We also read in our Bible that Hebrews 2:3 refers to “so great a salvation” (New King James Version) and 1 Timothy 3:16 says “great is the mystery of godliness, God was manifested (not ‘messyfested’) in the flesh.”

We suspect other great miracles of the Bible like Daniel in a “messy” lion’s den, the three Hebrew children in a “messy” fiery furnace and Jonah in a “messy” fish stomach would also stimulate your mind and computer into action.

Maybe our long-held and straightforward Bible faith is suspect to this generation, but this seems the perfect illustration of Isaiah 55:8, 9, “‘For my thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,’ says the Lord. ‘For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts.’”
—Frank and Peggy Bauer
Via e-mail

'A Duty to Minister'
(posted 12-17-07)
I am writing about Faith Ingraham’s November 11 articles “The Secret That Must Be Told” and “What Would Jesus Do?” A very good friend of mine, a former minister, is now 58 years old. If my friend, when he was 16—in 1965—had gotten his minister to listen, his life would have turned out far differently than it is now.

My friend tried to tell about the incestuous relationship his mother had carried on with him from ages 2 through 12, but this minister turned ashen. My friend knew that this reaction meant he could not talk about his problem. Five years ago, he kept asking for me to come and talk with him, in person, but I did not understand what he needed help with. He received no help from me.

If he had gotten help with his problem when he was growing up, I do not think he would have become a sexual/pornography addict by age 16. If he had gotten help with his pornography addiction from a minister (when he was growing up), or from a therapist, another minister, or me (as an adult), I do not think he would now be sitting in prison with a 10-year sentence for attempting to order child pornography.

The body of Christ has a duty to minister to victimizers and victims, those who hurt and those who have been hurt, as it relates to incest, pornography, and sexual addiction. The church must minister to the spiritually wounded and sick so that they heal and do not pass on their sin, and its consequences, to future generations. The children of God cannot watch the victim or perpetrator go through emotional, mental, and spiritual suffering while we pass by on the other side because we are too uncaring to want to help them. While “ministering” may be inconvenient, the cost of discipleship calls us to die daily to what he wants us to do.

Faith Ingraham, thanks for your articles. I cannot understand how difficult reliving your hurt is for you. Your hurt and wholeness matter to Christ and must also matter to all of his children.
—Name Withheld
Via e-mail

Thankful for Special Programs at Bible Colleges
(posted 12-10-07)
As a young leader in a small church, I understand Paul Williams’s point about raising up future leaders (“Volunteer Leaders and the Future,” December 9). I look around and see remarkably few others of my generation taking on volunteer leadership roles in our churches, especially in small, “traditional” congregations. While this usually reflects the demographics of those congregations, there is still a strong need to focus on recruiting and equipping future leaders.

I am thankful for Bible colleges that offer dual-degrees, degree completion, and other programs that allow students to achieve secular degrees while learning the foundations of Christian thought and leadership. These are programs we should encourage all young people in our churches to consider—especially those who show an aptitude for leadership.
—Bryan Boutz
Manhattan, Kansas

NACC Was 'Inspiring and Awesome'
(posted 12-7-07)
John Boberg’s letter to the editor concerning the North American Christian Convention was confusing to me. Was he at the same convention I attended—the one in Kansas City? I had never really had any desire to go to the NACC. I was asked to introduce a speaker during a workshop, so my wife and I decided to go. It was inspiring and awesome! It was well worth the money and time.

Boberg’s letter made me think of the Bible story of the lepers who came to a fork in the road. If they went back to where they were from they would die. If they stayed where they were they would die. The only option was to go forward; it was their only hope (2 Kings 7:3, 4). They went forward and were given new life.

When I went to the NACC, I was going through some tough things at the church I serve. The message given by the preacher from Texas spoke to me personally and helped me focus on moving forward. Vince Antonucci’s message was next and I have never heard a message so passionate about fulfilling the mission of Jesus and the church to reach lost people. Jim Putnam then challenged all of us as Christ followers to take seriously our responsibility to make disciples. The short messages from the military chaplain on the Fourth of July were both appropriate and inspiring.

The focus on church planting was an awesome idea! Church leaders need to take more seriously the biblical practice of church planting. It is the most effective way to reach lost people, and the NACC needs to give attention to it. It is a very biblical concept and part of the Restoration Movement’s heritage. I for one will be praying for the plant in Kansas City as well as other plants I know about.

Thank goodness the leadership of the NACC had the courage to move forward instead of going back or staying the same. It is the only hope to bring life back to the NACC again.

I’m planning to attend the NACC in Cincinnati in 2008 and I hope to take a group from my church with me. If it is like this past year’s convention, it will be very beneficial for both my church and me as we move forward.
—Scott Baker
Tallmadge, Ohio

Letter Writer Explains Views on Amillennialism
(posted 12-3-07)
I recognize that you do not wish for CHRISTIAN STANDARD to become a forum for a “slapping contest,” but in view of statements made about my letter regarding amillennialism (see letter from "Brian" below), I think it would be unfair for my scripturally based views to not be seen.

To remove your publication from the midst of this, my comments are posted at http://www.Luke810.com/rebut.htm. I invite you and your readers to review it and would be pleased to respond to any comments regarding my views.
—Ronald Taylor
Apex, North Carolina

We Are the 'Called-Out Ones'
(posted 12-3-07)
Thank you so much for publishing the fabulous article by Dan Schantz, “Recovering from Excellence,” on November 4. So many of us feel the same way about all these new words and expressions that have crept into the Restoration Movement churches. We no longer seem to be the called-out ones—which are the church. Instead we’ve conformed to the world and its religions, ideas, music, and ignorance!

Where do we find the word excellence in the Bible? There is only one who is EXCELLENT and that is our Savior—Jesus. Where do we find the word community in the Bible? There is only ONE we commune with—Jesus. Where do we find the word embrace in the Bible? I can’t wait to embrace my Savior when I get to Heaven!

If we continue to redefine what it means to be a Christian, then I guess we don’t need the Scriptures anymore. Then we can embrace our communities with excellence by conforming to the world’s standards instead of God’s.

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever! Does anyone remember that that is a biblical truth? Let’s get back to the basics: hearing, believing, repenting, confessing, being baptized, and living. When we have the Holy Spirit in us, we are in Christ. He is EXCELLENT!
—Kathy Walter
Orlando, Florida

'A Waste of Time and Money'
(posted 11-29-07)
I am one of those who have nearly given up on the North American Christian Convention. I have attended three times in the last 10 years and all were a waste of time and money. Last summer in Kansas City was just about the last straw for me. I got an overinflated price for near-worthless workshops and preaching that contained little Bible. The overall themes of these conventions sound so generic and “feel good” oriented that I cannot ask my people to put time and money in that conference.

I have to come to the conclusion that the leadership of this convention has lost its way. I believe that Allan Dunbar holds much of the blame for this, but almost as much goes to the continuation committee. They are insular and refuse to listen to those who disagree with what they are doing.

The decline of this once-great convention is heartbreaking. It need not have been this way. I believe the leadership thought they saw something they needed to do and just did it without any input from the churches that have consistently sent people for help and teaching.

I have no desire to return to any past decade or generation. I just would like to see this convention be more of, by, and for our people. I would like to see more Bible exposition and less entertainment. The workshops were all by people with ministries and books to sell. The whole thing made me feel like I was at some Willow Creek conference. I don’t need another one of those.

One final observation: I’m glad to see you printing some letters from those who see problems with the NACC. The STANDARD has always been an organ that publishes “puff pieces” about the convention and nothing in any way critical. My church’s continuing desire to subscribe to the STANDARD has waned in the last year or two. Perhaps an honest look by your magazine at what is actually happening out there will reinvigorate that desire. I hope so.
—Dr. John Boberg, minister
Crystal (IL) Lake Christian Church

An 'Unfair Thing to Do'
(posted 11-29-07)
I’m writing in response to Ronald Taylor’s letter to the editor (posted November 28), entitled “The Restoration Movement Is Drifting.” In his letter, Taylor offers his reasons for not being an amillennialist—a perfectly fair thing to do. Taylor, however, goes one step further to accuse Dr. Robert Lowery (writer of “Why I Am an Amillennialist,” November 18) and others of ignoring Scripture or at best, sensationalizing it through figurative interpretation. This is a perfectly unfair thing to do. I would encourage Taylor to reread Lowery’s article and to visit the blog site offered by Lowery in the footnotes of the article. You’ll get a good sense for whether or not Lowery cares about Scripture.

For every scriptural reference in Taylor’s attack (numbering a rather loud “zero”—due to simply giving up because of a perceived “lack of concern for Scripture” on the readers’ parts), Lowery’s article offers many more. Virtually every paragraph in the article highlights pertinent Scriptures to weigh—all gathered from throughout the entire context of Revelation. As for a lack of concern for sound Bible study? I would contend Lowery has not drifted from the sound exegetical practices of the Restoration Movement. If anything he has displayed them loudly and clearly. Look again, Mr. Taylor, and you’ll find that from beginning to end, Lowery’s approach pays careful attention to history, objectivity, grammar, context, and linguistic issues. And as for the charge of stripping a text of its authority by way of figurative analysis, I suppose Christ himself should be called out for his own explanation of the seven stars and seven lampstands in Revelation 1:19, 20—a rather strong indication at the offset from Christ himself that in our study of apocalyptic/prophetic literature, we will find that it does not play by the quaint, literal rules we often want it to. It requires a little more work than usual from the careful student of the Word.

To be troubled that Lowery cannot possibly address every issue you would like him to in a 1,300-word article is one thing. To say you don’t agree with Lowery’s interpretation of Scripture is one thing. To say you find amillennialism to be the wrong theological framework is one thing. But to casually and snarkily remark that he and others don’t care about Scripture is something especially careless and tactless. In essentials, unity; in nonessentials, freedom; in all things, love. Let’s not drift from that Restoration ideal any time soon, OK?
—Brian
Via e-mail

'Return to the Compelling Purpose'
(posted 11-28-07)
Jeff Butler’s comments about the North American Christian Convention (published in the November 11 issue and available online by CLICKING HERE) neatly summarize the state of the larger church, as well. In our attempts to make the church relevant to the young and unchurched, we can walk a dangerous path. We should, as Butler suggests, return to the compelling purpose of promoting New Testament Christianity. As a baby boomer, that is what attracted me to the church many years ago. And while some in current church leadership seem to have lost sight of it, boomers were every bit as rebellious and unchurched as millennials. Hot topics in popular culture, and for that matter, the generic evangelical Christian church, are readily available to those who would be guided by them. Our offerings might be better aimed at those who will seek a lasting and sometimes difficult relationship. Jesus told us that if we follow him in this life, there will be trouble and difficulty. So, knowledge of the Bible and the Christian walk are essential components of understanding for those who enter for the long haul.

Are we offering that knowledge and understanding?
—Dan French
Aurora, Missouri

'The Restoration Movement Is Drifting'
(posted 11-28-07)
My objections to amillennialism are:

--It is a narrow view that limits what the Lord gave us in his Word.
--It requires that most Scripture be interpreted figuratively or symbolically and not literally.
--The result is the applying of this figurative perspective to the church and stating that the church has replaced Israel in all prophetic Scripture.

Figurative interpretation of Scripture limits what the Lord has provided us in his Word, and its consistent application spiritualizes and clouds the Holy Scripture. When consistently applied, this view causes some to think that the church becomes the spiritual replacement in all prophecy regarding Israel.

And here is the real danger, Replacement Theology! If God goes back on his unilateral, unconditional promise to Abraham, what is to keep him from going back on his promise to undeserving sinners like myself?

I had prepared a refutation to “Why I Am an Amillennialist” (by Robert Lowery, November 18) based upon Scripture. I included Scripture ignored by amillennialists and Scripture that rebuts certain statements of opinion offered by brother Lowery in his article. After reading the comments on the article by other readers, I can see that Scripture is not important to many Restoration Movement followers. Their letters were based on opinions, books by others, and two of the letter writers “assumed” certain conditions. They were concerned with political correctness and inclusiveness. If we are to include post-millennialism and preterism, why not Buddhism and Zoroastrianism? How far are we from merging with the liberal ideas of the Disciples of Christ?

What happened to the Restoration Movement call, “No book but the Bible, no creed but Christ”?

The Restoration Movement is drifting, copying “seeker church” programs and music, and is not teaching the wonderful, unchangeable Word of God. I need no further evidence than the letters to CHRISTIAN STANDARD regarding amillennialism.
—Ronald Taylor
Apex, North Carolina

Celebrate? When So Many Remain Unreached?
(posted 11-28-07)
Just a note regarding the October 28 Issue which featured “Let’s Celebrate!” and “How We Should Celebrate?” by Bob Russell.

It is certainly an American “phenomenon” to celebrate everything you can find to celebrate, but I believe Mr. Russell needs to give some attention to the biblical perspective of the subject.

Hebrews 13:3 says, “Remember those in prison as if you were their fellow prisoners . . .” just for starters, and of course the angels in Heaven rejoice over every sinner who repents. But to bring attention to “large” or “mega”churches in this land and in Canada, as if this should make the churches “proud” of what is being done, is not smart. I say this because anyone who keeps up with the “unfinished” task of world evangelism knows that America, Canada, and the entire English-speaking world make up only approximately 5 percent of the world’s total population. One who keeps up with other facts also knows that approximately 2 billion-plus souls are listed among the 16,000 unreached people groups. What can they celebrate?

If we really want to join our fellow believers, try the persecuted Christians around the world, and you will see that they celebrate their Lord, their faith, and their salvation in Christ, not their large numbers. If the American ideas of bigness and numbers begin to get into the “bloodstream” of Christians in this “land of the free, home of the brave” (which I think has already happened), church members in this country really need to be reminded that pride goes into the head and then works it’s way into the heart of a person (or church minister), and even a congregation. Pride not only goes before a fall, it is often the reason why “knowledge puffs up.” If the American church is busy celebrating, it may get caught up in “this which we ought to have done,” and find itself guilty of leaving the “other undone.” which makes us guilty. Try celebrating guilt! Should we not rather give attention and emphasis to the task before us, and not the work that (“. . . God gives the increase . . .” ) is around us?
 Just a thought . . .
—Al Hamilton
Recruiter of missionaries
Via e-mail

Lesson Treatments a Blessing
(posted 11-28-07)
I have really enjoyed the lessons from Genesis. My class members have as well.
So thank you for this blessing.
—Dale W. Eynon
Via e-mail
(Editor’s note: Genesis was the focus of the International Sunday School Lessons for Sept. 2 through November 25, 2007. CLICK HERE to go to CHRISTIAN STANDARD’s lesson page. Past lesson treatments are listed—and linked—at the bottom of that page.)

Thoughts After Rereading Revelation 20
(posted 11-26-07)
My first reaction on looking at "Two Views of the Millennium" (CHRISTIAN STANDARD, November 18) was a question: Why no spokesperson for Postmillennialism? Are they politically incorrect? Couldn't you find one?

Reading the premillennialism and amillennialism articles drove me back to Revelation 20 for another look.

To Professor Robert Lowery (“Why I Am an Amillennialist”), I must point out that Revelation 20:1-3 says that Satan is bound with a chain, then locked and sealed in the Abyss. From this description, I picture him helpless and out of circulation for the duration of the millennium. I can't see this as a description of his career during the church age.

To Alex Wilson (“Why I Take a Premillennial View”), I must point out that Revelation 20:4-6 speaks only of those who were beheaded for their testimomy as reigning with Christ. I can stretch this to cover all martyrs, whatever the manner of their execution, but no farther. Also, nothing in this passage says that they reign on earth. In fact, when Satan is released (Revelation 20:7-9), and gathers his army on earth, Christ and the martyrs are nowhere to be seen. I assume they are in Heaven, from which the fire comes that destroys Satan's army.

I would be glad to receive feedback from either author on these points.
—Donald Etz
Dayton, Ohio

NACC Has Meant Much to My Family
(posted 11-20-07)
I am in complete agreement with Michael Hines’s letter to the editor in the November 18 edition. I also feel as Bob and Ina Mae Jackson regarding our growing unity with our a cappella brethren (click here to read the letters online). That gives me much joy.

As a 76-year-old, my three living daughters and I have many wonderful memories of traveling to St. Louis from Quincy, Illinois, to spend a day at the North American Christian Convention. That would have been in the 1960s. Our church then urged people to register whether they could attend or not. Sadly, [these days] you do not even hear about either the NACC or National Missionary Convention from the pulpit. People new to our independent Christian churches know little if anything about the Restoration Movement.

I stayed faithful to our Lord in our church through many trials and tears because my husband and I believed in the principles of the Restoration Movement and I could be a “Christian only.”

My husband [now deceased] and I both came from poverty; he worked in a plant and I worked as a cleaning woman, but God enabled us to give our girls music and a Bible college education. Our grandchildren are graduating from state universities. I pray every day for all of them.

I just wanted to share what the NACC has meant to one family who wasn’t in paid ministry. We have borne much fruit for our Lord in our unpaid full-time ministry!
—Vivian Ray
Newburgh, Indiana

Also Consider 'Nonmillennialism'
(posted 11-20-07)
Instead of the four millennial views expressed throughout the dual articles of November 18, how about acknowledging the rather biblical concept of “nonmillennialism.” If one takes a consistent symbolical, nonchronological interpretation of Revelation (a good path to take), why does there have to be a literal thousand-year millennial event at all?

Having just taught an end times series this fall, with a series on Revelation coming in January, I recommend adding two books to your list ("Five Books on the Millennium" by Robert Lowery, November 18): Leaving the Rapture Behind by Dr. Larry Pechawer of Ozark Christian College (available from Pechawer), and Strength for Victory, a commentary on the book of Revelation by Tom Friskney who is retired from Cincinnati Christian University (available through the CCU bookstore). Both men make consistent biblical sense of these highly charged, easily misunderstood issues without having to “cut and paste” selected verses to fit some preconceived view which relies on such methods.

Friskney’s ability to apply symbolism evenly throughout Revelation, by first looking at the times and style in which it was written, will cause lightbulbs to go on in the minds of those who are open to commonsense answers.

Pechawer’s explanation of, among many things, Jesus’ Olivet discourse (Matthew 24; et al.) about the fall of Jerusalem, the coming first century persecution of Christians, and the second coming of Christ will cut through most confusion. Also enlightening, if not just fascinating, is his description of the man of lawlessness of 2 Thessalonians 2 as possibly having arrived on the scene as a zealot in the Jewish revolt against Rome in the first century.
—David Mabon 
Bartlesville, Oklahoma

'To Believe the Premillennial View . . . '
(posted 11-20-07)
In the article “Why I Take a Premillennial View” (November 18), Alex V. Wilson makes an astounding statement implying that the apostle Paul would not have been able to explain the “thousand years” of Revelation. I find this incredible since we are told in Scripture that Jesus “opened their (disciples) understanding of the scriptures.” Although we are not told, we could assume that at some point he did the same with Paul. Wilson's article deals mainly with the premill view in light of Revelation. However, I believe that the discussion of the premill view should involve other Scripture. To believe the premillennial view one must do the following:

1. Find a “gap” in Daniel’s 490 years determined for the Jewish nation. They believe that this “gap” is 2,000 years or more (an undetermined time). The text in Daniel 9:24-27 does not warrant such an assumption.
2. Resurrect the Roman Empire even though Daniel 2:35 says no trace was found of these kingdoms—meaning they were destroyed for good by the coming kingdom of God.
3. Destroy the beautiful prophecy of Daniel 9:27 where, instead of Jesus confirming a covenant with many, it is some future “prince” or antichrist confirming one with the Jews. The Bible NEVER speaks of only one antichrist. (John says there are many antichrists, and they existed in his day.)
4. Must explain away the prophecy (Daniel 9:27) of Jesus ending the significance of sacrifices and offerings by the sacrifice of himself, and attribute it to this future antichrist ending future sacrifices in some future restored Jewish temple. It would appear that the book of Hebrews does not have much significance to the premill believer.
5. Totally project Matthew 24 into the second coming when Jesus had not even told them he was going away the first time. He only did this the night before he died (John 16:16).
6. Destroy Jesus’ prophecy in Matthew 23 and 24 that the Jews’ house would be left desolate. To misinterpret Matthew 24 is to deny that Jesus warned of the coming destruction of Jerusalem in a.d. 70.
7. Misuse Romans 11 to suggest that at some point EVERY physical Jew will be saved simply because they live in modern-day Israel. Nobody could believe this. God does not save nations, he saves individuals by grace. Romans 11 plainly indicates that “all Israel” are those saved by believing the gospel.
8. Reject Paul’s statement, “He is not a Jew who is one OUTWARDLY, nor is circumcision that which is outward in the flesh. But he is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is that which is of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the letter . . .” (Romans 2:28, New American Standard Bible, emphasis by the letter writer). How can any premill say anyone is a Jew today? They also must reject Paul’s statement that the children of the flesh (Jews), these are not the children of God, but the children of the promise are counted as the seed (Romans 9:8). That means us.
9. Believe that God still has a covenant with the Jews (the Old Covenant is still in effect), even though Hebrews plainly states that it is GONE.
10. Deny the fact that Hebrews says that the law of the priesthood has changed. Jesus is our priest forever. Can anyone from the tribe of Levi be a priest anymore (Hebrews 7:12)?
11. Believe that when Jesus comes back to “reign . . . for a thousand years” there will be sinners living on the earth. This is contrary to what Hebrews 9:28 states—he will appear a second time apart from sin.

Mr. Wilson takes this view because, in his words, “it seems to agree with other passages throughout the Bible. . . . “ I would disagree. It is time for the premill believers to seriously acknowledge just how contrary to the Scriptures some of their beliefs are, and to answer these points for the rest of us “amills.”
—Gary D. Hollan
Austin, Indiana

What About the Preterist Position?
(posted 11-19-07)
I just finished reading the issue on millennial issues (November 18) and really enjoyed it. I know there are many sides to this issue out there and that because of space you couldn’t list them all. Would you consider in the future listing resources and viewpoints of the preterist position (i.e. Gary DeMar, Hank Hanegraaff)?
—Todd Smith
Riverton, Wyoming

Would Like to See a 'Weekly Teaching'
(posted 11-19-07)
We were surprised to see an article from a Restoration Movement point of view that recognized there was a movement to undermine the Scripture by using science ("The Dawkins Delusion" by Paul S. Williams). As far as we know, we are two of four people in our immediate area who belong to the Christian church/church of Christ brotherhood that know that science through the public schools and the media is trying to distort God’s Word (i.e. “in the beginning God created” from Genesis 1:1, and Romans 1:18-20, “they are without excuse.”)

We’ve had elders in churches that we have attended tell us that dinosaurs never existed, that they had faked the bones and other information. It seems to us that this has been the answer that the Christian church gives to valid questions concerning origins. Nobody seems to know or care if it took God millions of years or if he created in six days like it clearly teaches. If we can’t take a firm stand on the first chapter of Genesis or Exodus 20:11 (“in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth . . .”), how can we take a firm stand when it says God raised him from the dead (Matthew 28:6, “He is not here, for he has risen, just as he said,” and “What must I do to be saved?”—Acts 2:37, 38)?

We would like to see a weekly teaching on this issue in the CHRISTIAN STANDARD. There are a couple of different groups—Answers in Genesis and the Institute for Creation Research, among others—that have much scientific information that affirms the truth of the Bible, but they are not Restoration ministries. . . .
—David Harris
Via e-mail

'A Real Threat to Western Christianity'
(posted 11-19-07)
Paul Williams discusses an issue that every Christ follower should take seriously at this time in history (“The Dawkins Delusion,” November 11). The atheist movement is a real threat to western Christianity. Recently, I have read most of Christopher Hitchens’s book, “God Is Not Great: How Religion Poisons Everything.” The majority of his points have to do with world religions, not God. As Christ followers, we must do a better job of pointing people to God rather than a religion. We must be able to take an intellectual approach to our apologetics on this issue and defend the faith.

Hitchens tries to take an intellectual look at why there is no God and why religion is bad. While I believe religion throughout the world has damaged God’s image (Christianity included), I also believe that people are attracted to God when he is revealed authentically through the lives of Christ followers.

John Loftus (in an earlier letter) says the next level of [atheist] books will do a better job with a “more level headed and better argued” approach. Loftus has started with the same attitude both Dawkins and Hitchens have—one of arrogance, a trait of those in the atheist movement. They have a condescending, know-it-all attitude which Loftus shares when he advertises his new book. I do not think I will pick up that one; it has started out the same to me.
—Scott Baker
Tallmadge, Ohio

Kudos for Addressing Problem 'with Grace and Truth'
(posted 11-19-07)
I just finished reading “Three Stories One Problem” (November 11) and was moved by not only the subject addressed, but also the quality of the writing.

Darrel Rowland did a great job addressing this problem with grace and truth. The hidden aspect of leaders dealing with sin is truly an issue that needs to be addressed like this.

I am very impressed with the CHRISTIAN STANDARD. I’ve read it for several years and I can tell you that the STANDARD continues to deliver relevant and timely material for the Christian church. Thanks.
—Chad Smith
Independence, Missouri

An Important Contemporary Issue
(posted 11-14-07)
Thank you for plunging into the deep water of a real contemporary issue that we must find a solution to if we are to have a significant witness to this culture (see CHRISTIAN STANDARD’s issue about sexual sin, November 11). As one who bore the impact of a sexually unfaithful spouse along with my young son 32 years ago, I can personally affirm that lives are changed for a lifetime. Life can be unseemly and uncomfortable; however, the darker the night the brighter the light shines. I thank God daily for those who have ministered to my son and me through the years. God’s grace is sufficient as we look to God where he is in his church.
—Name Withheld
Via e-mail

Praying for the Antonuccis, Forefront
(posted 11-14-07)
My wife and I are recent (converts) from the other side of the keyboard (Church of Christ). We have recently started attending First Christian Church in Selmer, Tennessee, and are loving the freedom we have found in worshiping our God.

I particularly like CHRISTIAN STANDARD and the variety of topics it publishes. I love the fact that it is willing to not only look at, but talk about new ways to evangelize. This was evident in your CHRISTIAN STANDARD Interview with Vince Antonucci (November 11). After reading this interview, I was ready to move to Virginia Beach. I will definitely keep the Antonuccis and Forefront Christian Church in my prayers.

Continue to be bold in proclaiming God's Word.
—H.C. Johnson
Ramer, Tennessee

More Fun with Class Names
(posted 11-14-07)
My Sunday afternoon reading is the CHRISTIAN STANDARD and The Lookout. I had to laugh when I read “And So It Goes” in the November 4 CHRISTIAN STANDARD ("A Venerable Institution"). I have been a member of the Pairs & Spares class for 55 years at the Church of Christ in Wymore, Nebraska. Virg Marshall III is our teacher; [he] grew up in this church and teaches our class and taught others in the past. We have Pairs & Spares (this class includes widows and widowers, wives whose husbands don’t attend [and vice versa], etc. We also have the Christian Builders Class, Kum Join Us, the Son Seekers, Doulos, Hedrites, and a lot more. I just thought you would like to know . . .
—Louise Field
Wymore, Nebraska

'More Level Headed and Better Argued'
(posted 11-14-07)
In the November 11 issue, Paul S. Williams discussed the recent atheist books that are causing such a storm ("The Dawkins Delusion"). As a former preacher/teacher in the Restoration Movement who is now an atheist, I think Christians need to understand something very important about this atheist movement. The first round of atheist books grabbed everyone’s attention because they were extremist and shrill, much like how gays had to grab the attention of the American people. But there is another round of popular atheist books coming out on their heels that is more level headed and better argued, and as such will be much harder to effectively deal with, mine being one of them.
—John W. Loftus
Angola, Indiana

'We Need to Help'
(posted 11-8-07)
This evening I sat in my living room recliner, intending to watch the end of a college football game on TV. While checking my e-mail, I saw Darrel Rowland’s “Three Stories, One Problem” in the November 11 “CS online newsletter.” I clicked on the link and found myself quickly absorbed in the article. I lost all interest in the football game.

In 30 years of ministry with independent Christian churches, I have personally dealt with six church leaders involved in immoral activities. Three were ministers, one was an elder, and two were deacons. Their individual decisions profoundly and permanently affected so many more people than themselves. Although everyone sins and falls short of the glory of God, nothing destroys a church leader, his family, or ministry faster than sexual sin.

The desperation described by Mr. Rowland is real. I have dealt with other leaders addicted to pornography, and intervened in an active homosexual affair within a high school youth group. In each of these cases, the people involved were devastated by the prospect of their activities being exposed. What a shame that the potential (and probable) consequences of sexual sin are not enough of a deterrent to keep Christians from yielding to escalating temptations.

We do need accountability; we do need to emphasize character development; we do need to monitor computer usage. But more than anything else, we need to help people trapped in this hellish addiction find their way out through the restoring power of Jesus Christ. I am so glad to know that brother Rowland was nurtured back to a viable relationship with his Lord. We cannot change our past or remove our scars. But we can and must trust the One who still declares, “Neither do I condemn you. Go and sin no more” (John 8:11).
—Thomas R. Cash, senior minister
Liberty Christian Church
Martinsville, Indiana
(Editor's Note: We are glad Mr. Cash mentions the subject of helping those addicted to sexual sin, because we failed to include a bit of information in Darrel Rowland's excellent article in which the offer of help is made. Kendall Freeman, one of the individuals profiled in the article, wants to minister to ministers who are struggling with sexual sin. E-mail him at pd.freek@gmail.com.

'A Wonderful Gesture'
(posted 11-8-07)
I just finished reading Tim Parks’s article on Standard Publishing’s gift to the Disciples of Christ Historical Society (“Common Ties, Gratefully Shared,” November 4). What a wonderful gesture for you to make available such a valuable resource to all of us. Thank you!
—Dr. Will Walls
Director of member care
Christian Missionary Fellowship International

'Do More Looking into This Matter'
(posted 11-8-07)
I have been stewing over and doing a lot of research on the emerging church movement, and was very shocked that the CHRISTIAN STANDARD would promote this movement particularly in the September 16 publication.
 
This movement and the leaders who were mentioned and pictured in this publication are leaders in the New Age movement, which is promoting contemplative prayer. If you are not aware of the term I would suggest that you Google the term contemplative prayer and see what is infiltrating the church across America in all denominations.
 
There are several Christian research sites where much information can be gleaned about this movement that is very destructive to the cause of Christ. One site where much can be learned is Lighthouse Research.
 
I pray that you will do more looking into this matter of the emerging church movement and its agenda.
 
Thank you for your consideration of this e-mail.
—Donna Moore
Tollesboro, Kentucky

Thanks for Addressing Issue of Sexual Sin
(posted 11-8-07)
I just wanted to let you know that it’s encouraging to see your publication acknowledging this problem among our churches (“Three Stories, One Problem,” November 11). Sins of the sexual nature are the most fascinating sins that we commit. They are easy to “explain” because they are easy to “relate” to. Many ministers act like such activity is not possible for them, (but) we know much different.

Sins of omission can be as great as sins of commission, thanks for not “omitting” this issue from your publication.

GodMen has done a good job in addressing this issue at its events as well.
—Tim Ogle
Nashville, Tennessee

'Keep Up the Great Work'
(posted 11-7-07)
Just a note to thank you for continuing to produce such a valuable publication. The CHRISTIAN STANDARD is something I enjoy reading every week. It always contains something to challenge and encourage me, with resources and ideas for my work in the church. I consider it a “must-read”—and even if I get behind by a week or two, I always catch up. (In fact, this morning I had to go onto your Web site to print out the articles from the October 28 issue; I misplaced my copy, and I need to read them before I get to November 4 and your current issue.) Thanks for serving those of us in leadership—and our churches—so well. Keep up the great work. 
—Jeff Dye
Fern Creek Christian Church
Louisville, Kentucky

Thanks for Focusing on No. 1 Problem
(posted 11-5-07)
Thanks to Paul Williams for his article, “A Venerable Institution.” He focuses on the Christian church’s No. 1 problem: a lack of serious Bible study. Barna and Willow Creek’s recent studies reach the same conclusion.
—David N. Sonnesyn
Longmont, Colorado

We Should Strive for Excellence
(posted 11-5-07)
First off, in response to Daniel Schantz’s article “Recovering From Excellence,” I would like to ask who would be classified as part of the “excellence generation”? This seems to be a very broad generalization.

Excellence is an Old Testament thing. Take a look at what was expected of the Israelites when they returned from the Babylonian captivity. In the book of Ezra we find the Israelites taking very perfectionist steps to make sure the temple of the Lord was built and the foundations laid to a higher standard. When the house of the Lord was in need of Levites to serve, it is a good thing Ezra didn’t use efficiency as the model. There were plenty of Levites to work in the temple but none were qualified by God’s standards. A cleansing of the people of God had to take place. Excellence and perfection were the standard, not efficiency and the average.

There is a misunderstanding, yes, of what excellence is for a small church. Excellence doesn’t mean flashy programs or multiple staff members. It does mean a building that is kept up and a people devoted to doing things right. Our church currently has a little over 100 members. We do not have huge resources but we do strive to make sure the house of God is kept up and the programs we offer are done well. We constantly are improving to meet the standard set by God, not the standard we set.

Excellence is not something we should recover from but something we should strive for. First Peter 1:15 says, “But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do.” Let us all keep working for excellence and not striving for what we can manage on our own.
—Brent Crosswhite
Glencoe Church of Christ
via e-mail

'Jesus Deserves Better'
(posted 11-1-07)
I am not a “big wig” in the brotherhood and I still have some issues with Dan Schantz’s November 4 article “Recovering From Excellence.” First, I would like to mention one thing I did agree with, “You can be excellent, and still not be efficient.”

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