Covenanter Witness Vol. 79 - Rparchives.org

•;. • ' • . • ••• . ;ThemamiLIBRAHV OFREFORMED PKKSBVTERU:THEOLOGICAL SEMLNAftVPfTTSO'JRCHWfMfflmwffi,(To The TruthJESUS CHRIST AS SAVIOUR, LORD, HEAD OF MEN, THE CHURCH AND NATIONS.VOLUME LXXIX NO. 1 JULY 5, 1967 STERLING, KANSASBIBLE LESSONS FOR THE WEEK OF JULY 30, 1967The Shield Sports Anniversary Dinner, April 15. Dr. and Mrs. W.W. Weir join in addressing the 400 who attended.MISSIONARYNUMBER

Reformed Presbyterian Synod ConvenesThe chimes in McCartney Library intoned the6:30 p.m. hour. Elders, teaching and ruling, andfriends crowded into the Geneva College chapel inOld Main for the opening meeting of the 138thSynod of the Reformed Presbyterian Church ofNorth America, June 17, 1967.Rev. Luther McFarland of Idana, Kansas presidedin the opening worship service. "Radical BibleChristianity" was the theme that the retiring moderator,Rev. Samuel E. Boyle, D.D. chose for his sermonbased on Revelation 3:14-22. (See CovenanterWitness, June 14.)Roll call opened the business session, and thenew ministers, Rev. Robert Milliken of Bloomington,Indiana and Rev. Richard Olson of the newlyorganized Beaver Area Reformed PresbyterianChurch were presented to the court. Both of thesemen were certified from the Reformed PresbyterianChurch, Evangehcal Synod. These elders attendingSynod for the first time were presented: Dr. MaxMann, Quinter; Mr. Lloyd Copeland, Denison; Mr.Darrell Parnell, Topeka; Mr. Donald Willson, Cambridge;Mr. Robert Meneely, Newburgh.Rev. R. Wyley Caskey, D.D., pastor of theSuperior-Beulah congregation in Nebraska, waselected moderator for this Synod. Clerk D. HowardElliott and Assistant Clerk Bruce C. Stewart werereelected. Rev Ralph Joseph of Sparta, Illinois wasmade precentor.In the memorial service the life and achievementsof Rev. James Guthrie McElhinney, D.D.were recalled by Dr. Paul D. McCracken. Dr. R. C.Fullerton paid tribute to Rev. Robert James GeorgeMcKnight, D.D. These elders have also gone totheir reward: W. John Adams, Kansas City; CharlesE. Belles, First Beaver Falls; Henry Faris, Denison;R. J. Huey, Sterling; Ross Latimer, Park City; CalvinMcKnight, Rose Point; Edwin B. Patterson, OldBethel; W. Sterrett Robb, Sana Ana; C. S. Scott,Selma; J. E. Moore, Chicago; T. J. McClay, ThirdPhiladelphia; Knox M. Young, North Hills. The deathof Mrs. D. R. Taggart was also noted. Dr. G. M.Robb led in prayer.SABBATHWorshipers attended the local or neighboringcongregations of their choice for Sabbath morningservices. Dr. G. M. Robb brought the message in theCollege Hill Church; Rev. Jerrold S. Milroy in theEastvale Church; Dr. D. Howard Elliott in the FirstBeaver Falls Church; Rev. Bruce C. Stewart in theGeneva Church.Rev. Adam Loughridge, D.D. of the Irish Churchbrought the evening message in the college chapelon "The Growing Church," based on Acts 12:24,"But the word of God grew and multiplied." This mayappear in a later issue. —V. O. D.NEWS FROMCYPRUSJune 8 — "We are carrying on very normally inCyprus. The situation has not bothered us in amaterial way. About 10,000 refugees are reportedto be arriving in Cyprus this week from Arab countriesand Israel. Many of these will stay only longenough to make arrangements to go on to a morepermanent address or accommodations. We arepraying for an early cease fire now that the Arabwall has tumbled down."Rev. Thomas M. HutchesonGLIMPSES OF THE RELIGIOUS WORLDFrom page 4baker picked: "I will lift up mine eyes untofrom whence cometh my help" — Psalm 121.The idea of a hand-written Bible, penned byhundreds of people, was suggested by the Rev.Gordon R. Upton and his 300-member congregationof Bethel Pentecostal Church in Ottawa. After 14months of mailing pages and receiving them backcompleted, the sponsors presented the Bible to thecongregation.CHURCH AITENDANCE IN EUROPEAccording to a report in The Banner for May 12,recent Gallup survey findings in Great Britain indicatethat only seven percent of persons who belongto the Church of England attend church in an averageweek, compared with 20 percent of nonconformists,and 23 percent of Roman Catholics.Gallup-affiliated organizations in other Europeannations have reported the following figures onchurch-going during a 30-day period: Italy, 74percent; West Germany, 45 percent; Norway, 21percent; Denmark, 20 percent.JULY 5, 1967 3

of the Religious Wor!THE REV. JOHN McMILLANR. D. 1, Box 337WALDEN, NEW YORKNEW ALIGNMENTS OF EVANGELICALSARE PROPOSEDCan we bypass the fragmentation of the visiblechurch for the time being, by gathering evangehcalChristians of many churches into an effective"association" of behevers?Those who have been disappointed by the comparativeweakness of past attempts in this directioncontinue to make new proposals. Dr. Carl F. H.Henry, editor of Christianity Today, has called fora new association of Christians "loyal to traditionalBiblical principles." He estimates the number ofconservative evangehcals who might join such anassociation at "40 milhon in the U. S. A. alone."Two negative stipulations which accompaniedDr. Henry's proposal were that such an associationshould not be regarded as necessarily "competitivewith the National and World Councils of Churches,"and that it would not be a "new denomination."Evangehcal Press also reports that Dr. JessMoody, in speaking to the Southern Baptist Pastors'Conference at Miami, Florida, has issued a call foran "evangehcal ecumenical movement on a worldwidescale." In making his proposal Dr. Moody rejectedtwo other alternatives which SouthernBaptists face in the issue of Christian unity —either "going it alone" or uniting with the presentecumenical movement. What he did advocate wasnot organic union, but rather "a mutual pooling ofour collective forces for world-wide evangelism."NEGRO CHURCH BODY OPPOSES TACTICSOF RIGHTS LEADERS(EP) The civil rights movement is losing thesupport of the general public because of the tacticsof some groups and leaders, it was declared at anassembly of a large Negro church body meeting inPhiladelphia.This criticism was contained in a report to the151st Annual Conference of the African MethodistEpiscopal Church, which has 109 congregations inEastern Pennsylvania.The Social Action Committee of the Conferencecalled for more moderation and full obedience to thelaw by civil rights groups, and offered a disclaimerof "Black Power."Its report called picketing, marching, sit-ins,boycotts and similar demonstrations "a waste offorce." It stated:"The misnomer 'Black Power' has created somuch hatred among our enemies and so much confusionamong our friends that the rights' movementappears to be stalemated. Rioting, looting, andinterfering with firemen performing their duty,under the spell of 'Black Power' psychology, willnever obtain for us our place in the sun."N. Y. REGENTS WOULD RELAX BANON CHURCH AID(EP) The governing body of pubhc education inNew York State has appealed to the ConstitutionalConvention to relax somewhat the state constitution'sstringent ban against aid to church-relatedschools.In a 10-to-5 vote, the Board of Regents calledon the Convention to soften the impact of ArticleXI, Section 3 of the constitution.That article rules that state funds cannot beused "directly or indirectly" to aid schools affiliatedwith a rehgious body.Aid to church-related schools has raised somecontroversy here. The constitution's Article XI,Section 3 is known as the "Blaine Amendment" inNew York State. Proponents of a change in the lawto permit some aid to parochial schools have claimedthat a majority of Convention delegates supportssuch a move.HAND-WRITTEN BIBLE ON DISPLAYIN OTTAWAThe project of a Pentecostal pastor is on displayat the Canadian Centennial in the nationalcapital at Ottawa, Ontario, in the form of a 48-pound handwritten Bible.Prime Minister Lester Pearson, leader of thegoverning Liberal Party, in writing his verse selected:"God be merciful unto us and bless us; andcause His face to shine upon us" — Psalm 67.Conservative Opposition leader John Diefenseepage 34 COVENANTER WITNESS

MISSION CONFERENCEWould that every member of the church couldhave been "tuned in" for the mission conference. Theemphasis was on items for prayer in this conferencethat convened in the college chapel at 3:00 p.m.Sabbath. Rev. Robert Henning, CorrespondingSecretary of the Foreign Mission Board, presided.CYPRUSDr. W. W. Weir, recently returned from a threeweekvisit to Cyprus, told of attending a Bible studyin the village of Ormedia. Mr. Kyriacos Kattou, a1967 graduate of the American Academy in Larnaca,was the leader. "We want to get a place of worshipin this httle village," he declared. Mr. Constantinouis also a member of the Reformed PresbyterianChurch in Cyprus and shares in this vision. Prayfor the work in this village. Kyriacos hopes to preparefor full-time Christian service. A study planwas suggested to him. Pray that he may be a realworker and leader in the church there and thatnothing will turn him aside.The door in Cyprus is still open and wider thanin years gone by. Nearly 900 students received dailyBible instruction in our schools in Cyprus. Mr. Weirwas granted an interview with President Makarios,in which Mr. Weir said, I want to thank you forpermitting our schools to function normally.""We are a democracy," rephed PresidentMakarios.Pray that the doors in Cyprus may remain open.The Bishop has given his approval on the sale ofBibles in the modern Greek.Pray for the six young people who have offeredtheir services in the Christian Corps for Cyprus, andfor our workers already on the field.ETHIOPIARev. J. Renwick Wright of Northern Irelandsaid that the Irish Church was relying on thepromise of Psalm 68:31, "Ethiopia shall soon stretchout her hands unto God," in their mission in Ethiopia.In Sheket they have a clinic, a school, and twohomes for missionaries. At the clinic a tape recordergives the message of Christ all day long as patientswait their turn to see Miss Norma Gill, R.N. Becausethey have no missionary doctor, she must do manythings beyond her training as a nurse.In the school Miss Henrietta Gardner, MissPhyllis Gilmore, and a native teach youth by dayand adults at night. Some of the Danikils, a neighboringrobber tribe, are corning to be taught. TheAmharic, official language of Ethiopia, is used inthe school. Twelve farm famihes each year come tohve in huts around the mission to learn better waysof agriculture.A granddaughter of Emperor Haile Selassie iswife of the governor of the Tigre province. She issympathetic to the cause, and she and her husbandare doing everything possible to further the work ofthe mission.The mission is seeking a medical doctor andanother married couple to reinforce the work. Americanvolunteers would be welcomed.JAPANRev. James Pennington of the San Diego congregationcited the going of Dr. and Mrs. Sakai of theHigashi Suma Church to Indonesia for a three-yearterm as a sign of a maturing church in Japan.Missionary societies have been formed in each ofthe three congregations in Kobe to support the workcf the Sakais, spiritually and financially. Indonesiais a land of 120 million people. Thank God for theChristian dedication of Dr. and Mrs. Sakai.Thank God for leadership of the quality ofPastor Masunaga and Elder Nitta. Thank God forthose who are inquiring about the Way of Life andare persisting in the study of the Bible.Evidences of a needy church are a call to prayer.Leaders of the church and the missionaries are overworkedand are laboring under heavy burdens. Upholdthem in prayer. A volume of prayer has ascendedfor those physically sick and this has been muchappreciated. But there are other needs that godeeper than the physical ones. "Japan is a strongholdof Satan, and he will not let go." ConsiderEphesians 6:12,13,18,19: "For we wrestle notagainst flesh and blood . . . ."CHURCH EXTENSIONRev. Donald Weilersbacher, pastor of the Southfieldcongregation stated that between the years of1955-60 not a new congregation was organized.Between 1961 and 1967, four new congregationswere organized, six were relocated, and eight had toenlarge their facilities.There is no conflict in beheving in the Reformedfaith and in evangehsm. In Marion, Iowa there arenow 23 communicant members and 21 baptizedones. In the Parnassus-Manchester congregation in1956 there were 44 members and in 1967, 70members.JULY 3, 1967 5

The length of time required to establish a newcongregation has been shortened as we gain experience.There is no substitute for hard work in churchextension and it is not the work of any one person.Many who have been received into the congregationsare now assuming places of leadership. ThankGod for these encouragements.Rev Richard Olson reported that the BrightonMission has now been organized into a congregationof 16 communicant members. Pray that theworkers here may have fruitful visitation in theirarea. Mr. Olson said that each congregation shouldbe able to start another congregation.Elder Harold Faris said that they were verythankful for the help of the Board of Home Missionsand Church Extension in the Lawrence, Kansasproject. Rev. Marion L. McFarland will be settlingthere, July 1, in a recently purchased parsonagenear the K. U. campus.To be continuedFrom JapanGreetings from Japan to the Saints and Faithfulin the U. S., Canada, and Cyprus:To be a bit different, today shall we play alittle quiz game? The answers will come easy foryou, no doubt. However, if you don't know theanswers and would hke to know, by request, I'llsend the answers via picture post card.1. Which missionary couple is on medical leave?2. All of the and need yoursupport and intercession.3. Was it from the Japan or Cyprus field newsthat prayer was requested for an eight-year-old boywho was to have leg surgery in hopes that he wouldbe able to walk properly?4. For what were your prayers needed concerningthe dates, May 12 and 13?5. Your prayers were requested for what concerningthe Foreign Mission Board?A. (Requested from Japan field)B. (Requested by Foreign Mission Board,concerning Japan)6. In March you were asked to pray for a newChristian home as well as for those who are seekingGod's will for their future home. What is the nameof the couple establishing a new home? . .7. What member of the Higashi Suma congregationis now a missionary, and to what countryhave he, his wife, and son gone to serve?8. You are to continue to pray for Japanesepastors andWe continue to praise the Lord for continuingto send good attendance for our worship serviceshere in Okamoto. Your prayers have been a help inthis work. Continue your prayers for the inquirerswho come to these services and the Bible classes.Special prayer is asked for the five from theOkamoto Church who are preparing for baptism andchurch membership.We are grateful to you for prayer in behalf ofthe special evangehstic services held this spring,both here in Okamoto and at Kasumigaoka(Tarumi). All the services were well attended. Maythe seed sown sprout and grow.What's being pubhshed? Recently the tract,"Surrender to Evolution: Inevitable or Inexcusable,"by Johannes G. Vos was translated into Japaneseby the Rev. Toshio Masunaga. This tract is now offthe press. Pray that it may be widely distributed andread. At the printers now is a tract concerningJehovah's Witnesses. This is a translation of thearticle which appeared in the Covenanter Witnesswithin the past year. The Rev. Mr. Musunaga alsodid the translation of this. We are very grateful tohim and praise the Lord for giving to him a keenmind which is being used to the glory of the Lord.We expect to have published in time to be used forChristmas programs, "Christ in the Psalms." Prayfor leadership as we seek a good publisher to do thisfor us.Preparations are now being made for VBS atthe three churches. The dates are for early in August.Join with us as we pray that children will beprepared in advance by the Holy Spirit, so they willprofit from the lessons. Pray also for the teachersand helpers that they will have the leadership ofthe Holy Spirit in preparing the lessons.The annual young people's conference will beAugust 14 and 15. Although you may be unable toattend in person, plan now to attend in spirit. Eachyear a different church young people's group has theplanning responsibilities. These include both findinga suitable location and arranging the program. This6 COVENANTER WITNESS

year Mr. Kato of the Kasumigaoka Church has themain responsibihty. He and all working with himwould surely appreciate your prayers as all thedetails are worked out for this.Our three churches have recently collected fivelarge boxes of clothing and other articles for theIndonesian mission where our Dr. and Mrs. Sakaiare serving. Both members and inquirers showed akeen interest in this project, and all helped.This spring one of my students from the KobePharmaceutical College where I teach weekly,brought to my home one of the first year students.This student was very depressed and discouraged.She had entered school looking for something whichwould satisfy and give a purpose in life. This wasnot found. She says she is looking for somethingbut doesn't know what the something is if asked.True satisfaction, I told her, comes only in a personalrelationship with Christ. He also will give herpurpose in life. Her violin has been the most importantthing for her, but since coming to schoolshe has been unable to play it. I have offered herthe use of my home for playing it.I started this girl on a Bible study. At first,because she doesn't like to study, she didn't care forthis. Now, however, she has told me that she likesto study the Bible. She has also promised to come tochurch with me on this coming Sabbath. Be muchin prayer for this young girl,Miss Morihara. Apparentlyshe has for some time taken many pills forsleeping. During our last talk she said that aftertalking with me she can relax, and on those nightsdoesn't need pills. On other nights she is takingless and less. I too need your prayer support for thewisdom of the Lord as I counsel with this girl.In the May 3rd issue of the Covenanter Witnessthere appeared a missionary roster. The addresseslisted for Miss Lynn and Miss Everett were in error.It would be much easier for you to remember curbusiness address which remains constant. Thosewho write frequently do keep up with our changes.Therefore, in your "Minutes of Synod" and WMShand book make these notes:Miss Orlena Lynn Miss Oreta EverettP. O. Box 822 P. O. Box 589Kobe Port, Japan Kobe Port, JapanNow in behalf of the entire staff, "Peace be toyou."For the glory of Christ Jesus,Oreta EverettSTATEMENT ON CHRISTIAN HUMANITARIANCONCERNWORLD RELIEF COMMISSION, Inc.of the National Association of Evangelicalsapproved by N. A. E.Our Lord Jesus Christ, by example and teaching,made clear the Christian imperative to extend thehand of compassion to persons in temporal andphysical need.In obedience to their Head, evangehcal Christiansever have made humanitarian concern anintegral part of their witness of the Gospel of JesusChrist to all mankind, bringing healing and help inlove and with the Word of salvation both at homeand abroad.The National Association of Evangehcals, consciousof the humanitarian imperative accompanyingChristian commitment, aware that the evangelistictask is executed within a sociological context,and sensitized to human misery and physical need,expresses its determination to be involved in a ministryto the whole man with the whole gospel.We beheve it is an integral part of our faith andstewardship, that we express our Christian concernwherever we can in gracious and effective acts ofhelp to the needy.We resolve to press forward in an expandedprogram dedicated to the alleviation of sufferingand want in the name of Christ.To this end we especially recognize and commendto the churches the work of the World RehefCommission of the National Association of Evangelicals,and its vital ministry of compassion athome and abroad.CHINESE CHRISTIANSAND THE WRITTEN WORDThe Presbyterian Journal reports that one ofprograms aired from radio station KSBU, in HongKong, is the reading of treasured portions of theScriptures at diction speed. The deliberately slowreading enables listeners to copy down the portionsread.- The program is aired eight times per week underthe auspices of the Far East Broadcasting Companyand is beamed to Communist China, wherethere have been wholesale burnings of Bibles.Daniel Webster, when asked what was thegreatest thought that had ever entered his mind,rephed: "My accountability to Almighty God.—Selected.JULY 5, 1967 7

MINN O WA.£*£ff/cConfem< Sr. LAW/fEfJnjrNAME: PACIFIC COASTTHEME: "INVOLVED WITH CHRIST — AT WHATLEVEL?"PLACE: PRESCOTT, ARIZONATIME: AUG. 12-19CONTACT: Rev. Bruce Stewart, 5139 Argus DriveLos Angeles, Calif. 900412.NAME: COVENANT HEIGHTSTHEME: "GOD'S COVENANTS"PLACE: ESTES PARK, COLORADOTIME: JULY 17-23CONTACT: Mr. Kenneth Meeker, 1832 S. UticaDenver, Colo. 80219NAME: MINNOWATHEME: "SUPERSAPLACE: ELDORA,101TIME: AUG. 14-21CONTACT: Rev. RotIowa 52640NAME: FOREST PARKTHEME: "DAILY DOGMA"PLACE: TOPEKA, KANSASTIME: AUG. 14-21CONTACT: Mr. Darrell Parnell, 1633 Wayne,Topeka, Kansas 666148 COVENANTER WITNESS

j- 19678.S.7.NAME: ST. LAWRENCE FAMILY CONF.THEME: "VICTORIOUS LIFE"PLACE: LISBON, N. Y.TIME: SEPT. 1-4CONTACT: Mr. Paul Fields, R. D. 1, Ogdensburg,New York8.NAME: WHITE LAKETHEME: "ADVANCING STILL"PLACE: WHITE LAKE, N. Y.TIME: AUG. 25- SEPT. 4CONTACT: Rev. J. Paul McCracken, 106 Antrim St.Cambridge, Mass. 02139ED WITH CHRIST"lorrow, Morning Sun,NAME: PENN-O-COVETHEME: "RUN FOR YOUR LIFE"PLACE: CANFIELD, OHIOTIME: AUG. 14-21CONTACT: Mr. Bill Hemphill, 412 30th St.Beaver Falls, Pa. 15010NAME: COVFAMIKOITHEME: "THE JUST SHALL LIVE BY FAITH"PLACE: LOOKOUT MOUNTAIN, TENN.TIME: AUG. 11-18CONTACT: Miss Arlene Wetzel, Covenant College,Lookout Mountain, Tenn.JULY 5, 1967

A PAGE FOR JUNIORSlike to hear more about the God wholoves people."As the sun started to go down,Tanaka met an old woman leadingher cow home from the pasture. Shesaid, "Sensei (teacher), you can cometo my home tonight." Jiro ran home,happy that Tanaka would not have tosleep out-of-doors.Little by little the people lost theirsuspicion of Tanaka. No one objectedPlease Come Again, Sensei when he invited the children to thehillside for meetings.JLo sat on the front row so hecould hear and see everything. Tanakashowed pictures of the Lord Jesuswhen He lived on the earth. He taughtthe children Bible verses. Jiro's favoritewas this one: "Believe on theLo-d Jesus Christ, and thou shalt beA True Story of Japansaved."One day, just as the sun was setting,Tanaka saw Jiro herding hisgrandfather's two cows along the road.As he walked, Jiro said over and overin a loud voice, "Believe on the LordJesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved."This made Tanaka very happy. AndJiro watched the fishing boat as it stranger. "I am a student from Tokyo.he wasn't surprised when; just a fewchugged up to the dock. He was breathlessfrom running down the steep path true God who created the heavens andI have been studying about the onedays later, Jiro prayed, "Lord Jesus, 1 '-do believe that You took the punishmentfor my sins, and I thank You forfrom his hut to the seashore. This was the earth. I want to give each of you aan exciting day! It had been many piece of paper which will tell youloving me and dying for me."months since a boat had come to the about God who loves you and wants toEach day Tanaka would give outlonely island near Japan which was live with you."the papers that were in his bundles.his home.Tanaka took a black book fromNow old people were happy to receive"Maybe Mother and Father are on his pocket and began to read, "Forthem. Over and over they read thesethe boat," he thought hopefully. Like God so loved the world, that he gavepapers telling about God's love. In fact,many children on the island, nineyear-oldJiro lived with his grand­Before he could finish, the menhis only begotten son . . ."they read them so many times thatthe pape;s began to wear out. By thatparents. His mother and father worked began to talk excitedly:time, it didn't matter because they hadin a factory in Tokyo, the largest city "That is not a true book! We knowthe words in their hearts.in Japan.that the gods do not love us. That isFinally, the day came that Jiro hadAs the fishermen and passengers why we make offerings to them. Don'tbeen dreading. Tanaka's vacation wasclimbed onto the dock, Jiro sighed, talk to us about this foolishness!"over and he had to return to Bible'They didn't come."Jiro wished that the old men wouldschool. The children all gathered closeBut the next moment his disappointmentwas turned to curiosity. A Tanaka picked up his bundles and be­speak more kindly to the young man.to the boat. Many of the older peoplewere there, too. As the boat started tostrange man was walking off the dock. gan to walk slowly toward the housesmove away, one of the grandmothersHe wasn't a fisherman, but he was on the hillside. The children followedwaved her hand and called, "Jesusyoung like Jiro's father. He was carryingseveral heavy bundles.The news about the strange younga short distance behind.died for me!"Jiro and the other children wadedOther children and a few old men man soon spread among the 400 peopleon the island. Wherever he went toout into the sea as far as they dared.began to gather around the stranger.They kept calling Tanaka as long asJiro drew closer, too.ask for a place to stay, he was refused.he could hear them, "Sensei, please"Who are you? Why are you cominghere?" the old men asked.sent away from a home. "I like Ta­Jiro was sad each time Tanaka wascome again next year!"—Adapted from story by Ruth Smith."My name is Tanaka," said the naka," he said to himself. "I wouldMissionary Broadcaster10 COVENANTER WITNESS

| Lesson HelpsiSabbath SchoolLessonfor July 30, 1967.RESPONSES TO THE GOSPEL:Acts 16:11-40.Comments by John K. GaultOn the first Sabbath after Paul,Silas, Luke, and Timothy arrived inPhilippi, as Luke says in verse 13,"we went forth without the gate bya river side, where we supposed thatwas a place of prayer." (R. V.) "Andwe sat down, and spake unto thewomen which resorted thither." Evenin that day, it would seem, thatwomen were more inclined towardreligion than men. These women wereprobably Jewish women or Jewishproselytes. Paul and his company werenot ones to neglect an opportunityto meet with people who were worshippelsof the true God. Paul and hiscompanions addressed this group ofwomen and the response to theirappeal for Christ was not long incoming.1: Lydia Was the First to Respondto the Gospel Offer in Philippi.This woman was "a seller of purple,of the city of Thyatira." Thiscity was not in Macedonia but wasin the province of Lydia in AsiaMinor. Some think that Lydia wasnot the woman's real name, but thatsince she was from the province ofLydia, people spoke of her as "theLydian," so she was identified by thename of the locality from which shecame. The city of Thyatira was famousfor its dyeing industry, especially apurple dye made from the madderfor the Week of July 30, 1967Gospel, Whose Heart the Lord Opens.This was Lydia's experience. TheLord opened her heart so "that sheattended unto the things which werespoken of Paul." Sin has closed thehearts of people and they cannotopen them in their own strength.But God through His wonderful graceopens the closed hearts with the resultthat those people become attentiveto the preaching of the Gospel.We learn, therefore, from this lessonthat salvation originates with God.He opens the hearts of some but notall. Paul says in Romans 9:18, "Thereforehath he mercy on whom he willhave mercy, and whom he will hehardeneth."in much money for her evil masters,3: Lydia's Response Led to the Baptismof Herself and of her Household.Baptism was considered essentialif one was responsible and had theopportunity. Jesus had commissionedHis disciple to baptize in the name ofthe Father, and of the Son, and of theHoly Ghost. It was universally practicedin the early church and thusit comes down to us with divine authority.It is a symbolic expression of thecleansing of the heart by the HolySoi.it.Not only was Lydia baptized herselfbut her children were baptized.She evidently was responsible forthem. This gives to us the authorityfor infant baptism. Parents are responsiblefor the spiritual wellbeingof their minor children. Baptism,thereto e, is to be administeied tomembers of the church upon theirconfession of Christ and "the infantsof such as are members are to bebaptized."root. It was also famous for its trade4: Lydia's Response Led Her to beguild of which the dyers and the coppersmiths were the strongest. SomeHospitable.She said to Paul and his companions,"If ye have judged me to beof these trade guilds were associatedwith immoral practices; consequently,faithful to the Lord, come into mythe church in Thyatira prohibitedhouse and abide there. And she constrainedus." By entertaining theits members from belonging to a tradeguild. Lydia was a business womanmissionaries in her home she wouldwho lived in Philippi but she representedthe dyers of Thyatira.be able to learn more about Christand His resurrection from the dead.2: Those Respond Favo-ably to the Paul and his companions had donejmuch for her; consequently, she decidedto do what she could for themby ministering to their physical needs.Christian hospitality is certainly agrace which should be practiced inevery church which claims to be Christian.5: The Fortune-telling Slave Girlthe Second One Converted in Philippi.This girl was very different fromLydia. She was not in business forherself but was a slave and could notcall her life her own. It says in verse 16that she "was possessed with thespirit of divination" and "broughther masters much gain by soothsaying."It is not strange that she broughtbecause the people of that day werevery superstitious, as heathen peopleusually are. This girl followed Pauland his company through the streetsof the city and gave them unsolicited.announcements by shouting, "Thesemen are the servants of the mosthigh God, which show unto us the wayof salvation." After putting up withthis for "many days" Paul's patiencewith her was exhausted and he commandedthe evil spirit to come out ofher, "in the name of Jesus Christ.''The evil spirit of divination came outof the young girl and she was nolonger a means of making money forher mercenary masters. This slavegirl had no power to make up herown mind, for she was under thecomplete control of the men who weremaking money with her.6: The Response of Many Has BeenOne of Opposition.Christianity has often interferedwith the gaining of wealth. In theworld today many are engaged inthe business of alcoholism, a businesswhich causes untold suffering on thepart of its addicts. The owners ofthis slave-girl, "saw that the hope oftheir gains was gone." The conversionof the girl put a stop to her fortunetelling.As a result the users of thisgirl immediately rose up to violentlyoppose Paul and his companions. Theyforced them before the magistratesJULY 5, 196711

with a trumped-up charge saying,"These men being Jews, do exceedinglytrouble our city, and teach customs,which are not lawful for us to receive,neither to observe, being Romans."Paul and Silas were stripped, beaten,and then thrown into prison with their"feet made fast in the stocks." Thistreatment would naturally cause Pauland Silas much suffering and it wouldbe impossible for them to sleep undersuch circumstances, so they "prayedand sang praises unto God: and theprisoners heard them." True Christianitytakes the money out of manywicked activities; consequently, thereis violent opposition. Jesus said inJohn 3:19,20, "And this is the condemnation,that light is come into theworld, and men loved darkness ratherthan light, because their deeds wereevil. For every one that doeth evilhateth the light, neither cometh tothe light, lest his deeds should bereproved."7: The Response of the Jailer Markedthe Third Conversion in the City ofPhilippi.The circumstances of his conversionare related in this lesson. Pauland Silas were in prison with theirfeet fast in the stocks. They prayedand sang psalms at midnight and afterthat there was a "great earthquake"so that the foundations of the prisonwere shaken: and immediately all thedoors were opened, and every one'sbands were loosed." The head jailerwas awakened out of his sleep andseeing the doors open, he drew hissword and was about to kill himself,"supposing that the prisoners hadfled." Paul called to him, "Do thyselfno harm: for we are all here." Thejailer then called for a light and camein "trembling, and fell down beforePaul and Silas, and brought them outand said, Sirs, what must I do to besaved?" It is very probable that thejailer had heard Paul and Silas speakbefore this. He may have seen thetransformation in the life of the slavegirl.They said to him, when he hadbrought them out of the prison, "Believeon the Lord Jesus Christ andthou shalt be saved, and thy house."They also "spake unto him the wordof the Lord, and to all that were inthe house." After this the jailer washedtheir wounds, was baptized withit was a "picture" of our union withChrist. The Lord's Supper is also"a bond and pledge" of the unionand communion shared by true believerswith Christ (the head) and witheach other (members of His body).Through this sacrament, believers canreceive assurance of the fact they havebecome members of a new race inChrist. This is a blessed fellowshipbecause of our union with Christ.The Lord's Supper is a sacramentinstituted by Christ on the night Hewas betrayed. It is to be observed inHis Church until the end of the world.It is given for a remembrance of Hissacrifice, brings benefits to believersfor their spiritual growth, it is apledge in all they owe Christ and asign of communion with Him and eachother as members.At the Communion season most ofyou juniors cannot take an actualpart yet, but you can watch withreverence and love for Christ andgain a great blessing if you learnmore about it.As baptism was to replace circumcisionin the Old Testament, so theLord's Supper was to replace thefeast of the Passover. Christ was to bethe Passover Lamb to take away oursins and to keep away the angel ofdeath. Here is the story of the Passover.the other members of his family, set(Part of story quoted fromfood before them and rejoiced "be­"Taught of the Lord" by Mrs. Anna12 COVENANTER WITNESSlieving in God with all his house."This was truly a wonderful responseto the Gospel.Paul and Silas were given theirfreedom as a result of this responseof the jailer. In the morning themagistrates sent an order to let themgo. Paul and Silas refused to leaveuntil the magistrates had come themselvesand besought them to leave."Lesson based on International SundaySchool Lessons: the International Bible Lessonsfor Christian Teaching, copyrighted 1963by the Divkion of Christian Education, NationalCouncil of Churches of ChrUt in theU.SA."Junior TopicOUR PUBLIC WORSHIPAND SACRAMENTSfor July 30, 1967THE LORD'S SUPPER,A SACRAMENTby Mrs. John RussellIn our study of Baptism, we sawMcKelvy) The night before Godbrought the Israelites out of Egypt,He asked them to place the blood ofa slain lamb upon the two side postsand upper door post of the house.They were to eat the roasted lamband bread in haste, ready to flee thatland of sin. At midnight the Lordpassed through the land of Egypt andsmote all firstborn, man and beast,all except those who were in thehouses where the blood was. He passedover them and they had life. Godcommanded the Jews to observe thisfeast yearly and tell their childrenhow because of the blood of the lamb,His people were saved. Years later,the boy Jesus was told this story andwhen He was 12, He, too, took partin the feast at Jerusalem. But thenight before He was betrayed, Hegathered His twelve disciples for thisfeast in the upper room for the lasttime. The old Passover would be doneaway, for the next day Jesus, Himself,the Lamb of God, would be slain onthe cross and His precious Moodwould cleanse the hearts of His childrenso that they would have everlastinglife. This new feast was tobe called the Lord's Supper.What is the real meaning of theLord's Supper? The death of JesusChrist is showed forth where He diedfor the sins of His people. He wasour "substitute," paying the price forsin and bringing us back to God. Thepurpose of the Lord's Supper, forthose who rightly partake of it, is tostrengthen, encourage, and spirituallybuild up Christians along the wholeline of their faith, life, and work.The right use of the Lord's Supperencourages and builds up the Christianin relation to his Saviour, to hisGod, and in relation and love of fellowbelievers. The Lord's Supper pointsforwajrd to the second coming ofChrist. "For as oft as ye eat thisbread, and drink this cup, ye do showthe Lord's death till He come" (I Cor.11:26). We look both backward toCalvary's cross and forward to theLast Day.The record of the institution of theLord's Supper is found in the NewTestament in three gospels and oneepistle of Paul. (Matt. 26:26-29, Mark14:22-25, Luke 22:17-20, I Cor. 11:23-26)Christ appointed the ministers of HisWord to administer the Lord's Supperand it is important that it be done asChrist did it.

There are two elements used in theLord's Supper — the bread and thefruit of the vine. The bread is asymbol to represent Christ's body; thefruit of the vine His blood. Together,they represent His human naturewhich He took when He "was madeflesh, and dwelt among us" (Jn. 1:14)by being born as a child in Bethlehem.The sacramental actions involvedin the Lord's Supper are important.There are six actions — four of themperfomed by Jesus and two by thedisciples or believers today. These sixactions, taken in their true meaning,act out what Christ has done (Hisatonement) and a sinner's receivingHim by faith.Meaning of sacramental actionsA. Performed by Jesus and ministersin His name today:1. Took bread and cup — Hetook a human nature when borninto world.2. Blessed, or gave thanks, forbread and fruit of the vine,setting them apart for a specialpurpose. Christ was set apart asa Redeemer.3. Broke bread — His brokenbody on the cross.4. Gave bread and fruit of thevine to disciples. The gift ofChrist to sinful men. John 3:16B. Performed by disciples and communicantstoday1. Took bread and the cup —Taking Jesus as Saviour by believing.2. Ate bread and drank the fruitof the vine — Our dependenceon Christ for spiritual life andgrouth.Our churches have special Communionseasons with services beforethe Lord's Supper in preparation. "Itis required of them that would worthilypartake of the Lord's Supper, thatthey examine themselves, of theirknowledge to discern the Lord's body,of their faith to feed upon Him, oftheir repentance, love, and new obedience;lest coming unworthily, theyeat and drink judgment to themselves."(Catechism) When we becomecommunicant members and have thepreparation of our hearts and fail totake part in the sacraments, we robourselves of blessing and harm thebody of Christ.This closes the Unit on worship,but as we all worship regularly inGod's house, maj- we have a deeperreverence and love for God than before.TO LEADER —1. Catechism questions — 21, 962. Sing Ps. 118, p. 285, vv. 14-18;Ps. 19, p. 42, vv. 5,6,9; Ps. 24, p. 54,w. 2,3,5; Ps. 72, p. 175, w. 10-12.3. Worship Verse — I Cor. 11:26(Put in notebook)4. Worship Notebook — a) Labelwith picture of long table or picture of"The Last Supper." b) Copy in notebook"Meaning of sacramental actions"listed above, c) Write down referenceI Cor. 11:23-29. Make a reminder toself to read this and think about itbefore each Communion. Read in meetingand talk about it.5. Handwork — Add Hard-ship tofleet of ships. All must journey thisone. II Tim. 2:3; Matt. 24:13. AddBattle-ship, carrying soldiers of cross.To Christian Soldier add — loin cloth— truth, shoes — gospel of peace,and shield — faith.Be not forgetful to entertainstrangers: for thereby some have entertainedangels unawares.Hebrews 13:2.Prayer MeetingTopicfor August 2, 1967"THE FEAR OF THE LORD."Proverbs 1:7Rev. M. K. CarsonPsalms 111:1,2,8,9, page 276; 19:5,6,9, page 42; 2:1,7,9, page 4.References; — Proverbs 3:13-18;I Kings 4:31-32; James 1:5; Job 28:12-14, 28; James 3:17-18; Psalm 19:38; IISamuel 23:3; I Cor. 1:30; Eccl. 12:12-13.This month the subjects are fromthe book of Proverbs. The five poeticalbooks are Job, Psalms, Proverbs,Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon.Proverbs has been called the book of"practical godliness." Some have endeavoredto develop both aspects oftheir Christian life by reading inProverbs for the practical conduct oflife and in the Psalms for their devotions.Men have tried to write some provveibsbut have failed to produce anythingequal to the wisdom in this book,see page 15Considering YourselfThe sudden blast of an automobile horn called the pedestrian's attention towhat was happening across the street. A car was part way out of a parking lotand another car in the street was backing to make a turn into an alley. The honkof the horn was to warn the driver of the car that was backing to watch whatwas behind him! The other car may have been in his blind spot and there couldeasily have been a minor collision. Meantime the attention of the pedestrian wasso concentrated on the scene across the street that he walked into the intersectionwith the alley blissfully unaware of the car that was coming down it to thestreet. Seeing it, he sprang back, but the car had stopped and the driver said, "Ihad my eye on you." He could only reply weakly, "I was looking in the wrongdirection."In connection with a lesson in driving, the question was asked whether ornot a person seeing a possibly dangerous situation developing should keep hiseyes fixed on the potential danger. The answer given was that he should not, forif he concentrated on the possible hazard something else might occur to createanother crisis for which he would not be prepared. Therefore he should keepaware of the danger but at the same time be alert to everything else that wasgoing on and not become involved in an accident caused by his temporary inattentionto the whole task of driving.When we watch the sins of others we may stumble ourselves. It is very easy,and quite human, to concentrate on the mistake of someone else and walk rightinto a worse situation ourselves. As it is never safe when driving to think toomuch about the error another driver has made, or when walking either, we seethe infinite wisdom behind Galatians 6:1. After writing, "Brethren, if a man beovertaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit ofmeekness," Paul, in the wisdom given him by the Holy Spirit, added the words,"Considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted."JULY 5, 1967 13

WRECK CREATIONWe won't do that, but recreationIS important at Covenant HeightsBible Camp. It will follow talks byRev. Willard McMillan, Rev. JackWhite and Rev. Ken Smith. They willbe dealing with the Covenants of God'sWord, each morning, July 17 through23 at the camp seven miles south ofEstes Park, Colorado. We'll see youthere. (DV.)CAMP COVFAMIKOISome one has said, "It's half wayto heaven!" It's held in a formerresort hotel, caller "Castle in theClouds." It's built and decorated tosuit Covenanters whose spiritual rootsare in the courage of the Scotch Highlanderswho fought and died forChrist so many years ago. See RubyFalls and Rock City in your leisuretime, August 11-18. Play golf or tennis,or swim in the luxurious pool. Thebuilding, now a college, is a convenientplace for a conference which isall under one roof. No hiking a mileto breakfast. For information write toMrs. Jane Simon, 324 E. Livingston,Orlando, Fla., 32801.NOTICESubscriptions are due from thesecongregations and groups, August 1,1967:Allegheny, Almonte, Clarinda,Eskridge, Hebron, Hopkinton, LaJunta, Montclair, Morning Sun, NewYork, Olathe, Quinter, Santa Ana,Selma, Sterling, Superior-Beulah,Third Philadelphia.NEW ADDRESSHutcheson, T. M., Jr. OCUI2, U.S.N.R.Section N-710NAVOCSU. S. NAVBASENewport, Rhode Island 02844THANKSWe wish to acknowledge the debtof gratitude we owe to the AmericanChurch for the wonderful kindnessshown to us during the past year. Itwas a joy to serve the Church in theSeminary, to worship in different14congregations, and to be entertained inso many homes. We have learned tolove you in the Lord, and we thankGod upon every remembrance of you.Adam and Evelyn LoughridgeCAMBRIDGEThe highlight of the month of Mayfor the Cambridge cong.egaiion wasthe observance of the Lord's Supperon May 21, 1967. We were privilegedto have Rev. Adam Loughridge (Seminaryprofessor from Ireland) as ourcommunion assistant. He and Rev. J.Paul McCracken very ably led us toa meaningful Lord's Supper. We werealso pleased that Mrs. Loughridge wasable to accompany her husband toCambridge. Following the Fridayevening service a reception sponsoredby the young people was held in honorof Professor and Mrs. Loughridge.Also at this communion, the congregationwelcomed into its membership,by profession of faith, Williamand Kenneth Pihl. We thank God forthe public profession made by theseyoung men.Miss Laurie Wilson was surprisedwith a bridal shower at the manse onMay 27. A delightful time was had byall who attended.DR. NORMAN CARSON TO TEACHIN YOUNG LIFE INSTITUTED.\ Norman M. Carson, Professorof English at Geneva College, hasbeen appointed instructor for the 1967Summer program of Young Life Institute,Colorado Springs, Colorado.Young Life Institute is a uniquesummer training school for collegegraduates, specializing in instructionfor lay leadership in the ChristianChurch. The Institute was opened inthe summer of 1954 by James Rayburn,the son of a Presbyterian minister. Itis chartered by the State of Coloradoand empowered to grant a Master ofArts degree.The curriculum of the school isbuilt around a core of theologicalstudies after the analogy of a theologicalseminary. The purpose of thesestudies is to broaden the intellectualand spiritual horizons of the student.Dr. Caison will teach a course in"Great Christian Literature" duringthe second semester — July 24-August18. The course will consist of a studyof Christian classics from St. Augustineto T. S. Eliot, with special attentionto the relationship betweentheology and literature.Dr. Carson, who will be a newinstructor at the Institute, is a 1947graduate of Geneva College. He receivedhis M.A. degree from the StateUniversity of Iowa, in 1949, and hisPH.D. degree in 1962 from BostonUniversity.Dr. Carson currently serves asInternational Moderator for the EasternDivision of Lambda Iota Tau,international honorary fraternity forstudents of literature.IN APPRECIATIONOn Wednesday evening, May 24,we went to prayer meeting with someidea of the topic for discussion andprayer, only to find a much largerg.oup than usual with one word ontheir lips: "Surprise!" It was just that,and through the remainder of theevening, we were reminded again andagain of God's abundant grace uponus in the past 25 years of our lifetogether. Miss Margaret Allen readcarefully chosen Scripture passages,Dr. J. O. Edgar led in prayer; andthe congregational chairman, Mr.Elliott Young, made a gracious andamusing presentation of a beautifulgift of a silver compote bowl andcandlesticks which completely took ourbreath away. Having studied a differenttopic for the evening, we werespeechless, but nonetheless appreciativeof the gift. Added to this wastime of reminiscing about our 25 years,and refreshments served from a verypretty table centered with an anniversarycake that was also presented tous. To the congregation, the committees,and all our friends, we want tosay thank you; and above all, we aregrateful to God for allowing us toserve Him in this field and to enjoythe fellowship of Christian friendsand loved ones.Melville and Marian MartinAllegheny CongregationA DOCTOR SPEAKS OUTON CIGARETTE ADSOne of the most effective "Lettersto the Editor" appeared recently inThe Washington Post on the swbjectCOVENANTER WITNESS

of cigarette advertising.The doctor writes:"I was relieved to see that SenatorWarren G. Magnuson (D-Wash.) isdemanding some curbs on cigaretteadvertising.""How many people realize thatlung cancer is now of epidemic proportionsentirely self-inflicted by cigarettesmoking? (National AdvisoryCommitte on Cancer 1966.) Howmany people realize that emphysemahas increased 1000 percent (ten fold)from 1950 to 1964 due to cigarettesmoking?""The lag between the facts andpublic action is unbelievable. Howlong is the public going to continueto r?tionalize in the face of suchoverpowering statistical evidence? Itis true that in complicated biologicphenomena such as congenital anomobiesand cancer one can't talk interms of simple cause and effect.However, the statistical correlationbetween lung cancer, emphysema andsmoking is about the same as betweenthalidomide and phocomelia (absenceor shortening of limbs) yet publicaction against thalidomide came swiftlyby comparison, partially because ofthe temporal compression of events,but also because there wasn't a stronglobby obstructing legislative action.""I propose that we quit assuagingbook conforms more closely to thelanguage of the child; new maps andpictures have been prepared especiallyfor this edition. The page sizehas been enlarged somewhat making athinner book and the type has beenset in two columns making the linesshorter.The improvements are in format,and these improvements are real, butthe content has not been altered. Itis still the warm, orthodox, Biblicalpresentation that has blessed thehearts of children for the past thirtyyears. We know no finer children'sBible story book.—Episcopal RecorderPRAYER MEETING TOPICFrom page 13because Scripture is inspired. It hasbeen said that in Proverbs may befound the right answer for everypioblem in life. Since a proverb hasbeen defined as "Divine Wisdom appliedto earthly conditions of thepeople of God," it will be helpful forus to study this extremely practicalbook for guidance in our daily living,for "He shall diiect thy paths." (Proverbs3:5-6) We are in constant needof direction and here is God's promise.In this verse a choice is set beforeus. Fools despise knowledge and instruction,but the beginning of knowledgeis found in the fear of the Lord.This fear w?s one of the lovely gracesin the perfect humanity of our LordJesus Christ. (Isaiah 11:2) This expression"the fear of the Lord" isfound time and again in the Word ofGod. Let us look for its personalmessage and apply the truth to ourown hearts."A fool hath no delight in understanding."(Proverbs 18:2; Psalm 14:1)Second, What blessing do we receivewhen we fear the Lord?" For ananswe. to this question let us studythe following verses.What place does the "fear of theLord" have in our prayer life? Proverbs1:26-33. Is prayer ever answeredwhen there is no fear of God? Whenfear cometh what will God do? Whatis the lesson for us?How can we find the knowledgeof the Lord and what efforts must bemade? Proverbs 2:4-5. Do you thinkwe seek to understand the "fear ofthe Lord" as diligently as we seekfor silver and hid treasure? W r hatvalue do we put on the "fear of theLord" in our hearts? Proverbs 8:13.Is wisdom personified in Proverbs 8:22-31? Who is the Truth? Johnl4:6;John 1:1-3; I Cor. 1:30.What is the connection between"fearing the Lord" and long life?Proverbs 10:27; Exodus 20:12. What isthe connection between the two? Howis the "fear of the Lord" a "strongconfidence" and a "fountain of life?"Proverbs 14: 26-27.What is the meaning of Proverbs15:16? Why would people choose"great treasure," even with trouble,rather than the fear of the Lord?I Tim. 6:9-12. What blessings are foundin Proverbs 16:6 and 19:23? In whatsense shall we not be visited with evil?our consciences with inconspicuoushealth warnings and join SenatorMagnuson in an attempt to makeWhat three great blessings are setcigarette smoking socially undesirable.before us in Proverbs 22:4? What isTo do this all cigarette advertisingthe relation of "humility" and themust cease and in place of each cigaretteadvertisement presently on tel­resist the temptation of being envious?"fear of the Lord?" How can weevision a qualified person such as theProverbs 23:17; Psalm 73:3,17. HowSurgeon General should make themany blessings are connected with thetrue facts known. Only then will we First, "What is the fear of the "fear of the Lord"? How importantvindicate the horrible respiratory Lord?" It is an affectionate reverence is it? Name over again some of thedeaths of 100,000s of Americans directlylinked to cigarette smoking in A child fears his parents, not in the expression, "the fear of the Lord" asand trust, not a slavish dread or terror. great blessings connected with thisrecent years and hopefully avoid a sense of being afraid and running found in Proverbs? How important issimilar fate for the many who are away from them but just the opposite. it? (Assign beforehand these referencesso there will be time for study.)now being threatened."No loving child would willingly andWillam R. Levis, M.D. needlessly grieve his parents and the PRAYER: That all these rich and—American Issue child of God feais to disobey lest he gracious blessings may be ours in aTHE CHILD'S STORY BIBLE bygrieve his Heavenly Father whose fuller measure.Catherine F. Vos. Wm. B. Eerdmanswrath is EO consuming and whose For our teachers and pupils as wcPublishing Co., Grand Rapids, Mich.love is so precious. (Hebrews 12:28-29) approach another school year.1967. 436 pages. Price $6.50.This kind of fear then, is the beginning For our presbyterial conferences.This is a new edition of an oldor rpther the chief pat" (margin) of For the work in Japan that the Holyfavorite. It has been revised by thewisdom. In Proverbs 9:10, we have the Spirit may open the hearts of manydaughter of Mrs. Vos, Mrs. Marianne"beginning" of wisdom. May this childlikefear be our wisdom, our security, Saviour and Lord.to receive the Lord Jesus Christ asVos Radius. Recent archaeologicalfinds have been incorporated; theand our happiness. True knowledge For the special needs and activitiesmust start with the recognition cf God. in the congregation.JULY 5, 1967 15

Some This ui That inHOSTS NEW YORK PRESBYTERIALCONVENTIONThe New York City Reformed PresbyterianChurch was host to the fortyfourthannual convention of the NewYork Presbyterial, May 10 and 11, 1967.The convention theme was "ExaltChrist." (Col. 1:13-22) Mrs. John Mc­Millan presided and Mrs. Gene Listwas the leader of praise.During the business meeting, itwas decided that the special projectfor 1968 would be to contribute $500toward the fringe benefits on thewomen missionaries' salaries.A letter of resignation by Mrs.John McMillan was regretfully acceptedand will take effect at the close ofthe 1967 Presbyterial. Mrs. Gene Listwas appointed to fill Mrs. McMillan'sunexpired term. Mrs. McMillan willbe teaching in the fall.Wednesday evening our Presidentintroduced the speaker, Mr. JamesAllen, director of the Addicts RehabilitationCenter, Manhattan ChristianReformed Church. Mr. Allen gave avery informative sketch of his lifeas an addict and a wonderful testimonytelling how the Lord took holdof his life at the Federal GovernmentRehabilitation Hospital in Lexington,Kentucky.7&/?£SA highlight of Thursday eveningwas to have Professor Adam Loughridgeof Portrush, Ireland speak on"Where Have We Failed in ExaltingChrist?" taken from Ezekiel 22:23-31.A timely message it was, remindingus that we have not failed in organization,presonnel, or in equipment, butwe have failed in intercessory prayer.Presbyterial officers and superintendentswere presented by Mrs.Donald Crawford who offered the installationprayer. The officers andsuperintendents are Mrs. Gene List,president; Miss Rose Ellen Burns,vice president; Mrs. Alvin W. Smith,Jr., recording secretary; Mrs. RobertLaTourette, corresponding secretary;Mrs. James Hartin, treasurer; MissSarah Archer, assistant treasurer; Mrs.Margaret Smyth, foreign missions;Miss Isabel Crawford, home missions;Mrs. James Beatty, literature andmission study; Mrs. Ronald Nickerson,temperance; Miss Dorthea MillenLibrarian; Mrs. R. H. McKelvey, youngwomen; Mrs. W. E. Spear, juniors.Mrs. James Beatty and Mrs. MargaretSmyth are filling unexpired terms forMiss Lola Weir and for Mrs. OrrinFerry.Thursday morning after our devotionsa Bible study was led by Mrs. THE WOMEN'S SYNODICALNorman Spear on "Christ, the Perfect OFFICIAL BOARD MEETSSacrifice." (Heb. 9:11-10:18) The study Mrs. John O. Edgar, Pittsburgh,was shared by all present.Pennsylvania presided as the OfficialSpecial prayer time for home missionswas led by Miss Marion Hansche June 20, 1967, in the lounge of McKee The AMA News of May 8 has threeBoard of Women's Synodical convened,and foreign missions by Mrs. W. R. Hall, Geneva College, Beaver Falls, articles, including an editorial, onWhite during the day.Pennsylvania. Mrs. J. E. McElroy, environmental health, stressing airA memorial service, conducted by Denver, Colorado, led devotions emphasizingthe command — "Thou shalt concerns the AMA seriously. Therepollution especially as a problem thatMrs. Robert LaTourette honored thememory of seven members who have love thy neighber" (Mattew 19:19). have been many other articles in thepassed away.Helpful recommendations were presentedto the Official Board as the one that stressed cigaret smoking aspast months, but I have yet to readAn invitation was accepted fromthe Almonte congregation for the New valuable and interesting reports of an environmental health hazard. YetYork Presbyterial to meet with them officers and superintendents were read it constitutes an environmental healthin 1968.and adopted.hazard more serious than all the othersWe had the privilege of hearing Synodical will endeavor to serve combined.Mrs. Adam Loughridge speak on the the Lord more effectively and efficientlybecause the following business on smoking, and sets the example inUntil the AMA changes its attitudeWomen's Missionary Society work inIreland and the Irish foreign mission was acted upon:a practical manner, its influence onwork in Ethiopia.1. The salaries of foreign missionaries the environmental health problem willMrs. James Beatty, substituting for (woman) will include fringe benefitswhich pertain to one half ofJoseph R. Morrell, MDbe limited.Miss Lola Weir, gave a very informativepresentation of some of the missionary16 books which were on display.medical expenses, furlough allow­Ogden, UtahCOVENANTER WITNESSance of from $100 to $150, portionof the pension fund, and socialsecurity.2. The Synodical shall pay to theForeign Mission Board the sum of$2,000 from Commonwealth FederalSavings and Loan Association to helpcover, where necessary, the fringebenefits of recent previous years.3. Mrs. J. D. Carson and Mrs. JohnWhite will supervise the making ofsufficient copies of "Psalms OurFathers Loved" to supply eachsociety within the Synodical, to beused as each society desires.4. Mrs. Roy Adams and Mrs. JohnWhite are authorized to revise anyreport blanks which seem to beinadequate for soliciting desiredinformation from local societies.5. Each Presbyterial is requested tohave a Superintendent of YoungWomen to encourage and supportthis department.6. The Synodical shall now assumefor this year the expense of sendingthe Covenanter Witness, by air mail,to the Missionaries in foreign fields.7. The Synodical president, Mrs. JohnO. Edgar, accompanied by MissSarah Archer, is asked to attend theconference of the American BibleSociety, in November, 1967.May our Lord bless all the plansand work of the women within ourChurch.Recording Secretary of SynodicalMrs. J. E. McElroySMOKING AND HEALTH

TheIHJKAKY OFREFORMED PKESBYTEKIANTHEOLOGICAL SEMINAKYPITTSBURGHTo The TruthJESUS CHRIST AS SAVIOUR, LORD, HEAD OF MEN, THE CHURCH AND NATIONS.VOLUME LXXIX NO. 2 JULY 12, 1967 STERLING, KANSASBIBLE LESSONS FOR THE WEEK OF AUGUST 6, 1967-tt -^ tf -«»-^te-««fHE NEVER HAD TIMEThere was an old fellow who never had timeFor a fresh morning look at the volume sublime,Who never had time for the soft hand of prayerTo smoothe out the wrinkles of labor and care;Who could not find time for that service most sweet,At the altar of home, where the dear ones all meet;And never found time with the people of God,To learn the good way the fathers had trod.But he found time to die; Oh yes! he found timeto die.This busy old fellow, too busy was heTo linger at breakfast, at dinner, at tea,For the merry small chatter of children, or wife;But he hved in his marriage, a bachelor life.Too busy for kisses, too busy for play,No time to be loving, no time to be gay.No time to replenish his vanishing wealth,But he found time to die; Oh yes! he found timeto die.This beautiful world had no beauty for him,Its colors were black and its sunshine dim.No leisure for woodland, for river or hill.No time in his life just to think and be still;No time for his neighbors, no time for his friends,No time for those highest, immutable endsOf the life of a man who is not for a day,But for worse or for better, for ever and aye,But he found time to die; Oh yes! he found timeto die.—Unknown

THE COVENANTER WITNESSOfficial organ of the ReformedPresbyterian Church of N. A.• CVANMUCAL 'I ASOOCIATWNEditor: Rev. M. W. Dougherty, D.D.125 N. 4th StreetSterling, Kansas 67579Phone 316 — Br. 8 • 3472Printed each Wednesday under the supervision of theBoard of Publication by The Patterson Press, MorningSun, Iowa 52640.Contributing Editors: Department Editors:Rev. Kenneth Smith Rev. John TweedDr. G. M. RobbMrs. Robert B. MaineRev. John McMillan Mrs. Willis EdgarRev. C. E. Caskey Rev. John K. GaultOpinions expressed in our columns are those of theindividual writer, not necessarily the views of the ReformedPresbyterian Church or the editor.All material to appear in The Covenanter Witnessshould be typewritten, double-spaced, and should be inSterling, Kansas two weeks before it is to be printed.The cost of all pictures is 30 cents per square inch.Obituaries — All words in excess of one hundred fifty,one cent per word. Money should accompany such notices.SUBSCRIPTION RATESIndividual (1 year): U.S. and Canada, $4.00, BritishIsles 35/-, all other places, $5.00;Individual (2 year): U.S. and Canada, $7.00, BritishIsles 63/-, all other places, $9.00;Group: U.S. and Canada, $3.00, British Isles 28/-, allother places, $4.00.9-month student subscription — $1.50; 5-month introductoryoffer —$1.00; 2 gift subscriptions to persons outsideof the R. P. Church — $2.00 each. Single copies, 10c.Subscription Agent for U.S. and Canada: Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Subscription Agent for the British Isles: Rev. HughWright, B.A., 12, Knutsford Drive, Belfast 14, NorthernIreland.All checks should be made payable to The CovenanterWitness in U. S. currency.Give one month's notice of a change of address. Sendboth the new and the old address to Mrs. M.W. Dougherty.Postmaster: Please send Form 3579 to Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Second class postage paid at Morning Sun, Iowa 52640.Quote -IN GRIEF AND IN GLADNESSLest anyone think that the miracle at Cana giveslicense to splurge in alcohol, it ought to be clearthat the dominant feature of that feast was Christ'spresence. Anyone who has ever gone where menare trying to hve it up without a blessing knowswhat a pitiful effort it is. It goes without sayingthat grief needs God's help; gladness needs it, too.The good time that tries to get away with something,to have fun at the expense of fair play and thoughtfulness,never quite comes off. The night out fromGod—as if we could get along all right without Him—is a crude contradiction.—David A. Redding, in The Miracles of ChristThis Week's WitnessGod's Way for Us 19Glimpses 20Synod's Proceedings 21Red Guards Turn Sentiment 24Christian Table Talk 24A Page for Juniors 26Lesson Helps 27Do It Yourself 29Church News 30WE HOLD THE FOLLOWING TO BE TRUTHS OF SCRIPTURE:The Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the only infalliblerule of faith and conduct.preserve the purity of the Church.The duty which rests upon officers to maintain discipline andThe Trinitarian conception of the Godhead.Spiritual worship as a divine requirement mediated through theFaith in Jesus Christ as the only way of salvation.Lord Jesus Christ.Salvation by Grace.The exclusive use of the Psalms in the worship of the Church.Assurance of salvation as a possible Christian experience.The Protestant interpretation of the Sacraments.The Gospel Call and Election.The divine right of the institution of Marriage and that it is notThe Holy Spirit as the Author of regeneration.to be dissolved except by adultery or "irremediable" desertion.Sanctification through the cooperating agency of the Holy Spirit.The Sabbath as a day sacred to rest and worship.The fact of death and hell as the destiny of the lost and heavenThe duty of nations and their civil rulers to honor Christ asas the destiny of the saved.King of Kings and Lord of Lords.That the Church of Jesus Christ consists of all those who believeThat Christian citizens are under obligation to obey lawful authority.in Him together with their children.The Divine Right of the Presbyterian form of Church Government.The right and duty of the Christian citizen to dissent from allThe Lord Jesus Christ as the only King and Head of His Church. governmental and national disobedience to the Law of God.That terms of membership or communion are essential to the That the Covenants of the past are still binding.welfare of the Church.From "The Communicant's Class" by J. B. Tweed18 COVENANTER WITNESS

GOD'S WAY FOR USA time of crisis had come upon Israel. Thepeople had sought counsel, but not of God. Theyhad gone down to Egypt to seek help from Pharaoh,and thus they had despised God. They were therebyinviting trouble, and would get no profit. The peoplehad become deaf to the Law of the Lord and hadasked the prophets to prophesy smooth things. Thatwas the way to disaster.The people had been "rebellious children" (Isa.30:1), and this meant that their backs were to God,and not their faces; therefore when the Lord addressedthem they would hear His voice as from behindthem: "And thine ears shall hear a word behindthee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it" (Isa. 30:21). They were urged to wait on the Lord, if theywould be secure. He was longsuffering, and patientlypleaded with them. The revival of a right relationwith Him would mean restoration to their own city,and it would issue in an end of sorrow and the renewalof vision to their teachers. Even though itwould involve for a period eating the bread of adversityand drinking the water of affliction, theywould experience the guidance and guardianship ofGod. All idols would be cast away as unclean, andthere would be a return of prosperity.IThey were directed as to their way. This meantthat other ways were to be avoided. "There is away which seemeth right unto a man, but the endthereof are the ways of death" (Prov. 14:12). Thereare doubtless many wrong ways of hving; there isonly one right way. Wrong ways are often seductive,and attract those whose sensitiveness to the Spirit'sleading has been dulled by lack of fellowship withGod.The means we should use, if we would knowGod's way for us, is prayerful waiting upon Him,trusting for His Spirit's enlightenment through HisWord. God's people are easily deceived when prayeris neglected. Prayerless Israel seeking help fromEgypt, and a prayerless Christian seeking help fromthe world, will not only fail to glorify God, but willeven fail to realize their own good.God is longsuffering: "Therefore will the Lordwait that He may be gracious unto you. Blessed areall they that wait for Him" (Isa. 30:18). We needthe guidance which God alone can give. He haswisdom which no other possesses, and He knows theend from the beginning. In our indmdual life, inhome affairs, in business activities, in Church work,and in national relationships, we need the certitudeand the rectitude of His voice to say to us, "This isthe way, walk ye in it." It should be our happyprivilege to comply with His simple condition, andclaim all that He has promised to those who wait onHim and walk in the way of His direction.IIThey were dehvered by obedience to God. Therecan be no place for idols in the life of one who wouldbe godly. All idols must be cast away as uncleanthings. We need to be dehvered from everythingwhich would usurp God's place in our life. Anythingless than God will not satisfy us spiritually. We needintimate and constant communion with Him.Israel had been warned against all idols; andJohn's words to Christians were not without cause:"Little children, keep yourselves from idols." Anidol is any thing or person which is given the placein our life which God alone should have. Things andrelationships which may be perfectly proper in themselves,become idols when they are given hfe's supremeplace. We need deliverance from all thatwould eclipse God in our experience.As well as dehverance from idols, Israel was tohave dehverance from the Assyrians, on conditionthat the counsel of God was obeyed. Christians havealso their adversaries, but we can be strong to overcomethem as we wait on the Lord and renew ourstrength, and as we put on the whole armour ofGod, "praying always with all prayer and supplicationin the Spirit."IllThey were delighted with God's gracious providence.Although they were not strong enough inthemselves to overcome the Assyrians, God woulddo it for them if they would be obedient to His counsel.His triumph for them would give them causefor gladness. The people who delight in the Lord,and in His will for them, have every cause to sing(Isa. 30:29), for He who is their Shield and Delivererenables them to do valiantly.Are we ever dismayed as we go forward in ourChristian life or in our church work, because of theobstacles and the adversity? If so, let our hope bein the Lord. He is our help, and He will fill ourSee page 23JULY 12, 1967 19

Glimpses of the Religious WorldTHE REV. JOHN McMILLANR. D. 1, Box 337WALDEN, NEW YORKTOBACCO FIRMS RAP FCC RULING ON HEALTHWARNING AIR TIMEWashinton, D. C. (EP) — A federal CommunicationsCommission's ruling that broadcasting mediamust air warning of the health hazards of smokinghas been sharply attacked by spokesmen for thecigarette industry.The FCC's new rule states that radio and TVstations carrying cigarette commercials are requiredto provide "a significant amount of time" for theother viewpoint. The rule is imposed whether or notthe anti-cigarette material is paid for as a commercialannouncement.Although the ruling did not specify an amountof time for the anti-cigarette material, it suggestedthat a station would meet the requirement if oncea week it presented a number of pubhc serviceannouncements from the American Cancer Societyor the Department of Health, Education and Welfaredealing with cigarette smoking. — June 10,1967.'GIVE — DON'T GAMBLE' THEME OFANTI-LOTTERY CAMPATGNNew York (EP) — New York has a new campaign— "I Give — Won't Gamble."It was inaugurated on the day some $1 milhonworth of state lottery tickets were sold in NewYork City.The campaign began as the city's banks reported"long lines" of lottery purchasers queued up at theirwindows.Sponsored by The Salvation Army, the programopposing the lottery is restricted to Army personnel.Rather than buy $1 lottery tickets (about 50 percentof the state's gross will go to aid education), membersof the Army will donate $1 to assist state education.The Salvation Army is calling the drive theConscience Fund for State Education. Each participantpledges, "I Give — Won't Gamble." — June10, 1967.EPISCOPAL BISHOP ASKS RECOGNITION OFPOPE AS HEAD OF 'UNIVERSAL CHURCH'San Francisco (EP) — Episcopal Bishop C.Kilmer Myers of Northern California, calling forfellow Christians to "admit our share in initiatingand perpetuating the schism of the 16th century(reformation)," called for Cathohc, Anghcan, Protestantand Orthodox to recognize the Pope as headof a universal church."We need a holy father," the bishop said in asermon in Grace Cathedral here. "We need a fatherwho can speak and witness to the whole humanrace. . . quite simply, as the presence among us ofthe fisherman.""I personally acknowledge him as such," hetold newsmen foUowing the sermon. "But I am notunaware of the controversy that will follow thisstatement."He said he was "not suggesting that in anysense we abjectly crawl to the feet of the Pope toask his forgiveness and acceptance," but simplyto accept part of the blame for the division whichresulted 450 years ago.Bishop Myers proposed that Pope Paul "nextmonth" visit both North and South Vietnam.Not all in the congregation sided with theirpastor.Dr. Paul F. Goercke, a school teacher fromBrisbane, Calif., said he wrote the bishop a noteduring the sermon asking him, "Who designated thePope pastor of the world? Why not Martin LutherKing? The Scriptures tell us, 'Call no man father,'"Goercke said. — June 10, 1967.SCOTTISH PRESBYTERIANS REJECT BRITISHREPORT ON SEX, MORALITYEdinburgh (EP) — A controversial report onSex and Morahty produced by a committee of theBritish Council of Churches in London, was refuseda welcome by the General Assembly the Church ofScotland (Presbyterian) here after a heated debatein which it was condemned as "wicked."The Assembly discussed the report at the requestof the Church's committee on moral welfare. Thecommittee asked the Assembly to welcome the reportas a "contribution towards the presentation to allsections of the community of a reasoned and positivestatement of Christian insights into personalrelationships." — June 10, 196720 COVENANTER WITNESS

Notes on Synod ProceedingsMONDAY, JUNE 19Synod met in its first business session in theCollege Hill Church. This is necessitated becausesummer school is in progress at the coUege. After agood Sabbath, and cooler atmosphere, members ofSynod met to transact business. Dr. R. W. Caskey,the new Moderator, is presiding.Devotional services are held each morning usinga series of timely topics: "Great Bible Confessions."The first is Confession by David: "An Eternal andSure Word." Psalm 119:89. Praise was by Synod'sprecentor, Rev. Ralph Joseph. Speaker this morningis Dr. L. E. KUpatrick. In contrast to the driftingworld, the message of the church has been andcontinues to be, "I beheve, I confess." Some pointsmade were these: The Word of God is eternal.. . isprecisely spoken and true. . . is unchanging. . . isheavenly. It is not "of the earth, earthy." We hopeand trust aU these messages wiU be printed later.The Moderator announced appointments to thefoUowing committees: Nominations, Finance, Judicial,Courtesy, Resolutions of Thanks; also those toexamine records of presbyteries and commissions.A number of papers were presented, and referred,to be considered later.Reports were called for as listed in Synod'sDocket, and good progress was made this first day.Copies of the Digest of Reports had been maUed todelegates in advance, and it was decided not to havebody of reports read, unless it should be requested.Recommendations of each report are to be read andvoted on.Stated Clerk's report was presented by Mr.Chester Fox and accepted. It contains statistics forthe year on congregations, ministers, membershipand finances of the Church. Mimeographed copiesof Synod's Treasurer's report were distributed, consistingof 17 pages of financial accounts. Board ofPensions reported, and was given authority to offerthose entering employment of the Church insurancecontracts that wiU provide $75 per month pensionfoUowing retirement. The Board was also aUowed atits discretion to add $20 per month each to paymentsto retired rninisters.Board of Church Erection reported on repaymentsto the fund, and other receipts. Major disbursementsduring 1966 were to Indianapolis congregation,Lawrence Mission and Fresno congregation;also since January, loans to Orlando and Selmacongregations.Synod turned to items of "Unfinished Business."Report of Committee to Administer Graduate StudyFund, adopted. Delegates to Reformed EcumenicalSynod reported "attended to." Committee to studyTestimonies of American, Scottish and Irish Churchesreported progress, and was continued.The Nominating Committee of 1965 had areport carried over until this year. The NominatingCommittee was made a continuing committee toserve foUowing Synod to provide a hst of suggestednominees for the same committee of the foUowingSynod. Ministerial members on this committee areto serve for two-year terms.At the opening of the afternoon session Mr.Donald Harrington of Hetherton was introduced asan elder attending for the first time; also Mr. RalphRamsey, elder representing the new congregation inthe Beaver-Vanport area.The Rev. Edward A. Steele was presented andbrought greetings from the Reformed PresbyterianChurch, Evangehcal Synod. Mr. Warner A. Hutchinsonof the American Bible Society brought greetingsand spoke briefly.Reports of Boards of Evangehsm, and Publicationwere considered and adopted. Every congregationis encouraged to make a special effort ofoutreach this year. The committee to investigatePsalter Revision reported progress. Aim is to preparea new edition of The Book of Psalms With Musicearly in the 1970's.In the evening session members present fromthe Synod of Ireland were granted courtesies of thefloor: Professor Adam Loughridge, D. D., Rev. J.Renwick Wright, D. D.Report of the Board of Home Missions andChurch Extension was partially considered, thenlaid on the table awaiting further information.Board of Foreign Missions reported. WithSynod's endorsement, they are appealing for: 1. Anordained minister to develop Christian leadershipin Cyprus. 2. Teachers and personal workers forCyprus (short terms). 3. An ordained minister forJULY 12, 1967 21

Japan. W. M.TUESDAY, JUNE 20Thus far the business of Synod has been movingalong with dispatch. We have kept up with theschedule listed on the docket as weU as taking upeight matters of unfinished business.One paper was presented to the Synod onTuesday morning. Paper No. 10 was a request toclarify the relationship of some of the statements inthe subordinate standards. The heart of the questionis that Synod rule on the relationship betweenchapter XXII, paragraph 4 of the Reformed PresbyterianTestimony: "It is not expected that aU menshall think alike about every object of thought,"and chapter 8, section 9 of the Book of ChurchGovernment, "unreserved acceptance of and adherenceto the doctrinal standards and distinctiveprinciples of the Reformed Presbyterian Church."This paper was sent to a special committee to dealwith this issue.The first item listed on the docket for Tuesdaymorning was the report of the Coordinating Committee.The Coordinating Committee meeting washeld prior to Synod to hear the requests of thevarious departments of the church and then to drawup a Synodical budget. The question of the budgetwas postponed until the reports of all the departmentswere heard. Most of the discussion centeredaround recommendations concerning stewardshipand the appointment of a long range planningcommittee to establish priorities for the budget sothat the Coordinating Committee wiU have somebasis on which to scale down the requests of certaindepartments.The next item on the docket was the report ofthe Board of Christian Education. The Board requestedthat the Curriculum Fund (our contributionto the Great Commission Publications for SabbathSchool materials) be continued until $30,000 hasbeen raised. Bible Mastery Month will be February1968, and the book of Joshua wiU be studied. TheBoard also asked the Synod to encourage participationin the International Conference in Scotland,August 3-10, 1968. The date for the next nationalconference was set for the year 1970. As a part ofthe report, Synod proceeded to elect by baUot Rev.Kenneth G. Smith to a three-year term as directorof Christian Education, beginning in 1968.The Stewardship Committee presented it's report.The major item decided was that monthly reportsshould be sent to the congregations concerning theprogress in raising the budget. There was also aprovocative discussion about the need for a morepersonal and spiritual appeal for the departmentsincluded in the budget.The Board of the Theological Seminary presentedits report. An amendment to the Seminaryconstitution was ratified by Synod. The itahcportion of the foUowing is the new addition toarticle 5, section I of the Seminary constitution."When there is no incumbent, the SeminaryBoard shall select not less than two nor morethan four names for each vacancy which willthen be subject to the approval of a majorityvote of Synod, with exception that when priorapproval has been given by Synod of a personfor special training for a professorship, theSeminary Board may at its option submit thename of that person alone for appointment."The president of the Seminary, Dr. S. BruceWiUson, spoke to the Synod concerning both thepurpose and the prospects of the Seminary. Fourmissionary candidates have already been certifiedto the Seminary for training; also two members ofthe R. P. Church, Mr. Lee Bittner of CoUege HiUcongregation and Mr. Ronald Homa of Indianapohshave been certified by their presbyteries and receivedby the Seminary. J- H. W.WEDNESDAY AT SYNODAgain with fair weather Synod convened onWednesday morning, led in prayer by RobertMcMiUan, pastor of the Seattle congregation. Thedevotional program was led by David Patterson,pastor-elect of the Winchester congregation, withScripture read by elder Harold Faris of Kansas Cityand prayer by elder Lloyd Copeland of Denison.The message was by John Tweed, Kansas Citypastor, on the confession by Isaiah, "A SinfulPeople."Synod's offering, which amounted to $262.35,was taken foUowing the devotions.The Rev. Larry Sibley, fraternal delegate fromthe Orthodox Presbyterian Church, brought greetingsfrom his denomination. He emphasized the cooperationbetween our two denominations in theproduction of Sabbath School and Vacation BibleSchool materials. He is presently on the staff ofIntervarsity Christian Fellowship in northern Ohio.A resolution of thanks was sent to John P.Hickey, attorney who has given unpaid service tothe Women's Association in behalf of the ReformedPresbyterian Home.At this last opportunity three additional paperswere presented to Synod: on the possibihty of22 COVENANTER WITNESS

affihation with six congregations on the island ofTaiwan; the question of observing the sacramentson other than the Sabbath; and the securing of anassistant for the church treasurer. Each paper wasreferred to an appropriate board or committee forrecommended action.An important part of Synod, but one whichbrings httle debate, is the reading of reports fromthe presbyteries and commissions. This proceededwithout controversy.Fraternal delegates are to be appointed to theannual meetings of the Orthodox PresbyterianChurch, the Christian Reformed Church, and theReformed Presbyterian Church, Evangehcal Synod.Also, delegates will be sent to the Reformed EcumenicalSynod in Amsterdam, Netherlands, in 1968,preferrably from among persons who are also attendingthe International Convention in Scotland.There were still forty-five minutes left beforenoon recess, so some items of business unfinishedin previous Synods were taken up. As it developed,most of the time was taken up in trying to agreeupon a definition of a mission station. The matterwas finally referred to the Board of Heme Missionsand Church Extension to report in 1968.Synod decided to meet in 1968 at Calvary BibleCollege, Kansas City, Missouri, on July 13.The afternoon session was opened with prayerby D. Ray WUcox. Unfinished business was caUedfor, and the first item of the afternoon was thereport of the committee on a "Covenanter Conference"prior to the Synod of 1968. This wiU be heldThe Boy's Christian Fellowship Group. Mr. Allan Nelsonis the Sponsor. —American Academy, Larnaca, Cyprus.on Thursday and Friday, at the same place as Synod,with the court to convene on Saturday night.Saturday itself is needed for the meeting of suchgroups as the Co-ordinating Committee and theBoard of Christian Education. The special considerationof the conference wiU be "Standards forChurch Membership," with various aspects of thetheme as sub-topics to be assigned each to a particularpresbytery.As a result of the report of the committee tostudy "The Relation of Christianity to the State"a number of articles will appear in The CovenanterWitness, the first to be a review of Samuel Rutherford'sLex Rex by G. M. Robb.The order of the evening had by motionbeen made the report of the committee tostudy in depth the Scriptural basis for pohticaldissent. A majority and a minority report wereboth read, and a motion was adopted to takeup the majority report, which was then presentedby Wayne Spear. Rex Downey, not a member of thecourt but a member of the committee who supportedthe majority report, was given the privilege ofspeaking during the debate. This debate consumedthe remainder of the evening session, and was continuedon Thursday and Friday. The discussioncentered on the extent to which an oath to the U. S.Constitution involves the oath-taker in the sin ofthe nation's failure to recognize the crown rightsof Jesus Christ. By adjournment Wednesday noconsensus had been arrived at. T. R. H.GODS WAY FOR USFrom page 19mouths with laughter and our tongues with singing,and He whl not let us be put to shame, if we trustHim wholly.For the Christian, divine guidance has been personifiedin the Lord Jesus. "I am the way, the truthand the hfe; no man cometh unto the Father, but byMe." He is the way back to the Father, if we wouldsing the song of the reconciled. He is the way providedby the Father, whereby we may have the joy ofthe righteous. He is the way by which the Fatherwould lead us into the gladness of those who knowHis fuU revelation. "He that foUoweth Me shaU notwalk in darkness, but shaU have the hght of hfe."Those who have Him as their way and hght wiU goon to prove that "The path of the just is as theshining hght that shineth more and more unto theperfect day" (Prov. 4:18). — Ned McLachlan inLife of Faith.JULY 12, 1967 23

Our YouthA Study in Yellow and RedRED GUARDS TURNTIDE OF SENTIMENT ABROADIn 1949, a Communist approached Calvin Chaoin Hong Kong, inviting him back to mainland Chinaas a spokesman for evangehcal Christians."Since Communists brand preachers as socialparasites, what sense would it make for me toreturn?" asked Chao."Well," his Red friend rephed, "you probablywould be able to preach for 15 years.""And after that?""After that there won't be any churches left,and you could devote yourself to the service of thepeople."Red Guards have now announced triumphantlythat their "great proletarian cultural revolution" hasclosed all the churches in China. The Red Chinesein Hong Kong had been off in his prediction by onlytwo years!Ten years after his encounter with the Communistin Hong Kong, Chao founded Chinese ForChrist in Los Angeles. It has become the largestevangehstic outreach to Chinese in North America.Chao estimates that there are some 15,000 Chinesestudents in the United States, including scientistsand research personnel — quite a mission fieldfor the 55 CFC staff members in four centers (L.A.,Berkeley, Chicago and N. Y.) and in several overseasposts."After Red China exploded the atom bomb,"Chao says, "we noticed a definite swing towardsympathy for the Red regime among students. Althoughnot in agreement with everything theircountry did, they were nevertheless proud of theachievements of their kin. Some 80 to 90 per centof Chinese students were pro-Red. We found indifference,wry srmles and silence when we touchedon the problem of Communism, although someChristian students stood with us."However, in the last few months the situationhas changed," he adds. "When the Red Guards wentwild on the mainland, burning Bibles and hymnbooks,persecuting Christians, even destroying theConfucius Temple, even pro-Red students could notconvince us that Communist China meant weU afterall. Sentiment for Red China dropped noticeably."For a few terrible months the Red Guards baredfermr^ka F MCHRISTIAN TABLE TALKby Harry M. SavacoolWhat do you talk about at the table at yourhouse? Do you gossip about the neighbors? Do youtalk about school, social and athletic events? DoesDad teU of his troubles at work? Do you argue aboutthe use of the car, about finances, or about thefamily schedule?Or do you just fiU the time with talk abouttrivial things?The time at the table is a golden opportunity forChristian education and uplift. Think of the amountof time your famUy is together at the table. If youeat only lunch or supper together you have 180 to200 hours together each year. If you eat breakfasttogether also it totals 270 to 300 hours a year. Whatan opportunity this gives Christian parents to createa Christian atmosphere in the home, to give aChristian interpretation to life, and to plant theseeds of Christian hfe and character.Our plan does not need to be obvious. Thechildren do not even need to know that we are tryingto do anything of the kind. Famihes talk at the tableanyway. Educators teU us that everything we talkabout molds our hves. The table talk in our homesis a learning experience whether we plan it or not.It can degenerate into poor and positively badlearning!A httle forethought and planning wiU be requiredto make it a positive Christian learningexperience, but this can be done and it is weU worththe effort.Five hundred years ago the great Protestant reformer,Martin Luther, made the table talk in hishome such a dehghtful experience that guests andfriends recorded parts of it which are still pubhshedand read. It is not likely that any of the table talk inour homes wiU be written down or pubhshed. Whatis more important is that it wiU be written in thethe fang against the Church, and as a result greatvolumes of prayer worldwide have been offered toGod on behalf of the Church in Red China of some100,000 to 200,000 behevers. Once again God hasmade even the wrath of man to praise Him — thistime on behalf of the yeUow church among the Reds.—NBR - E.P. News24 COVENANTER WITNESS

hves and hearts of every member of our fairhly. Itcan be the most effective kind of learning andteaching—the kind we are not conscious of.This does not mean that mealtime at your homeneed become a formal lesson time. There wiU stillbe spontaneity and variety of family talk at thetable. It just means that you wiU be alert for everyopportunity to guide the discussion into considerationof how we can hve the Christian life in everysituation. You wiU hsten more than you wiU talk.You wiU draw out with questions rather than makestatements.It wiU be best in most cases if no announcementabout it is made. Just begin. One parent can doit alone. Having both in on it is better. Even a youthcan do it in a home where parents might not beinterested. You need not plan anything formal butjust watch for openings and guide the conversationtactfuUy.Perhaps ten-year-old Johnny says, "I don't hkethis old hamburger! Why can't we have roast beefhke the Greens do?" This might be your cue tobring out the fact that your famUy tithes and givesliberaUy to the church while the Greens do not.Your farmly has to eat less expensively so as to givethe Lord's work its rightfulshare. It can be a lessonon Christian stewardship much more effective thanany given in formal teaching.Or suppose four-year-old Mary just won't eat herdinner at ah. Mother may urge anxiously. Mary mayget upset and weep. Then everyone gets upset andthe whole mealtime is spoUed. It might be a lotbetter to ignore Mary as she sits refusing to eat andbegin to talk to one another about how good thefood tastes and about the goodness of God in givingus the food to meet our needs. Mary wiU hear andlearn—and perhaps eat, too.Or perhaps as the family gathers for dinner BiUmakes his appearance with a black eye. It sooncomes out that he had a fight on the way homefrom school. After a quiet word or two about thefutility of fighting, Father or someone else mightteU the story of Jesus who would not strike back andwould not even caU for the legions of angels that Hecould have had to defend Him.Then may come the day when Jane announcesthat aU the girls in the high school are wearing anew type of sweater. "Can't I have one, Mother?"she pleads. But it happens that BiU reaUy must havenew slacks; the ones he has are three inches shortnow. Jane begins to get upset. A time of familytension is impending. This is the time to quietlyswitch the conversation to unselfishness and sharing.Or some evening at dinner it is discovered thateveryone is tied up with too many engagements.Everyone is tired and irritable. That is just the timeto spend the dinner hour talking over what activitiesare most worthwhile from a Christian point ofview. It wiU not only clear the air and solve thepressing problem but it could be a good lesson forthe chUdren on right choices in the use of our Godgivenhours and minutes.Perhaps on (Sabbath) BiU says, 'The pastor'ssermon was awfuUy duU this morning. I just couldnot understand what he was talking about." Janeputs in, "Why do we have to go to church anyway?Isn't an hour in (Sabbath) school enough?"Father could say sternly, "You wiU go to churchand that's all there is to it!" But wouldn't it be betterto use this opportuniy to discuss together the privilegeand blessing of worshiping God?Then one evening Gary, who is a high-schooljunior, says he has had a conference with theguidance teacher, who talked against the Christiancollege they have been considering and urged Garyto apply to the state university. Here is a chance todiscuss together the whole Christian phUosophy oflife and the kind of education a Christian needs forliving in this modern world in the Christian way.You can think of many other possible situations.The (Sabbath) school teacher was absent and thesubstitute was unprepared, so the class was duU.Betty's report card is poor. Jane shows she is jealousof Gay's popularity at school. The teacher is hardon Jim. And on and on the problems come.When there is no particular problem, lead theconversation around to some needed point in Christianhving. In this way you can witness to andteach your chUdren far more effectively than byany formal instruction.—Gospel HeraldWhat is home without a Bible?'Tis a famUy at seaCompass lost and rudder broken,Drifting, drifting, hopelessly."What is home without a Bible?List and ponder while I speak,'Tis a home with Bibles in it,But not opened once a week.Lost—the Bible! Lost its teaching!Lost—its help each day in seven.Lost—to live by, lost to die by!Lost! What's lost?The wav to Heaven." /hnos R. Wells.JULY 12, 1967

A PAGE FOR JUNIORSLillian V. Grissen"HI MOM! I'M HOME!"Seven-year-old Sandra was crying with sobs thatmade Mom question her anxiously. "Sandra, what'sthe matter, honey? Why are you so sad?"'Tou know Nancy, Mom, my friend?" Sandra didnot lift her head, "WeU, she isn't my friend anymore."Mom's voice did not betray her rehef, and shecontinued with sympathetic concern. "Oh, honey, itcan't be that bad! What happened? Did you twoquarrel?""No, not reaUy, I guess. But ever since that newgirl Ruth came (and I don't hke her), Nancy wantsus three to play together. And I don't want to. Iwant to just play with Nancy. She's my friend, notRuth's!"Mom proceeded cautiously. "Maybe Nancy isright, Sandy. Don't you think it would be nicer foryou to be friendly with Ruth too? You must leamthat we cannot keep the things or the persons welove by keeping them only to ourselves. By sharing,or giving, your friend Nancy, you would have Ruthas friend too. Now you have neither!""It's not fair. Nancy was my friend first.""As Christians we learn to share the people welove. 'God so loved the world that He gave His onlybegotten Son.' God Himself shared His Son for usand with us. In our own httle way, we too mustshare."Just then Jackie burst into the house. "I justfound a nest in the evergreen, Mom. And I watchedthe mother sparrow bring a worm."Sandy's face brightened. "Let me see too!"The three went to the tree. Impulsively Sandyreached into the nest and grabbed a tiny bird. "Oh,look!" she cried, "Isn't it cute?"'Tut it back," commanded Mother. "It is tooyoung to be handled.""Let me put it back," interrupted Jackie; I discoveredit.." He reached for the bird just as SandypuUed back."No. It's mine!" She clenched the bird tightly."Not so hard!" Mother warned immediately, butit was too late. Sandy opened her hand. She hadsqueezed the bird to death. The tears flowed fastand hard. She was sorry."Sandy," Mother said, very quietly, T know youdidn't mean to kiU the httle bird. But now can yousee what happens when we selfishly hold onto somethingwe love? You wouldn't let Jackie even see thelittle bird! Only you could hold it. Now neither younor Jackie can enjoy it."Could it be, perhaps, that that is what happenedwith Nancy, too? You want Nancy aU to yourself,and because you refused to share her with Ruth,you have neither Nancy nor Ruth as your friendjust now."Sandy couldn't stop crying, but through hertears she whispered to the dead httle bird in herhand, "I'm reaUy sorry, httle bird. Tomorrow I'U teUNancy — and Ruth — what happened!"—Christian Home And SchoolPENCIL POINTSAdd the letters of the first capitalized word to thesecond and rearrange them to form the name of aBible character or a Bible book.1. HERO plus DAB equals2. MINE plus SO equals3. LEMON plus HIP equals4. HEN plus IS plus PEAS equals5. IS plus NO plus THIN plus CAR equals6. HEAP plus RIM equals7. AT plus HARM equals8. LAME plus HIS equals9. WHAT plus MET equals10. SEW plus HERB equals11. NAILS plus A plus TAG equals12. ONE plus TAR plus VEIL equalsRearrange the foUowing capitalized words toform the name of a Bible character or a Bible book.1. SITTU makes2. CATS makes3. KRAM makes4. NOHJ makes5. RAMSON makes6. DEJU makes7. KULE makes—The Academy Echo26 COVENANTER WITNESS

Lesson Helps for the Week of August 6, 1967Sabbath SchoolLessonfor August 6, 1967THE ONE TRUE GOD:Acts 17Comments by John K. Gault.At the close of our last lesson welearned that Paul and Silas refused toleave the prison until the red-facedmagistrates came and brought themout, when they learned that they wereRomans. They went immediately tothe home of the great-hearted Lydiaand then "when they had seen thebrethren, they comforted them anddeparted." From Philippi, Paul, Silas,and Timothy (it woujd seem thatLuke was not with them at this time)went along the Egnatian Road untilthey came to Thessalonica, "wherewas a synagogue of the Jews." Forthree successive Sabbaths Paul "reasonedwith them out of the scriptures,opening and alleging, that Christ mustneeds have suffered, and risen againfrom the dead; and that this Jesus,whom I preach unto you is Christ.""Opening and alleging" means thathe explained the Scriptures to hishearers and proved to them that Jesuswas the Christ.Paul's mission in Thessalonica wasquite successful for we are told inverse 4, "And some of them werepersuaded, and consorted with Pauland Silas; and of the devout Greeksa great multitude, and of the chiefwomen not a few." But the oppositionto Paul wasn't long in coming. In verse5 it says, "But the Jews which believednot, moved with envy, took unto themcertain lewd fellows of the baser sort,and gathered a company, and set allthe city on an uproar, and assaultedthe house of Jason, and sought tobring them out to the people." Jasonwas evidently the host of Paul andhis companions. The "security" whichthe magistrates took of Jason probablymeans that Jason and the Christiancommunity put up a sum of money toinsure that Paul and his companionswould leave the city and not causeany disturbance among the people.Ane so, "the brethren immediatelysent away Paul and Silas by nightunto Berea," where Paul resumedhis discussion of the plan of salvation.Many of the Bereans believed afterhearing Paul preach and "they weremore noble than those of Thessalonicain that they received the word with allreadiness of mind, and searched thescriptures daily, whether those thingswere so." All Christians should"search" the Word of God for themselves.But at Berea Paul experiencedsimiliar troubles to what he had inThessalonica. Many of the Bereansbelieved, but the Jews of Thessalonicahaving heard of the preaching inBerea came and stirred up the peopleagainst Paul and "then immediatelythe brethren sent away Paul to go asit were to the sea: but Silas andTimotheus abode there still." Paul'sfriends conducted him to Athenswhich was the greatest metropolis ofGreece. It was the center of philosophy,literature, science, and art andwas the seat of the greatest universityof the world. In this place Pauldisputed with the "Jews and with thedevout persons." There were philosophersin this city known as Epicureansand the Stoics. The formerbelieved that pleasure was the supremeend of living. The latter believed thatduty performed through rigid selfdiscipline,was the supreme objectivein life. These learned sects heardPaul speak and they were interested."Some said, What will this babblersay? other some, he seemeth to be asetter forth of strange gods: becausehe preached unto them Jesus and theresurrection." So, they brought himto the heights called Areopagus where,centuries before, Demosthenses hadgiven his famous oration, "De Corona."It was here that Socrates was tiiedand then compelled to take poison.Here Paul now stood in the midst ofMars' Hill, and said, "Ye men ofAthens, I perceive that in all thingsye are very religious." (R. V.) "Foras I passed by, and beheld your devotions,I found an altar with this*inscription, 'To the Unknown God.'ijii-4Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship,him declare I unto you." As aresponse, therefore, to this challengeof the idol worship of the "UnknownGod" Paul stood on Mars' Hill anddelivered his sermon on "The OneTrue God."1: God is the Creator.The philosophers of Athens weremuch concerned with the questionof the way that the world came into existence.They did not all agree. Theyestablished a multitude of shrinesthroughout the city and then lest therebe a god whom they did not knowand might possibly overlook, they setup a shrine to the Unknown God. Paulstood in the midst of Mars' Hill anddeclared that the God whom they didnot know was the one and only trueGod who was the Creator of all things.He said, "God that made the worldand all things therein." This was theonly true starting point in all scientificor philosophic thinking. The greatmistake which the thinkers of Paul'sday made was that they did notpostulate God in trying to explainhow the world came into existence.And, this is the great mistake whichthe so-called learned ones make inthis our modern world. They do notpostulate God in their efforts to explainthe problems of the universe.The statement. "God is the Creator"should be regarded by all people asaxiomatic. The God, therefore, whomthe Athenians did not know was theCreator of the world "and all thingstherein."2: God Is Sovereign Over theWhole Universe.Paul said, "He is Lord of heavenand earth." God, therefore is thesupreme ruler. He is far above anyearthly king or system of government,whether it be vested in a monarchy,dictatorship or a democracy. TinAthenians realized that the governmentof Rome was over them butthey did not realize that the governmentof God was far greater than thegovernment of Rome. The God whomthey did not know was the supremeJULY 12, 1967 27

uler over all nations. This is the Godwho is still unknown by most of thepeople of the world today. To forgetGod is the greatest sin which a nationcan commit. Practically the wholehistorical part of the Bible is a messageto the nations of the world, andthe epitome of that message is foundin Psalm 2:12 in the words, "Kiss theson, lest he be angry and ye perishfrom the way, when his wrath iskindled but a little. Blessed are allthey that put their trust in Him."3. God's Presence is Not Restrictedto Earthly Dwellings.He is a Spirit and thus is everywherepresent. Paul said, "He dwellethnot in temples made with hands."Even the Temple in Jerusalem hadbeen entirely outmoded by the sacrificeof Christ. One does not need ashrine or sacred building in which tohouse God. The Athenians had erecteda little earthy building with a god init and the inscription, "To theUnknown God." The God whom theydid not know was a spiritual being;consequently, He could be everywherepresent. A magnificent edifice doesnot necessarily mean that God ispresent in that place. God can beworshiped in a great forest, in themountains, or by the shore of theocean. In Psalm 139 the writer said,"Whither shall I go from thy presence?If I ascend up into heaven, thou artthere: if I make my bed in Sheol,behold thou are there. If I take thewings of the morning, and dwell inthe uttermost parts of the sea; eventhere shall thy hand lead me, and thyright hand shall hold me."4: God is Not Partial to Any OneRace of People.Paul said concerning this Godimpartially and allowed to have theopportunities to which, under God,they are entitled.5: God, Through Christ, Will EventuallyJudge the World (Verse 31).6: God Raised up Jesus From theDead. (Verse 32)."Lesson based on International SundaySchool Lessons: the International Bible Lessonsfor Christian Teaching, copyrighted 1963by the Division of Christian Education, NationalCouncil of Churches of Christ in theU.S.A."Junior Topicfor August 1967JONAH THE MISSIONARYUNIT —JONAH THE MISSIONARYAs we begin our unit on Jonahthe Missionary, let us look for someinteresting facts about the cities wewill visit.Jonah's home was Gath-hepher,near Nazareth the home of Jesus, ofwhom Jonah was the sign.During Bible times there were onlytwo port cities, and not a single goodharbor the entire length of the MediterraneanSea. One of these portcities was Joppa. Joppa, where Jonahembarked to avoid preaching to anothernation, was the very place whichGod chose, 800 years later, to tellPeter to receive men of other nations.The port of Tarshish may have beenthe most westerly port of call at thistime. It is thought to have been locatedon the island of Sardinia, or in southwesternSpain.Nineveh, one of the greatest citiesof all times, was the capital of Assyria.The walls that surrounded the citywere 60 miles in length and 100 feethigh. They were so thick that threechariots could be driven side by side onthe top. Inside the city were beautifulp. 59, vv. 10-12.When God gives a command Heexpects it to be obeyed. In our lesson,we will learn about a man who triedto run away from God and His command.Jonah was afraid to undertakethe task which the Lord had for himto do. Jonah ran away! ! — Instead ofgoing to Nineveh, he went to Joppa,and there found a ship going toTarshish. He paid his fare and wentdown into the ship. Soon he was fastasleep. He had walked a long wayand was tired.The ship had barely set sail, whenthe Lord sent a great windstorm,that threatened to break up the ship.The sailors were afraid and cried eachto his own god. They threw over thecargo to lighten the ship. All this timeJonah was fast asleep. The captain didnot know what to do, so he came lookingfor Jonah. He scolded him sayingthat he must call on his God and prayto be delivered.They cast lots to find out who hadcaused the evil and Jonah was chosen.They demanded to know whose faultit was that this trouble had come,what his occupation was, where hehad come from, what country andwhat nationality. Jonah told them thathe was a Hebrew and worshiped theLord, the God of heaven and earth.He was fleeing from the presence ofthe Lord.The crew tried everthing theyknew to quiet the sea, but it grewworse and worse. Jonah told them tothrow him into the sea, then it wouldquiet down. The sailors did not wishto throw Jonah overboard, so theyrowed very hard to bring the ship tothe land. When this failed, they tookJonah and threw him into the sea,asking the Lord not to hold them inwhom the Athenians did not know,account for Jonah's life."And hath made of one blood (Adam's)all nations of men for to dwell on allImmediately the sea ceased raging.The men feared God, offered sacrificesthe face of the earth, and hath determinedthe times before appointed, and palaces, gardens, wonderful temples A great fish, which the Lord pre­to the Lord, and made vows.the bounds of their habitation." Paul for worship of the heathen gods. It pared, came out of the depths of themade his great appeal to the people was a great, splendid, but wicked city. sea and swallowed up Jonah. Theof all races of which there were many The memory Psalm for this unit prophet stayed in the body of thein Athens. The church today should is Psalm 89, page 217, w. 8,9-13,14. fish three days and three nights.not discriminate between races. Every for August 6, 1967This is a miracle. It was used byperson in the world possesses an immortalsoul and is, therefore, worth THE PERIL OF RUNNING AWAY somie such astounding miracle theby Mrs. Thomas A. Pricethe Lord for His purpose. Except forsaving, in the sight of God. Since GodBible Reading: Jonah 1. Ninevites would have given little heedcreated all people and provided a Memory Verse: Luke 11:30. to Jonah.Savior for whoever will accept of Psalms: 112, p. 277, vv. 1,4; 40, Have you always obeyed God'sHim, all people should be treated p. 102, w. 1-4; 34, p. 79, vv. 1,2; 25, commands? It is often hard, but we28must remember that the Lord expectsCOVENANTER WITNESS

us to do so. We can only do His willwhen we know it. So we must dailystudy His Word and there learn ofHim. Sometimes it seems easier to runaway from things, but the Lord alwayshas ways of bringing us to submission.Prayer is another way that we cancome closer to God and learn of Hiswill.BibliographyBible (use different versions)Thompson's New Chain ReferenceBibleHalley's Bible HandbookVos's Child Story Bible, pages 413-417Evans, Lawton B., Heroes of IsraelKeyes, Nelson Beecher, Story ofthe Bible WorldMcKelvy, Anna P., Taught of theLord (Helps for Junior Leaders)Cruden's Complete Concordance..Flannelgraph — (Suede-Graphs onJonah) Scripture Press, 1966 catalog,page 44Workbook SuggestionsMake a simple map of the HolyLand.1. Mark on it the cities noted inthe story.2. Make simple pictures to givean idea of the happenings ineach of these places.Write the memory Psalm at thebottom of the page, or make a separatesheet to keep all four for themonth.Prayer MeetingTopicfor August 9, 1967"A GOOD NAME."Proverbs 22:1.Psalms: 15:1-3, page 26; 24:2-3, page54; 101:14, page 238.References: I Samuel 25:3,25; Eccl.7:1; III John 12; James 4:11; Col. 3:9;Eph. 4:25; Acts 20:26-27; Leviticus 19:15.The word "good" is not in thetext, but it is implied. And if we havea good name it is preferred to greatriches. How many believe this? Menwill defraud, steal, lie, bear false witnessand many other evil things thatthey might make a shrewd bargain orget themselves out of a difficult situa-JULY 12, 1967tion. Such actions destroy all hope ofever possessing a good name. None istoo poor to possess it. But it must bechosen.Did it ever occur to you "that goodnessis not merely a beautiful thing,but by far the most beautiful in thewhole world? So that nothing is to becompared for value with goodness; thatriches, honor, power, pleasure, learning,the whole world and all in it arenot worth having in comparison withbeing good; and the very best thingfor a man is to be good even thoughhe were never to be rewarded for it."Ephesians 2:10.Of course no one is "good" butGod. Luke 18:18-19. But it is our dutyby God's grace, to strive for a goodname. We are not to make to ourselvesa good name that our name may bekept in remembrance. The desire for agood reputation and the good willof others may in themselves be a snareand vanity. Gen. 11:4; II Samuel 18:18;Luke 6:26; 16:15. Jesus said, "Let yourlight so shine before men, that theymay see your good works"... (Matt.5:16). If we are to have "good works"we must be good men and women.There is much in a name. A goodname stands for character, integrity,and godliness. So we are to strive tohave a good name — seeking thehonor that cometh from God only.Jn. 6:44. A good name is God's gift.May our "good works" glorify Him.How do we get a "good name"? Inthe Larger Catechism we have a verysuggestive answer in the ninth commandment.(Constitution of the ReformedPresbyterian Church, pages106-107) Among the many things requiredin this commandment are "appearingand standing for the truth;and from the heart, sincerely, freely,clearly, and fully speaking the truth,and only the truth, in matters ofjudgment and justice, and in all othcrthings whatsoever; a charitable esteemof our neighbors; loving, desiring, andrejoicing in their good name ""It forbiddeth... concealing the truth;Do It Yourselfundue silence in a just cause andholding our peace when iniquity call-See back pageNow it came to pass that certain rulers of our synagogues, about forty innumber, gathered together in the building which houses our school of theprophets that they might be refreshed in matters pertaining to churchhistory, synagogue administration, and in certain contemporary theologicalviews (which they eschewed as evil). As the course drew to a close a proclamationwas made that the group should be photographed for many were presentin the assembly who were devotees of Eastman. Now these are they who dowear a strap around their necks to which is attached a leather case the frontof which opens quickly to expose a magic box. Frequently, in divers places,and under almost any circumstances, these are wont to burst forth in sight ofeveryone and go through their peculiar ceremony. This consists in placing thebox to their foreheads, closing one eye, and concluding with a blinding flash oflight. While it was known that the Eastmanites present were not a few, behold,when the group lined up there was a great division so that it was difficult todecide who were the more in number the photographed or the photographers.What was to be done? A man of wisdom caused all to assemble as if to bephotographed and then dispatched the photographers alphabetically to takeeach his picture. Thus did every man get his own picture, those with Polaroidsimmediately and the rest when they finished the roll, and every picturecontained the likenesses of most of those present.In the days of our fathers a professional photographer would have beencalled who would have covered himself with a dark cloth and after certainsecret movements would have emerged, said something amusing, and suddenlysqueezed a rubber bulb. But this is the "do it yourself" age and rare is theperson who does not snap his own pictures. So is it also in the synagogues thatprosper most. In them it is not the sole work of the ruler to see that every thingis done but the members know how to assume responsibility. Happy is theruler who has in his synagogue many whose practice is "Do it yourself."29

KNOX MCCLOUD YOUNGIt is with sadness and with gratitudethat we record the death of our seniorelder,Knox M. Young; sadness as wesense the vacancy left by his passing;gratitude as memory brings clearly tomind his wise counsel, his good humor,his dedication to the work of the Lordthrough the church.He was born on a farm near NewGalilee (Pennsylvania), November 26,1877; died at his home in Bellevue,Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on May 12,1967. His parents, Harriet Wallace andWilliam Young, were members of theLittle Beaver Reformed PresbyterianChurch, and their son Knox joined atan early age.On coming to Pittsburgh in 1907 heattended the Pittsburgh congregationof the Reformed Presbyterian Church(Eighth Street) and joined in 1908. Heserved on its Board of Trustees andat the time of the merger of the Pittsburghand Central Allegheny congregationshe was chairman of the buildingcommittee for the new churcherected in 1929. On November 15, 1922,he was ordained as an elder, whichoffice he held for nearly 45 yearsuntil his death. When the congregationbecame the Central-Pittsburghcongregation, he was the Treasurerfor a number of years, and when thechurch was forced to move throughan Urban Renewal Project, he was thevice-chairman of the building committee.His interest in the Lord's workextended beyond the congregation;from 1946 to 1958 he was a member ofthe Board of Trustees of the Synodand for a number of years he servedon the Advisory Board of the ReformedPresbyterian Home for the Aged. Inthe early twenties he was appointedto the Board of Directors of the NationalReform Association, which heserved until his death. From 1923 to1963 he was treasurer of that organization.As a business man successful in theinsurance field, his counsel on manymatters was highly regarded. Both inthe congregation and related Christianorganizations, he was generousin his financial support.We commend to the comfort of theHoly Spirit his widow, Mrs. FlorenceYoung; his children, Knox M. Young,Jr., and Mrs. Elizabeth Stirling; abrother, Robert, and a sister, Mrs.McCain, and the wider circle of familyand friends.Session of the North Hills congregationMRS. GOLDIE TETRINGTONWILCOXMrs. Goldie Tetrington Wilcox, oldestmember of the Eastvale congregation,passed away May 6, 1967.Mrs. Wilcox, mother of Dr. D. RayWilcox, was from Princeton, Indianabefore coming to live in Beaver Falls,Pennsylvania, six years ago. She waspast president of the Gibson County(Indiana) WCTU, a former pianist andteacher, and a Sabbath School teacherfor many years.Other surviving sons are Robert J.,Mt. Lebanon, Pennsylvania, andOthwin, Orlando, Florida. She waspreceded in death by her husband,Theodore R. Wilcox, in 1918 and adaughter, Marjorie, in 1962.Mrs. Wilcox was an alert and interestedmember of the church as longas her health permitted. Her presenceand fellowship at church activities, atthe cost of extreme physical discomfortdue to arthritis, were an inspirationand blessing to all of us atEastvale and we miss her.SHARONThe Sabbath evening adult groupled by Mr. Everett Cummings is usingDr. Clark Copeland's "Studies in Thessalonians."Mrs. Ralph Wilson, recently returnedfrom visiting Winifred Wilson inNicosia, Cyprus, was guest speaker atour WMS spring thankoffering meeting.Mrs. Claude Brown's slides ofafternoon meeting. Included on theprogram were slides, shown by Mrs.Milford Hays, of our Carleton Conference.A congregational dinner was heldMay 16 in honor of our graduates.Lloyd Edgar, recently returned fromhis 50th year class reunion at GenevaCollege, acted as toastmaster. BruceCummings was Salutatorian of theMorning Sun High School SeniorClass. Tom Robb was one of the fivetop-ranking students in the Mediapolisgraduating class.Rev. S. Ray Blair, pastor of theAssociate Presbyterian Church, Washington,Iowa, preached for Sharon onSynod Sabbath, June 18. Dr. G. M.Robb preached for the College Hillcongregation. Dr. Robb served aschairman of Synod's Co-OrdinatingCommittee.Mr. Milford Hays was Iowa Presbytery'selder delegate to this committee.As a member of the provisional sessionof Marion congregation, he wasalso a delegate from Marion.Representatives from our CYPU,Jeanne and Nan Dill, MargaretMcClure, Richard McDonald, AdaLambert, and Tom Robb, had chargeof the services at Marion, June 18,giving their personal testimonies andwitness as to what Christ means tothem.Miss Margaret McClure, high schoolsenior, was the recipient of a scholarshipaward from the Women's FederatedClubs of Iowa. She will attendState College of Iowa, Cedar FaUs,Iowa. Jeanne Dill was chosen "Queen"by the Morning Sun High jschoolstudent body.Mary Harsh, following the LeadershipTraining course, is assisting withthe work at Hot Springs, New Mexico,and at Park City and Quinter, Kansas.Mr. and Mrs. Sam McKelvey celebratedtheir 63rd wedding anniversary,June 21.Service news: David Cummings ison a 4-month European "good-will"mission on the aircraft carrier, Essex,which was recently in port at Bergen,Norway.Selma, with her recorded message, Mrs. Dorothy Coberley and Mr.were shown at a recent Sabbath eveningservice. The Morning Sun congregationunited with Sharon and enjoyedthe slides with us.The WMS May breakfast was anenjoyable departure from our regularBeryl Shinn of Ottumwa, Iowa, wereunited in marriage, June 24, in theMethodist church, Vandalia, Mo.A farewell for the David Pattersonswas held, June 28. We are sorry tolose them from our church and community,30 but we know that WinchesterCOVENANTER WITNESS

congregation will be blessed by Rev. Amendment Movement. He gave the in Chicago and spent some time inMr. Patterson's ministry.students an opportunity to ask questions.Both teachers and students entered the automobile business, andY. M. C. A. work. Subsequently, heRichard McDonald, son of Mr. andMrs. Maurice McDonald, has been showed considerable interest and askedpertinent questions.in the Arlington Heights section oftoday operates a Chevrolet dealershipemployed jointly by Iowa State Universityand the Des Moines County Our pastor, Rev. John Tweed, made Chicago.Extension Service to work in the 4-H arrangements for Dr. Boyle to presentprogram this summer.the Christian Amendment over theBROOMALLVacation Bible School, with Mrs. radio station KUDL — a two-hour We are happy that the Board ofG. M. Robb as director, was held June program, with phone-in questions and Christian Education now has Laura5-16 from 8:30 to 11:15 a.m. ten mornings.The Morning Sun school loaned tian Patriot" June issue.)our Sabbath School teacher, trustee,comments. (See details in "The Chris­Boye as secretary, but we sorely missa bus to help transport children. During "spring-break" we were gracious hostess, and friend. Mrs.Sixty-three were registered. The happy to have several visitors from Fredric Martin was hostess at a farewellparty attended by young womenjunior high class of 19 was the largest Geneva College with us: Elizabethclass. The Great Commission Publicationscourse of study was used in the of New Brighton, Pa., Carol Martin, Bible study group in which LauraHutcheson's guests were Carole Miller of the congregation, members of thefour older classes. It was most gratifyingto see how well the whole school Falls, Pa., and Marjorie Veltman, office at Western Electric.Syracuse, N.Y., Becky Senior, Beaver participated, and friends from theabsorbed these fine Bible lessons. South Holland, 111.The latter part of April and earlyScripture Press course was used in Nancy Wright's guests were BarbaraStewart, Natick, Mass., Rob Archer, and Mrs. Thomas NimickMay, Miss Sarah Archer, Miss Deborahthe two younger classes.Baumgartner, Detroit, Mich., and Bill spent in Syria, Lebanon, and Egypt.KANSAS CITYArzberger, Pittsburgh, Pa.In Lebanon they visited the Rev. andOur congregation was privileged Nancy Gritton of Indianapolis, Ind. Mrs. William Lytle, of the Irish Covenantermission. Mrs. Lytle is a sisterand greatly blessed in the ministry of was a guest of Nancy Ray.Dr. S. E. Boyle during a six-day period Our congregational "Family Night" of the Archers.in April. His messages during our supper, held at the Wilbur More home On April 23, the Rev. James Carsoncommunion season were inspiring and (and spacious lawn) was in honor of conducted our Communion service. Onchallenging.David Fisher who is going into the the same Sabbath he baptized PeterFollowing our communion, Dr. Navy in the service of his country. Edwin Robson, whose parents areBoyle conducted an Evangelism EmphasisProgram. Monday night was pencil set, hinting that we expect him tion, of which Mr. Carson is pastor.He was presented with a pen and members of the North Hills congrega­"Ladies' Night" in which ladies of the to keep in touch with us. We were also We appreciated Mr. Carson's ministrycongregation and their guests enjoyed happy to welcome home Mrs. Karl and enjoyed to know his family, whoa Smorgasbord dinner and social time Cunningham and children; and Mr. were able to come and sightsee intogether in a private dining room of and Mrs. Benton Duffet, Jr. and sons Philadelphia.the Sveden House Restaurant. Followingthe dinner, Dr. Boyle presented an A library fund of seventy-five dol­Conference track meet in May. in thewho were visiting Mrs. Benton Duffet. Sports note: At the Middle Atlanticillustrated Gospel message emphasizingthe claims of Christ. There were budget for the year and a number of John Edgar placed first in the 120lars is included in the congregational college division of 16 schools, Bill andfifty-two ladies in attendance and new books have been added to the high hurdles and 440 intermediatemany of our guests expressed their church library.hurdles respectively.appreciation and interest in hearingGENEVA RECEIVES $5,000 GIFT Re-elected at our annual congregationalbusiness meeting as congrega­his message.Nicholas M. Lattof, a Chicago businessman,has given Geneva an unretionalchairman and as S. S. superin­Tuesday evening was "Men'sNight." The men of the congregationstricted gift of $5,000. The gift has tendent were William T. Jackson andand their guests had dinner at thebeen made, according to Mr. Lattof, Miss Mary E. Coleman. Also re-electedSmorgasbord and again Dr. Boyle"in recognition of what the Reformed for three-year terms as trustees werepresented his message to an attentivePresbyterian Church has meant to me, William Jackson and Mrs. Johnand interested audience.especially the influence that Mr. John Ramsey. Newly elected are Mrs.Wednesday evening, the entireFrench Carithers has been to me." William T. Jackson, secretary, Billcongregation and friends met at theAs a young boy, living near the Edgar, precentor, and as Witness correspondent,Mrs. Paul Fetzer, whochurch for the final message of theChurch Mission in Syria, Mr. Lattofseries. It was felt that this new approachin Emphasis Evangelism wasbecame acquainted with John French will begin her duties when she andCarithers, who was one of his teachers. her husband return from a four-monthvery interesting, instructive, andMr. Carithers graduated from Geneva tour of Europe. James Carson is retiringas clerk of Session after servingbeneficial.in 1912 and in 1913 went to Mersine,Dr. Boyle also had an opportunitySyiia where he spent some four and a for almost ten years; John Ramsey isto speak to classes in American historyand American government at thehalf years.the new clerk of the Broomall Session.Mr. Lattof later came to America Having begun these notes with anNorth Kansas City High School aboutand studied at the Y. M. C. A. College account of a farewell party, we regrethis work as lobbyist for the Christianhaving to end with another of theJULY 12, 1967 31

same. After our congregational meetingMrs. Robert Ashleigh and Mrs.Ramsey invited us downstairs for refreshmentsand for the presentationof gifts to Dr. and Mrs. Fredric Martinand Benjamin, who are leaving forKansas City, where Fred will servehis internship. He was graduated June1, from Jefferson Medical, so the followingSabbath we enjoyed having Dr.and Mrs. William Martin of Topekaworshiping with us. The members ofthe adult Sabbath School class haveenjoyed Faith's teaching and appreciatedher faithfulness. We will missthem all.CorrespondenceThe series by Dr. Vos about "FaithHealing" prompts an additional comment.Those who tend to make focalthe manifestation of the gospel inspiritual gifts of grace, especially divinehealing, often assert that thesame Greek word translated as "saved"(from sin) also means "healed" (in thebody). They hold that salvation necessitateshealing too — and so this claimtends to distraught those who wantto respect God's word.Let me suggest, however, that thosewho claim this are not Biblically precise.Admittedly pagan, secular Greek(both in the classics as in every-daykoine) used the verb "sozo" (save orheal) in this meaning. But, it shouldalso be noted that even here the morefrequent form was not "sozo" theverb, but the noun "salvation." Soeven in secular usage, the verbalform is not chiefly used in the senseof "bodily healing." But we need notdelay on the pagan use — for the Bibleis not this. In what meaning thereforedid the Bible (both the Greek translationof the O. T. — the LXX — andthe N. T.) use "sozo"? Here the consensusis remarkably clear. For theLXX, the overwhelming usage makes"sozo" and the noun "salvation" torefer to, not bodily healing, but to"preservation, deliverance, or providentialhelp." For the Greek O. T.,"sozo" is practically never used in thegeneral meaning of the word, thisidea appearing only as a minor subdivisionof the wo.d. Thus, the N. T.also shows a marked subordination ofthe thought of "healing."Furthermore, notice from the fewplaces the N. T. uses the verb "sozo"in the sense of bodily healing, that theconcept of "saving faith" invariablyaccompanies, and that where merelythe matter of healing arises, otherGreek words are used. This noticeablesegregation is most clearly perceivedin Luke 8:43-48. In vs. 43, the plainphysical healing is the Greek word"therapeutics." In vs. 47, where merelyphysical healing is again recorded,Dr. Luke uses the word meaning"cured." But when Jesus spoke (andclearly her soul is now involved inspiritual regeneration), He said,"Daughter, your (saving) faith hassozo'd you." A number of other examplescould also be cited.The conclusions may now be drawn.One principal meaning of "sozo" inpagan literature was "bodily healing."In the Greek O. T., this idea is deeplysubordinated to the thought of "preservation"or "deliverance." In the N.T., the concept takes on even morespiritual significance (thereby lesseningan already greatly depleted senseof "bodily healing") with its chiefthought being "forgiveness of sin" and"rescue from spiritual perdition."Thus, to assert that the Biblical word"sozo" means both "to be saved" aswell as "to be healed" is one of thosepartial truths — indeed capable ofside-tracking the believer from thetruth.Rev. Robert More, Jr.DRIVING, DRINKING:Chronic alcoholics are responsiblefor one third of the nation's trafficdeath toll according to evidence producedby years of research, a highwayaccident symposium at the Universityof Michigan was told. Researchers saidthat including accidents caused bynnr'T-'~ — — ^ —Prayer MeetingFrom page 29eth for either a reproof from ourselves,.or complaint to others; speaking thetruth unseasonably, or maliciously toa wrong end, or perverting it to awrong meaning or in doubtful andequivocal expressions to the prejudiceof truth or justice... (Study these twoanswers in the Larger Catechism)These answers make it clear thatthere are things we must do and thereare things we must not do if we areto have a good name. Certainly wemust guard our thoughts, words, actions,and companions.Name some of the blessings of agood name. In what ways does itenable us to glorify God? Titus 2:12.How is a good name a blessing to ourparents, children, relatives, friendsand fellow Christians? Phil. 2:15; ITim. 3:7. We must not interpret a"good name" merely in man's estimation.As Augustine said, we mustguard conscience as well as credit.How far-reaching is the influence ofa good name if that name is Christian!Who can estimate the influence of theApostle Paul?Many Bible characters had goodnames. Abraham was called the"Friend of God," James 2:23; II Chron.20:7; Moses was a man of God, Deut.33:1; Joshua 1:1; David was a manafter God's own heart, Acts 13:22;Daniel was greatly beloved, Daniel 9:23; 10:11, 19; John the Baptist, Matt.11:11; John the Beloved Disciple, John13:23; 20:2; 21:20. Peter's name waschanged to Cephas, a Rock, John 1:42.Nathanael was a man in whom was noguile (no Jacob), John 1:47. How is agood name attained? Like all goodthings, it is a gift of God's grace. Whatshould be our response? Romans 12:1-2.Prayer: —social-drinking motorists, more than That we may seek a good namehalf the nation's traffic deaths can be that we might glorify Him.blamed on alcohol.For the administation, faculty, andA. M. A. News,students of Geneva College.sense of "bodily healing" — as faithJune 5, 1967For the Seminary, students, faculty.For the schools in Nicosia andhealers would seek us to believe.This is my commandment, That ye Larnaca.There is another striking fact. love one another, as I have loved you. For the editors and writers of TheSince the Arndt and Gingrich Greek Greater love hath no man than this, Covenanter Witness, Christian Statesman,Blue Banner Faith and Life,Lexicon is probably the best English that a man lay down his life for hisone today, in it we observe that friends. John 15:12,13. Goal Post and The Covenanter Witness"healing" is not even listed as thein Scotland and Ireland.32 COVENANTER WITNESS

THEOLOGICAL SKSlNAttlTo The TruthJESUS CHRIST AS SAVIOUR, LORD, HEAD OF MEN, THE CHURCH AND NATIONS.VOLUME LXXIX NO. 3 JULY 19, 1967 STERLING, KANSASBIBLE LESSONS FOR THE WEEK OF AUGUST 13, 1967ChristianAdditionIt is a glorious thing when through the gift of God we axe led tobeheve in His Son Jesus Christ as our Saviour and Lord. Then webecome children of God and members of the family of God. Faithis the foundation of the Christian life, but it is not all God expects ofus. He expects us to grow in grace, to add to it those things whichwill make us more mature Christians.Through Peter God tells us that we are to be diligent in this greatendeavor. We are to add to faith virtue. This word means a God-likeexcellence, mcluding fortitude, energy and vigor in the Christian life.In virtue we should supply knowledge, or practical understanding. Inknowledge temperance is to be added. Temperance is self-control. Totemperance add patience. This refers especially to patience under trialor persecution, which every Christian is sure to experience. Paul saidthat through much tribulation we must enter the Kingdom of God.Added to this is to be godliness, which is a right disposition towardGod. I think this is a reverence for God, and a submission to the willof God in thought, word and deed. We often want to do our own willbut God's will is best for us. In giving supreme love for God, we willadd brotherly kindness. God loves other Christians and has broughtthem into His family, just as He has brought us. We should lovethem as ourselves.To cap it all love should be added. This is the highest form oflove. This is a universal love, a love for all mankind. If we aboundin these things we shall come to know Christ by experience. As wecultivate these Christians graces we become more mature Christians.These things are the fruit of the Spirit, and make the believer inChrist more fruitful. One lacking these things has not grown, isbhnd, forgetting what Christ has done for him. He is to give diligenceto prove that he is among those called and elected to salvation.—Associate Reformed Presbyterian.«»• *

THE COVENANTER WITNESSOfficial organ of the ReformedPresbyterian Church of N. A.> CVAN«COCAL >Hm ASCOCIATWNEditor: Rev. M. W. Dougherty, D.D.125 N. 4th StreetSterling, Kansas 67579Phone 316 — Br. 8 • 3472Printed each Wednesday under the supervision of theBoard of Publication by The Patterson Press, MorningSun, Iowa 52640.Contributing Editors: Department Editors:Rev. Kenneth Smith Rev. John TweedDr. G. M. RobbMrs. Robert B. MaineRev. John McMillan Mrs. Willis EdgarRev. C. E. Caskey Rev. John K. GaultOpinions expressed in our columns are those of theindividual writer, not necessarily the views of the ReformedPresbyterian Church or the editor.All material to appear in The Covenanter Witnessshould be typewritten, double-spaced, and should be inSterling, Kansas two weeks before it is to be printed.The cost of all pictures is 30 cents per square inch.Obituaries — All words in excess of one hundred fifty,one cent per word. Money should accompany such notices.SUBSCRIPTION RATESIndividual (1 year): U.S. and Canada, $4.00, BritishIsles 35/-, all other places, $5.00;Individual (2 year): U.S. and Canada, $7.00, BritishIsles 63/-, all other places, $9.00;Group: U.S. and Canada, $3.00, British Isles 28/-, allother places, $4.00.9-month student subscription — $1.50; 5-month introductoryoffer —$1.00; 2 gift subscriptions to persons outsideof the R. P. Church — $2.00 each. Single copies, 10c.Subscription Agent for U.S. and Canada: Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Subscription Agent for the British Isles: Rev. HughWright, B.A., 12, Knutsford Drive, Belfast 14, NorthernIreland.All checks should be made payable to The CovenanterWitness in U. S. currency.Give one month's notice of a change of address. Sendboth the new and the old address to Mrs. M.W. Dougherty.Postmaster: Please send Form 3579 to Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Second class postage paid at Morning Sun, Iowa 52640.WE HOLD THE FOLLOWING TO BE TRUTHS OF SCRIPTURE:The Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the only infalliblerule of faith and conduct.The Trinitarian conception of the Godhead.Faith in Jesus Christ as the only way of salvation.Salvation by Grace.Assurance of salvation as a possible Christian experience.The Gospel Call and Election.The Holy Spirit as the Author of regeneration.Sanctification through the cooperating agency of the Holy Spirit.The fact of death and hell as the destiny of the lost and heavenas the destiny of the saved.That the Church of Jesus Christ consists of all those who believein Him together with their children.The Divine Right of the Presbyterian form of Church Government.The Lord Jesus Christ as the only King and Head of His Church.That terms of membership or communion are essential to thewelfare of the Church.THE AMERICAN ACADEMY FACULTY 1967Larnaca, CyprusFrom left to right: First row, Mrs. A Michaelides, MissP. Heraclidou, Mrs. J. Michaelidou, Mr. John Lyssandrou,Mrs. E. Mavrides, Mrs. Marjorie Hutcheson, Miss E.Antoniou, Miss E. Jacovou, Miss P. Bartella, Second row,Mr. A. Chatallis, Mr. Nittis, Mr. Sylvestrou, Mr. A. Ellanas,Mi 1 . E. Mavrides, Asst. Principal, Mr. T. M. Edgar, Principal,Rev. T M. Hutcheson, Mr. Antoniou, Mr. J. Lyssandrou,Mr. Pyliotis. Top row, Mr. Aram, Mr. G. Papazian,Mr. Prodromou, Mr. G. Chopourian, Mr. Myrianthefs,Dr. Marcellos, Mr. Pieris, Mr. Allan Nelson, Mr. Akritisand Mr. AndreouThis Week's WitnessI Do Solemnly Swear 35Glimpses of The Rehgious World 36Confession by Isaiah — A Sinful People .... 37Friday at Synod 39What God Is Doing — In Evangelism 41The Fortune Teller 42Lesson Helps 43Knowing How To "Spel" 45Church News 46The duty which rests upon officers to maintain discipline andpreserve the purity of the Church.Spiritual worship as a divine requirement mediated through theLord Jesus Christ.The exclusive use of the Psalms in the worship of the Church.The Protestant interpretation of the Sacraments.The divine right of the institution of Marriage and that it is notto be dissolved except by adultery or "irremediable" desertion.The Sabbath as a day sacred to rest and worship.The duty of nations and their civil rulers to honor Christ asKing of Kings and Lord of Lords.That Christian citizens are under obligation to obey lawful authority.The right and duty of the Christian citizen to dissent from allgovernmental and national disobedience to the Law of God.That the Covenants of the past are still binding.From "The Communicant's Class" by J. B. Tweed34 COVENANTER WITNESS

EditorialCommentI DO SOLEMNLYSWEARThe ordinances of God should hold a preeminentplace in the exercises of a Christian. Theyare ordered by Almighty God and are thereforesolemn and sacred activities to be performed by theChristian in his relationship to God. We are awareof many ordinances, but are more consciously awareof some than others. The matter of covenanting,vowing, and oath-taking are given httle consideration.Yet in God's sight they are by no means insignificant.A covenant is an agreement between two ormore persons to do or not to do something. In thebusiness world such an agreement is called a contract.A vow is a voluntary, solemn, promise madeto God alone.An oath is an agreement between men, in whichGod is called upon to witness what is promised andjudge the parties engaged by the oath. The one whoswears gives up any claim to God's favor andinvokes His curse should he fall short in keeping theagreement. (See I Kings 8:31,32.)Since the oath is a direct appeal to God, it isan act of worship and it is not to be treated lightly.To engage in this act is a solemn and fearful thing.Swearing by the name of God is commanded. InDeuteronomy 6:13 God says through Moses: "Thoushalt fear the Lord thy God, and serve him, andshalt swear by his name." "Thou shalt fear the Lordthy God; him shalt thou serve, and to him shaltthou cleave, and swear by his name" (Deuteronomy10:20). Leviticus 19:12 warns: "And ye shall notswear by my name falsely, neither shalt thou profanethe name of thy God: I am the Lord." An oath"is a rehgious confession of the existence, theomniscience, the omnipresence, the omnipotence,the holiness, the justice, and the providence of God.It is called the ^oath of God' in Ecclesiastes 8:2."When God made His promises to Abraham, He confirmedthem by an oath, swearing by Himself, sincethere was none greater. (Hebrews 6:13)The purpose of an oath is to make certain thatwhat is promised will be performed. (II Kings 11:4;I Samuel 12:5) This is necessary because man bynature is sinful and something must be done tomake his word certain.Since an oath appeals to God and since it is anact of worship, divine requirements must be metwhen it is taken. The occasion should call for it. SeeJesus' command in Matthew 5:33-37. To take anoath and not keep it is perjury or swearing deceitfully.(Psalm 24:4) The oath is never to be takenwith mental reservations. This is called a sin ofenormity by Wilhamson.The oath is binding only when a thing is goodand agreeable to the Word of God. When it is discoveredto be wrong, it is to be retracted. One shouldnever take an oath regarding a secret thing, unknownto him as yet. Herod should never havebeheaded John the Baptist even though he hadmade a rash promise re-enforced by an oath. Tokeep such an oath is wrong, and forgiveness shouldbe sought. However, an oath is to be kept when thething sworn to is right,even though it may be toone's own hurt. (Psalm 15:4)Thus we see that oath-taking is not a thing to bewinked at. There is no act entered into by manmore solemn than this. It should be done only aftermuch prayer and seeking of the will of God to whomwe appeal in the performance of our duty.THE ECUMENICAL URGEThe union of all ChristiansEnthusiasm for a great kingdomUnion of all churchesMaterial organization of aU churchesDespondency over low spiritualityURGF.SURGEmERGEemERGEdIRGEDisappearance of true principle of the church. submERGEM. W. D.JULY 19, 1967 35

Glimpses of the Religious WorldTHE QUESTION OF PROPERTY RIGHTSAn editorial in the June 7 issue of The PresbyterianJournal suggests that the tight grip whichthe United Presbyterian Church, U. S. A., formerlyheld upon a congregation's property has now beenbroken.This contention rests upon the fact that theLarger Catechism has been left completely out ofthat church's new confessional "package." As a result,the Book of Confessions, which includes thenew Confession of 1967, does not preserve theChurch's doctrinal integrity.Four presbyteries of the UPUSA Church calledthe attention of the General Assembly at Portland tothe fact that there is a vast difference betweenamending a constitution and abrogating a constitution.A formal legal brief, drawn by a battery ofconstitutional lawyers, supported their contention.While these arguments did not make very muchheadway in the Assembly, they may well form thebasis for a test in the civil courts, as to a congregation'sright to withdraw from the denomination andtake its property with it.In the view of the Presbyterian Journal editorial,the leaving out of the Larger Catechism may havebeen providential.SCIENTISTS HUNT CLUES FOR EVOLUTION(EP) A seal which was allegedly frozen in theAntarctic 2,000 years ago, has been brought to thelaboratory of Northwestern University where scientistsare hoping to "confirm the theory of evolution."The find is a scientific prize, according to Dr.Mario A. Marini, associate professor of biochemistryat Northwestern, "because any hving organismquickly deteriorates when it dies, erasing the biologicalclues to its heritage."He said most scientists agree that Darwin'stheory of evolution is the best thing we have to explainthe wide variety of species but that "no one hasever come up with any biological evidence to showhere and now that one species of mammal is evolvinginto another."If the dry-freeze process that preserved the sealwas quick enough, some of the animal's proteinsmay have been preserved in their original state. IfTHE REV. JOHN McMILLANR. D. 1, Box 337WALDEN, NEW YORKthey are, they will be the oldest known biologicallyactive substances from a mammal available forstudy. They will also enable the Northwesternscientists to compare the 2,000-year-old proteinswith proteins of modern seals around the South Poleto determine if there have been any slight chemicalchanges between the two that may have been theresult of evolution.So the search goes on for some possible way toconfirm an unproved theory.ARP SYNOD'S DECLARATION ON WAR(EP) The General Synod of the Associate ReformedPresbyterian Church, in its annual session atFlat Rock, North Carolina, said that "participationin war as a last resort is not immoral to the extentthat it is engaged in to protect oppressed people.''It adopted a report which stated that "althoughthe use of force and war is deplorable under allconditions and to be avoided whenever possible . . .the avoiding of personal involvement in conflictswhile others suffer is contrary to the nature ofChristian love."The report condemned "draft card burning orother illegal protest" but said the church "should notisolate or alienate from our fellowship in Christthose whose honest dissent stems from Christianconscience."THE CLERGYMAN'S RIGHT TO REMAIN SILENT(EP) A bill exempting ministers from beingforced by the courts to reveal information giventhem by communicants has been passed by theNorth Carolina House and sent to the Senate, whereit was favorably received by the Senate JudiciaryCommittee.The bill, which grants immunity to a ministerunless the person with whom he has talked agreesthat the conversation can be placed in the evidence,won unanimous approval from the Senate committee.Pointing out that conversations between attorneysand their clients are considered privileged,Senator Albert Ellis told the committee that "clergymenshould have the same protection as lawyers."36 COVENANTER WITNESS

Confession by Isaiah-DEVOTIONAL ADDRESS IN SYNOD(ISMAHa:5) A Sinful PeopleRev. John Tweed —The reign of King Uzziah was probably the mostglorious of all the kings of Judah. He was excelledonly by Solomon in the splendor and magnitude ofhis kingdom. II Chronicles 26 records some of hisachievements:1. He was 16 years old when he came to thethrone and he reigned for 52 years.2. He warred against the Philistines.3. His name was spread throughout the countryeven to Egypt.4. He built towers in Jerusalem.5. He digged many wells for his herds of cattle.6. He had a corps of 2,600 mighty men whocommanded an army of over 300,000 men.7. He devised machines which were able toshoot arrows and great stones.8. He was a successful farmer.But he not achieve this preeminence throughhis own strength. In the 26th chapter of II Chronicleswe read that "God helped him.. . and madehim to prosper. . . and his name spread far abroad,and he was marvelously helped till he was strong."This was the king who captivated the attentionof Isaiah as he was growing up. As George AdamSmith says: "Think of the boy, the boy that was tobe Isaiah, the boy with the germ of the great prophecyin his heart — think of him and such a heroas this to shine upon him, and we may conceivehow his whole nature opened out beneath that sunof royalty and absorbed its hght."But Isaiah was soon to discover that his herohad feet of clay. II Chronicles 26:16 tells us that Uzziah"transgressed against the Lord his God, andwent into the temple of the Lord to burn incense." Asa result of this sin we read that "The Lord smote theking so that he was a leper unto the day of his death,and dwelt in a several house, and he was cut offfrom the house of the Lord."In due time the disease accomplished its terriblepurpose and Uzziah "slept with his fathers." Butwhat seemed like a tragedy turned out to be theturning point in Isaiah's life — 'In the year thatPastor of Kansas City R. P. Churchking Uzziah died I saw also the Lord." The veil wasremoved from Isaiah's eyes. For the first time hewas able to look beyond the seen to the unseen; hewas able to look beyond the glories of Uzziah'sphysical kingdom to the throne of the eternal God— "I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, highand lifted up, and His train filled the temple." Whata remarkable contrast Isaiah must have seen betweenthe earthly splendor of Uzziah's kingdom,and the majesty and glory of the throne of God.This abihty in Isaiah to look beyond the seen tothe unseen brought forth another new experiencein his life. For the first time he was able to seehimself as he was seen by the Lord who was sittingupon the throne. Never before had there been anyconcept of unworthiness — no awareness that hesinned against the eternal God. But as his eyeswere permitted to see this vision of the Holy Godsitting upon His throne, surrounded by the seraphimwho were continually crying one to another: "Holy,holy, holy, is the Lord God of hosts: the whole earthis full of His glory." As he saw all this, the comparisonbetween this holy God and his own sinful lifestood out in shocking contrast: "Then said I, Woeis me! for I am undone; because I am a man ofunclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people ofunclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, theLord of hosts."In this connection we are reminded of the wordsof Simon Peter, when after fishing all night withno tangible results, he saw Jesus: "Depart from me:for I am a sinful man, O Lord." Or the words of thewoman of Samaria after talking with Jesus at thewell: "Come, see a man which told me all thingsthat ever I did: is not this the Christ?"As one commentator had said: "What Isaiahactually felt was the dim eyed shame, the distraction,the embarrassment, the blinding shock of apersonal encounter with One whom he was utterlyunfit to meet. . . God and he were face to face."The way in which Isaiah acknowleged his sinand the sin of the people of Judah ought to be ofJULY 19, 1967 37

special interest to us. Isaiah was soon to become aprophet of God. The foremost responsibihty of aprophet of God was to use his lips in telling forth themessage that God had upon his heart. His lipswere to be the vehicle of communication, and hisgreat concern was that his lips were not fit to speakon behalf of this holy God.Isaiah had been privileged to observe a scenein which the holy God was worshiped perfectly.There was no sin to hinder the praise that theseraphim offered to God. As Isaiah witnessed thisperfect praise by sinless beings, he was able to seeas never before, not only defects in his own imperfectworship of God, but the defects in the nation ofJudah as the people sought to bring their worshipbefore God.As we read through Scripture we find emphasizedthe prominent place our lips ought to have inthe Christian life. In Psalm 118:17 the Psalmistsaid: "I shall not die, but hve, and declare the worksof the Lord." Psalm 66:16 — "Come and hear, allye that fear God, and I will declare what he hathdone for my soul." Peter and John said: "For wecannot but speak the things which we have seenand heard."The command to be able to express what Godhas been pleased to do in the hfe and heart whichhas been redeemed in the shed blood of Christ, isa command that has been extended to every childof God. But especiaUy is the command significantto those of us who have been formally set apart tospeak in behalf of God. How often have our lipsbeen unclean in preaching what our people wantto hear instead of what they need to hear? Howoften have our lips been unclean by sinful silencein not reproving sin with the boldness and powerof the Old Testament prophets?But even while Isaiah was suffering under theawful realization of his own unworthiness, Godwas providing that which symbolized his cleansingfrom sin. Verses 6,7 — "Then flew one of theseraphim unto me, having a hve coal in his hand,which he had taken with the tongs from off thealtar: And he laid it upon my mouth, and said, Lo,this hath touched thy lips; and thine iniquity istaken away, and thy sin purged."The seraph touched his lips with a hve coal notto hurt, but to heal. There is no mention here of avictim slain or its blood sprinkled. Instead ctflaying his sin in the form of some victim upon thealtar, Isaiah presented himself. This would seemto be a fulfillment of Psalm 51:16,17 — "For thoudesirest not sacrifice; else would I give it; thoudelightest not in burnt offering. The sacrifices ofGod are a broken spirit: a broken and a contriteheart, O God, thou wilt not despise."With his iniquity taken away and his lipscleansed, Isaiah was now in a position to hear thevoice of Him that sat upon the throne. "Also Iheard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shallI send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Heream I; send me."While he had been laboring under the awfulconviction of his own sin he had been afraid to lookinto the Divine Face—"Woe is me! for I am undone."But now with full assurance of his reconciliationwith God through the forgiveness of his sin, heresponds to the divine request by saying: "Here amI; send me." There is no feeling of compulsion, nofear of what might happen to him if he failed tooffer himself in service. He heard the voice of Godasking for someone to go, and having knownthrough personal experience the joy of forgiven sinhe felt that he was the man for the job, and withouthesitation responded: "Here am I; send me."Isaiah knew the peace to which Paul referredwhen he wrote in Romans 8:1 — "There is thereforenow no condemnation to them which are in ChristJesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after theSpirit."Isaiah was faithful to his call. Regardless of theoutward changes in the fortunes of the Kingdomof Judah, Isaiah could always say, "Here am I; sendme." Having known the reahty of God's forgivenesshe was able to point through prophecy to the Onethrough whom God was pleased to bestow Hisforgiveness: "But he was wounded for our transgressions,he was bruised for our inquiries: thechastisement of our peace was upon him; andwith his stripes we are healed."What special significance these words musthave had for Isaiah as he recalled that early experienceof seeing the glory of God, and hearing thewords, "Lo, this hath touched thy lips; and thineinquity is taken away, and thy sin purged."NEW YORK — In 1870 the American Bible Societypromoted a railway Scripture distribution plan.Eight years later most of the major railroads werebeing supplied with on-train Scriptures. Records indicatethat Bibles were sometimes taken from carsby forgetful passengers just as "Bible burglars"continue to take them today from pubhc places,with an upsurge of Scripture "shoplifting" noted atEaster and Christmas.38 COVENANTER WITNESS

Notes on Synod ProceedingsThe day began with devotions, Rev. Alvin W.Smith, Jr. presiding. The message by the Rev. KeithE. Copeland was on "Christ Will Return In Judgment"based on Revelation 1:7. The assurance ofour Lord's Second Coming constitutes: a call to theunregenerate to repent, a call to Christians to warnothers to repent, a call to Christians to be faithful,and a comfort to the Christian in crisis times.The order of the day was the report of the Committeeon Pohtical Dissent, held over from theprevious day. Dr. S. E. Boyle, speaking for theMinority Report, felt that our retreat from ourformer stand on pohtical dissent, has weakened ourwitness to the Crown Rights of Jesus Christ. Rev.Willard McMillan expressed strong support for theChristian Amendment, though our method of dissentis not the same as formerly. Rev. Robert M.More, Jr. advocated a Christian pohtical party. Rev.Raymond P. Joseph spoke of the Anti-RevolutionaryParty in the Netherlands. Dr. Roy Fullerton spokeagainst the Majority Report and advocated theMinority Report, calling attention to our ordinationvows and the seriousness of covenant-breaking. Dr.Roy Blackwood told us of his Scottish ancestors. Dr.S. E. Boyle made an eloquent plea for the Churchnot to abandon her historic witness to the rule ofJesus Christ over the nations, and was applauded.The Rev. Wayne Spear ably advocated the MajorityReport which hinges around the statement:"That Synod declare that the evidence now availableis not sufficient clearly to establish as fact, the assumptionthat the oath to support and defend theConstitution of the United States is a sinful oath.''Synod, taking a secret ballot, adopted the MajorityReport by a vote of 65-42. This leaves to the individualconscience the question of whether or not membersof the Reformed Presbyterian Church of NorthAmerica may participate in pohtical elections. Anumbers of the ministers and elders present hadtheir names recorded in protest against this actionof Synod.The report of the Oath Committee was adopted.The report of the Nominating Committee set Synodto balloting concerning vacancies on the permanentboards or committees. Dr. S. E. Boyle reported onthe work of the Christian Amendment Movement.The morning session was dismissed with prayerFRIDAY AT SYNODReported by G. M. Robbby Rev. Ralph Joseph. The afternoon session convenedwith prayer by Dr. Lester Kilpatrick.Synod was addressed by Dr. Renwick Wright ofIreland, who expressed the anticipation with whichCovenanters in the British Isles are looking forwardto seeing American Covenanters in the Conventionof 1968.The Judicial Committee reported. Among otheritems, guide lines were provided for receiving congregationsfrom other denominations into ourchurch. Observing the Communion Sacrament on aday other than the Lord's Day, was declared not tobe unscriptural; but the Sacrament should be observedin the church and on the Lord's Day, exceptfor very extraordinary circumstances.In connection with the report of the Committeeon Temperance, Dr. F. W. Huston spoke on therelationship between alcohol and auto accidents.The Elders' Conference recommended that pastorspreach on reverence in the House of God; and recommendedthat salaries of pastors, missionaries, andother Christian workers, be reviewed from time totime, to determine whether they are adequate. TheBoard of Pensions was given discretion to increasethe pensions of retired married ministers by $20.00per month. The Finance Committee recommendedsome long-over-due increases in salary for those inthe employ of our denomination — such as: ourTreasurer, Seminary professors, Director of ChristianEducation, Secretary of the Christian AmendmentMovement, etc. Synod, by resolution, expressedregret at the adoption of the 1967 Confessionby the United Presbyterian Church in the U.S.A.—noting in particular that the 1967 Confession'sstatements on the Scriptures constitute a seriousdeparture from the historic Christian Faith.Synod recessed for the evening meal with prayerby Elder George Jackson, and reconvened withprayer by the Rev. Philip Coon.Rev. Robert M. More, Jr. brought the report ofthe Committee on the Canadian Centennial Celebration,calling attention to the congregations inCanada into which the Church has poured her resources,and that have now become defunct.The Travel Fund Committee reported a balanceof $46.25 after paying the travel expenses of themembers of Synod. The Nominating CommitteeJULY 19, 1967 39

ought its final reporL Dr. Kermit S. Edgar reportedthat the 1967 Pas.or's Refresher Course had beenmost successful; and another such project is plannedfor 1969.The Co-ordinating Committee report was adopted,setting Synod's Contributed Budget for 1968at $165,000. This should be viewed by the Church,not as a "budget" to be raised, but as vital work ofthe Church and of the cause of Christ, which theLord's people will want to support whole-heartedly.The Rev. Wayne Spear brought resolutions ofthanks: to Geneva CoUege and to CoUege Hill Churchfor the use of their splendid facilities; to the womenwho provided refreshments day by day; to the moderatorand clerks for their efficient conduct of thebusiness of Synod; and, above aU, to Christ the Kingand Head of the Church for His manifest blessing.The parliamentarians recognized that Friday,June 23, was the Fortieth Wedding Anniversary ofDr. and Mrs. M. W. Dougherty. They were asked tostand, and were heartily applauded by the membersof Synod.Synod adjourned, to meet Saturday, July 13,1968, at 6:30 p.m. in Calvary Bible CoUege, KansasCity, Missouri.I Got A GloryBy Archibald RutledgeOn a day memorable to me, I boarded a tinytugboat that I used often in crossing a southernriver, and saw that we had a Negro engineer. Hesat in the doorway of the engine room reading theBible; he was fat, squat, and black, but immaculate,and in his eyes was the splendor of ancient wisdomand peace with the world. As I paused to talk withhim I noticed that the characteristic odors that hadalways emanated from the engine room were nolonger there. And the engine! It gleamed and shone.Instead of grime and filth and stench, I foundbeauty and order. When I asked the engineer howin the world he had managed to clean up the oldroom and the old engine, he answered in wordsthat would go far toward solving life's problemsfor many people."Cap'n," he said, nodding fondly in the directionof the engine, "it's just this way: I got a glory."Making that engine the best on the river washis glory in life, and having a glory he had everything.The only sure way out of suffering that Iknow is to find a glory, and to give to it the strengthwe might otherwise spend in despair.—Selected.40Mr. Kyriacos Kattou, a young Covenanter, in our 1967Graduating Class, together with his fiancee, Miss NitsaCosta. After graduating from the American Academy,Larnaca, Cyprus, Kyriacos hopes to train for full-timeChristian service.THE FORTUNE TELLERFrom page 42Nobody spoke to Mary when she left the tentand set out on her way homeward over the difficultpath. It was a long, lonely trudge; but Mary waseager to see her friend again as soon as possible,and in a day or two she found time for anothervisit. As she came out at last on to the lonely heath,she looked eagerly for the httle encampment. Itwas gone! She went up to the place where the tenthad been and found a black patch with some asheswhere the fire was.Like many other true stories, this one remainsunfinished; Mary never knew what became of thepoor wanderer. Her heart had seemed so trulysoftened that Mary was fuU of hope about her. Itmay be in that short interview that the hving seedwas planted in a heart prepared by the Holy Spirit,and if so, it certainly brought forth the fruit ofeternal hfe. But we can be sure that one of the two"fortunes" foretold by Mary came true of the gypsy.Either she met the woe so solemnly promised to thewicked, or else the good which is promised to therighteous. For those whom Jesus saves there is nocondemnation. For the Lord has laid on Him theiriniquities, and upon them He has put the righteousnessof Christ.— The Gospel MagazineCOVENANTER WITNESS

What God Is Doing-- In EvangelismA TESTIMONY — by Larry FalkMINISTRY OF THE HOLY SPIRITMy testimony is perhaps quite different fromby Bessie Morrowmany because of the fact that I do not know exactlyThe Holy Spirit cannot be purchased withwhen Christ came into my life. But I do know thatmoney. This fact is pointed out in Acts 8:17-20.when I was in grade school Christ came into myThe Holy Spirit is given as a gift to those who obeyhfe one night after the church service. I rememberGod. Peter said in Acts 2:38, "Repent, and bepraying a simple prayer and asking Christ to come inbaptized every one of you in the name of Jesusand take over my life. However, I don't know theChrist for the remission of sins, and ye shaU receiveexact date.the gift of the Holy Ghost." The Holy Spirit plays aI continued to grow closer to Him through thevital part in our conversion and in our ChristianSabbath school, church, youth group, and famUygrowth.associations.The Holy Spirit is essential in our conversionOne big step in my life came after my sophomoreyear in high school. I attended our nationalby reveahng to us who Christ is. (Matthew 15:16,17)"No man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by theconference that summer. If someone had asked me,Holy Ghost" (I Corinthians 12:3b). The Holy Spirit"Were you a Christian before that?" I probablyalso draws us to Christ. (John 6:44)would have said, "Yes," but I was not sure I wasAfter we receive Christ, the Holy Spirit leadstruly a Christian. It was at this conference that Ius in our Christian growth. As is stated in Johnstarted asking myself questions. "Am I a Christian?14:26, He shaU teach us aU things. The Spirit ofHow do I know?" So I went to my room one afternoon,instead of taking part in recreation, and there,God dweUs in us and teaches us the things of God.(I Corinthians 2: 12)alone, I prayed and read God's Word. And before IThe Holy Spirit not only teaches us about Godleft that conference I knew for sure, without a doubt,but He also helps us pray, for we do not reallythat I was a Christian.know how or for what to pray. (Romans 8:26)In I John 5:11,12, we read: "And this is thePraying in the Holy Spirit builds us up in our faith.record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and(Jude 20)this hfe is in his Son. He that hath the Sop. hathAfter becoming a Christian, growing in ourlife; and he that hath not the Son of God hath notunderstanding of the things of God, and buildinglife." So then, all I had to determine was whether Iup our faith, we may witness to others. When wehad Christ in my life. "Therefore if any man be inwitness to others we need not worry about whatChrist, he is a new creature: old things are passedto say for the Holy Spirit will tell us. (Mark 13:10;away; behold, aU things are become new." (II Corinthians5:17). I could now teU that this was true inLuke 12:12) He will give us the power to bewitnesses and cause us to speak the Word of Godmy life. What peace and joy this brought to my hfe.with boldness.If I were to die right now, I know that I wouldThe Holy Spirit plays a vital part in our conversionand leads us in our Christian growth. Ingo to heaven to spend eternity, because God promisesthat, and I beheve God. How about you? If youthese ways one can see the importance of theshould die right now, do you know where you wouldministry of the Holy Spirit.go? God says that if you beheve in Christ you can*****know. "These things have I written unto you thatNote: Bessie Morrow is a member of the Clarbeheve on the name of the Son of God; that ye may da, Iowa R. P. Church and a student in the Clarknow that ye have eternal life, and that ye may Community College.beheve on the name of the Son of God." (I John5:13). Where wiU you spend eternity?* * * * *McFarland.Note: Larry Falk is a member of the Clarinda, Other readers of THE COVENANTER WITNESSIowa, congregation. He has attended Clarinda CommunityCollege where he was an active member of and personal testimonies for publication, inare invited to send items of evangelistic actithe Christian Student Fellowship. In a booklet printedby the Fellowship this testimony first appeared. them to: Rev. Waldo Mitchel, 115 Townsend,that we may all be stimulated and encouraged. STlie group has been sponsored by the Rev. M. L. Walton, Nexu York 13856.JULY 19, 1967 41

A PAGE FOR JUNIORSThe Fortune TellerIt is unusual in these days to meet anyone whois actuaUy begging, but in the last century, whenMary Brown was hving, beggars in the street werea common sight. Mary was a young lady who hadturned her back on the life of idle comfort thatshe might have hved, and now spent much of hertime visiting the poor cottages around her, givingwhat help she could. Her chief idea was to tell thepeople of the Lord Jesus, who, though He was rich,had become poor that He might be the Saviour ofsinners; but if she saw a need that her purse couldsupply, she was always eager to meet it.One day Mary was stopped in the road by agirl about thirteen, dirty and bedraggled. 'Tlease,miss, spare me a copper! Mother's ill, and fatherain't got no work to do."Mary looked at the httle beggar; the child wasquite unknown to her, and her face was unusual,with dark eyes and hair, and a very brown skin."I won't give you anything now," she said kindly,"but I would hke to come and see your mother. Tellme where she hves.""Oh,it's too far away," said the girl; "you couldn'tnever find the way.""WeU, you show me," said Mary; "111 come withyou now.""Oh, no, miss, you can't come," said the chUd;"the road's all deep in mud."Mary was surprised at the girl's hesitation, butshe wanted to know how far her story was true, soshe pressed the matter tiU the chUd gave in at last.Leading Mary out of the viUage, she presentlystruck away from the main road into a rough hiUypath, quite as muddy as she had described. Everynow and then the chUd would turn round and urgeMary not to come any further. The path grew wilderand more lonely, and when it plunged into a darkwood Mary did feel a httle frightened, and beganto wonder whether she ought to go on. But not42hking to give in, she pressed on bravely, andpresently asked her guide how much farther it wasto her mother's cottage." 'Tain't a cottage," said the chUd.Mary wondered what she meant! "Where doesyour mother hve, then?" she asked."In a tent," said the girl sullenly. At that momentthe path emerged on to a common. "There 'tis," saidthe girl, pointing to a poor, low tent. Two iU-fed,neglected-looking donkeys were tethered near, andsome dirty chUdren were playing round, talkingwhat sounded hke gibberish to Mary. The ghi liftedthe flap, and Mary went in.The dark, dirty place was fuU of smoke from aturf fire, over which a man was cowering. In thecorner was some sort of bed, on which lay a womanobviously ill, and a younger man was standing by.AU were struck dumb at the unexpected sight ofMary. The gypsy woman was the first to recoverherself. She sat up, and said coaxingly, "ShaU I teUyou your fortune, pretty lady?""ShaU I teU you yours?" rephed Mary. At thissurprising answer the woman and both the menjust stared at Mary in perplexity. There was apause, then the woman motioned to the men to goaway. They left the tent, and Mary was alone withthe gypsy woman."ShaU I teU you your fortune?" repeated Marygently.The woman gazed at her, half-amused, halfpuzzled."Yes, you can if you hke," she said at last.Mary spoke very gravely: "Woe unto the wicked!it shaU be iU with him; for the reward of his handsshaU be given him."Startled and anxious, the sick woman stared atMary. She paused a moment. Then she went on,"Say ye to the righteous, that it shall be weU withhim; for they shaU eat the fruit of their doings."The gypsy said not a word, but she continued staringup at Mary, as if bewUdered. Then Mary began tospeak to the poor woman of Jesus, of His love andof His mercy, of His undergoing the punishmentdeserved by the wicked, that His own righteousnesscould be counted to them. As she told such lovelythings about the Lord Jesus, it seemed as if thegypsy's hard heart was breaking up, and whenMary prayed, her tears and prayers were mingledwith Mary's.see page 40COVENANTER WITNESS

| Lesson Helps for the Week of August 13, 1967! i>-4followers of Christ and the followers gospel.of Chrestus. He just commanded allof them to leave the city.Sabbath SchoolLessonfor August 13, 1967PARTNERS IN THE GOSPEL:Acts 18:1-19,20.Comments by John K. Gault.Paul's stay in Athens was not withoutgood results even though "whenthey heard of the resurrection of thedead, some mocked: and others said,we will hear thee again of this matter."An orator and philosopher namedDionysius, an habitue of the Areopagus,along with some others, "claveunto him, and believed." There wasa woman, also, named Damaris andsome of her friends who believed inChrist as a result of Paul's preaching.From Athens Paul journeyed toCorinth which was a great maritimeand commercial city. It was locatedon the Peloponnesus, an isthmus connectingthe southern part of Greecewith the northern part. It thus commandedsea traffic from both the eastand west. There was a tramwaythrough Corinth over which smallersea-going ships were drawn, and thusthey avoided the long voyage aroundthe southern point of Greece. Thecity was also famous for its wickedness.There was a heathen templelocated there, the worship of whichwas characterized by gross immorality.Every two years there wereheld the "Isthmian games" whenIt is not likely that Paul firstbecame acquainted with Aquila andPriscilla, through the gospel offer, butrather because Paul resorted to hisoriginal occupation which was "tentmaking,"and so he was associatedwith this couple in the conduct ofhis business. But being associated withthem in this occupation gave to Paulthe opportunity to talk to them aboutJesus Christ. The result of these interviewswas that Aquila and Priscillabecame firm believers in Christ andalso fast friends of Paul. When Paulwas ready to leave Corinth and go toEphesus, Aquila and Priscilla wentalong with him. They wanted to hearmore about Christ from the lips oftheir beloved friend Paul. Their indoctrinationin the Christian faith wasso thorough that when Apollos cameto Ephesus, "knowing only the baptismof John" but a man "mighty in theScriptures," they were able to "expoundunto him the way of God moreperfectly." Paul bade this couplefarewell when he left them at Ephesusto go up to Jerusalem.2: Silas and Timothy Were PartnersWith Paul At Corinth.Silas had been with Paul since thestart of the second missionary journey.He was chosen when Paul and Barnabashad their difference over JohnMark. Timothy joined the party whenthey came to Lystra. He was a youngman and was a close companion ofPaul throughout the second journey.3: Justus Was Another of Paul'sPartners.His house "joined hard to thesynagogue" in Corinth, and when theJews opposed Paul and "blasphemed,he shook his raiment, and said untothem, your blood be upon your ownheads; — And he departed thence,and entered into a certain man'shouse, named Justus." This man worshipedGod. He was, therefore, attractedto Paul's preaching. By openinghis house to Paul he became apartner and a helper in the work.4: Apollos Was Another of Paul'sPartners.This young man was a Jew fromAlexandria. We are told in verse 24that he was eloquent and "mighty inthe Scriptures." He evidently had aprofound knowledge of the Old Testament:but he was only one of Johnthe Baptist's disciples. He did not knowof Jesus and had not been baptizedby any of the apostles. He came toEphesus after Paul had left to goon his third missionary journey, following his short visit to Jerusalem atthe time of the Passover. It wasAquila and Prisca who detected theflaw in his preaching and they tookhim aside and "expounded unto himthe way of God more perfectly." Theinstruction of Aquila and Prisca producedprofound effect upon Apollosfor it is said in verse 28, "For heathletes from various parts of themightily convinced the Jews, and thatEmpire competed in the arena. Corinth,therefore, was a very great city.that Jesus was Christ."publicly, showing by the Scriptur- sWhen Paul was compelled to leaveDuring Apollos' absences from1: Aquila and Prisca Became Paul's Berea in Macedonia, these two menEphesus Paul came back there and hePartners in Corinth.remained in Macedonia and laterlearned that the believers there hadThey were husband and wife. came to Paul when he had come tonot had Christian baptism. Evidently"Priscilla" is the diminutive form of Corinth. After their arrival it is saidApollos had failed to make use of the'Prisca," so she must have been a that "Paul was pressed in the spirit,instruction which Aquila and Priscasmall woman. As the lesson explains, and testified to the Jews that Jesushad given to him. From what is saidthey had recently been expelled from was Christ." Evidently Paul was compelledto work with his hands within I Corinthians 3:4-6 it would seemRome by Emporer Claudius; the reasonthat a paity spirit arose in Corinth asbeing, as explained by Suetonius, that Aquila and Priscilla, until the cominga result of Apollos' work there. Paulthe Jews rioted so much under the of Silas and Timothy, who brought tosays in this passage, "For while oneinstigation of one named Chrestus. Paul some of his necessities. Aftersaith, I am of Paul; and another, IClaudius evidently didn't have sense their coming he gave his attentionam of Apollos; are ye not carnal? Whoenough to discriminate between the altogether to the preaching of thethen is Paul, and who is Apollo-,JULY 19, 1967 43

ut ministers by whom ye believed,even as the Lord gave to every man?I have planted, Apollos watered; butGod gave the increase."It is evident from what Paul saysin I Corinthians 16:12 that there wasnever any feeling of jealousy on thepart of either Paul or Apollos. Thisverse says, "As touching our brotherApollos, I greatly desired him to comeunto you with the brethren: but hiswill was not at all to come at thistime; but he will come when he shallhave convenient time."This lesson marks the end of Paul'ssecond missionary journey.5: Luke Was One of Paul's ClosestCompanions.Although he is not mentioned inthis chapter of Acts, Luke, along withTimothy, was with Paul during manyof his journeys. He probably joinedPaul's party at Troas during thesecond missionary journey and waswith him much of the time during thesecond and third journeys, and alsoduring a part of the time when Paulwas in Rome as a prisoner.Paul spoke of Luke in Colossians4:10 as the "beloved physician." Hemust have been Paul's medical adviser,and doubtless prolonged hislife and saved him from many seriousillnesses. As recorded in II Timothy4:11 Luke was Paul's sole companionduring the second Roman imprisonment.His devotion to the great apostle,during this time of peril, was outstanding."Lesson based on International SundaySchool Lessons: the International Bible Lessonsfor Christian Teaching, copyrighted 1963by the Division of Christian Education, NationalCo«ncil of Churches of Christ in theU.SA."Junior Topic(Proverbs 25:15) This answer is aAugust 13, 1967valuable weapon for self-discipline, forPRAYER AND DELIVERANCEthe peace of the family and the unityby Mrs. Thomas A. Priceof the congregation. Even animals,Bible Reading- Jonah 2which otherwise might have becomeMemory Psalm: Psalm 89, p. 217,unruly and even dangerous, have beenw. 8,9-13,14subdued by the gentle word. "GrievousMemory Verse: Matt. 12:40God and keep His commandments.effects of the two kinds of words.words stir up anger." Notice the twoPsalms: 65, p. 156, w. 1-3; 61, p.151,w. 1,2-4; 30, p. 69, w. 1,2-5; 5, p. 8, 3. Make a large fish out of colored "Take this remark from Richard,w. 1,2.paper — (black or dark colored). poor and lame,Remember when Jonah disobeyed Make other deep sea creatures Whate'er's begun in anger, endsthe Lord, God let him run away. But out of white paper. Look up in shame."we see God had His way in the end. verses found in the Bible that What is the nature of the "softThe great fish was prepared to swal­tell other places about Jonah. answer"? It has been compared to the(Concordance will help). Either44 COVENANTER WITNESSlow Jonah. Here he remained threedays and three nights.Jonah had plenty of time to thinkthen. He realized the Lord's hand hadbeen in everything that had happenedto him. Jonah was very ashamed andhumble. Inside the fish, he prayed tothe Lord to deliver him out of thebody of the fish. He must have beenused to praying in the words of thePsalms, so like this beautiful prayerhe makes.Jonah sees now how wrong hehad been to flee from the great taskthe Lord had given him to do. Hepromised to do what the Lord hadcommanded.After the three days and threenights, the great fish which the Lordhad prepared, came near land. TheLord spoke to the fish and Jonah wascast out of its mouth upon dry land.The prophet went to his home to awaitthe word of the Lord to tell him whatto do. His return landing may havebeen near Joppa, and may have beenwitnessed by many. This we can onlyguess at.The prayer that Jonah made in ourlesson tonight is one of repentance.Our loving Savior forgives when wecall in true repentance, if we do wrongand are sorry. We must turn awayfrom our sins. God always answerstrue prayer. Have each child give aninstance of answered prayer.We talked about prayer being oneof the ways to know of God's will.We should pray daily; no day shouldgo by without talking to God. Eachday has new problems and we mustdaily bring them to God. When wewait too long, sometimes they growworse and are harder to solve. Godgave us a model prayer to use, in theLord's Prayer. No sin is too small toconfess, no problem too small to discuss,no blessing too small to bethankful for. Our Heavenly Father isalways ready to listen and forgive.Things to do1. List people in the Bible whodisobeyed God's command.2. Make a list of ways we can obeypaste them on the fish or makea mobile out of a wire coathanger and string or fine wire.Verses should be written on thewhite paper shapes before theyare pasted or hung.4. Have each junior pledge that hewill talk to God in prayer everyday in the next week. Be sure tohave reports the following week.Have each one give his ownpersonal reaction to what heexperienced.Prayer MeetingTopicfor August 16, 1967"A SOFT ANSWER"Proverbs 15:1by Rev M. K. Carson, D.D.Psalms: 138:1-2, p. 338; 141:1-3, p.344; 145:9,12,13, p. 351.References: Proverbs 25:15; Judges8:1-3; Proverbs 29:20,22; I Samuel 25:10,25; Matthew 12:37; I Kings 12:13-14;Provebs 22:24-25; Proverbs 16:32.The "soft answer" is pleasing toGod because it turns away wrath.This is sufficient reason for us to givethe answer of love, not the answerthat aggrieves the broken spirit. Inthis Jesus is our great example. Itwas said of Him that a "bruised reedshall He not break." (Matt. 12:18-21)"Thy gentleness hath made me great."(Psalm 18:35; I Peter 2:23; Phil. 2:3-5;Luke 23:34) The Apostle Paul warnsus not to let the sun go down uponour wrath. (Eph. 4:26)In this text, as in so many of theproverbs, there is a contrast, the softanswer and the grievous words. Muchangry resentment and bitterness havebeen turned aside by the "soft answer."

proper lubrication of machinery. Ifthere is not the proper lubricationwhere there is contact of movingmetals or of human personalities therewill be unpleasant results and unhappymemories. Without proper lubricationmachinery has been made useless,and judging from the number of divorces,the increase in juvenile delinquencyand the many social conflictsthe "proper lubrication" has beenneglected. It seems that we can detecta squeak in the car but do not seem tosense the squeak of our moral machinery.Bad temper is always dangerous."Bad temper," according to the Expositor'sBible, "is in a home what atoothache is in the body; the pain isinsufferable and yet it is not treatedas serious. A passionate man or womanspreads a pervading sense of irritationin the house or in the workshop,and all the other occupants of theplace are as if they dwelt in a countrysubject to earthquakes; life for themis divided between anxiety to avoidthe explosion and a painful effort torepair the devastations." How true itis that where the "soft answer" is notgiven there are many costly explosionsand serious consequences.What is the requisite of a "softanswer"? We are commanded to keepour hearts with all diligence for outof the heart are the issues of life.(Proverbs 4:23) And Jesus said, "Forfrom within, out of the heart of man,proceed evil thoughts" (Mark 7:21).And in James 3:6, we read that "thetongue is a fire, a world of iniquity;so is the tongue among our members,that it defileth the whole body... butthe tongue can no man tame; it is anunruly evil, full of deadly poison."There are times when it seems sotempting, so easy, and so natural togive the cutting, hard, and ungraciousanswer. Some would rather lose afriend than to miss having the lastword. We feel that we do well to beangry. (Jonah 4:9) But how manytimes do we really have any justificationfor such an attitude? (Psalm 139:23-24)Since it is the heart that determinesthe "soft answer" we mustyield our hearts, out of which theevil answer comes, to Jesus Christthat He may create them anew andfill them with His love. (I Cor. 13:7)"Hatred stirreth up strifes, but lovecovereth all sin" (Proverbs 10:12). TheApostle Paul gives us the answer inEphesians 3:17-19 that "Christ maydwell in your hearts by faith; thatye, being rooted and grounded in love. . ." A heart so rooted, grounded, andfilled will surely give the "soft" answer.A regenerate heart filled withthe love of Jesus Christ will delightto give the answer that pleases Him.Jesus said, "Learn of Me for I ammeek and lowly in heart .. " (Matt.11:29). Every one then that is bornagain, truly yielded to the Holy Spiritand seeking to glorify God will begiven the power to give the soft, thepatient, and blessed answer. A doublevictory is gained — a victory for ourselvesand a victory for others.PRAYER:That we may be able and willing togive the answer that is a blessing.For the Home in Pittsburgh, itssuperintendent, Dr. J. O. Edgar, theBoards and for those who reside inthe Home.For the work of the ChristianAmendment Movement, its superintendent,Dr. S. E. Boyle, and theeditors of the Christian Patriot.CHRIST IN MEHew changed is life since now I see—O blessed truth—Christ lives in me!His Spirit fills me day by day,And, as I yield, directs my way.I need not cry in times of strifeFor Him to come into my life,For He is there since I believedAnd Christ's atoning work received;Yea, even when my coolness grieves,God's Holy Spirit never leaves.A God Omnipotent and Great,The Bless'd and Only Potentate,The Lord of lords and King of kings,Creator of all living things—What humbling on my Savior's partThat he should dwell within my heart!O grant, Lord Jesus, mine may beA life surrendered unto Thee.The vessel need not be of gold,Need not be strong, or wise, or bold,But, Lord, the vessel Thou shaltchoose,It must be clean for Thee to use.So fill my heart till all shall seeA living, reigning Christ, in me.Barbara E. CornetLearning How To "SpellIf it had not been on a college campus we would hardly have noticed it, buta misspelled word on a container seemed very much out of place around aninstitution of advanced learning. It was not in keeping with what one wouldexpect. It was like an outcaste suddenly appearing in a group of Brahmans, ora cur wandering into a show of thoroughbreds. It did not seem to belong anymore than an unkind word where loving consideration is called for or a misdeedwhere faultless conduct is anticipated. We look for flnwless workmanship at thehands of a master and correct spelling on a college campus.The natural conclusion was that neither a student nor a professor hadwritten the word but that it had been scrawled hastily by someone whosechief concern was that the premises be kept clean and orderly! Yet we could notrule out the possibility entirely for a greatly admired professor under whomsome of us once sat was a leader in his field, but his field wasn't spelling! Asfor student proficiency in orthography someone suggests that all one needs todo is to grade papers to become disillusioned. And who among us has notfound out more than once to his dismay that he has been writing certain wordsincorrectly all his life? Truly we all come short in this and in living up to whatis expected of us in many other ways.To press the point more closely, the one who is writing this has attached ashelf to his typewriter table to hold a much worn dictionary. In addition hehas within easy reach a little book with these words on its cover: "InstantSpelling Dictionary, 25,000 words spelled, divided, accented." He has referredto both of these more than he likes to admit even since writing the heading tothis column! What is more, to come up to what is expected of things appearingin this periodical, he hopes that the editor, the typesetter, and the proofreader are all good "spelers."JULY 19, 1967 45

APPRECIATIONIt was a great blessing and a veryenjoyable privilege to have had fiveSabbaths, during May and June in ourcongregation in Orlando, Florida. Thekindness, co-operation, and hospitalityof the people both in the congregationand in their homes was greatly appreciated.We thank the pastor, the Rev. KeithE. Copeland, and the members of thesession for this invitation and praythat the congregation may continue inits fine service for our Lord JesusChrist. The congregation is to becongratulated on the large number ofyoung families and their children. Theyoung people are the hope of theChurch. It was a joy to work withthem. The Daily Vacation BibleSchool began, June 19, the day weleft Orlando and from the interestwhich was shown, we know it would bea most helpful school.We also appreciated the help ofMrs. Jane Simon who prepared thebulletins and directed us in the detailsof the services.The M. K. CarsonsEMMA WHITE DOIGEmma White Doig, teacher andnurse, passed away June 15, 1967, atthe age of 80, and was buried in the"Old Home" cemetery at Winchester,Kansas. As a young woman she beganteaching in Jefferson County, Kansas.She attended preparatory school atPark College (Mo.) and from there,she went to Montana, where she homesteadedand taught school. Later, sheand her sister Eva attended KansasState College, Manhattan, for a year;and then they had charge of the GenevaCollege dining hall, while Emmawas enrolled in the public speakingdepartment of the College.In the early twenties she residedin Walton, New York, where she wasunited in marriage with William Doig.Together they were graduated fromthe Oswego State Normal; and Mrs.Doig taught in the schools of Rochester,New York for three years.A few years later Mrs. Doig turnedher attention to nursing work, whileliving in Delhi, New York, where shewas known as "Nurse Doig."In 1938 she came to Kansas City, inill health. She was a member of theReformed Presbyterian Church underthe kind ministries of Pastors PaulColeman, G. M. Robb and John Tweed.Following a broken hip, and later a"stroke," she resided in a nursinghome until the time of her death.The burial, during Synod time,was conducted by her brother, Paul D.White, in Winchester, assisted by anephew, Howard Bussell. Friends andrelatives from Kansas City and Winchesterassembled to pay tribute toher memory. Through many trialsand sufferings she "kept the faith," afavorite text, upon which she hadwritten a poem.Brother Boydand Mrs. Esther Burrows, Estes Park,Colorado; four grandchildren and onegreat grandchild.We shall miss her prayers andsmile of greeting, but we know shelonged to be with her Saviour andloved ones who had preceded her."Blessed are the dead which diein the Lord" (Rev. 14:18).MRS. JAMES HENDERSONHelen Irene Henderson enteredinto rest, May 10, 1967, at the WashingtonCounty Hospital in Nashville,Illinois after several years of failinghealth.She, the eldest daughter of Davidand Sarah Duguid, was born on theirfarm west of Oakdale on June 22,1885. She was baptized and receivedinto the membership of the OakdaleReformed Presbyterian Church. Shewas a faithful member of the church,the Sabbath School, and W.M.S. untilshe was called to her heavenly home.Her husband preceded her in death.Four children survive: James, John,Anna Laura Henderson, and KathleenMcElroy.The funeral service was conductedby her pastor, Rev. Charles Sterrett,in the church at 2:30 p.m. on May 12,1967."Blessed are the dead who die inthe Lord" (Rev. 14:13).ELWOOD WOODS HAS NARROWESCAPE WHEN PLANE CRASHESElwood Woods, member of the CollegeHill R. P. Church and of GenevaCollege Board of Trustees, had a narrowescape, June 26, when a UnitedAirlines jet plane that he was pilotingcrashed on takeoff from a GrandRapids, Michigan airport and caughtfire. The accident occurred when thenosewheel collapsed as the plane wasabout halfway down the runway. Thefire in the baggage compartment wasextinguished in a few minutes. Onlyone of the thirty passengers aboardwas injured. The plane was enroute toPittsburgh.MRS EMMA WILSON TAGGARTMrs. Taggart was born in New Concord,Ohio, attended Muskingum College,and was the wife of the late Dr.D. Raymond Taggart.Mrs. Taggart passed to her heavenlyhome on Sabbath, May 21. Intermentwas at Mt. Hope Cemetery onMay 24, 1967.Before coming to Topeka sheserved with her husband as missionaryfor a number of years in South Chinaand came with her family to Topekawhen Dr. Taggart was elected pastorof the Topeka congregation.Mrs. Taggart was a gracious andhospitable minister's wife for morethan twenty years, interested in theprograms of the congregation and herchurch at large. She served as Presidentof the Ladies Missionary Societyand for many years as Superintendentof the Juniors, as well as the additionalservice of helping with theOAKDALE, ILLINOISCovenanter Witness. She was faithfulMr. Elwyn Carson, Mrs. Bettyin her attendance at the services onAuld, and Mrs. Fern Frieman attendedSabbath, mid-week prayer meetingthe last rites for their sister, Mrs.and othr activities even with her failinghealth. She was at the mid-weekKatie Hausman, on May 5, 1967, inPolk City, Florida. Her death was aprayer meeting the night before sheshock to her family, because it camewas stricken with her fatal illness.instantly as the result of an accident.Mrs. Taggart is survived by threeJames Harold joined the family ofdaughters, Martha of the home; Mrs.Mr. and Mrs. Dale Musselman on MayRuth Clark, Matawan, New Jersey;46 COVENANTER WITNESS

16. He was baptized by Rev. CharlesSterrett on June 4. His birth date isApril 24, 1967. His sister, Diane, is avery happy little girl.Our graduates this spring wereBecky Carson from the eighth gradeof Oakdale; Linda Auld from theNashville High School; Edith Carsonfrom the Southern Illinois University.Mr. and Mrs. Floyd Carson of WinterPark, Florida, worshiped with uson May 28 while visiting in the homesof cousins. He is a former Oakdalianand had attended the fiftieth anniversaryof his high school class in Nashville,Illinois the previous week.Mr. and Mrs. Floyd McClay ofMeade, Nebraska, visited in the homeof his brother and wife, Mr. and Mrs.Oscar McClay, and worshiped with uson June 18.An average of forty-two childrenattended the Oakdale communityVacation Bible School. Our school isheld in the public school and the twochurches share the leadership alternately.The Womens Missionary Societyhosted a bridal shower for Miss BettyRuth Brammeier in the church basementon June 20. She will become thebride of Terry Renkin on July 15.Mrs. Lyle Torrens is at presentrecovering from surgery in the WashingtonCounty Hospital. We trust itmay be the Lord's will that her recoverymay be complete.COLDENHAM, NEW YORKWe were happy to see Carl Lundelhome on 15-day furlough aftercompleting his Officer Candidatetraining at Fort Benning, Georgia.John Brown and Wanda Randazzowere graduated from Valley CentralHigh School, and Lois Shafer fromNew Paltz High School this June.On June 4, Timothy Carl, son ofWilliam and Juanita Besser, was baptisedat the morning service.Elder Alex W'eddell and Rev. JohnMcMillan attended the meeting ofSynod at Geneva College. On June 18,Rev. Thomas Secore filled the pulpitin the absence of Mr. McMillan.All classes participated in Children'sDay exercises which were heldin the Sabbath School building onJune 11. One outstanding feature wasthe recitation of the books of the Bibleby the first grade pupils of Mrs. AnnRobinson's class.On June 11, members of the Newburghcongregation joined us for themorning service.**#»* «jJrREV. J. A. C. BLAIRModerator for Irish SynodRev. J. A. C. Blair was nominatedby the Reformed PresbyterianChurch for the Moderatorship of the157th Synod, held in Grosvenor RoadChurch, Belfast, in the second weekof June.Mr. Blair has completed 21 yearsin the ministry. He was ordainedminister of Crevagh congregation in1945, and after a ministry of almost14 years, he was installed minister ofNewtownards congregation in 1959.A native of Limavady district, hereceived his education at LimavadyGrammar School, Magee UniversityCollege, Londonderry, and Trinity College,Dublin, and in the ReformedPresbyterian Theological Hall, Belfast.Mr. Blair also served the Churchas Moderator in 1956 and as a convenerof the committee of the instructionof the young. He is a cousin ofRev. Hugh J. Blair of Ballymoney.GENEVA HONOR STUDENTSDr. Harold A. Bruce, Dean of Studentsat Geneva College, has announcedthat 167 students have beennamed on the second semester Dean'sList.A 2.2 credit point ratio or better isrequired in the three point system withthe student carrying 12 or more creditsubjects.Students who are on the HonorList for both semesters of the schoolyear are awarded certificates commendingtheir superior academicachievement at an Honors Convocationheld early in the first semesterof the following year. Their names aremarked with asterisks.Included in the group were 17Covenanter students:College HillLee Bittner, Robert T. ClarkeEastvale'•'Mary Wilcox, *John WilcoxFirst Beaver FallsDon McBurneyGenevaWilliam Hemphill, *Linda Hill, *RobertHillNorth Hills:: Carol Wooley, *Candice CookWilkinsburg*Jean CaskeySharonNan M. DillSterling"Eileen FarisTopeka* Esther ElliottWinchester*Jerry O'NeilHot Springs"Carol DunnSyracuse"Carol MartinOHIO-ILLINOIS PRESBYTERIALTO MEETThe Ohio-Illinois Presbyterial iscalled to meet Monday, August 14through 17, 1967, at Covenant College,Lookout Mountain, Tennessee, in conjunctionwith the Covfamikoi Confeience.The devotions will center aroundthe theme, "The just shall live byfaith." Dr. Roy Blackwood will conducta training session in sharing ourtestimony and Mrs. Roy Blackwoodwill speak on "Woman-to-WomanEvangelism."CIGARET ADS PROTESTEDA ban on all cigaret advertising ontelevision before 9 p. m. was calledfor in a resolution adopted at the 71stannual convention of the NationalCongress of Parents and Teachers.The resolution, adopted with few dissentsand no debate, also asked cigaretmanufacturers to refrain from showingcigarets being smoked in anyadvertising.Wherefore seeing we also are compassedabout with so great a cloud ofwitnesses, let us lay aside everyweight, and the sin which doth soeasily beset us, and let us run withpatience the race that is set before us.Hebrews 12:1.JULY 19, 1967 47

ANTI-LOYALTY OATH TEST CASESINCREASING IN U. S. COURTSThe April, 1967 issue of The ChristianPatriot told of the dismissal ofMr. Marshall Smith of San Diego bythe County of San Diego, Californiabecause he wished to modify the LoyaltyOath to recognize Jesus Christ asSupreme.Since then Mr. Smith's lawyershave lost twice in their appeals a-gainst the San Diego County dismissal.One appeal was dismissed by the CivilService Commission. The second appealto the Superior Court of Californiaalso went against the appellant.Mr. Smith and his denomination willnow appeal to the Federal DistrictCourt.Increasing numbers of court casesappealing against the state loyaltyoaths are arising over the nation. Kansas,Nebraska and Colorado cases havebeen in the news recently. Most ofthese objectors to the Loyalty Oathare not concerned with the conscientiousproblem faced by Mr. Smith inSan Diego. These other appeals arefrom university professors who objectto the restriction of having to swearin taking a loyalty oath to the Constitutionthat they have not been associatedwith a subversive organizationwhich seeks to overthrow the Governmentof the United States by force.This anti-communist provision is thepoint most often attacked by liberalprofessors and the American CivilLiberties Union or other such humanisticmovements.Mr. Smith agrees with many otherChristians in America in his Biblebelief that all authority and powerbelong to God, and that God has giventhis authority to His exalted Son theLord Jesus Christ. He believes thatcivil government comes only by aderived authority taken from God'sordained institution of the state. Civilconstitutions must therefore acknowledgeclearly the supreme authority ofAlmighty God and of His MediatorialKing the Lord Jesus Christ. OurAmerican Constitution omits this,trying to take a neutral or secularposition in defiance of God's revealedwill. It was to make this Bible truthclear that Mr. Smith jeopardized hisfamily's economic security by refusingto take the California Loyalty Oathwithout a Christian explanation.—The Christian PatriotCIGARET ADVERTISINGI would like to add my voice tothat of Peter Bonadero, MD, of Fredericktown, Pa., on his comment aboutcigaret advertising (The AMA News,March 13, 1967).I believe that the AdminsLationshould not only pass legislation prohibitingcigaret advertising on radio,television and the press... but thereshould be more than that! The Foodand Drug Administration and associationsconcerned with the health of thisnation should make a counter actionagainst cigaret smoking as well asadvertising. This, in my thinking,should be done on the radio, televisionand press as well as public advertisingsuch as billboards and posters, etc.The danger of smoking, from thehealth standpoint, should be explainedto the public more clearly. The majorissues, of course, would concern thesys­respiratory and cardiovasculartems.*••I)\15208Pathological specimens of lung affectedby chronic obstructive pulmonarydisease or bronchogenic carcinomaand hearts with coronary thrombosisshould be compared with lungs andhearts of non-smokers. This comparisonwould be more effective if demonstratedvia television throughout thenation....Hamid M. Al-Abdulla, MD-East Cleveland, OhioNEW CANCER DATAHundreds of scientific reports supportingthe 1964 surgeon general's reportthat cigaret smoking causes lungcancer have been amassed by the U.S.Public Health Service, William H.Stewart, MD, surgeon general recentlyannounced. Dr. Stewart said the newevidence implicating cigarets will bepresented to Congress in July.PACIFIC COAST CONFERENCEIIAugust 12 - 19ICamp Good News, Prescott, Arizona \ tSpeakers \Speakers \ ttRev. Robert McMillan, Bible Study in RomansRev. Robert Tweed, Evangelism in ActsElwood "Woody" Woods, Evangelism TodayIRev. James Pennington, Missionary Speaker \(Leaders IMr. and Mrs. Joe Lamont, Jr. Hi Leaders \Rev. and Mrs. Verd Dunn, Junior Leaders \Mrs. Margaret Wilson, Beginners )Mrs. Robert Tweed, Conference Psalm LeaderjRev. Ray McCracken, Head Counselor \Mrs. Robert Gross, Presbyterial President \Doug Stewart, C. Y. P. U. Conference President (Mrs. Frances Moore, Head Cook \Rates(Includes room and board and insurance)IAdults — $25; High School through Age 21 — $20; /Age 9 through Junior High — $15; Ages 6-8 — $10; \Ages 3-5 — $7; Children under 3 — $2. }Registration — $1.50 per person or $4.00 per family.jFor Reservations or Information, write: !REV. BRUCE C. STEWART, 5139 ARGUS DRIVE,LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA 9004148 COVENANTER WITNESSIII(

Thenterfc1WI»"lBEFOBMED PttKSBVTERlAJTHEOLOGICAL SKMINWKYPITTSBURGHTo The TruthJESUS CHRIST AS SAVIOUR, LORD, HEAD OF MEN, THE CHURCH AND NATIONSVOLUME LXXIX NO. 4 JULY 26, 1967 STERLING, KANSASBIBLE LESSONS FOR THE WEEK OF AUGUST 20, 1967Quietness"Be still and know that I am God,"That I who made and gave thee lifeWill lead thy faltering steps aright;That I who see each sparrow's fallWill hear and heed thy earnest call.I am God."Be still and know that I am God,"When aching burdens crush thy heart,Then know I form thee for thy partAnd purpose in the plan I hold.Thou art the clay that I would mold.Trust in God."Be still and know that I am God,"Who made the atom's tiny spanAnd set it moving to my plan,That I who guide the stars aboveWill guide and keep thee in my love.— Doran.*»-

THE COVENANTER WITNESSOfficial organ of the ReformedPresbyterian Church of N. A.; CVAN«CUCAi. PH—• ASSOCIATIONEditor: Rev. M. W. Dougherty, D.D.125 N. 4th StreetSterling, Kansas 67579Phone 316 — Br. 8 - 3472Printed each Wednesday under the supervision of theBoard of Publication by The Patterson Press, MorningSun, Iowa 52640.Contributing Editors: Department Editors:Rev. Kenneth Smith Rev. John TweedDr. G. M. RobbMrs. Robert B. MaineRev. John McMillan Mrs. Willis EdgarRev. C. E. Caskey Rev. John K. GaultOpinions expressed in our columns are those of theindividual writer, not necessarily the views of the ReformedPresbyterian Church or the editor.All material to appear in The Covenanter Witnessshould be typewritten, double-spaced, and should be inSterling, Kansas two weeks before it is to be printed.The cost of all pictures is 30 cents per square inch.Obituaries — All words in excess of one hundred fifty,one cent per word. Money should accompany such notices.SUBSCRIPTION RATESIndividual (1 year): U.S. and Canada, $4.00, BritishIsles 35/-, all other places, $5.00;Individual (2 year): U.S. and Canada, $7.00, BritishIsles 63/-, all other places, $9.00;Group: U.S. and Canada, $3.00, British Isles 28/-, allother places, $4.00.9-month student subscription — $1.50; 5-month introductoryoffer —$1.00; 2 gift subscriptions to persons outsideof the R. P. Church — $2.00 each. Single copies, 10c.Subscription Agent for U.S. and Canada: Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Subscription Agent for the British Isles: Rev. HughWright, B.A., 12, Knutsford Drive, Belfast 14, NorthernIreland.All checks should be made payable to The CovenanterWitness in U. S. currency.Give one month's notice of a change of address. Sendboth the new and the old address to Mrs. M.W. Dougherty.Postmaster: Please send Form 3579 to Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Second class postage paid at Morning Sun, Iowa 52640.Quote -CHOICE WORDSWhatever keeps me from the Bible — is myenemy, however harmless it may appear to be.Whatever engages my attention — when I shouldbe meditating on God and things eternal — doesinjury to my soul.Let the cares of life crowd out the Scripturesfrom my mind and I have suffered loss where Ican least afford it. Let me accept anything elseinstead of the Scriptures —and I have been cheatedand robbed to my eternal confusion. — A. W. Tozer.This Week's WitnessGreat Confessions: The Word 51Glimpses of the Rehgious World 52Helping Faith Along 55Alert Page 56A Page for Juniors 58Lesson Helps 59Alert For The Master 61Church News 62Report of Synod's Nominating Committee . . .63WE HOLD THE FOLLOWING TO BE TRUTHS OF SCRIPTURE:The Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the only infalliblerule of faith and conduct.preserve the purity of the Church.The duty which rests upon officers to maintain discipline andThe Trinitarian conception of the Godhead.Spiritual worship as a divine requirement mediated through theFaith in Jesus Christ as the only way of salvation.Lord Jesus Christ.Salvation by Grace.The exclusive use of the Psalms in the worship of the Church.Assurance of salvation as a possible Christian experience.The Protestant interpretation of the Sacraments.The Gospel Call and Election.The divine right of the institution of Marriage and that it is notThe Holy Spirit as the Author of regeneration.to be dissolved except by adultery or "irremediable" desertion.Sanctification through the cooperating agency of the Holy Spirit.The Sabbath as a day sacred to rest and worship.The fact of death and hell as the destiny of the lost and heaven The duty of nations and their civil rulers to honor Christ asas the destiny of the saved.King of Kings and Lord of Lords.That the Church of Jesus Christ consists of all those who believeThat Christian citizens are under obligation to obey lawful authority.in Him together with their children.The Divine Right of the Presbyterian form of Church Government.The right and duty of the Christian citizen to dissent from allThe Lord Jesus Christ as the only King and Head of His Church. governmental and national disobedience to the Law of God.That terms of membership or communion are essential to the That the Covenants of the past are still binding.welfare of the Church.From "The Communicant's Class" by J. B. Tweed50 COVENANTER WITNESS

Rev. Lester EGreat Confessi ons: The Word(Synod's"Forever, O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven"(Psalms 119:89).In Synod's devotions we are to consider GreatBible Confessions. The first is "The Word."If ever there was a generation, literate, culturedand educated, hving and pampered in luxury, yetconfused, frustrated and distressed, ours is it. Formany there is no point of reference, no anchor. Ifthere is no anchor, we are adrift at sea — notmerely with no land in sight, but with no land.The critics of the creeds have led many to cut loosefrom all moorings. Is it any wonder they are confusedand distressed, without purpose?The Christian's answer to such iconoclasm hasever been, "Credo!" "I beheve!" Christians sayingthe same thing, standing together! That confessionthen stands as a point of reference for others. "Ironsharpeneth iron, so a man the countenance of hisfriend."A confession is something we say with others,CON-FESS, or in the Greek, to say the same thing.This is true of a confession, whether it is an individualconfession or a church confession. The Philippianjailer believed the same thing that Paul didas to how to be saved, and he said it. He confessed.But today the "Church" has joined the world inmaking mockery of the Church's creeds. Thereare those who are saying, "Beheve in Jesus, but notin any literalistic manner, as though you worshipa book. Think of Jesus however you will, eventhough your idea differs from others. It is theperson of Jesus Christ," they tell us, "and not theBible, in which we beheve." So there has arisen acult that professes to be Christian, yet that presentsno continuity between the content they put intotheir profession and the historic Christian faith.Only the name is the same.Belief in a false or empty or unreal Christ, isworse than no behef. To trust in a mirage, preventsone from seeking a worthy object of trust.Now it is true that behef in Jesus Christ is todaythe point of reference from which we must relateall of hfe, but it is not the Jesus that Pilate andCaiphas beheved in, a Galilean trouble-maker whomthey thought they had effectively disposed of, notthe Jesus of modern criticism who was simply aKilpatrick, D. D.Devotionals)remarkable man. No, it is behef in the Jesus Christwho was born of a virgin, hved a holy hfe withoutsin, was crucified, dead and buried, and who rosefrom the dead and appeared to manv, finally, toSaul who becomes Paul. Paul, certain of the apostlesand others then said the same things about JesusChrist and wrote them down, and God owned whatthey wrote as His Word. Like the Psalmist — "Forever,O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven" whofound his point of reference in the Word of God, sothe New Testament Church has found in the Biblethe source of all it knows about Jesus Christ.And so: "The fate of the Bible is in the long run,the fate of Christianity."A confession is intended to aid in maintainingand promoting what the Church beheves to be trueconcerning Jesus Christ. Our first term of communionis an acknowledgement that the Scripturesof the Old and New Testaments are the Word ofGod, the only infallible rule of faith and hfe. Thefirst chapter of the Westminster Confession of Faithis on the Holy Scriptures. All the rest of our confessionis based solidly on this foundation. AU the restof our confession is subject to it. We doubtless thinkwe are as orthodox as one can get on this point,and that nothing more needs to be said, that nothingmore can be said. The Scriptures are infallible. Butin this day of restating and reformulating confessions,at least we need to say it again — and again."Forever, O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven." Innine words — five in Hebrew — here are fourthings said about the Bible that our generationneeds to hear. God's Word is ETERNAL, it isSPOKEN, it is UNCHANGING, and it is HEAVEN­LY.1. IT IS ETERNAL"From everlasting to everlasting thou art God.""Before the world was I am." "The word of the Lordendureth forever."We are a generation that has come to believethat the new is better. Jeremiah would have had justas hard a time in our day as in his own. God saidto him, "Stand ye in the ways and see, and ask forthe old paths . . . and walk therein" (6:16). AnyoneSee page 53JULY 26, 1967 51

AGlimpses of the Religious Worldd*THECHRISTIAN REFORMED SYNOD RECESSESUNTIL AUGUSTIn an unusual action the Synod of the ChristianReformed Church took recess on June 24, and willmeet again on August 29. The purpose of the recessis to give its Advisory Committee on DoctrinalMatters additional time to work.Much attention at this year's Synod is beingfocused on the doctrine of limited atonement as itrelates to the love of God. A controversy on thissubject was precipitated several years ago whenRev. Warold Dekker, professor of missions at CalvinSeminary, wrote the following: "The doctrine ofhmited atonement as currently understood andobserved in the Christian Reformed Church impairsthe principle of the universal love of God and tendsto inhibit missionary spirit and activity." ProfessorDekker holds that we must be able to tell anyonethat God loves him with a redemptive love, and tosay to anyone, "Christ died for you."The Doctrinal Committee, whose report is nowunder consideration by this year's Synod, insists thata distinction must be maintained between God'sgeneral benevolence toward all His creatures; Hislove of compassion for every sinner; and His uniquelove for His own.The Synod has requested that the editors of theChristian Reformed publications not pubhsh anyarticles on this subject during the present Synodicalrecess.N. S. S. A. REPORTS SABBATH SCHOOLATTENDANCE UP(EP) Surveys among 24 denominations reportingto the National Sunday School Association showthat Sabbath School attendance and enrollment hasincreased during the past five years. Only threeNSSA-related denominations showed a decreaseduring this period.The total figure of denominations reportingshowed that an average 3.5 per cent enrollmentincrease and an 11.3 per cent attendance increaseprevailed during the last half decade.Four additional denominations submitted onlya single year figure, making no comparisons possible.52REV. JOHN McMILLANR. D. 1, Box 337WALDEN, NEW YORKThe 28 denominations recorded a total enrollmentcf 3,668,304 and an average attendance of2,715,586 during 1966. Of these figures NSSAExecutive Director George S. McNeill said, "Theyare interesting when compared with decreases admittedby some of the nation's largest Protestantdenominations. Even the theologically conservativeand giant Southern Baptist Convention reported adrop in Sunday School enrollment during 1966."The organization's 22nd annual convention willbe held this year in Minneapolis October 25-28, foran expected 10,000 church school workers.PRESBYTERIAN, REFORMED BODIES MEETSIMULTANEOUSLYDelegates to the Reformed Church in AmericaGeneral Synod and commissioners to the PresbyterianUS General Assembly kept their eyes on eachother as they attended simultaneous meetings inBristol, Tennessee. They were mainly watching forattitudes on merger.The Presbyterian Journal reports that both topcourts voted overwhelmingly to continue the Committeeof 24 which is completing a plan of union forthe two denominations. However, one took onestance and the other an opposite one on membershipin the Consultation on Church Union (COCU).Presbyterians voted to stay in COCU, and theReformed Churchmen voted against joining.The Presbyterian Assembly refused to "expressits gratitude to God" that the United PresbyterianChurch (UPUSA) has adopted an authentic, historicaland contemporary confession of its faith." Thisproposal came in a resolution introduced by sevencommissioners. However, the Assembly did "commend"the Book of Confessions of the UPUSAChurch to its churches "for study and discussion."FEW ON WELFARE FOUND TO BE EMPLOYABLEThe Baptist Record reports that despite mythsto the contrary, barely one out of 146 people onwelfare is actually employable, according to a newWhite House study. Of a total or 7.3 milhonAmericans on rehef, 2.1 milhon are over 65; 700,000are blind or severely handicapped; 3.5 milhon areSee page 55COVENANTER WITNESS

The WordContinued from page 51knows today that the new is better. TV is a betterpicture than a tin type, or even than a Kodak, anda new Kodak is better than an old one. There justisn't any comparison between a minuet or a lullabyeand Rock 'n Roll. (By the way, what is a minuet?)And who would choose an oxcart instead of aMustang or a Baracuda? The new is better. Ofcourse, the truth is that we must distinguish. Somethings get old and useless — and some don't. "Thou,Lord in the beginning hast laid the foundation ofthe earth, and the heavens are the work of thinehand. They shall perish but thou remainest, andthey all shall wax old as doth a garment; as avesture shalt thou fold them up and they shall bechanged. But thou art the same and thy years shallnot fail." 'That which decayeth and waxeth old isready to vanish away," but the Word of God issomething that does not decay. It was before Moses,before Abraham, before Adam. John tells us thatin the beginning the Word already was, and heidentifies the Word with Jesus Christ, the hvingWord.I've always thought that the cutting of the tencommandments in stone on the Allegheny Courthousein Pittsburgh, was a good idea. God gave theten commandments to Moses, graven in stone.When Jesus wanted to indicate to His disciples theeternal truthfulness of Peter's confession, He said,"Upon this rock I will build my church." God's Wordis ETERNAL.2. SPOKENWords spoken precede words written. Words arethe means of communication — and the onlymeans — by which the spirit of man communicateswith the spirit of man, or with the Spirit of God, andthe only means by which the Spirit of God communicateswith the spirit of man, by words, or thecontent of words. A word is something capable ofbeing spoken. All this is involved when the Psalmistsays God's Word is settled in heaven.Complaint is often heard today, especially inregard to confessions, that words are a sad andinadequate means of communication. Often theperson spoken to does not get the meaning intendedby the speaker. Sometimes this is intentional, moreoften it is unintentional.Now of course, words are often misunderstood,or are twisted, but this is the fault of people, not ofwords. It is because of human frailty or lack ofknowledge, or it may be because of the deceitfulpurpose of the speaker. I once had an English professorwho said that if you were at a loss for theprecise word to use, it was because you didn't knowwhat you wanted to say. John was able, in one andtwo and three syllable words, and more of the twoformer than the last, to give us that marvelousgospel bearing his name. Words are wonderful.The real difficulty men are finding with theConfessions is not the inadequacies of language.Perhaps it is precisely the adequacy that botherssome. And so in the Confession of 1967 we are toldconcerning the atonement of Christ, that the truthof it "remains beyond the reach of aU theory."Perhaps the real reason for such a statement isthat the writers didn't know what to say about itthat they thought church members would accept,and so they said nothing definite, and pled theinadequacy of language.The revelation of God to men was put into wordsby the Almighty, the aU wise, the sovereign, holy,merciful God. And having put it into words, He didnot hesitate to own them His own. There are literallyhundreds of instances in the Scripture, in whichGod claims the Word as His. "The word of the Lordcame unto me," said both Jeremiah and Ezekiel."The Lord of hosts hath sworn," says Isaiah. Mosessays again and again, "Thus saith the Lord," andDavid, "The Spirit of the Lord spake by me." If theBible is the Word of the holy God, then it is true,it has to be true, completely true. God says it. Hecannot he. He does not say that the RevisedStandard Version is true — or that the King JamesVersion is true, or Nestle's Greek text of the NewTestament is true, or that the Massoretic text or theSeptuagint version of the Old Testament is true.Yet Psalm 119: 89 requires us to conclude that theword spoken by the original writers, is true, completelytrue, because it is God's Word. How could theHoly Spirit move men to write error. The writers"spake as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.""All scripture is inbreathed by God."Nor does this mean that we simply close oureyes and ears to what appears to be error in theBible, or contradiction of Scripture against Scripture.Occasionally in a modern courtroom, thereare statements made which appear contradictory,then a later witness brings forth evidence whichdemonstrates that the former statements are notcontradictory, but are quite in harmony. The twoJULY 26, 1967 53

former witnesses have both spoken the truth.A third witness is progressively revealing theharmony of God's Word, over the centuries. Thespade of the archaeologist, the store of secularliterature of Bible times, scrolls of long buriedBiblical manuscripts, the developing skills of thelinguist — all this is a third witness that is providingus with evidence by which many apparentcontradictions are found to be not contradictionsat all. The alleged errors are oftener the productof prejudiced interpretation and faulty philosophicalpresuppositions, than matters of error. Actually,what appear to be errors and contradictions shouldbe treated for what they really are namely, difficulties.A genuine scientist doesn't treat apparentcontradictions in the laboratories of physical scienceas an error in his data, until he has thoroughlychecked it out. He regards apparent contradictionsas a challenge to more intense study, and in thatstudy he hopes to grow in his knowledge as hediscovers actual harmony which he had previouslynot seen.Some instances of so-called "contradiction" insome of the liberal commentaries on the Scriptures,upon just a httle study and reflection, do not panout as even respectable difficulties. Much the samecan be said for the alleged scientific errors andmoral blemishes of the Bible. These may be nothingmore than the plague of hterahsm which afflictssome Bible critics. It seems to make them unable tocredit the writers of the Scriptures with using eventhe most ordinary of idiomatic and figurative expression.To declare at this point that the Bible definitelyhas errors, would require an infallible critic, andsuch has not appeared. God has SPOKEN, so whatHe has said is true.3. IT IS UNCHANGING.God's Word is settled. Our generation is producinga vocal cry that nothing is settled. We aretold that we keep "an open mind," and that toconsider anything as settled, is to disqualify one'sself as scientific. We are told that everything isrelative. "History depends on who the historian wasand his 'slant.' Moral codes differ from country tocountry and from generation to generation. Socialcustoms change. Language is in a constant state offlux." Hence, we are told that confessions should"get with" our generation, and not be concernedwith what is considered "unchanging truth."I have a neighbor who is a fhght navigator withthe Air National Guard. He told me recently ofbeing over the North Pacific enroute to Japan, onan overcast night, when all his instruments wentdead. "Maybe you think I didn't sweat," he said. Inprofane but expressive language he assured methat he prayed. Then he said that there was a breakin the overcast and he was able to get a fix on thestars. That sight, he assured me, was the mostbeautiful sight he saw on that trip to a beautifulland. He found something that was settled and itspelled safety for him and his crew. We had anexperience in central Arizona recently that impressedthe same need. Three of us parked our caron a little used mountain road, and hiked into thehills a half mile or so. The sun was shining when wewent in, then low clouds rolled in and obscuredthe sun. We thought we were returning to the car,but after walking for less than an hour, we foundthat we had circled, and were back where we hadrecently been. So I volunteered, "Well, at least weknow that the road is right over there." A secondmember of the group said, "No. The road is rightover there." The third was somewhat perplexed.He assured us that we were both wrong. "The roadis right over there." The three of us had neatlytrisected the points of the compass. We had nounchanging point of reference. The hills all aroundus looked alike. Fortunately, before long we heardthe sound of a car on the httle used road. We hadour point of reference.We are a generation that is feeding on the ideathat right and wrong change with the age, with thesituation, with each new GaUup poll. But even thosewho today protest all forms of conformity, fromshort hair to university presidents, soon developtheir own codes of conformity. They grope for somethingas a standard. Of course, it is true that forthose who do not beheve in the living and true God,there is nothing fixed. They find their guidelinesconstantly changing.Thank God, no legislature or Supreme Court orSynod can change God's Word. It stands written.It is settled, UNCHANGING.4. IT IS HEAVENLY.There have been many attempts to destroy God'sWord down through the centuries, by fire, lions,prison, destructive criticism, ridicule, law. But noneof these methods has succeeded. The reason is thatGod's Word is beyond man's reach. It is in heaven.God's Word is conveyed to us by printed page —but that printed page which can be destroyed is notGod's Word. It is not of the earth earthy. The Wordis settled in heaven. It it not in the heavens of space54 COVENANTER WITNESS

— even if we get to the moon we've hardly begunto invade space. But when we do reach the moon wemust remember that even "the heavens that noware, and the earth, by the same word have beenstored up for fire . . . the heavens shall pass awaywith a great noise and the elements shall be dissolvedwith fervent heat."God's Word is settled in heaven, God's dwellingplace. This is what matters, especially when we lookDeath in the face. It carries us into that which,but for God's Word, is unknown and unknowable.And the soul of man seeks rest. "For though fromout the bourne of time and place, The flood maybear me far, I hope to see my Pilot face to face,When I have crossed the bar."Keith Miller, in his book, The Taste of NewWine, tells of trying to carry a testimony of God'sgrace in his life, into the office where he worked.There was a favorable response to his suggestionfor brief devotions. Even one man who professedthat he was an agnostic made no objection, butlet it be known that he did not intend to be "frightenedor conned into rehgion." After these briefmeetings had been held for several weeks, he burstinto Miller's office one day in a state of greatagitation. Here was a man formerly completely selfpossessed and calm under all circumstances, nowin a state suggesting hysteria. There was no embarrassingpause in getting the conversation started.T just saw a woman die!" It seems he was stoppedbehind another car on the freeway. A women hadgotten out of the car ahead, and looked back towardoncoming traffic. Suddenly she realized she wasgoing to be hit. Stark terror flashed on her face.Here was this woman right beside his car, in trouble,and no one could do anything for her. Then camethe thud, almost the splash, of hurthng steel strikingsoft flesh and bones. He saw her horriblymangled body lying in the road, now beyond allhelp. It happened in a second of time. It completelyunnerved him. Gone was his cool, calculating indifference.Here was something he could not contendwith. He was ready to talk, to hsten. Heneeded a voice from heaven. Nothing less would do."Forever, O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven."We have that word from HEAVEN, which we mustdeclare to our generation.NEW YORK — The Pilgrims refused to bring acopy of the King James Version of the Bible onboard the Mayflower because they considered it anewfangled translation, but by 1770 BenjaminFranklin said that the Bible was not being read inthe Colonies because the King James Version wasout of date. Today, while a few readers call theAmerican Bible Society's 1966 pubhcation, "GoodNews for Modern Man," the New Testament in Today'sEnglish Version, "too modern," sales attest tothe unprecedented demand for Scriptures in everydaylanguage. Within the first four months afterpubhcation of the 25c paperback, sales soared tomore than a milhon copies and another half milhonwere on order.* * *NEW YORK — When the Central BaptistChurch, the old State Street Presbyterian Church,Jacksonville, 111., was torn down recently, a galvanizedsheet iron box was discovered under the rubble.Among the items found in it, which had been placedthere in 1885, was a new Bible pubhshed by theAmerican Bible Society in 1863. It bore a $1.25price mark. Today the ABS sells whole Bibles foras low as 95c each and "Good News for ModernMan," the New Testament in Today's EnghshVersion, costs only 25c.NEW YORK — "The Many Faces of the Bible,"an exhibition of Scriptures dating from 1663 topresent-day translations in about 100 languagesrepresenting every continent, is on display at BibleHouse, new headquarters of the American Bible Society,61st and Broadway. The display, open withoutcharge to the pubhc from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.Monday through Friday, will continue through thesummer.* * *NEW YORK — Wayne Tippitt, Broadway actor,radio and television star, reads from the RevisedStandard Version of the Bible on the American BibleSociety's new Talking Bible Records entitled "FiftyFavorite Chapters" of the Bible. In 1966 alone theABS produced more than 123,000 Braille books,Talking Bible Records and tapes for the bhnd.GLIMPSES OF THE RELIGIOUS WORLDFrom page 52children; 900,000 are then- mothers, and 150,000their fathers. Of the fathers, fully two-thirds areincapable "of being given job skills and training thatwill make them self-sufficient." This leaves roughly50,000 rehef receivers in the entire country whocan leave welfare roles and go to work.JULY 26, 1967 55

1968 InternatkINFORMATION PLEASEThe 1968 International Convention planned for August 3-10 inEdinburgh, Scotland, continues to take shape. The Board of ChristianEducation took action at its latest meeting to support this CovenanterInternationale; and with Synod's approval now proceeds to ascertainthe number of persons from the North American Church who areinterested in attending.Estimates of cost of travel vary, but one airline has already quoteda figure of around $300 roundtrip from the Eastern Seaboard. This isthe 21-day excursion fare. However, a charter flight could come toconsiderably less, if estimates are correct, and the time limit would bemore flexible. The Convention itself has been costed at about $45.Now if we could have the names of those at this point who aredefinitely interested in attending the Convention in a delegation (allowingfor some time for extra tours and visits), we could then begin todetermine what type of passage to book.On the opposite page is a form to indicate your interest. This is nota commitment. A commitment will involve a substantial downpaymenton your reservation. This should be interpreted only as a "feeler" todiscover how many persons beheve they should be counted as potentialdelegates. Please fill it out and return it as soon as you can. We will beseeking to start work on details in September.Kenneth G. SmithDirector of Christian Education56 COVENANTER WITNESS

ConventionI 1968 INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION INQUIRY \I Please include me in your planning for August 3-10, 1968. \) I understand this is not a commitment, but only an indication )j of my tentative plans. Please keep me informed. \I Name (I Address /) Zip . . )-. — Number of persons traveling with me. =( Indicate below your choice of length of time for the trip t( abroad, assuming August 3-10 will be part of it: /) — Two weeks long — Four weeks long ): — Three weeks long — Five weeks long •( Are you interested in taking a planned tour of some kind before (( or after the Convention? —Yes —No —I don't know () If you are interested, please fill out as completely as you can )) and return to the address below before September 1. \\ INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION j{ 7437 Penfield Court (( Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15208 (j, • 426, 1967 57

!APAGE FOR JUNIORSJUDY GOES TO A PICNICby Elinor F. Neal"Mary," her mother said, "the bus is here to takeyou and Judy to the Sabbath School picnic. You'llbe sure to take good care of Judy, won't you? She'sa httle girl and you are my big helper. You'll have towatch her, you know.""I'll remember, Mommy," Mary said. Takingher httle sister's hand, she hurried to the waitingbus."Hello, Mary," Miss Logan, her Sabbath Schoolteacher, said. "You've brought Judy with you. We'reglad, Judy, to have you come with us on our picnic.""Yes, Ma'am," Judy said politely. Then her eyesall shiny, she said, "You're nice. I like you!""And I hke you, too," Miss Logan said, smilingat Judy.It didn't take Mr. Smith, the bus driver, verylong to get to the park where they were to havetheir picnic. "All out," he caUed, stopping in a shadyspot under the big elm trees. Everybody tumbled out,laughing, and giggling, and calling to each other."Put your lunch boxes here on the table," MissLogan said, "and then go play while I prepare ourlunch. But don't go too far away that you can't hearMr Smith when he calls."Some of the boys and girls went to see themonkeys in the monkey house. Some went to seeand to smell the flowers in the big garden at theedge of the park.Judy wanted to swing. Mary found a httle swingand showed Judy how to hold the ropes. "Hang ontight," Mary said, "while I push you."Judy squealed, "That's fun. Let's do it somemore." Mary kept on swinging her httle sister untilshe heard Mr. Smith caUing them for lunch."I thought it would be fun to sit on the grass toeat our lunch," Miss Logan said. On the white clothspread on the ground were lots of thick sandwiches,big red apples, and yellow oranges. Beside eachplate was a cup of ice cream and a httle woodenspoon. Each one had a paper napkin with yellow,red, and green leaves on it."Before we eat," Miss Logan said, "let us thankGod for all the good things that He gives us. Bowyour heads, close your eyes, and we will say our"thank you verse" together.""Thank you for the world so sweet,Thank you for the food we eat,Thank you for the birds that sing,Thank you God for everything. In Jesus' name,Amen."It didn't take very long for the sandwiches, theoranges, the apples, and the ice cream to disappear.Everybody ate until they couldn't eat any more.When everyone was through, Miss Logan said,"Let's sit here quietly and see how many Biblestories or Bible verses we remember. Judy, you arethe smallest one. Would you like to tell us a verseyou know?"'Tes, Ma'am," Judy answered politely. "NowI lay me down to sleep," she said."That's nice," Miss Logan said smiling. "All theboys and girls think so too. Johnny, your hand isup. What is your favorite verse or story?""My story is about David taking care of thesheep.""What does this story teach us, Johnny"?"It teaches us that if a sheep gets lost we golooking for it.""That's right,Johnny," Miss Logan said. "Do youhave a story or a verse for us, Tommy"?"My verse is the Golden Rule," Tommy said."Oh, we like that verse, Tommy."When all the boys and girls had told a story orrepeated a Bible verse, Miss Logan said, "Mr. Smith,if you will get the bus for us, well go home now.Have you had a good time, children?""Oh, yes," everybody shouted. "Let's have anotherpicnic tomorrow," Ruthie said."I'm afraid not tomorrow, Ruthie," Miss Logansaid smiling, "but maybe we can have another onesoon."Mary looked for Judy as the boys and girls beganto climb on the bus, but she couldn't see her anywhere.Where could she be? "Miss Logan," Marycried, "I can't find Judy." There were tears in hereyes."Never you mind, Mary; we'll find her. You gothat way and I'll go this way," Mr. Smith told her.Mary began to call, "Judy, where are you?We're going home now." But Judy did not answer.Mary looked and looked but she couldn't find Judyanywhere. What if Judy were lost? What wouldshe do? She began to cry harder."Here she is, Mary," Mr. Smith called, "fastasleep under a treeSmothering her httle sister with kisses, Marysaid through her tears, "Oh, Judy, I'm so glad Mr.Smith found you. I'll never disobey Mommy again."Judy sat up, rubbing her eyes. "See, prettyflowers for the nice lady." In her tight httle fist werea few not so fresh dandelions.58 COVENANTER WITNESS

Lesson Helps for the Week of August 20, 1967Sabbath SchoolLessonfor August 20, 1967.PAUL AND EPHESUS:Acts 19:21 to 20:38.Comments by John K. Gault.The events of this lesson occurredduring Paul's third and final missionaryjourney, unless we count hisvoyage to Rome as a prisoner, a missionaryjourney, which indeed it was.After he left Ephesus on his journey,Apollos came there but he knewonly about the Old Testament and thebaptism of John the Baptist, untilAquila and Prisca "took him untothem and expounded unto him theway of God more perfectly." Paulcame back to Ephesus after he hadbeen to Jerusalem and Antioch. Thepeople to whom Apollos had preachedtold Paul, "We have not so much asheard whether there be any HolyGhost."Paul then explained the differencebetween John's baptism unto repentanceand baptism "in the name of theLord Jesus." Paul then baptized themand "laid his hands upon them, andthe Holy Ghost came on them; andthey spake with tongues, and prophesied."For three months Paul preachedin the synagogue but various personsraised such an objection to his preachingthat he left the synagogue andwent to the school of Tyrannus wherehe reasoned daily, for a period of twoyears.1: Paul Engaged in Both Preachingand Healing Ministry.In verse 10 it is said, "All theywhich dwelt in Asia heard the wordof the Lord Jesus, both Jews andGreeks." and in verse 20 we read,"So mightily grew the word of Godand prevailed." Special miracles werepei formed by Paul, "so that from hisbody were brought unto the sick handkerchiefsor aprons, and the diseasesdeparted from them, and the evilspirits went out of them." It is probablethat if all the afflicted personscould have come to Paul he wouldhave laid his hands on them and theywould have been healed, but sincethey were not able to come to him,he sent to them some of his personalarticles for them to handle and theywere healed. It was God who healedthe people and that could be doneeven if Paul were not bodily present.God wished to magnify the Spiritfilledpersonality of Paul and thiswas done by means of Paul's thingswhich were brought to the afflictedpeople.2: Paul Met With the Exorcists ofEphesus.This sect of people had priests whomade use of magical formulas andincantations by which they claimedto heal the sick. One of these priestswas Sceva who had seven sons, engagedin this necromancy. Since Paulhad such good success in casting outevil spirits these profaners sought tocall down the power of Jesus Christin healing one possessed with demons."And the evil spirit answered andsaid, Jesus I know, and Paul I know;but who are ye? And the man inwhom the evil spirit was leaped onthem and overcame them." This waspublished far and wide over the areaand resulted in "many of them alsowhich used curious arts brought theirbooks together, and burned them beforeall men." Paul, therefore, experienceda great vindication by thisvictory over the exorcists.3: Paul Contended with Idol Worshipat Ephesus.Ephesus was the seat of the worshipof the great goddess Artemis.(The name Diana is the Latinizedform of the Greek name Artemis.)The worship of this great goddess waspracticed in many places but thegreatest temple of that worship wasin Ephesus. It was one of the sevenwonders of the world and was 220years in building. According to theirtradition the original statue of thisgoddess fell from the sky into thewoods where the temple was built.jThis temple was not the home of thegoddess. Her home was in nature andthe statue of her represented theupper part of her body covered byseveral rows of breasts, thus indicatingthat she was the mother of allforms of life and was, therefore, thegoddess of fertility. The ritual of herworship in the great temple wascharacterized by sacrifices and by ceiemonialprostitution. Small replicasof the great statue of Artemis weremade and sold to people. They couldbe carried with them so that travelerscould worship the goddess whereverthey might be. These little shrines orreplicas were also buried with thedead to insure acceptance in thefuture life. Paul contended with thedevotees of this religion and many ofthem were turned unto Christ throughthe power of the Spirit.4: Paul's Preaching Conflicted withthe Money-making of Some.This was the second time that Paulhad this experience. We will remembirthat when Paul and Silas were atPhilippi the conversion of the younggirl who was a fortune-teller, deprivedher masters of "the hope of theirgains" and so they rose up and stirredup a riot against Paul and Silas. In.Ephesus, at the time of Paul's visit,one of the important trade-guilds wasthe silversmiths. They were engagedin making small silver shrines orreplicas of the great goddess, whichthey sold to people, especially travelers,of whom there were alwaysmany in the city. Through Paul's wo:kmany of the worshipers of Artemiswere turned unto the Lord; consequently,they no longer wanted asilver shrine. The lucrative businessof the silversmiths fell off rapidly andso, Demetrius, the leader of this guildcalled a meeting of the guild and said,"Sirs, ye know that by this craft wehave our wealth. Moreover ye seeand hear that not alone at Ephesus,but almost throughout all Asia, thisPaul hath persuaded and turned awaymuch people, saying that they be nogods, which are made with hands."Demetrius and other silversmithsJULY 26, 1967 59iI

stirred up a great riot. They caughtsage of doom, telling the people wheretwo of Paul's companions, Gaius andhe came from and why the city wouldAristarchus, and "rushed with one Junior Topic be destroyed unless they should repentof their wickedness. The peopleaccord into the theatre." Paul wasfor August 20, 1967.restrained by his friends from enteringthe theatre. He probably wouldof Nineveh began to listen and manyOBEDIENCEof them believed in his God. Theyby Mrs. Thomas A. Pricehave been beaten to death. The antipathyof the mob seemed to be directedproclaimed a fast, put on rough clothesBible Reading: Jonah 3. from the greatest to the least. Thousandswere stirred by this great re­Memory Psalm: 89, p. 217, vv 8,9-13,14.against the Jews, and so AlexanderMemory Verse: II Corinthians 2:9.was shoved to the front and he madevival and began to repent of their sins.Psalms: 119 (1), p. 287, w. 1-3; 26,a defense unto the people. But, theThe king of Nineveh in his greatp.61, w. 1-4; 18, p. 32, w. 16-18; 25,mob continued to shout, "Great ispalace heard of the preaching ofp. 59, vv. 7,8.Diana of the Ephesians."Jonah and called his officers for aThe dictionary says obedience is report. When he heard their words,5: Help Came From an Unbeliever. the act or fact of obeying or state of he laid aside his rich robes, put onIt was the "townclerk" who quieted being obedient. Jurisdiction, control; rough garments and covered his bodythe mob. He was an official of the submission to restraint, control, command.I think the part about submis­neither man nor beast, herd nor flock,with ashes. He sent out a decree: "Letcity who felt responsible for law andorder. He reminded the mob that the sion speaks loudest to us as young taste anything; let them not feed, nor"city of the Ephesians is a worshiper Christians. Is your life submitted to drink water: But let man and beastof the great goddess Diana, and of the Christ today? Ask yourself this question,in sincerity and honestly give mightily unto God. Yea, let them turnbe covered with sackcloth and cryimage which fell down from Jupiter."He defended Paul and his companions God your answer. If your answer was everyone from his evil way and fromby saying, "Ye have brought hither yes you are following God's command, the violence that is in their hands.these men, which are neither robbers but if your answer was no you need Who can tell if God will turn andof churches, nor yet blasphemers of to look deeply into your life to see repent, and turn away from His fierceyour goddess. He announced that if what separates you from the Lord's anger, that we perish not."Demetrius and the other craftsmen will. You have been seeing what happenedto Jonah when he tried to run were repenting of their sins, He de­When the Lord saw that the peoplehad a grievance against Paul theycould bring a civil suit against them. his own life against the Lord's will. cided not to destroy the city of Nineveh.Their charges could be determined When our lives are submitted to God's He told Jonah he had repented of His"in a lawful assembly. For we are in control, we show these characteristics. words and that Nineveh would notdanger to be called in question Jonah found he could find peace of be overthrown.for this day's uproar, there being no mind only in being submissive to restraint,control, and the command of God sent him to Nineveh for thisThis was Jonah's greatest hour.cause whereby we may give anaccount of this concourse. And when God.very purpose, to change their path ofhe had thus spoken, he dismissed the After Jonah returned to his home, brutal conquest. Speaking in the nameassembly."the word of the Lord came to him the of the God of the nation whom theChristianity has often conflicted second time. The Lord told him, "Arise,go unto Nineveh, that great city, was used of God to bring the Nin­Ninevites had begun to plunder, Jonahwith ill-gotten gains. Jesus had muchto say about the getting and the use and preach unto it the preaching that evites to repentance.of money. He drove the traders from I bid thee."Christian leaders are warning usthe temple and told them that they This time Jonah undertook his task today that we are headed in the directionof doom and destruction. Ourhad made God's house a "den of with willingness. He was no longerthieves." He said, "Take heed and afraid to do as the Lord told him; no nation and its leaders seem to bebeware of covetousness, for a man's idea of fleeing entered his thoughts. turning away from God. Evil in manylife consisteth not in the abundance He had submitted to the Lord and forms is all around us. As Christiansof the things which he possesseth." became an obedient servant. He arose we should shun evil and turn to aWhen one becomes a real Christian and walked across the Syrian Desert more obedient life, one of service tohis pocket-book is affected; it is opened for five hundred miles. At last he our Lord. Telling others of His Sonup when before it remained closed. came to the walls of the great and and His great love, the forgivenessOil and water do not mix, and neither magnificent city.we find when we repent and believe.does Christianity mix with wealth When he reached Nineveh, he enteredthe city and walked through the you to tell others about Him? Do youDo you pray that the Lord will usegained through sinful practices."Lesson based on International Sundaystreets noticing the great temples and pray for your country, its leaders,School Lessons: the International Bible Lessonsfor Christian Teaching, copyrighted 1963 strange, a Jew from a far countrybuildings. He must have looked its people? Pray that they will repentby the Division of Christian Education, NationalCouncil of Churches of Christ in the with a pack on his back and a staff way the world would be? How yourand turn back to God. Talk about theU.SA."in his hand. He was poor and a town, your home, your school, yourstranger, but he was unafraid. He neighborhood would be? Wouldn'titNow faith is the substance of began at once to cry up and down the be wonderful if all people were obedientto God's will for their lives? Youthings hoped for, the evidence of streets: "Yet forty days, and Ninevehthings not seen. Hebrews 11:1. shall be overthrown."can be a missionary where you liveHe continued to repeat this mes­60 COVENANTER WITNESS

and have a small part in bringingthis about.Things to do:1. On your map mark the journeythat Jonah took in this lesson. Makethe picture that will remind you ofwhat happened in that place.2. Make a list of ways you canchange and be more obedient in theweek ahead.3. Have reports on any answers toprayer that the juniors have had inthe past week.4. Lay your hand flat on a pieceof pastel drawing paper. Draw it.Above it, print "Pray." Print thesefive prayer rules, one on each finger:1. In Jesus' name 2. Without sin3. With obedience 4. Without ceasing5. With trust.Prayer MeetingTopicfor August 23, 1967."A VIRTUOUS WOMAN."Proverbs 31:10-31.by Rev. M. K. Carson, D. D.Psalms: 113:1-5, p.279; 128:1-2, p. 323;68:7,10,11, p. 163.References: Found in the comments.In this last chapter in Proverbs wehave a beautiful picture of the virtuouswoman with her qualities of"industry, diligence, devotion to theduties of her sphere, love and esteemfor her husband, care for her familyand to crown the whole the spirit ofkindness toward all and of true pietytoward God." The writer is not unmindful,however, of the fact that allwomen do not merit his praise, so hespeaks of the "strange woman" whois as a deep pit, Proverbs 22:14, andof women without discretion, Proverbs11:22. These and other verses inProverbs do not set forth a beautifulpicture of womanhood. But in thislast chapter the ideal woman is portrayedand we know that there havebeen and are women who are measuringup to this inspired descriptionof the "home-maker." For her thisis a great privilege and also a greatresponsibility because 'what the homesare, the nation is," and it is the functionof the wife and mother to makethe home. Truly "her price is aboverubies."The virtuous woman fears theJULY 26, 1967Lord. This is found in the 30th verse.Without this fear of the Lord, nowoman can truly fulfull her obligationseither to God or man. True pietytoward God is the first requisite andit is fundamental in all her work. Itis her Christian character and conductwhich give to her the true beautyof the Lord. (Psalm 90:17) This beautyof holiness is manifested in all herwork, relationship and influence. Shefears and loves her Lord.The virtuous woman is industrious.She loves her family, and is willing towork long hours for she "riseth whileit is yet night" v.15, and "her candlegoeth not out by night" (v.18). Is notthis the evidence of her diligence?What is the origin of this saying "thatwoman's work is never done"? Thisindustrious woman did not eat thebread of idleness for she was alwayslooking to the ways of her household.She was not afraid of the snow forher household is clothed with scarlet("double garments" in the margin).Double garments would be more satisfactoryon a cold morning.Evidently this active woman hadtime for reading and meditation forshe spoke with wisdom, (v.26) A minister,in his pastoral work, found amother rocking the cradle with herfoot, operating the churn with herhand, and reading her Bible. Perhapsthis will not be a surprise for manyhave learned to utilize their time.This virtuous woman considers thepoor for she reacheth forth her handsto the needy, (v. 20) Her love andkindness were given to others, so asone who feared the Lord, she hadmercy on the poor. (Proverbs 14:21)Nor did she reproach her Maker bymocking the poor. (Proverbs 17:5; 19:17; 21:17) There is still need for compassionand helpfulness. (Gal. 2:10;II Cor. 8:1-4; Romans 15:26; James2:2-6)See page 63Alert For The MasterThe dog that lived in the mission compound would never win any prizesbut he did have the instinct to guard property. Usually the mission gate waskept closed and other dogs had to stay outside. Sometimes though one wouldlinger at the gate and then, with the safety of iron bars between them,there would be much canine name calling and abuse. From the sound it wasprobably well that the insults hurled back and forth through the gate couldnot be translated into human language! When there were church services thegate was left open and dogs from the street, with natural canine curiosity,would wander in to investigate the territory from which they were usuallybarred. That was the time that explosive action started. The attack of the dogin the compound was so sudden and fierce that strange dogs were caught bysurprise and quickly got the message and left.Seeing a much larger dog exit precipitously after a brief but sharp encountersomeone remarked, "That dog is quite a fighter." In thinking it over, themissionary wondered. On neutral ground, and without the element of surprise,the fight might last much longer and the outcome be quite different. Eventhe curs that came in seemed to sense that they were trespassing and theirdog consciences told them they were in the wrong. On the other hand the dogin the compound was sure of his position. This was his master's territory, to bewatched, protected, guarded to the death. Intrusion called for sudden andpositive action. No circling with bared teeth and menacing growls, but immediatecontact, swift and decisive. In this there was a lesson for the missionaryhimself. Encroachments against what the Master had entrusted to his care inthe spiritual realm also called for quick and emphatic action. Intruders wei eon unfamiliar and therefore unsure ground in the things of the Spirit and sowere vulnerable to sudden and positive attack. He wasn't much of a fighter buthe was on the Lord's side, on His ground, and a quick strike would meanvictory. James said, "Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." How muchmore will his emissaries turn tail when they are withstood promptly and confidently.And someone might even say of him, "That fellow is quite a fight irfor the Lord."Gl

CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE BUDGETOF THE REFORMED PRESBYTERIAN CHURCHNORTH AMERICAMay 1, 1967 — July 1, 1967Amount of Budget — $160,000.00Raised to July 1, 1967 — $57,233.48or Approximately 35 and one-half per centDepartmentsGrantedForeign Mission. 43,000.00 . .Home Mission. 16,200.00 . .Southern MissionIndian Mission. 2,410.00 . .4,500.00 . .Women's AssociationTheological SeminaryStudents AidMinisterial Relief. 2,000.0018,500.00 .10 0010.00 . .Widows and Orphans. 6,500.00 .Geneva College .... . 19,000.00 . .Covenanter Witness. 14,000.00 . .Witness Committee. 6,500.00 .Board of Christian EducationBoard of Evangelism. 18,500.00 . .2,370.00 . .Board of Church Erection2,000.00 . .Miscellaneous Fund ... 3,500.00 . .Pastors Refresher Course750.00 . .National Association of Evangelicals. 250.00 .NOTICEAnyone interested in preaching forthe Clarinda congregation please contactMrs. Kenneth McCalla, 415 E.Washington, Clarinda, Iowa 51632.Telephone: Area Code 712 542-2834.Respectively submitted,Chester R. Fox, TreasurerOFReceived to July 1, 1967$14,835.005,589.002,489.001,552.50690.006,382.5010.0010.002,242.506,555.004,830.002,242.506,382.50822.65690.001,207.50258.7586.25160,000.00 56,875.65It is our prayer that God will blessand prosper our work together in theyears which lie ahead.Rev. and Mrs. David PattersonRonnie and KennyGENEVA COLLEGECONFERS DEGREESGeneva College awarded 187 academicdegrees and 4 honorary doctoraldegrees at the graduation ceremonieson June 6 in Metheny Fieldhouse.The honorary degrees were award­THANK YOUOn Friday evening, July 21, a verylovely reception was held by the Winchestercongregation to welcome us tothe work there. Kind words of welcomewere made by various representativesof the congregation andcommunity. A very delightful programof entertainment was also pro­ed to Dr. Theodore A. Distler, President,Commission for IndependentColleges and Universities, PennsylvaniaAssociation of Colleges andvided, and last, but certainly not least,many boxes of food and provisions Universities; Mr. Theodore C. Mcwere set before us to be placed in our Carroll; Reverend Adam Loughridge,pantry. For these kindnesses and many and Reverend J. Renwick Wright.more which have been evidenced Among those receiving academicsince our coming, we wish to say degrees were 20 Reformed Presbyterianthank you in this public way.students.Listed by congregation:College HillLee P. Bittner, Robert T. Clarke,William J. Sterrett, Bonnie VerrettEastvaleMary E. WilcoxFirst Beaver FallsDavid N. Fenchel, Joyce SchmidtGilliland, Carol McBurney, Mrs.Margaret C. CheperdGenevaJohn H. ParkNew AlexandriaS. Keith EdgarNorth HillsCandace J. CookRose PointBeverly O. KennedyWilkinsburgDaniel C. CopelandLos Angeles, CaliforniaIngrid L. DirdsallSyracuse, New YorkBeth L. HemhillTopeka, KansasB. Kathryn ElliottQuinter, KansasJohn W. FormanSeattle, WashingtonRosalie J. McMillanYoungstown, OhioRichard A. MarshallA TRIBUTEI would like to join in the manytributes which have been paid to thelate Rev. Dr. R. J. G. McKnight andto endorse them each one. Mrs. Lyonsand I had the very real privilege ofentertaining him and his charmingwife many years ago in our home herein Northern Ireland and what a timeof rich fellowship we had. They werea marvellous pair.Then when we with our familyvisited the U. S. A. in 1959 we renewedin person our fellowship with theDoctor. He was an outstanding Christiangentleman, exceedingly gracious,and generous, and we centainly thankour God upon every remembrance ofboth Dr. and Mrs. McKnight.Newry, Northern IrelandHenry C. Lyons.MRS. AMELIA E. BROWNMrs. Amelia E. Brown, enteredinto her rest, Monday, June 19, 1967.She was born near Idana, Kansas,February 9, 1879, the daughter of Mr.Thomas Chestnut and Mrs. AmeliaJane Crooks Chestnut. On January 24,1900 she was married to Mr. WilliamH. Brown.62 COVENANTER WITNESS

Mr. Brown and his two sons, Le Royand Elmo, and two daughters Violaand Edith, and their families, mourntheir loss. Mr. Brown, age 93, liveswith his son, Le Roy at 2325 CrystalLake Avenue, Orlando, Florida.GOD WITH US — a Life of Jesus forYoung Readers by Marianne VosRadius. Wm. B. Eerdmans PublishingCo., Grand Rapids, Mich. 1966. 286pages. Price $4.50.The subtitle suggests this book is foryoung readers only, but one need nothave the excuse of reading to youngstersto enjoy the imaginative, personalapproach of the author, who isthe daughter of Catherine F. Vos, inbringing to the reader a new understandingof our Lord and His message.The personal touch is what makesthis book so unusual. "You are invitedto a beach party at Susan R.'s cottage,"the author says and proceeds to discussthe "parties that God gives.""Jesus says you are a tree," and beforethe author is finished with this chapter,we know what Christ meant bythis allegory. "Susan was a tomboy. . .mother kept saying, 'Do be more careful,Susan!'", and God's plan forSusan's life and ours is discussed,"Let's help mother plant a vegetablegarden," and more parables are givennew understanding. How did the disciplesfeel when they found an emptygrave? How would you, as a child feel,we are asked, if you came home fromschool and mother was not there?Perhaps the most compelling aspectof this book is the author's identificationwith the reader. She tells us, "Ifyour faith trembles and falters (asmine often does) and if you are stillafraid in spite of Jesus' reassurance(as I often am) then there is a prayerespecially for you and for me." Theorthodox content, written with imaginationand illustrated with interestinglinoleum cuts, will appeal to a childof God of any age.L. RudolphHOW TO BECOME A SOUL-WINNERGod told the entire church to goout as soul-winners. And I think thatif three things are kept in mind, thesimplest and humblest child of Godcan be a soul-winner.First of all, he must realize thepower of the Word of God; that simplydeclared, without argument, it has tremendouspower.Second, that there is the power ofprayer. So many of us go out to witnesswithout backing it with longperiods of intercessory prayer. Theterm "intercessory prayer" actuallymeans interceding for lost souls. Ithink that is the desperate need of thehour on the part of the average soulwinner.And then, third, there is the powerof the Holy Spirit. No person can bewon to Christ without tremendousdependence upon the Holy Spirit.These three things kept in mind, Ibelieve the humblest child of God canbecome a soul-winner.—Billy GrahamREPORT OF THE NOMINATING COMMITTEEOF THE 1967 SYNOD.Prayer MeetingFrom page 61The family as a Divine institutionis fundamental. It is intimately connectedwith human happiness and isa most powerful influence upon humancharacter. The wife and motherhas a large place in the home and it isbeautifully set forth in this portraitof a "virtuous woman."What a tribute was given to her!"Many daughters have done virtuously,but thou excellest them all." What asatisfying reward for all her labors,sacrifices and long hours! She wasappreciated and praised by her husbandand her children rose up to callher blessed. (Proverbs 31:28-29)Prayer:That Christian mothers, with theirmany responsibilities, may be givenwisdom and strength.That our homes may be places ofChristian training and instruction andbe protected from the forces of evil.For our Covenanter churches inScotland and Ireland and their missionarywork both at home and inthe foreign fields.For our local congregations andtheir witness in the community.That the Lord will bless this monthof study in the Book of Proverbs forHis own glory and for our growthin grace.1. Committee to canvass the vote on the overtures 7. Congregations not having representativordered by last Synod — Joseph Lamont, Ch., Synod to be written to —Lloyd Copeland, T. R. Hutcheson to — by —2. Committee on Arrangements and Devotions for Lake Reno Milford Haysnext Synod — J. H. Tweed, Harold Faris, Clyde Cache Creek Harvey McGeeRedpath, David Patterson, M. L. McFarland, Eskridge Kenneth HurdKenneth McBurney White Lake Edwin McBurney3. Alternate to preach the moderator's sermon at Belle Center . Donald Mullinnixnext Synod — Wayne Spear Portland Donald Gouge4. Committee on Time and Place for the 1969 Bear Run-Mahoning John AllenSynod — Keith Copeland, Ch., Donald Mullinnix, Rehoboth George McFarlandRobert Templeton.8. Those to whom letters of remembrance should5. Committee on Instrumental Music in Worship — be written —J. Paul McCracken, Ch., John McMillan, Alvin to — by —Smith, Jr., Earnest McKeown, George Jackson C. C. Christou Cloyd E. Caskey6. Committee on Signs of the Times — G. M. Robb, J. K. Gault Robert McMillanMilford Hays, Raymond Joseph, Sr. Jerry Hayenga Glenn McFarlandJULY 26, 1967 63

Herbert HaysDavid ArmstrongPhilip MartinLester KilpatrickToshio MasunagaCharles ChaoDonald I. RobbJ. Paul McCracken Witness Committee — David -M-.-Garson-, Rr CrR. Paul Robb Kenneth SmithFullerton, Robert Milliken, John H. White,.Paul WhiteJ. E. McElroyPhilip CoonT. M. Hutcheson Alvin Smith, Jr. 11. DelegatesGene SpearJ. H. Tweed Delegate to the NAE Convention, (April 196Julius KempfJ. G. VosPhiladelphia) — John McMillan, DonaldWalter McClurkinCharles SterrettFelker, alternateHarold ThompsonPaul Faris Synod's member on the Board of AdministratiSamuel EdgarR. W. Caskeyof the NAE — D. Howard ElliottPaul MathewsF. E. Allen 12. Special CommitteesFrank StewartAlvin Smith, Sr. Pastors' Refesher Course Committee for 19699. Vacancies on BoardsM. W. Martin, Ch., H. A. Hays, Richard Olson,Trustees of Synod — Chester R. Fox, John M. Kermit EdgarMitchell, James S. PiercePsalter Committee (additional members)Foreign Mission Board — Miss Sarah Archer, Mrs. Robert Copeland, William Edgar, Mrs.Edwin H. McBurney, Paul D. McCracken, J.T. R. Hutcheson, Edward Robson, E. C.Paul McCracken, George Jackson, BerthaCopeland, Mrs. Robert TweedNirnickCommittee to consider Paper No. 10 (ReportBoard of Home Missions and Church Extension 1967) — John M. McMillan, Ch., Clark—Chester R. Fox, M. W. Martin, C. M. Lee,Mrs. Charles McKissock, R. C. FullertonCopeland, Glenn McFarland, Joseph Lamont,Donald MullinnixPension Board — Lloyd M. Edgar, J. Ralph Long Range Planning Committee — B. C.WilsonStewart, Ch., Raymond McCracken, JamesSeminary Board — C. C. Brown, Edwin C. Clarke Pennington, Lester Kilpatrick, DonaldCorporators of Geneva College — John Russell Birdsall, Joseph Lamont, Donald GougeChurch Erection — Dale Curry, David PattersonChristian Education — D. Howard Elliott, M. L.Committee to consider Paper No. 12 — StewartM. Lee, Ch., John Mitchell, W. J. C. George,McFarland, W. G. McMillan, Mrs. J. E.Chester Fox, Joseph CaskeyMcElroy, (to fill unexpired term of KatherineWillson Plowmaker) B. C. Stewart, RobertMillikenCommittee to Consider Paper No. 13 — NormanCarson, Ch., Joseph Hill, John White, J. PaulMcCracken, Roy AdamsEvangelism — Waldo Mitchel, Keith Copeland,Robert McMillan, Elwood WoodsPublication — R. W. Caskey, M. L. McFarland,Kenneth McBurney, J. H. Tweed10. Vacanies on Permanent CommitteesCommittee on Interchurch Correspondence andStudy — C. E. CaskeyOath Committee — David Carson, CharlesMcBurney, Harold HarringtonStewardship Committee — Donald Weiler|sbacher,Ch., Milton Harrington, RaymondStevenson, Charles SterrettTemperance Committee — J. E. McElroy,Stewart M. Lee, Mrs. R. H. McKelvyAssistant on Traveling Fund and AbsencesCommitte — Richard OlsonCoordinating Committee — Jerrold Milroy,Chairman, J. O. Edgar, Clerk, Robert More!Asst. ClerkConference Committee — James D. Carson,Ch., Charles McBurney, Vice Ch., M. W.Martin, Sec.Committee to consider Paper No. 18 — RobertMcFarland, Ch., David Patterson, JosephYelder, Harold Ward, M. W. DoughertyCommittee to Study Ministers' Salaries —Fenton Farley, Ch., John Mitchell, CharlesM. Lee, Thomas J. WilsonCommittee to consider Paper No. 10 (to reporin 1968) — John McMiUan, E. R. Hemphill,J. P. Wilson, William Ramsey, Donald B.WillsonCommittee to consider Paper No. 6 — J. G.Vos, Ch., D. R. Wilcox, R. B. Tweed, J. MerrillRobbCommittee to Investigate Insurance of thosTraveling on Church Business —Robb, Ch., Robert H. GreenleeJ. Merrill64 COVENANTER WITNESS

The1I1J1 VI19ILI' l lll.Oll] I I. H 1elTilKULOiilCJL 5DUNAHYPI nsn. retTo The TruthJESUS CHRIST AS SAVIOUR, LORD, HEAD OF MEN, THE CHURCH AND NATIONS.; ' -« ? •• ;VOLUME LXXIX NO. 5 AUGUST 2, 1967 STERLING, KANSASBIBLE LESSONS FOR THE WEEK OF AUGUST 27, 1967t-t ^ » «> •^fc «» -«ue»»«»-^fc» «»— I r ~» II II i 1 i 1 "~i i - \MISSIONARYNUMBER

THE COVENANTER WITNESSOfficial organ of the ReformedPresbyterian Church of N. A.• CVANWUCAI mm AIMCUTWNEditor: Rev. M. W. Dougherty, D.D.125 N. 4th StreetSterling, Kansas 67579Phone 316 — Br. 8 • 3472Printed each Wednesday under the supervision of theBoard of Publication by The Patterson Press, MorningSun, Iowa 52640.Contributing Editors: Department Editors:Rev. Kenneth Smith Rev. John TweedDr. G. M. RobbMrs. Robert B. MaineRev. John McMillan Mrs. Willis EdgarRev. C. E. Caskey Rev. John K. GaultOpinions expressed in our columns are those of theindividual writer, not necessarily the views of the ReformedPresbyterian Church or the editor.All material to appear in The Covenanter Witnessshould be typewritten, double-spaced, and should be inSterling, Kansas two weeks before it is to be printed.The cost of all pictures is 30 cents per square inch.Obituaries — All words in excess of one hundred fifty,one cent per wo^d. Money should accompany such notices.SUBSCRIPTION RATESIndividual (1 year): U.S. and Canada, $4.00, BritishIsles 35/-, all other places, $5.00;Individual (2 year): U.S. and Canada, $7.00, BritishIsles 63/-, all other places, $9.00;Group: U.S. and Canada, $3.00, British Isles 28/-, allother places, $4.00.9-month student subscription — $1.50; 5-month introductoryoffer —$1.00; 2 gift subscriptions to persons outsideof the R. P. Church — $2.00 each. Single copies, 10c.Subscription Agent for U.S. and Canada: Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Subscription Agent for the British Isles: Rev. HughWright, B.A., 12, Knutsford Drive, Belfast 14, NorthernIreland.All checks should be made payable to The CovenanterWitness in U. S. currency.Give one month's notice of a change of address. Sendboth the new and the old address to Mrs. M.W. Dougherty.Postmaster: Please send Form 3579 to Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Second class postage paid at Morning Sun, Iowa 52640.Mr. and Mrs. Donald Fee of Topeka,Kansas visit Rev. and Mrs. Thomas(Marjorie Fee) Hutcheson in Cyprus.This Week's WitnessBorrowed Religion . 67Glimpses of the Religious World 68Message for The American Academy Annual... 69Letter: Rev. T. M. Hutcheson 69News from Japan 71Ananias of Damascus 72Hot Water Bags for Moon Visitors 73A Page for Juniors 74Lesson Helps 75On Complaining . . 77Church News 78This and That in W.M.S 80WE HOLD THE FOLLOWING TO BE TRUTHS OF SCRIPTURE:The Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the only infalliblerule of faith and conduct.preserve the purity of the Church.The duty which rests upon officers to maintain discipline andThe Trinitarian conception of the Godhead.Spiritual worship as a divine requirement mediated through theFaith in Jesus Christ as the only way of salvation.Lord Jesus Christ.Salvation by Grace.The exclusive use of the Psalms in the worship of the Church.Assurance of salvation as a possible Christian experience.The Protestant interpretation of the Sacraments.The Gospel Call and Election.The divine right of the institution of Marriage and that it is notThe Holy Spirit as the Author of regeneration.to be dissolved except by adultery or "irremediable" desertion.Sanctification through the cooperating agency of the Holy Spirit.The Sabbath as a day sacred to rest and worship.The fact of death and hell as the destiny of the lost and heavenThe duty of nations and their civil rulers to honor Christ asas the destiny of the saved.King of Kings and Lord of Lords.That the Church of Jesus Christ consists of all those who believeThat Christian citizens are under obligation to obey lawful authority.in Him together with their children.The Divine Right of the Presbyterian form of Church Government.The right and duty of the Christian citizen to dissent from allThe Lord Jesus Christ as the only King and Head of His Church. governmental a»d mational disobedience to the Law of God.That terms of membership or communion are essential to the That the Covenants of the past are still binding.welfare ef the Church.From "The Cenuaunicamt's Class" by J. B. Tweed66 COVENANTER WITNESS

EditorialComment &BORROWED RELIGIONrJohn 18:34 — "Sayest thou this thing of thyselfor did others tell it thee .. . ?"We find that for many things we are dependent.Our customs are an accumulation of performancesover perhaps many years. We do a thing this particularway because someone we knew did it that way.It may be good or it may not. A daughter learningto cook from her mother always cut off a piece ofroast before she put it into the roaster to cook.She asked her mother why she always did that.Her mother told her that her mother, who taughther to cook, always did it that way. The girl approachedthe grandmother with the same question.Her grandmother told her that she had only onepan and the pieces that she put into it would not fitunless she cut off a piece. Thus the practice washanded down. The grandmother had a reason, butfor succeeding generations it was a borrowed ideaand was used without any reason for it.There are people who borrow their religion. Iasked a man once where he went to church. Hetold me that his wife went to church for him. Hewas borrowing her rehgion. Many have the rehgionof their parents and their grandparents. It is notfirsthand but secondhand rehgion; when examinedclosely it may be qiute weak. We can see reasonsfor this. To believe as one's forefathers did is notenough after one has hved some years. Thereshould be a personal conviction on the matter.Christ stood before Pilate. He had asked ourLord if He was a king. Christ asked him if thiswas his own idea or if someone had told it to him.Borrowed rehgion is not enough.For one thing it lacks vision. If one belongs toa certain church just because someone else did,he lacks the conviction to see the world's great need.He has never thought in terms of need and has notfound Christ as the one who satisfies every need.It naturally follows that he will have httle or nointerest in missions, either home or foreign. Hewill not have vision.Then borrowed religion lacks stabihty and certaintyof faith. Faith is a personal experience. Itis not enough to call upon the God of Abraham,Isaac, and Jacob. I must call upon MY God. Faiththat is borrowed may be changed for something else.Since it is borrowed, much that is connectedwith it may be taken for granted. One may acceptcertain facts freely, but may not really study themto know these facts and accept them as his ownconclusion. Since it is really another's conviction,the one who borrows it may question and doubt thefacts. Then comes an uncertainty of faith and amoving away from it to a seemingly more popularbehef.Often when one is asked why he believes this orthat, the reply is that the church teaches it or one'sancestors for many generations have held this view.This should be a good reason for one's first acceptanceof a teaching, but it is only a bud as itwere. It comes to full flower after long study andgreat consideration. It then moves over into thesphere of personal conviction. It gains stabihty andcertainly of faith.Borrowed rehgion becomes cold. It fails to radiateas does true rehgion. Rehgion that is cultivatedcannot be contained but it must radiate. The reasonfor this is a simple one. One will speak with muchmore enthusiasm about his own discovery. Like thesun it will radiate from the source within. The moonshines, but it is a reflected hght. There is no heat init.Then borrowed rehgion if left alone withoutany effort to make it one's own is powerless. It doeshttle good to say that Christ saved Bill Jones, lethim save you, if one's only argument is that mygrandfather beheved this. One needs to know frompersonal experience the facts that he presents toothers. To lift oneself out of his testimony is tocancel its power of persuasion.Perhaps we fail very much in this way. Theteachings of the church derived from the truths ofthe Bible continue to be but "hearsay" behefs. Howwould you answer our Lord regarding your beliefswhich you declare, when He says, "Sayest thou thisthing of thyself or did others tell it thee. . . ?" LET AMAN EXAMINE HIMSELF.AUGUST 2, 1967 67

Glimpses of the Religious WorldTHE REV. JOHN McMILLANR. D. 1, Box 337WALDEN, NEW YORKISRAEL FIGHTS TO HOLD "CITY OF PEACE"(EP) A law passed overwhelmingly by IsraehKnesset enables Israel to annex by decree JordanianJerusalem and possibily a larger region along withthe urban area.The law stated that the holy places of all religionsshall be protected from desecration andviolation. Free access by members of the differentreligions shall be insured, the decree asserted.Time magazine's June 30, 1967 issue assumesthe Jews will keep the city and asks: "Has the timenow come for the erection of the Third Temple?"Some Jews see plausible theological grounds fordiscussing the reconstruction, basing their argumenton the contention that Israel has alreadly enteredits "Messianic era.""We are at the stage where David was when heliberated Jerusalem," Time quotes Historian IsraelEldad. "From that time until the construction of theTemple by Solomon, only one generation passed.So will it be with us."What of Islam's sacred Dome of the Rocktemple which would have to be demolished first?"Who knows," replies Eldad: "Perhaps there willbe an earthquake!"ARP CHURCH ISSUES DECLARATION OF ITSFAITH(RES News Exchange) Meeting in annual Synodin Flat Rock, North Carolina, from June 5-9, theAssociate Reformed Presbyterian Church reaffirmedits allegiance to "the great essential doctrines ofthe Christian faith as summarized in the WestminsterConfession of Faith." This historical document,the Synod declared, speaks "to the presentgeneration as clearly and as appropriately as topast generations. Securely founded upon the Wordof God, the Holy Scriptures, they proclaim inconcise, systematic form 'the faith which was oncedehvered unto the saints'."The Synod declared that the church, under theguidance of the Holy Spirit, is commissioned byChrist to proclaim the great cardinal truths of theChristian faith and in Christ's stead to call allmen and nations to be reconciled to God.REFORMED CHURCH IN ARGENTINA MARKSINCREASE IN PASTORS(RES News Exchange) According to a report bythe Rev. Edward Meyer, the Reformed Church in Argentina(Iglesia Reformada), has long been plaguedwith a shortage of pastors. Although the churchbecame independent from its "mother" church inHolland in 1961, it was unable to act independentlybecause of lack of funds and ministers. In recentyears, however, this has changed and the numberof pastors has grown. Five men have come from theNetherlands and five from the Christian ReformedChurch in North America which has appointed twomore who are engaged in preparatory studies. Thegreatest blessing, according to Mr. Meyer, is thatfour young men are preparing themselves for theministry in a united seminary, La Facultad deTeologia, in Buenos Aires.In addition, three young women are preparingthemselves for mission activity, two theologicalstudents are studying in the Netherlands and one ispreparing for the ministry in North America. Thepresent increase in ministers and the prospects ofmore is suddenly changing the prospects of thechurch which now feels that it is "on the move."MEXICO AN OPEN FIELD FOR THE GOSPEL(RES News Exchange) Speaking in GrandRapids, Michigan, to the annual Synod of theChristian Reformed Church, the Rev. RogerGreenway, professor at the Juan Calvino Seminaryin Mexico City, said that if a missionary devoteshis full time to direct evangehstic work in someparts of Mexico he could establish one new congregationa month. There are "unparalleled opportunities"for the Gospel, he stated, especially amongthe Maya Indians, which are "wide open" forProtestant missionary work.30,000 AMERICANS STILL LIVE IN POLYGAMYAlthough a federal law outlawed polygamy in1890, more than 30,000 middle-class Americans areliving in plural marriages, according to the JuneLadies' Home Journal. The magazine reported thatpolygamy is increasing and that most polyamistslive in Western states and are members of a fundamentalistsect of the Mormon Church.68 COVENANTER WITNESS

News From Our Mission FieldA MESSAGE FOR THEAMERICAN ACADEMY ANNUALTo the class of 1967, American Academy.Larnaca, Cyprus:Recently I read that approximately 167,750students would be completing their secondary schooltraining in the state of Pennsylvania this June.When a world count is made the number must gointo the millions. You folks at the Academy are asmall, vital part of that valuable section of humanitytoday.No message to you must fail to note the pleasureMrs. Weir and I had when we visited the Academyin April this year. That first morning, when weattended the chapel service, our hearts were warmedwhen we went on the stage and saw hanging fromthe balcony that banner with the words, WELCOMEHOME. Indeed we were home again! It was an equalpleasure to see the school progressing so well. Youin the top class have contributed more than youknow to the smooth running of the school, especiallythis your last year when leadership fell to you.There is an advantage in working a long timein one place, in one institution, especially when theinstitution is a school. There is an opportunity tofollow the hves of many students in various occupations.There are exceptions, but in the vast majorityof cases it has become clear that those students whogave heed to the sound principles, on which characteris built, which they were taught in the Academy,have contributed most to mankind in the area wherethey have lived. And it is just as evident that thosestudents who were parasites when in school arestill taking from society more than they are givingto society. And thank God there are exceptionshere also.The most pleasant association I had with you,the class of 1967, was the lesson in ethics, which wehad together on April 11. You will recall that wetried to find the best authority to go to when indoubt about certain ethical principles of conduct.Of the five or more authorities which were suggested,and written on the blackboard, it was agreed thatthe Bible was the most rehable. Perhaps some ofyou agreed merely because you thought that would•V"—**A-v^v-^be my choice. If you did, I hope you will considerthe matter further. That very evening I was a guestat the Rotary Club dinner in Larnaca. In conversationwith a man who is an outstanding leader inCyprus, a man whom you all have heard or readabout, I was told: "I am now reading the Bible everyday." He is a Rotarian, and I am sure he knowsthat Paul Harris, the founder of Rotary, was a Biblereading man. It was in the Bible that he found theinspiration for a SERVICE CLUB, whose motto isSERVICE ABOVE SELF. It was Christ who said:"I am among you as he that serveth" (Luke 22:27VHere in America many of us are trying to influenceCongress to bring the Bible back officallyinto our public schools. Some think that, to keeprehgion and politics separate, schools supported bygovernment must not teach religion. (As a matterof fact the Bible is read in many government schoolstoday by Christian teachers who have the support ofthe community where the school is located.)It was a pleasure to learn when in Cyprus that10,000 copies of the New Testament had been givento the soldiers in Cyprus. Any and every movement,which takes the Bible from the shelf, places it in thehands of busy people who will readit and seek toapply its truth to everyday living, is a movement tobe encouraged. You top class students have no doubtjoined many others in expressing your appreciationof the "Academy Spirit." That spirit at its best comesfrom the Bible. Just one example: What is sportsmanship?It is Bible truth apphed to games. Readthe Bible and you will see. Then try to apply Bibletruth to your business; to your home life; to everyphase of hfe; and God will bless you.— W. W. WeirAmerican Academy,Larnaca, CyprusJuly 11, 1967Dear Friends of the Cyprus Mission:It is with a sense of pleasure and duty that I sitdown to write to you about what the Lord is doing inour Mission Field of Cyprus. It is our desire to reachas many of the 600,000 people in Cyprus as we can,AUGUST 2, 1967 69

with the Word of God. We rejoice that unlike someother countries in the Middle East we do have anopen door and freedom of rehgion, here.One evidence of this is that 13 of the 16 CyprusGreek newspapers receive and print, each week, aChristian message written by Rev. Spiros Zodhiates.Thus the message has a large circulation. Many ofthese messages are used in the Greek churches forthe Sabbath messages. One young barber was convertedthrough this column and started to makeChristian hterature available in his barber shop.Several from his community have shown considerableinterest in the Bible. Recently, in a dentist'soffice waiting room, I saw a Greek (modern translation)Bible on the table in a prominent place forhis patients to read. In some countries the Bible isbeing legislated out of the pubhc schools, but inCyprus we have been officially invited to supply anddistribute New Testaments to all the high schoolstudents in the island, in modem Greek, throughthe Cyprus Bible House.In Greece, while they continue to enjoy a goodmeasure of religious freedom, a recent law makesit compulsory that every evangehcal piece of hterature,or book, have printed on it in a prominentplace, on the cover, the words "Protestant" literature.To people in Greece this name is associated withJehovah's Witnesses, etc. Books by some of ourprominent Greek ministers have been banned fromthe bookstores, in Greece, because they cannot besold any longer. It is much more difficult for us tosecure Christian books in Greek from Greece, becausethey cannot be shipped out of that countryto Cyprus, without great difficulty. There is stillan opportunity to give Bibles to the Cyprus soldiersand they are urged to read them.Students continue to seek entrance into ourAmerican Academies, in Cyprus. Last week, we had220 pupils take our entrance examinations. Weshall be able to admit only about 90 of these students.Parents beg and even weep for us to taketheir children. They want their children to get thekind of an education we are offering, and the studyof the Bible. This spring we graduated 28 pupils.Nearly all of the boys will be inducted into theCyprus Army on July 17 to do their two years compulsorymilitary training.Starting on July 17, the Lord willing, we areplanning to open a Vacation Bible School in one ofour villages. Miss Winifred Wilson together withvolunteer helpers will be in charge of this school.Please pray that it will have a good reception so thatthose who attend will be completely receptive to theWord.On the 4th of July, Americans usually celebrate.This year, we went to Karavas, on the Kyrenia coast,to have lunch together, after some went sea bathing.On this occasion Miss Blanche McCrea was ourhonor guest, as she will soon be leaving Cyprus,after a life of service for the children and youngwomen of Cyprus. She plans to leave Cyprus onJuly 29 and after a visit in Greece and England sheexpects to retire in the U.S.A. She may look backupon 42 years of very successful missionary service.We will all miss her.Miss Jessie Davidian, a teacher in the GirlsAcademy, and a church member, plans to spend hervacation in England, where she and her brotherswill hold a family reunion. She plans to leave Cypruson the same day that Miss McCrea leaves.Rev. C. C. Christou is in hopes he may get awayfor a few weeks on a Mediterranean cruise, or a stayon Troodos, for his vacation. He keeps busy in theBible Book Room where he is able to contact a goodmany people and present the Word and sellsome books. He, also, publishes in Greek a pamphletcalled "Banner of Truth" which is the "blue"banner. He also keeps busy preaching the Word.Several of us will plan to spend some of our timeon Troodos. We will have the feUowship of a numberof U.P. and Free Methodist missionaries, who leftEgypt just before the fighting actuaUy broke out, inour missionary camp.Kyriacos Kattou has received a temporary defermentfrom Cyprus military service, so he hopesto get away to Europe to start work on his B.A.degree. We hope and pray that this will in some wayhelp prepare him for Christian service, in Cyprus.We are happy to hear of the call, of the ForeignMission Board, upon Rev. and Mrs. Alvin W. Smith,Jr., to return to Cyprus as missionaries. We knowthe Lord has a very special place for them in Cyprus,and in the hearts of the people of Cyprus. We shallbe praying for them as they consider their call.We have indeed enjoyed the many visitors,whom we have had in Cyprus this school year. TheJ. Ralph Wilsons from Morning Sun, Iowa, came inJanuary. The John Iffts, of Butler, Pennsylvania,came in April. Mrs. Ifft was formerly Edith Patterson.Then the Bergan Birdsalls, of Los Angeles,California, came to visit the Edgars, in May. Rev.Charles Chao, of the Reformation Translation Fellowship,was here for a few days in April. He washere during the same time that Dr. and Mrs. W.W.Weir were here, with their grandson Bill Weir of our70 COVENANTER WITNESS

New York City congregation. The last to come fromAmerica were Mr. and Mrs. Donald C. Fee (MarjorieHutcheson's brother and wife) of Topeka, Kansas.Indeed, it was a rich experience to have them allvisit us, and we look forward to seeing others whocan come at any time of the year.We rejoice because of the good number whohave volunteered for the Christian Corps for Cyprus,this year. We hope that they will be trained to becomevery positive Christian teachers and personalworkers, in Cyprus.We have had good reports of the meeting ofSynod, for which we have been praying.The war in the Middle East, has been near to us,yet it has not affected us in any material way. Manymissionaries, who have had to leave their missionstations in Arab countries, have come to Cyprus.Some have come for the summer, others to awaitfurther developments to see if they may return totheir mission fields. We have heard that those fromLebanon are plannng to return at the end of thesummer. We ask for your prayers for the rulers ofthis part of the world that they will be men ofconviction and decision, and not mere pawns in thehands of the great powers of the world, in thenstrugglefor power.PLEASE PRAY for our Summer Conferences.PLEASE PRAY for our Vacation Bible Schoolthat its influence will glorify God.PRAY for a young man who has come to Christ,in solving his marriage problem.PRAY for his fiancee still not free to choose herown faith.PRAY for the schools of the Mission, whichmust turn away pupils.PRAY for our C.C.C. workers in their witnessing.PRAY for our Cyprus Commission and our missionaries,in re-organizing the church work inCyprus."PRAY WITHOUT CEASING."Sincerely yours in Christ Jesus our Saviour,(Rev.) T. M. HutchesonNews From JapanThere is never a dull moment in Japan. Recentlywe have had a few exciting events which have keptus on our toes.Three New SistersOn July 2 three young women were received intothe membership of Keiyaku Church. They are MissYoshida, who was baptized in her youth but has nothad close connection with any church for a numberof years. Miss Onishi and Miss Kanamaru have beencoming to our Church since last fall and have recentlycome to know Christ as their Saviour. We rejoicegreatly, along with the angels in heaven, in thisblessing which God has given in answer to yourprayers and ours. We pray that these young membersmay grow in grace and will give Christ devotedservice for many years.A fine young couple also prepared for baptismbut at the last they felt they should study a httlelonger. Please pray that they may be able to taketheir stand for Christ at the time of the fall communion.In addition there is one woman who hasbeen faithfully studying her Bible for years and ayoung man who has been attending our church foryears. We hope that the Lord will give them graceto confess Christ soon. And we also pray for othersin Higashi Suma Church and Kasumigaoka Churchwho seem to be about ready to confess Christ.Worst Flood in Thirty YearsKobe has had the^orst flood in thirty years.The newspaper reports that the dead and missingexceed three hundred sixty throughout the nation.Okamoto was one of the hard-hit areas of Kobe.What makes these floods so bad is that new housingareas are being built in the mountains which are notproperly built or drained. The water rushing downthe mountain carries with it aU kinds of rocks,trees, sand and dirt. This blocks up the rivers andsewage facilities of the city and the water runs wildover the city. We are thankful that our home, theBook Room, Higashi Suma Church, and KasumigaokaChurch suffered no damage. The home ofMrs. Takihara was flooded and Mrs. Nakamura'shome was partially flooded, but the damage to ourchurch people seems to have been very light.A lot of soil washed away from our church landin Rokko, but the retaining walls are still safe. Asecond flood was expected last night, so we havespent considerable time working to turn the wateraway from our property. Last night when Bruce andI were working, to our great surprise the presidentof the company which sold the land came with sixmen to help us. (The city is putting considerablepressure on all these construction companies whichdo bad work.) We have been working on the formationof a land-owners' organization to improve thiswhole area so that our land may be sold and we mayAUGUST 2, 1967 71

uy land for a church in Okamoto. This flood hashad the effect of greatly stimulating people to joinin with this work.Flood damage all around us was pretty severe.Just three blc-cks above us a huge retaining wall fellon a fire truck which was passing by and knockedone man into the river. That riverruns right downbeside our house. It was a roaring stream with hugeboulders bouncing down it continually, but it stayedwell within its banks. Just a block to the west asmaller river was filled completely with rocks andtrees and ran into many homes. Two blocks westof that a huge stream roared down the streets cuttinggreat holes and undermining some houses.Many streets of Kobe were filled with sand androcks, mud and trees. But I still must confess thatthis does not seem as bad as the Kansas floodswhich covered wide areas and stayed for days. Thegreat loss of hfe here is probably due to the swiftnessof the streams roaring down through townfrom the mountainside.Future ActivitiesWe axe looking forward to a wedding the end ofthis month. It will be the third wedding of KeiyakuChurch members in a year. Also plans are beingmade for the Young People's Conference which willbe about the middle of August. We will all be havingvacations sometime soon, in fact Miss Everett hasbegun hers. During August we are planning to go toShikoku Island as we have during the last twosummers. We ask for your prayers for the churchwhile we are absent.We are thankful that in the midst of all greattroubles we have a great God and Saviour who protectsus and uses us in a very small way to helpthose who are in trouble. More and more we needthe grace of the Holy Spirit so that we may trulyspread the fragrance of the grace of Jesus ChristChrist.— Gene SpearANANIAS OF DAMASCUSby N. E. GustafsonThere is probably no sweeter story of feUowshipin the Bible than that of Ananias of Damascus andthe Lord. We read that Enoch walked with God andwas not for God took him (Gen. 5:24) but we are nottold of their conversation as we have it betweenthe Lord and Ananias. It is a conversation as naturaland simple as that of a loving son and his father.Ananias is both an inspiration and an encouragementto us all. His was not a great deed, as mencount it, yet his life was to bear its impress uponone of the Lord's outstanding servants — Saul ofTarsus. Like Enoch, Ananias walked with God.Theirs was a close communion. The Lord did nothave to "prepare" Ananias to hsten. He practicedthe presence of God, as their conversation reveals.Like Abraham, Ananias was obedient. Like Barnabas,Ananias was a consoler. As far as we know hehad never met Saul and what he had heard of himwas bad. Now he is commissioned to go and layhands on this "bad" man and bestow God's blessingupon him.The Lord appeared to Ananias in a vision andsaid, "Ananias. And he said, Behold, I am here,Lord. And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and gointo the street which is caUed Straight, and inquirein the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus:for behold, he prayeth, and hath seen in a vision aman named Ananias coming in, and putting hishand on him, that he might receive his sight. ThenAnanias answered, Lord, I have heard by many ofthis man, how much evil he hath done to thy saintsat Jerusalem: and here he hath authority from thechief priests to bind all that call on thy name. Butthe Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is achosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before theGentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: forI will show him how great things he must suffer formy name's sake. And Ananias went his way, andentered into the house; and putting his hands onhim. said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, thatappeared unto thee in the way as thou earnest, hathsent me unto thee that thou mightest receive thysight, and be fiUed with the Holy Ghost. Andimmediately there fell from his eyes as it had beenscales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose,and was baptized. . ." (Acts 9:10-18).God has had many "Ananiases" down the centuries.They appear on the scene, perhaps once,like Ananias, and disappear to men's sight. LikeAnanias, their ears are attuned to heaven. Whenthe Lord calls them they quickly respond, "Behold,I am here, Lord," and they do His bidding. God hadarranged Ananias's life for this meeting, as He hadarranged John the Baptist's and yours. All of uswere planned for His kingdom and we have ourplace to fill. It behooves us to walk in the Spirit,as did Ananias, so that our ears will be open to hearHis voice and our bodies yielded to do His biddingthat He may bless others through us.72 COVENANTER WITNESS

Our Youthto-V&at,,HOT WATERBAGS FOR MOON VISITORS!Water has unique properties of storing heat, thatis, it takes more power to heat a pound of water thana pound of almost anything else. Then the waterslowly gives out the heat again. Is this just chance?Let's look at the moon to get the point. Noon-daysunshine there is a fine healthy boiling point, butif walking about in the earth-light there you willneed more than a hot water bag, because the temperaturedrops to 220 degrees below freezing. Brr!Why doesn't that happen here? Because God orderedotherwise. Earth is the dweUing place of man. Somethingwas needed to take in immense amounts ofheat from that flaming star we caU the sun. Millionsof square mhes of ocean do that, and the waterstores the heat. Night comes, and instead of losingheat hke the moon, the heat in the sea is releasedinto the air again. If the angel I imagined haddesigned it you would say, "What a clever idea!" ButGod designed it so, and we ought to relate everyscientific discovery to Him.To return to our Water Cycle problem. Whenheated, the water molecule rises in the air, silentlyso as not to alarm you, and invisibly so that you canadmire the scenery. Miles high, and then—the sameheat causes the wind to blow and carry the waterfor great distances over the land.Here another problem has to be faced. The wateris not in drops, but in vapour. We don't want theground washed away, either, when it does faU, so itmust not be emptied out in a continuous stream. Theangel would, I am sure, never have thought of stardust!Here I fancy some young person thinks we aregoing too far. Well, shooting stars, at any rate.About a million tons a year of very fine dust frommeteors is deposited in the very high layers of theair. Electrical attraction causes the vapour to formaround one of these specks; it grows to a drop, thenit is too heavy to stay aloft, so falls as gentle rainonyour garden. No pumps, no pipes, and nothingto pay. How like the Creator!THREE-EYED CATSI've often smiled to think of the mess evolutionwould have made of things if it had been given achance. But it hasn't! Six-legged rabbits, and birdswith eyes fore and aft. Why are hving things symmetrical?Oh, but I forgot, there are one-eyed people;faUen mankind who can classify scientifically, yetfail to see the Creator's handiwork in it ah. "In vainwith lavish kindness!"BRAIN-WASHING IN SCHOOLSNot long ago I hstened to a broadcast forschools. The speaker went on enthusiasticaUy aboutthe wonders of evolution and told us of the 100pieces of our bodies which we have inherited fromanimals! These are caUed "vestigial remains." WeU,I felt rather suspicious and wrote a doctor friend.The reply was that the 100 "vestigial" idea was scrappedabout a century ago, and I am stiU puzzlingover what kind of a cause it is that has to be supportedby scrapped, out-of-date "science."Nobody has seen the science text book with twoparallel columns, one giving the arguments forevolution, and the other the reasons for behef increation. They don't make them like that. The realreason is, it would never do to leave you with an"open mind" on such matters. On miracles or revelartion the open mind is encouraged, but never on evolution.There is a very good reason lor this.The Bible tells us that men are "willingly ignorant,"and that is the worst kind of ignorance. Whyis the unbelieving man unwilling to examine theevidence? John tells us that the unbeliever does notcome to the hght "lest his deeds should be reproved.'LyeU invented the Doctrine of Uniformity, alludedto in 2 Peter 3:4, "AU things continue as they werefrom the beginning of creation." But Scripture heresays that they do not. The Bible witnesses to atremendous change at the Flood (and, strangelyenough, says that the earth shook so much at thegiving of the Law on Sinai that it is hkened to thefinal shaking that removes the earth at its end)—and what scientist even allows for the Flood?UNCLE HARRY—Evangelical ActionMy sheep hear my voice, and I know them, andthey follow me: John 10:27.AUGUST 2. 1967 73

A PAGE FOR JUNIORSWHY LINCOLN REFUSEDOne day Lincoln was riding in astage coach, as they rode in those days,in company with a Kentucky colonel.After riding a number of miles togetherthe colonel took a bottle ofwhisky out of his pocket and said:"Mr. Lincoln, won't you take a drinkwith me?""No, Colonel, thank you," repliedMr. Lincoln. "I never drink whisky."They rode along together for anumber of miles more, visiting verypleasantly, when the gentleman fromKentucky reached into his pocket andbrought out some cigars, saying: "Now,Mr. Lincoln, if you won't take a drinkwith me, won't you take a smoke withme? for here are some Kentucky'sfinest cigars.""Now, colonel," said Mr. Lincoln,"you are such a fine, agreeable manto travel with, maybe I ought to takea smoke with you. But before I do so,let me tell you a little story, an experienceI had when a small boy."And this was the story:"My mother called me to her bedone day when I was about nine yearsold. She was sick — very sick — andshe said to me: 'Abey, the doctor tellsme I am not going to get well. I wantyou to promise me before I go thatyou never will use whisky nor tobaccoas long as you live.' And I promisedmy mother I never would. And up tothis hour, Colonel, I have kept thatpromise. Now would you advise meto break that promise to my angelmother and take a smoke with you?"The Colonel put his hand gently onMr. Lincoln's shoulder and said witha voice trembling with emotion: "No,Mr. Lincoln, I wouldn't have you doit for the world. It was one of the bestpromises you ever made. And I wouldgive a thousand dollars today if I hadmade my mother a promise like thatand had kept it as you have done."There is scarcely a man or womanin this county today but what believesthat Abraham Lincoln's keeping thatpromise to his mother helped to makehim the great and good and loved manthat he was.74—National Voice2. — -- — N— Leviticus 11:7— — 3. — I Samuel - — 16:2 I— — 4. — Isaiah - — 21:7 M— — 5. Deuteronomy — A 12:15— — 6. — — I - Kings — L 18:33- — 7. — — John 21:17 SANIMALPUZZLEby Elinor Neal_ _ _ Proverbs 27:26ANSWERSdaaqs 'L pooping '9 1WH '9 SPWD "fr »JPH '2 ^NV^S 'Z squiyi "IGEOGRAPHY PUZZLE1. — — — G — —2. — — _ E — — — — —3. — — — — O —4. __G — — — —5. — — _ R _ _ _6. — — — — A — —7. — — P — _____8. _ — — H — ____by Elinor NealMountain Peak Deuteronomy 3:27A Country Acts 16:9Island Revalation 1:9Fortifreh City II Kings 23:29,30Brook I Kings 17:5ViUage Luke 24:50Large River Genesis 2:14Town Matthew 2:19. — — _ Y — — —City Matthew 1:11ANSWERSxxo\ijxe% -Q uiaqajHiaa "8 ssiuaqdng;Auyqigg -g iflTjpqo -g oppi£)ap\[ -Xj SQurrej £ eraop^OBH z ^^sia 'ICOVENANTER WITNESS

j Lesson Helps for the Week of August 27, 1967iSabbath SchoolLessonfor August 27, 1967.READY EVEN TO DIE:Acts 21:1 to 23:11.Comments by John K. Gault.With the events of this lessonPaul's third missionary journey isdrawing to a close. When we laststudied about him he was at Ephesuswhere his life was endangered by theriot instigated by Demetrius the silversmith.He left Ephesus and wentthrough Macedonia, where he had beenbefore and intended to go from thereto Syria, but he found that the Jewswere plotting to kill him. So he wentback through Macedonia where Lukerejoined his company, and along witha number of others, sailed to Troas.At this place he preached a sermonwhich lasted far into the night andhe also restored to life a young mannamed Eutychus who had gone tosleep sitting in an upper window andhad fallen down. From Troas, Paulwent afoot to Mitylene for somereason. (It may have been for thepurpose of evading his enemies.) Aftermeeting with his companions, theysailed to Samos, Trogyllium andMiletus where Paul sent for the eldersof the church at Ephesus, to meethim. To these elders from EphesusPaul recounted his reasons for comingto them, the purity of his motives andof his efforts to support himself bythe labor of his own hands. He warnedthem again with the words, "Takeheed therefore unto yourselves and toall the flock, over the which the HolyGhost hath made you overseers" (20:28). He also said to them, "And nowbrethren, I commend you to God, andto the word of his grace which is ableto give you an inheritance among allthem which are sanctified" (20:32).From Miletus Paul's intinerary includedCoos, Rhodes, Patara, Phenicia,Tyre, Ptolemais and Caesarea, inwhich last place lived Philip the evangelistwho had four daughters who hadability to testify for Christ. FromCaesarea the company went to Jerusalemwhere Paul met with James andthe elders of the church.1: Paul's Readiness to Die InvolvedHis Friends in Great Sorrow.This was in evidence at Miletuswhen, after his address to the eldersof the church at Ephesus, "he kneeleddown, and prayed with them all. Andthey all wept sore, and fell on Paul'sneck, and kissed him, sorrowing mostof all for the words which he spake,that they should see his face no more.And they accompanied him unto theship" (20:37,38). Another group ofPaul's friends assembled in Philip'shome in Caesarea where Paul and hiscompany were entertained for threedays. There they heard the dolefulprophecy of Agabus who took Paul'sbelt and bound his own hands with it,to emphasize his prophecy that, atJerusalem, the Jews would bind Pauland give him over to the Gentiles(Romans) for trial. Luke tells us in21:12, "And when we heard thesethings, both we, and they of that place,besought him not to go up to Jerusalem.Then Paul answered, What meanye to weep and to break mine heart?for I am ready not to be bound only,but also to die at Jerusalem for thename of the Lord Jesus."2: Readiness Even to Die InvolvedGreat Courage.Ballads have been written extollingthe courage of soldiers on the battlefieldswho hurled themselves intopractically certain death because oftheir devotion to a great cause. Whodoes not thrill while reading the poem,"The Charge of the Light Brigade,"or the historical account of Pickett'scharge at Gettysburg? A soldier inVietnam quickly threw himself on toa live grenade and thus saved thelives of other members of his company.He was awarded posthumously theCongressional Medal of Honor. Whatwonderful courage people have oftendisplayed as citizens and as soldiers!Paul possessed both physical andmoral courage. He was ready to goto Jerusalem even though it seemedpractically certain that in so doinghe would be executed. He was willingto die because of his devotion to agreat cause.3: Readiness Even to Die InvolvedGreat Suffering.The prophet Agabus had prophesiedconcerning Paul's impending sufferingswhen in the house of Philip "hetook Paul's girdle, and bound his ownhands and feet, and said, Thus saiththe Holy Ghost, So shall the Jews atJerusalem bind the man that owneththis girdle, and shall deliver him intothe hands of the Gentiles." When Paulcame to Jerusalem, "the Jews whichwere of Asia, when they saw him inthe temple, stirred up all the people,and laid hands on him, crying out,Men. of Israel, help: This is the man,that teacheth all men every whereagainst the people, and the law andthis place. — And all the city wasmoved, and the people ran together:and they took Paul and drew himout of the temple.... And as theywent about to kill him...." Whilethey were beating Paul and rioting,the chief captain came and rescuedhim from the hands of the mob. Later,fo:ty of the Jews "banded together,and bound themselves under a curse,saying that they would neither eatnor drink,till they had killed Paul."Paul's nephew happened to hear oftheir plot and so he went into thecastle where Paul was a prisoner andtold him about it. Paul then told oneof the centurions who told the chiefcaptain, who immediately arrangedfor a heavy guard of soldiers andhorsemen to take Paul to Caesarea toFelix the governor. So, the prophecyof Agabus proved to be quite true.4: Readiness Even to Die InvolvedGreat Opportunity.In 21:40it is said, "Paul stood onthe stairs and beckoned with the handunto the people. He then addressedthe great crowd in the Hebrew languageand recounted to them whohe was and the details of his conversion.But the mob cried out, "AwayAUGUST 2, 1967 75!ii

with this fellow from the earth: for itis not fit that he should live." Thechief captain then commanded thatPaul be examined by scourging, buthe gave his testimony for Christ. Onthe next day, "Paul earnestly beholdingthe council, said, Men and brethren,I have lived in all good consciencebefore God until this day." "And thehigh priest, Ananias, commanded themthat stood by him to smite him on themouth. Then said Paul unto him Godshall smite thee, thou whited wall:for sittest thou to judge me after thelaw, and commandest me to be smittencontrary to the law?" (23:1-3). Paulcontinued to say, when he saw thatpart of the council was Sadducees andpart was Pharisees, "Men and brethren,I am a Pharisee, the son of aPharisee: of the hope and resurrectionof the dead I am called inquestion."In 23:11 it is said, "And the nightfollowing the Lord stood by him andsaid, Be of good cheer, Paul: for asthou hast testified of me in Jerusalem,so must thou bear witness alsoat Rome." This was an opportunitywhich Paul especially desired — togo to Rome and testify for Christ inthe capital city of the Empire.5: Paul's Readiness to Die InvolvedComplete Surrender to the Will ofGod.When he and his company werein the home of Philip he said to hisweeping friends, "What mean ye toweep and to break mine heart? for Iam ready not to be bound only, butalso to die at Jerusalem for the nameof the Lord Jesus. And when hewould not be persuaded, We ceased,saying, The will of the Lord be done."Just after Paul had seen Jesus on theDamascus road the Lord commissionedAnanias to go to the house wherePaul was and to recover him of hissight and to be the means of hisreceiving the Holy Ghost. WhenAnanias expressed reluctance to go,God said to him, "Go thy way: forhe is a chosen vessel unto me, to bearmy name before the Gentiles, andkings, and the children of Israel:For I will show him how great thingshe must suffer for my name's sake."Paul was completely dedicated tothe great cause of preaching theGospel of the risen Savior to peoplesaid in Romans 1:16, "For I am notashamed of the gospel of Christ: forit is the power of God unto salvationto every one that believeth; to theJew first, and also to the Greek.""Lesson based on International SundaySchool Lessons: the International Bible Lesson*for Christian Teaching, copyrighted 1963by the Division of Christian Education, NationalComncil of Churches of Christ in theUSA.."right and he was much comforted.God showed in a beautiful way HisJunior Topicconcern and compassion for little children.God was influenced to stay thefor August 27, 1967.GOD'S LOVE AND MERCY destruction of the city because Hisby Mrs. Thomas A. Priceown heart rebelled at the thought ofBible Reading: Jonah 4.the slaughter of innocent babes. JesusMemory Psalm: 89, p. 217, w. 8,9,13,14. was also very fond of children andMemory Verse: Isaiah 63:9. child-like dispositions in adults.Psalms: 145, p. 350, vv. 1-3; 103, As we finish this unit on Jonah, letp. 246, w. 1-4; 40, p. 103, vv. 9-12; us draw some helpful conclusions.36, p. 90, vv. 5,6,9.In the story tonight we see thatGod not only showed His love and1. This was a miracle.2. Jonah's experience was a signto point us to Jesus.mercy to the people of Nineveh, but 3. When God gives a command,He had to teach Jonah a lesson again.Are you ever a complainer? Are youalways satisfied with things that theLord gives you? Are you always lookingfor something more? Contentmentis also the mark of a Christian. If itwere not for God's love and mercywe would be without hope.He expects us to obey. He maylet us have our way for a while,but all must work out to Hisglory. We can never run awayfrom God.4. We should study His Word toknow His will for us as Christians.Jonah had come not to seek Nineveh's5. The Lord hears our prayersrepentance, but to announce its when we are truly repentant.doom. God was pleased that the peoplehad repented and deferred punishmentat least for the present. This was aHe answers them in His way.great disappointment to Jonah. Doyou know any prophets of doom today?People who never see anythingbut gloom. Jonah was even angry withthe Lord. Jonah asked Him, "O Lord,take I beseech thee my life from me;for it is better for me to die than tolive. He feared he would be thoughta false prophet, and no one wouldbelieve him after this, when he saidit is the word of the Lord.So Jonah went out of the city andbuilt a little hut in which to live.He sat in the shade of it and waitedto see what would become of the city.It was very hot and Jonah becamefaint from the sun's heat. He wasvery tired. The Lord prepared a gourdvine to grow over the hut to be ashade to protect him from the heat.the plant.Soon God sent a worm to eat thegourd, and it withered. The hot eastwind arose, the sun beat down onJonah's head. He fainted and wishedhe could die. The Lord used this as alesson for Jonah. He pointed out thathe had pity on the gourd and did notwant it to die. Then He asked, "Whyshould I not spare Nineveh, in whichthere are more than eighty thousandpersons that do not know good fromevil and also children and cattle?"Then Jonah knew that the Lord wasThis is always for our good.6. We must have daily prayer timeand call on the Lord at all timesfor guidance.7. We should ask God's will forour lives each day.8. Our lives should be in submissionto His will. We need neverfear if we are doing His will.9. God is very patient and longsuffering.He is willing to giveus and our nation many opportunitiesto repent and turn toHim.10. Doom and destruction can cometo individuals and nations,ifthey continue, even after manywarnings against sin.Things to do:1. Complete your map, addingJonah's journey outside the city.Make your picture.2. Be sure you have listed all fourof all races, and from that great purposehe would not turn aside. HeJonah was very glad of the shade from76 COVENANTER WITNESS

memory verses in your notebook.Review.3. Be sure you can sing your memoryPsalm and know why wechose it.4. Discuss ways God shows His loveand mercy to us, to our town,and to our nation.5. Act out the story we had tonight.Characters: Jonah, God,Gourd Vine, Worm, Sun.6. Discuss things the childrenlearned from these lessons. Seeif they agree with my list oryour conclusions.Prayer MeetingTopicfor August 30 1967"TRAIN UP A CHILD."Proverbs 22:6by Rev. M. K. Carson, D. D.Psalms: 34:7-10, p. 80; 45: 10,11,16,17, p. 117; 127: 1-4, p. 322References: Deut. 6:1-3; Eph. 6:4;Col. 3:21; I Samuel 1:26-28; Luke 1:80;2:51-52.Many people have trouble in behevingthis verse. Were not the childrentrained in the way that theyshould go? Why did they depart fromit? Doubtless all of us have askedthis question. But the statementstands, for it is God's Inspired Word. Itis a most important truth and it isalways timely. It seems especially sowith the great increase in juveniledelinquency. This text emphasizes theparents' duties.The palate or the inner part of themouth was the original meaning ofthis word "train." So it really means"put into the mouth." Are we ascareful about what is put into theminds and hearts of children as weare about what we give them to eat?We would never knowingly give ourchildren that which would poisonthem. Are their minds being poisonedby the wrong kind of literature, theT. V and the radio?The condition is, "Train up a child".. and the promise, "He will not departfrom it." If the conditions aremet, the promise will be realized."As the twig is bent, the tree inclines."In the British Weekly according to theCovenanter Witness (Scotland andIreland) "The Christian education oftomorrow's children can begin todayif Christian Britain will take the oldestand soundest principle of life —parental responsibility — and expressit in the family pew. All other Christianeducation is additional to this.The loss of the family pew has beenbrought about by the failure withinthe family."In all training there must be apurpose. This gives direction and consistencyto our teaching. It may seemuseless to say this for what contractorbegins his work without a "blue print"?But do we as parents, Bible schoolteachers, junior leaders, ministers andothers have an ideal before us? Or isit more or less a hit and miss undertakingwith no purpose to guide usand no goal to reach? Or do we havethe wrong goal? Are we satisfied merelyin preparing our young people "tomake good in the world"? This isnecessary, of course, but it is secondary.Training our young people forJesus Christ with all that this meansis fundamental. This purpose givesdirection, value, and method to all ourtraining.Such a purpose means personaldiscipline. The little boy in the homebegins very early to imitate his father.Jesus said, "Whosoever.. shall breakand teach or do and teach" was settingforth the power of example. The kindof "teaching" that we do depends uponwhether we are "breaking" or "doing.''Study Mathew 5:19. Family worship,Bible school and church attendance,in short "walking in the Spirit" arerequisites in this spiritual trainingof our children.Another suggestion in this text is,that we train our children in the waythat they should go. No two children,even in the same home, are alike. Norcan they be trained in exactly the sameway. Each child has his own individualityand must be given individualtraining. The irresponsible child needsa different type of training from thebackward and hesitant child. Some arealways asking questions and othersaccept things as they are withoutinquiry. So we must seek by theguidance of the Holy Spirit to giveeach child his special training.This training is both positive andnegative. Children must be taught thesee page 79On ComplainingThe fact that a certain yard has two bird baths has nothing to do withsegregation, for the birds use both most indiscriminately. It is just that whena more decorative bath was bought the old one was not thrown away but wasset up near the back door.One quite cool spring morning the man who acts as butler for the birdsnoticed a starling at the newer bird bath. As this was a common sight hethought nothing of it at the time. But after breakfast when he went to theother bird bath to put fresh water in it he found it covered with a thin coat ofice. Immediately he thought of the starling he had seen half an hour earlierand he wished that he had watched more closely to see what it had done. Hadit come to drink and been disappointed? Maybe it had come to skate. He filledthe first bird bath and hurried to the second. It, too, had frozen over lightlybut the ice was so broken up that he could only conclude that the starling hadreally come to bathe and had not let a little bit of ice stop it.The birds' butler could not help but think of the times he had complained,not just about the temperature of the bath water, but even of the room itself.He determined to learn a lesson from what had happened that cold springmorning and to quit making himself and others uncomfortable by complainingabout little things. And what is more, if a bird could overcome such a hindranceto its daily routine, he could surely put up with minor inconveniences silentlyand not let them spoil his daily schedule. One thing was certain, however, liedid not intend ever to break any ice in order to take a bath. Leave that forthe birds!AUGUST 2, 1967 77

LOS ANGELESA graduation party was held May19 with 42 attending "San JuanOutpost" at the Glendale CenterTheater, and then coming back to thechurch for refreshments, gifts for thegraduates and a message from Rev.Bruce Stewart, our pastor. Congratulationsare extended to Ingrid Birdsall,who was graduated from GenevaCollege, to high school graduates, BillHenderson, Don Keller, and JudyWilson, and to junior high graduates,Barbara Birdsall, Jan Caskey, LoisChao, John Garsow, David Hazel,Marty Huston, Mary Keller, Fred Kerr,Frank Madero, Cindy Stewart, LarryWalker and Page Williams. Two graduatesfrom Santa Ana, Janice Keysand Frank Kellogg, were also present.Family Week was observed May5-14 with a very informal supper atthe church on May 5 and special servicesMay 7 and 14.Our basketball team finished witha 5-9 record in fifth place, but, ourteam won the Sportsmanship Trophyfor the second straight year.Our sympathy is expressed to Mr.Bud Huston and his family whosefather passed away May 9. He was alsothe brother of Miss Rose Huston.Our annnal Church School Picnicwas held in Yosemite play ground onJune 10. Good food, fun, and fellowshipwere enjoyed by the many people whoturned out for the occasion.Our annual Vacation Bible Schoolwas held for one week only, June25-30, with a fine enrollment of 78children. Classes were held for allages from 4 to junior high. We hada capable corps of teachers and assistantsand chairmen for refreshmentsand games.Paul, and our prayers and best wishesfor the future.We are enjoying the fellowship ofMr. and Mrs. Ray Forman and sonJonathan, of Orlando, Florida, andwelcome them to our services and weare very glad to have them here. Mr.Forman is attending the Fuller Seminaryand is taking a course in psychology.Our church building is looking verysmart in a new dress of light tan paint.Painting of the white trim is still inprocess. Alan Hemphill is foreman.FILM STRIP AVAILABLE.The filmstrip "SPIRITUAL RE­LAXATION" consisting of 50 frameshas come to our desk. A script hascome with it and talks connectedwith the strip can be added too asmay suit the speaker. The backgroundof the film strip comes to us from themagazine of The Lord's Day Alliance,THE LORD'S DAY LEADER. Thestory is practical and can be used byvarious groups. We thought our readerswould be interested.(Editor)my life I was under the Christian influenceof my grandmother. She ruledour Welsh home, the Queen of ChristianFaith, from her armchair in thecorner by the fireplace.Each night, as far back as I canremember, I used to stagger out ofthe parlor under the weight of thefamily Bible, and place it on thekitchen table. My father used to say— "It's too heavy for the boy," towhich granny would reply, "It'll dohim good, he'll remember it."As she searched for a chapter Iunbuttoned her high boots, put onher wool-knit slippers, and rested herfeet on the foot-stool. Then, followingher gnarled and ancient finger Ilearned to read from the Welsh Bookof Books.Sabbath indeed was God's Day.It was a full day of contact with Him.Chapel at 10:30, Sabbath school at2:30 and the evening service at 6:30.At home on that day we were onlyallowed to read the Bible, Bunyan's"Pilgrim's Progress," or other religiousmaterial that had been carefullyscreened.Shortly after my twelfth birthdayshe was confined to her bed. Oneevening she whispered for the 14thchapter of the Gospel according toSt. John to be read to her. Before theend of the chapter she was asleep,never again to awake in this world.ARCHIE PIPE, PRODUCER OFMy father took her place in the"SPIRITUAL RELAXATION" armchair as the ruler of our Christianis Director of Audio-Visuals for the household. As my brother and I grewPresbyterian Church in the United into our teens we expected some relaxation,particularly on Sabbath, butStates, Atlanta, Georgia. He is aWelshman who came to the U. S. in this was not to be. In his quiet, effective,saintly way, Father would firmly1958 and is now an American Citizen.A pioneer in the production of religiousfilms, starting with Mr. J. Arthur we should always seek Spiritual Re­insist that it was God's Day, and that— now Lord — Rank, in 1937. He was laxation, so that we could be preparedwith the audio-visual department as to face the coming week. He was soa Special Secretary of the American right.Bible Society for 7 and one-half years. When I was approached by theA member of the Educational Film Lord's Day Alliance CommunicationsLibrary Association he has been a Committee to produce a filmstrip, thejudge at The American Film Festival influence of my grandmother cameOn Sabbath evening, July 2, Mr. held in New York City each year. He back to me very vividly. One thing IPaul Martin of Santa Ana, who has is also a member of The Society of appreciated at all times was herfinished his first year of seminary Motion Picture and Television Engineers.He has one son, the Rev. John Sabbath, rather than what we shouldemphasis on what we should do onwork, brought his first sermon beforethe Presbytery. Paul had a very fine H, Pipe, Minister of Christian Educationat the First Baptist Church, the filmstrip "Spiritual Relaxation."not do. This is the way we approachedmessage, good delivery and a delighfulway of reading the Scripture. His text Needham, Mass.In these tense, hectic and dramaticwas "Why is My Countenance Fallen?".days we need to relax more than ever.Presbytery recommended continuance During the first twelve years of What better day to relax than on theof his seminary work. Congratulations,Lord's Day? Not only to relax, but to78 COVENANTER WITNESS

spiritually relax. The strength of anation and its people is the strengthof its Sabbath. Our Christian witnessdemands it. Our gain, a blessing ofspiritual understanding. We can setan example that "this is the day theLord has made; let us rejoice and beglad in it." Are you concerned foryourself? Your family? Your neighberhood?Your city? Your country? Thewhole world? Then start with yourself— and your famliy. Keep Sabbath.Remember its religious significance.Keep it Holy. Relax — spiritually.God wants it that way. This is theemphasis of the filmstrip "SpiritualRelaxation."It was ready for distribution onSeptember 1, 1966. It is in color andwith script. It is for all age groupsand can be used in Sabbath school,group meetings and Christian Educationprograms. Write to: — The Lord'sDay Alliance in the U. S., 71 West 23rdStreet, New York City, N. Y. 10010.The Lord's Day LeaderSOME THIS AND THAT IN WMSFrom page 80supply this information for publicationin the Witness.(Editor's Note) From Mrs. McElroy'sreport last month re RecommendationNo. 2, Mrs. J. D. Carson and Mrs. JohnWhite will supervise the making ofsufficient copies of "Psalms OurFathers Loved" to supply each societywithin the Synodical.It is encouraging to read the reportof Mrs. John B. Lamont, Young Women'sSuperintendent, that fifty-five (55)young women and their sponsors areenthusiastically upholding the workof the Young Women's MissionarySocieties in our church.She concludes her report with thisparagraph. "Wouldn't it be wonderfulif each presbyterial and each women'smissionary society would prayerfullyand sacrificially give of themselves tobegin such a work? All possible meansshould be employed to do this. Sincethe W.M.S. by the end of 1968 willno longer be the sponsors for juniorgroups within the congregations, couldthis not be another means of missionaryoutreach within each congregation?"From the report of Mrs. Robert B.our land and the pressures of learningweigh heavily upon our children, howimportant it is that we give them afirm foundation in Bible truths. Thehighlight of the year 1966 was theJunior Conference at Carleton. Onehundred forty-two juniors attendedthe Conference, the largest nationalconference to date. Work continuestoward the date set, the end of 1968,when the Junior program will be putcompletely into the hands of the ChristianEducation Board."Mrs. Roy M. Carson, Historian andLibrarian, reported that during theyear various materials have been receivedand filed. A box of mementosfrom the Indian Mission, which werein the Indian exhibit at Carleton,1966, was given to her for the Library.Included are Indian beadwork, Indiandress, Indian dolls, moccasins, andpictures. No requests for materialshave been received.Miss Lulu Tippin reported onehundred ten (110) individual sets ofFlannelgraph issued during the year.Library lists are available if needed.Samson and Footsteps Through Actsand the Epistles are new.In addition Raising of Lazarus hasbeen purchased in 1967.Your magazine Editor recommendsthat the fine spirit of cooperation continue,that articles for publication besent her and that all will pray for thesuccess of our "Page" and for ourChristian missionary labors.PRAYER MEETING TOPICFrom page 77truth of Jesus Christ and His salvation.On the other hand we must instructour children that there are manytemptations, that sin is dangerousand that the wages of sin is death.Sometimes the "way" in which thechild should go is not what he wantsand he becomes rebellious, but if heis trained in the way that he shouldgo, it will be for his blessedness andgrowth in grace.The result then will be that evenwhen he is old he will not departfrom it. But you ask, is one boundto go astray who is not trained in thehome? Not necessarily for God inHis providence may bring the childinto fellowship with Himself throughsome Christian teacher. Or if onemay direct him in the right ways ofthe Lord. But in the providence olGod the great responsibility is uponthe parents and it is in the homewhere children are to be trained.What a great encouragement this is!When the children are taught in theway that they should go they will notdepart from it.PRAYER:For pa_ents, teachers, leaders, andministers in the training of the children.For Christian teachers in ourpublic schools, high schools, and colleges.For the young men in the service*and the follow-up work of the summerC. Y. P. U. Conferences.For the boards and committees clSynod in their work this year.A MIRACLE?A radio star in Rio Janeiro cameinto difficult days. He lost his job,his money, his friends, and worst ofall, his peace of mind in a cascade ofmisfortunes. Things were so bad thatit seemed there was only one wayout— to put an end to his miserableexistence. Sitting down in one of thecity squares, he began to meditate onthe best way to carry out his diabolicalplan.Suddenly, on looking up, he caughtsight of a small booklet in the branchesof a tree. With the aid of a stick,he brought the small volume to earth.Picking it up, the would-be suicidestarted to read the Gospel of John,and it proved, under the influence ofthe Holy Spirit, to be the means ofleading him to Jesus Christ as hisSavior and Friend. Today the radiostar, with new-found joy and purposein life, is singing and testifying forhis Lord everywhere he goes.It was learned afterwards that onthe day previous to his conversionsome Christians had held an open-airmeeting at which Gospels had beendistributed. Someone apparently haddespised the portion of God's Wor

Some This and ThatGLEANINGS FROM THE ANNUALREPORTS OF THE WOMEN'SSYNODICAL MISSIONARYSOCIETY'S OFFICIAL BOARDBy The Magazine EditorAmong the many activities reportedby our president, Mrs. John O.Edgar, were the issuance of seventeenLife and Memorial Certificates andletters of greeting sent to five presbyterials.She personally expressed greetingsto Pittsburgh Presbyterial inMarch and expects to speak at theOhio-Illinois Presbyterial in August.Mrs. Philip Martin, among otherduties as Vice President, has beenasked to prepare the Plan of Workpages for the 1968 Uniform Program.Note here one item which has beenbrought to her attention that therehas not been enough current Thankofferingto pay the "fringe benefitsas Synodical voted in 1964; i.e., onehalf medical expenses; furlough allawanceof $100 or $150: portion ofPension Fund and Social Security taxfor the single women missionaries."From the last "Women's Page" ofthe Witness you have enjoyed onefulfillment of the duties ef the recordingsecretary, Mrs. J. E. McElroy.You have no doubt enjoyed readingfrom the Minutes of Synod the reportsof the various Presbyterials. This report,compiled and prepared by theCorresponding Secretary, is only oneof the many duties performed by Mrs.John White.More than $40,000 was handled byour faithful treasurer, Mrs. James A.Carson, last year.The recommendations made by Mrs.Robert Henning, Foreign Mission Superintendentare:1. Each Society continue to havein W7KSWilbur Keys, Home Mission Superintendent,are:1. That we be prompt in filling inour reports and that they be asaccurate as possible. I Cor. 14:40, "Let all things be done decentlyand in order."2. That we remember that the homemission work begins in our owncommunities and appoint localcommittees to contact the unchurchedand new families, andvisit the shut-ins. Let this committeealso be in charge ofremembering the birthdays ofthe Reformed Presbyterian Homeresidents.3. That the local society HomeMission Superintendent takecharge of receiving dues andgifts for the Reformed PresbyterianHome so we may havea more accurate report.4. That we earnestly remember ourhome missions and missionariesdaily in prayer and remember toencourage them personally withletters from our local societies.Mrs. John Kennedy, Literature andMission Study Superintendent, reportedthat out of the seventy-six (76)local societies only twenty-eight (28)reported that 75 per cent of theirmembers read four (4) or more booksduring the year with a total of 2179books being read by 454 women.The Marion, Iowa Society use theNavigator Books 1 through 10"Becoming a Christian and Living forChrist" as their book study. They allstudy and prepare their lessons athome, and then conduct a review ofthe answers at their meeting.The 1968 Book List will appear inthe Witness in the near future.Books most enjoyed the past yearseemed to be: Sensei, The Hammer ofGod, Mongango Paul, Out of the Jawsof the Lion, World Aflame, Victory inViet Nam, Tairiri, and Twelve Angelsfrom Hell.Recommendations from Mrs. WendellSpear, Temperance Superintendent,were made as follows:1. Look for ways to aid drinkravagedfamilies in the community.2. Urge every member to becomeregular temperance meeting with.more stress on temperance in.everyday living (i. e. eating), andmaking adults more aware of thepressures facing our youth.4. Our groups should provide attractiveand specifically Christianmaterial on temperance forchurch tract racks and any otherplace this material might befavorably received.5. The emphasis on temperanceshould include not only moraleducation but a call to personalcommitment to Christ.6. We especially recommend thateach society sponsor temperancecontests, one of the most fruitfuland exciting means of temperanceeducation for children. Accordingto our report, only fourout of seventy-four societies heldcontests.7. We urge prayer for nationalabstinence and also that God willshow us effective ways of showingour love and concern forfriends who have drinking problems.We seem to be more willingto talk about the general problemof temperance than to becomeinvolved with particularpeople who need help.The Thankoffering Superintendent,Mrs. R. H. McKelvy, reported a totalof $15,908.14 received from the presbyterials.Special mention was made ofthe film "Inhale the Incense," and ofthe play "Go Ye into all the World,"written by Mrs. George McFarlandand in the Thank Offering Library.Recommendations:1. The presbyterials recommendthat more plays and films beused.2. That the Psalm Sing Programentitled, "Psalms our FathersLoved" be mimeographed andsent to all societies for use inThank Offering meetings.3. That Life and Memorial Memberships be fully explained tosocieties.4. That the use made of ThankOfferings be fully explained andthe amount needed be published.Note re Recommendations 3 and 4above:Mrs. James Carson has promised tosee page 79a project whereby money maybe raised to meet the financialneeds of the mission fields aslisted in the Uniform Program.2. Each society continue upholdingthe missionaries in prayer at aspecific time and also continuecorrespondence with missionaries.3. The Covenanter Witness continueto be sent to the missionariesby Air Mail as carried out thispast year or by some other recommendedplan.active in W.C.T.U..80Recommendations made by Mrs. 3. Each society should have aCOVENANTER WITNESS

Thenai*%*.z® The TruthTHBOIO-K'At SFMINAKVitncJESII5 CHRIST AS SAVIOUR, LORD, HEAD OF MEN, THE CHURCH AND NATIONS.t ,. , / is i „ .ddd.,.VOLUME LXXIX NO. 6 AUGUST 9, 1967 STERLING, KANSASBIBLE LESSONS FOR THE WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 3, 1967CHRISTIAN STUDENTS MARCH FOR CHRISTSee page 89

THE COVENANTER WITNESSOfficial organ of the ReformedPresbyterian Church of N. A.— CVANCCUCAI. rum* A*MCIATWNEditor: Rev. M. W. Dougherty, D.D.125 N. 4th StreetSterling, Kansas 67579Phone 316 — Br. 8 • 3472Printed each Wednesday under the supervision of theBoard of Publication by The Patterson Press, MorningSun, Iowa 52640.Contributing Editors: Department Editors:Rev. Kenneth Smith Rev. John TweedDr. G. M. RobbMrs. Robert B. MaineRev. John McMillan Mrs. Willis EdgarRev. C. E. Caskey Rev. John K. GaultOpinions expressed in our columns are those of theindividual writer, not necessarily the views of the ReformedPresbyterian Church or the editor.All material to appear in The Covenanter Witnessshould be typewritten, double-spaced, and should be inSterling, Kansas two weeks before it is to be printed.The cost of all pictures is 30 cents per square inch.Obituaries — All words in excess of one hundred fifty,one cent per word. Money should accompany such notices.SUBSCRIPTION RATESIndividual (1 year): U.S. and Canada, $4.00, BritishIsles 35/-, all other places, $5.00;Individual (2 year): U.S. and Canada, $7.00, BritishIsles 63/-, all other places, $9.00;Group: U.S. and Canada, $3.00, British Isles 28/-, allother places, $4.00.9-month student subscription — $1.50; 5-month introductoryoffer —$1.00; 2 gift subscriptions to persons outsideof the R. P. Church — $2.00 each. Single copies, 10c.Subscription Agent for U.S. and Canada: Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Subscription Agent for the British Isles: Rev. HughWright, B.A., 12, Knutsford Drive, Belfast 14, NorthernIreland.All checks should be made payable to The CovenanterWitness in U. S. currency.Give one month's notice of a change of address. Sendboth the new and the old address to Mrs. M.W. Dougherty.Postmaster: Please send Form 3579 to Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Second class postage paid at Morning Sun, Iowa 52640.WE HOLD THE FOLLOWING TO BE TRUTHS OF SCRIPTURE:The Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the only infalliblerule of faith and conduct.The Trinitarian conception of the Godhead.Faith in Jesus Christ as the only way of salvation.Salvation by Grace.Assurance of salvation as a possible Christian experience.The Gospel Call and Election.The Holy Spirit as the Author of regeneration.Sanctification through the cooperating agency of the Holy Spirit.The fact of death and hell as the destiny of the lost and heavenas the destiny of the saved.That the Church of Jesus Christ consists of all those who believein Him together with their children.The Divine Right of the Presbyterian form of Church Government.The Lord Jesus Christ as the only King and Head of His Church.That terras of membership or communion are essential to thewelfare of the Church.Quote -Let us cleave to Christ more closely, love Himmore heartily, live to Him more thoroughly, copyHim more exactly, confess Him more boldly, followHim more fully. Rehgion hke this will always bringits reward. Worldly people may laugh at it. Weakbrethren think it extreme. But it will wear well. Ateven time it will bring us hght. In sickness it willbring us peace. In the world to come it will give us acrown of glory that fadeth not away — In sicknessand health, in life and in death let us lean confidentlyon Him. Surely we ought to say daily withone of old, 'Blessed be God for Jesus Christ.'J. C. Ryle.This Week's WitnessShadows ... . . ... ..83Glimpses of the Religious World.84Great Bible Confessions.85Notes on the Speech I Didn't Make at Synod . . .86Recommendations of Synod ....87Christian Students March for Christ89A Page for Juniors.90Lesson Helps.91Promising and Producing.93Church News.94The duty which rests upon officers to maintain discipline andpreserve the purity of the Church.Spiritual worship as a divine requirement mediated through theLord Jesus Christ.The exclusive use of the Psalms in the worship of the Church.The Protestant interpretation of the Sacraments.The divine right of the institution of Marriage and that it is notto be dissolved except by adultery or "irremediable" desertion.The Sabbath as a day sacred to rest and worship.The duty of nations and their civil rulers to honor Christ asKing of Kings and Lord of Lords.That Christian citizens are under obligation to obey lawful authority.The right and duty of the Christian citizen to dissent from allgovernmental and national disobedience to the Law of God.That the Covenants of the past are still binding.From "The Communicant's Class" by J. B. Tweed82 COVENANTER WITNESS

EditorialCommentSHADOWSWhat is your reaction to shadows? We usuallythink of them as something dim or they makethings dim. We think of shadows in contrast tosunshine. But as is often the case, the Bible takesa common word and gives it dignity and enrichmentas it does with this word shadow. Anyone who hasworked out in the burning sun well knows thevalue of shade which is but a shadow cast by someobject, no matter how meager it may be.There are several shadows mentioned in theBible that are profitable for the Christian's meditation.In Psalm 63:7 David declares, "In the shadowof thy wings will I rejoice." The Psalmist uses thisfigure many times to picture a shelter. After firehad destroyed a chicken farm, folks were lookingover the damage. One man came upon a hen ina sitting position as though she were on the nest.She was burned to death. He turned her over withhis boot, and a flock of little chickens fled in alldirections from under her dead body. They hadfound safety under the mother's wings. God'spresence gives us security in time of danger.When the Psalmist speaks of the wings of God,he is referring to the cherubim, whose outspreadwings covered the mercy seat that rested on the arkof the covenant. There sins were covered with theblood of the sacrifice and God's judgment wasaverted, prefiguring the atoning blood of Christthat covers all the sins of His people. Under themercy of God one may find eternal security.Life for the Israehtes in the wilderness seemedto center around the tabernacle. We find it likenedto a shelter from the enemy, a place of refuge fromthe storm. In Isaiah 4:6 we are told, "There shallbe a tabernacle for a shadow in the daytime fromthe heat, and for a place refuge, and for a covertfrom storm and from rain." This tabernacle wasthe church-house or the church-tent of the OldTestament. It represents the church of today.Some seem to be unconscious of the real importanceof the church. In today's tremendous heatin various spheres of hfe stands the church of theLiving God, which extends its shadow of comfortand rehef to mankind, if they will only come underit to be strengthened by the feUowship that is foundthere. There are many, who though they will notAbecome a part of the church would not want to hvein a community where there was no shadow cast byany church. Children are different when they growupunder the influence of the church.Out in the desert, some distance from Cairo,Egypt, stands the Great Pyramid, Cheops. One ofthe services which it renders to the city is that ofprotection. Were it not there the wind would burythe city with drifting sand, but the large pyramidchanges the direction of the drift and the cityis spared.In Isaiah 32:2 we are told that a man shall beas the shadow of a great rock in a weary land. Inthe shadow of this rock, protected from the windand sand, a tiny stream may flow, and there grassand trees may grow. It is refreshing to the traveler.So the church should bring rest to the soul anddivert the ill winds of the world that may nearlyoverwhelm the Christian through temptation. Everymember does his part in the shadow making.Christ, of course, fulfilled this figure perfectlyand He is the one to whom the prophet refersprimarily. In Christ a person finds rest when allaround him people are disturbed and confused. Asa matter of fact, the great legacy left to the churchby Christ was peace which surpasses all understandingof the world. He said, "Peace I leave withyou, my peace I give unto you: not as the worldgiveth give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled,neither let it be afraid."The problem which arises out of all this is apersonal one. You are like one of the stones in theGreat Pyramid. You have a certain part in theshadow making of the whole structure. In fact youthrow your own shadow where you are. Is theshadow that you cast a bit thin, or is it so sohd thatthe heat of the sun even does not get through it?Is there a bit of an oasis found where you are? Doesthe stream of the water of life flow from you tothose around you? You are casting a shadow. Buthow much? What kind?GLIMPSES OF THE RELIGIOUS WORLDFrom page 84a unanimous resolution in Milwaukee reaffirming"adherence and unswerving loyalty to the HolyScriptures as the inspired, infalhble and inerrantWord of God."Some 3,400 delegates at the league's 50th anniversaryconvention also called on all 147,000 membersof the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod auxiliaryto "study the Holy Scriptures daily in orderto grow steadily in Christian faith and service."AUGUST 9, 1967 83

Glimpses of the Religious WorldFINAL FORM: SPAIN'S NEW RELIGIOUSLIBERTY LAW(Missionary News Service) On June 26 the SpanishParliament passed the long-anticipated and muchdebated law on rehgious liberty. In the 400-memberCortes only nine voted against the law's final draft.The law opens with a statement which in Spainmight well be called epoch-making:"The Spanish state recognizes the right of rehgiousliberty as founded on the dignity of the humanperson, and ensures the necessary protection inproviding immunity against any coercion in thelegitimate exercise of this right."The 40 articles which follow, however, placenon-Catholics under a series of regulations, restrictions,and hmitations which tend to nullify theopening declaration. Many of these appeared inthe revisions which were effected by the Cabinetand later by the Cortes in an effort to secure supportof conservative Catholics.Mr. Jose Cardona, executive secretary of theCommission on Evangehcal Defense, who hadworked for passage of the law, expressed disappointmentin its final form.Points which were especially objectionable toevangehcals were noted by Cardona and otherchurch leaders:1. Non-Catholics must submit annually a completehst of members to the Minister of Justice.2. Places of worship must be approved by thestate and permission to hold rehgious services anywhereelse must be secured from the authorities"in ample time."3. The Spanish Ministry of Justice wiU establisha register of non-Catholic ministers and ofnon-Cathohc confessional associations.The effect of the law will now depend on how itis administered by local government officials. Ifall possible restrictions are rigorously apphed, thesituation could remain about where it has beenin recent years, or could even deteriorate.CONFERENCES PASS METHODIST-EUB UNIONWith the necessary majority of conference votesnow cast, the formation of the United MethodistTHE REV. JOHN McMILLANR. D. 1, Box 337WALDEN, NEW YORKChurch in Dallas next April now appears to be acertainty. The merging bodies are the MethodistChurch (with over 10 milhon members) and theEvangehcal United Brethren (with 750,000 communicants).Both are already participants in the consultationon Church Union (COCU).In the voting thus far, some 70 per cent ofEUB delegates have favored the plan and 87.3 percent of the Methodist electors have done so.The Presbyterian Journal reports that amonthe EUB conferences voting against the mergerwas the one covering Oregon, Washington, andIdaho. Known for its theological conservatism andevangelical interests, the tri-state unit voted 134 to30 against union. It has repeatedly petitioned theChurch for the right of self-determination if themerger goes through.Formation of a continuing EUB Church is expected.PSYCHIATRISTS' SUICIDE RATE HIGH(EP) Psychatrists commit suicide at the rate of70 per 100,000 persons — four times that of thegeneral white male population, according to the July1967 newsletter of the Schizophrenia Foundation.The report quoted a paper given at the AmericanPsychiatric Association meeting in Detroit whichwas prepared by Dr. Daniel DeSole, a psychiatrist,and Samuel Aaronson.Psychiatrist Walter Freeman blamed "this ominousstate. ... on the prevalent notion that only byundergoing presonal pschoanalysis can a physicianbecome a real success in psychiatry." He said somepsychiatric students cannot bear "the intense emotionalexperience of undergoing psychoanalytictraining."He left unanswered the question of how schizophrenicsand neurotics were expected to bear whatmany medical students could not.LAYMEN'S LEAGUE REAFFIRMS ADHERENCETO BIBLE(EP) The Lutheran Laymen's Leauge adoptedSee page 8384 COVENANTER WITNESS

Great ConfessionsHere in the words of Peter we have a lofty confessionof the deity of Jesus Christ. This interpretationis held by John Calvin in his commentary onthis passage as well as by others. But today thetruth of this interpretation is being denied by moreand more church confessions.It has been said that a person's word in nobetter than his reputation. If this is true and wewere to judge Peter's words by his reputation andactions up to this time and until after the death ofChrist, we would decide that his confession wasempty words. However, Peter was given some directionor help in this confession. Jesus' reply toPeter showed the source of that direction. "Blessedart thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hathnot revealed it unto thee, but my Father which isin heaven."Evidently Christ knew that the meaning ofPeter's confession hadn't permeated him, nor wouldthis truth take command of Peter's life for sometime yet. For had he fully understood the importof his own confession it is doubtful that he wouldhave denied his Lord at the trial.There came a time in Peter's life when his actionsdid reflect his confession. That came whenthe Holy Spirit took control of his life. Then in theHoly Spirit's strength Peter lived by this lofty confessionknowing that since Christ was God, nothingcould defeat Christ's Church and Gospel. He gaveevidence of this on the Day of Pentecost in defendingthe disciples and in boldly accusing the Jews ofkilling Christ. Then shortly he is found before theSanhedrin defending his earlier confession.With the Holy Spirit of Christ in control, hissermons too reflected his confession. "Jesus ofNazareth, a man attested to you by God with mightyworks and wonders and signs which God did throughHim in your midst, as you yourselves know. .. thisJesus. . . God raised up" (Acts 2:22-24). Here Peterproclaimed that God attested or proved Christ'sdeity through the miracles and works He performed.Here also Peter taught God's approval of His Sonby raising Him from the dead.FinaUy, we note that after the Holy Spirit controUedPeter, his instructions or written teachingsto the Church breathed his confession, too. Thiswe read in Peter's first and second epistles. A samplePETER'S CONFESSION — 'THOU ART THECHRIST, THE SON OF THE LIVING GOD."Rev. Glenn McFarland, Park CityPastor of R. P. Church, Wichita, Kansas.from each letter reveals Peter's instruction on thispoint or truth. (I Peter 4:11b) "...that God in aUthings may be glorified through Jesus Christ, towhom be praise and dominion for ever and ever.Amen." Here Peter attributes unlimited and everlastingpraise and dominion to Jesus Christ. Thisis evidence to Peter's firm behef that Jesus is Himselfthe Most High God or otherwise his praise wouldbe blasphemy against God. (II Peter 1:16-17) "Forwe have not foUowed cunningly devised fables,when we made known unto you the power andcoming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but wereeyewitnesses of his majesty. For he receivedfrom God the Father honor and glory, whenthere came such a voice from the exceUentglory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I amwell pleased.'"Here Peter writes that he heard God the Father ownGod the Son and approve of Him.Thus we have seen Peter reflect personally andamplify in his preaching and instruction to theChurch his great confession that "Christ is the Sonof God." But let's remember Christ's reply to Peteragain, "Flesh and blood hath not revealed it untothee, but my Father which is in heaven." Thus thisconfession was not the private property of Peter.Rather, since God was the author of it, this truthshould be the confession of all behevers. We haveonly to sample the writings and witness of otherwriters of Scripture to show this.The Gospel writer Luke was one who emphasizedthe deity of Christ also. In his prologue to his Gospelhe makes a particular point of assuring Theophilusthat he is going to include only those thingswhich are most surely beheved among them. Thennote the facts which he records about Christ. Hewrites of the signs and wonders which attended Hisbirth as witnessed by the shepherds and wise menat a definite time and place in earthly history. Thesealong with the many miracles and wonders whichhe records give ample evidence of the deity of JesusChrist.Another writer who proclaimed and wrote ofHis deity was Paul. It was this very truth aboutJesus which when comprehended changed thepersecutor Saul to the apostle Paul. I beheve this isself evident from the first pubhc sermon we haveAUGUST 9, 1967 85

ecorded of Paul. (Acts 9:19b,20) "Then was Saulcertain days with the disciples which were at Damascus.And straightway he preached Christ in thesynagogues, that He is the Son of God." Paul tooemphasized that there was abundant witness tothe truth of Christ's deity. In I Corinthians 15:3,4,5-8 he teUs of the above 500 who saw Jesus ahveafter the resurrection which Paul continually usesas the crowning proof of His deity: "If Christ be notrisen. . ." (I Cor. 15:17), ". .. declared to be the Sonof God. . . by the resurrection from the dead" (Rom.1:3,4).We live in a strange age in the church todaywhen some of the very leaders being foUowed havedepreciated proof for Bible truth which God hasgraciously given so we might know the certainty ofwhat we beheve. Some such leaders are Kierkegaard,Barth, and Bultmann. To them the resurrection ofChrist is a matter of faith alone for which theydesire no proof. In the May 26th number of ChristianityToday, Stephen Board, in an article entitled,"Fact and Fiction in Modern Theology" commentson Bultmann's divorcing faith from fact in sayingthat to him the resurrection of Christ is a matter offaith only."The furniture of Christianty has been movedinto the watertight room of faith to protect it fromthe flood of criticism. But isolation from criticismmeans also, in this case, isolation from rehableknowledge. If revelation is not linked clearly topubhc history, faith may very weU not be linked toreality."Peter, Luke, and Paul put no premium on beliefwithout knowledge, but rather in regard to this truthof the deity of Jesus Christ gave many proofs andevidences to support it. Their presentation of theGospel, "Good News," is built solidly upon this truthas we have noted. Without this truth of His deitythere would be no salvation, no grace, no ground oftruth for faith. But thanks be to God, Peter's confessionthat "Christ is the Son of God" is fact andwhen the evidence is accepted through the HolySpirit's direction we have the ground for savingfaith.The beginning was good. The prayer of mysoul was "that I might meet every member of theCourt as a brother in Christ." The desire was good.On the first evening, during the devotionals, thereading of God's Word by the Rev. Renwick Wrightsounded hke "the voice of the Spirit speaking (again)to the churches", and the retiring Moderator's messagesounded God's appeal and warning.The morning devotionals (by-passing "David'sConfession") were, as a whole, inspirational. Thebusiness of the Synod moved along well, the firstfew days, like "brethren" working together, "inunity." Then, the planning for a "restricted attendance,"pre-Synodic meeting took a half day of theprecious time.After this, the "Old Issue" began to warm up;and the changes by overtures, "took the floor." Inthe opinion of many, these have led to "confusion"and have placed a heavy burden, not only onsessions, but on the individual member to determinewho of pohtical aspirants are "on the Lord's side"and who are true or false. StiU, Christian duty, andovertures, must be met in the hght of God's HolyWord. The question arises: For what are we striving?Is it to know the wiU of the Head of the Church, whogave His life for the Church — or, is it the oldtemptation Israeh faced, "to be like the nationsNOTES AND COMMENTS ON THE SPEECH1 DIDN'T MAKE IN SYNOD.Rev. Boyd Whiteround about them" ? Is this the temptation that isscratching at the hearts of Covenanter memberstoday? Are we seeking numbers first of aU, insteadof "seeking first the Kingdom of Christ and Hisrighteousness" and, of gathering lost souls, bornagain, into His Kingdom? Churches with membershipsof 300, 500, 1000 and up, sound good; buton the Lord's Day, when the people assemble toworship the Lord our Creator-Redeemer, where arethe absentees? To face an audience of one half orone fourth of the professed foUowers of Christ, isenough to make the heart of man to faint. Thesame is true for the Hour of Prayer meetings. TheLord knows those who are truly His own, and Hetakes pleasure in them. What wiU be the fate ofthose non-interested, nominal Christians? Willheaven be adapted to please the majority in suchchurch membership?If the Covenanter Church gives up God's Manualof Praise, and spends money for non-appointed NewTestament musical instruments, in the worship ofGod, and if the Church takes into membershipthose who are members of man-made organizations,with a mutilated Bible leaving out the only Saviorof sinners, and then goes along with a no-Bible, andnon-praying social order, without raising the prophets'voice of protest and God's warning voice, to be86 COVENANTER WITNESS

like the people around this distinctively differentgroup, then where wiU the searching eye of theHead of the Church look to find foUowers, faithfulin word and deed, with which to buUd His Church?The Church of the hving God, purchased by theblood of Christ, may not claim the "many" of thebroad way travelers, but it has the promise that"the gates of hell shaU not prevail against it," theonly institition in the world with this guarantee.Was that somebody YOU, who didn't make a shortspeech in Synod, when the hours of speaking ranon, and on, and such reminders as the above mightnot have been, "to the question"?Was the scantily attended Sabbath afternoonmissionary meeting a barometer of the missionaryzeal of the church? And when an "on fire," tenminute (prolonged) speech was made, telling ofBible-believing Christians ("congregations") waitingto be adopted, with httle or no financial assistance,was the hour too late for general discussion? Certainly,"the fields are white unto the harvest" in thearea of Formosa — a strategic field for intensivemissionary labors, offering opportunity to salvagesomething from the near-century of dedicated laborsin South China. "Lift up your eyes.. ." The reports ofthe first missionary journey of Barnabas and Saul."were heard with rejoicing," and "over-time" mayhave been given. "O pray ye that Jerusalem mayhave abundant peace". . . and "For brethren andcompanions' sake let me now wish thee peace; Andfor the house of God the Lord my care shall nevercease."Recommendations of SynodBoard of PensionsThat the Board of Pensions be given authorityto offer those entering the employment of thechurch, authorized to receive pensions, contractswhich wUl provide $75 per month pension.Board of Evangelism1. That the congregational evangehsm committeesand pastors send material concerning evangehsticactivities and personal testimonies of newChristians to the Rev. Waldo Mitchel for pubhcationin the Covenanter Witness.2. That every congregation make a special effortof outreach this year.Nominating Committee of 19651. That each Board and Permanent Committeeprepare a draft of suggested requirements andstated policies regarding membership of their respectiveboard or committee and that the NominatingCommittee be provided with a copy of this draftto supplement and bring up to date the "Handbook"prepared by the Board of Christian Education.2. That aU Boards and Permanent Committeesinform the Nominating Committee of any vacanciescoming due that year and offer any nominationsof their own.Board of Christian Education1. That Synod authorize the Board to continuethe Curriculum Fund Campaign until $30,000 isreached or untU the Synod meeting of 1969.2. That February of 1968 be named BibleMastery Month, and that the book for study beJoshua.3. That Synod support through encouragementthe International Convention in Scotland, August3-10, 1968.4. That the next National Convention be heldin 1970.5. That attention be directed to the 1968 emphasisof "Double in a Decade," which is "Indoctrinate."6. That we encourage our congregations touse Great Commission Sabbath School materials,noting especially the avadabUity of the new JuniorHigh materials this faU.Board of Foreign Missions1. That Synod authorize the continued appealfor an ordained minister to develop Christian leadershipin Cyprus.2. That Synod authorize an appeal for teachersand personal workers for Cyprus for at least twofull years on the field.3. That Synod authorize the appeal for an ordainedminister for Japan.National Reform AssociationThat the annual special contribution to the workof national reform be made, as far as possible,before the autumn of the year when the emphasison the budget deserves and receives first place.Committee on Interchurch Correspondence anStudyThat in addition to official delegates, othersattending the International Convention in Scotlandbe encouraged to attend the Reformed EcumenicalSynod in Amsterdam in August 1968.Committee on Time and Place of SynodThat Synod meet at the Calvary Bible CoUege,Kansas City, Mo., Saturday, July 13, 1968, at 6:30p. m.AUGUST 9, 1967 87

Committe on the Proposed Covenanter Council1. That Synod plan a two-day conference immediatelybefore the Synod of 1968.2. That the subject for special consideration atthis conference be "Standards for Church Membership."3. That this subject for the conference bedivided into sub-topics to be assigned to a researchcommittee appointed in each presbytery.4. That the purpose of the conference be toconsider the reports from presbytery committees,review their findings, and make recommendationsto Synod.Board of Corporators of Geneva CollegeIn light of the evident progress and direction ofthe college over the past three years, we recommendthat the congregations of the church give enthusiasticsupport to the development campaign.Board of Home Missions and Church Extension1. That presbyteries try to strengthen their oversightof congregations giving evidence of need, andthat they also try to maintain contact with "outof-bounds"members.2. That each congregation of our church beencouraged to contact the Local Mission Board ofSelma to establish a personal contact and to seekpossible projects for the local Sabbath Schools andcongregations. . (Miss Ruth J. Brooks, 802 MinterAve., Selma, Alabama 36701)Witness Committee1. That pastors preach on the subject of InstrumentalMusic at least once during the year.2. That either the Sabbath before MemorialDay or the Sabbath before the Fourth of July bedesignated Christian Amendment Day and thatour ministers be urged to preach on our nations'sduty to Christ and to use the buUetin covers furnishedby the Christian Amendment Movement.Committe on Political Dissent1. That Synod reaffirm the principle of pohticaldissent as set forth in Chapter 30 of our Testimony.2. That Synod declare that the evidence nowavailable is not sufficient clearly to establish thefact that the oath to support and defend the Constitutionof the United States is a sinful oath.3. That members and sessions be exhorted tostudy the Scriptures and the Testimony and to prayfor guidance, that they may bear witness to theKingship of Christ in the sphere of their citizenship.4. That for the sake of bearing witness to theKingship of Christ, and to make very clear thesense in which the oath is taken, Synod earnestlyrecommend that whenever any member takes theoath to the Constitution, he pubhcly use the mostrecent form of the Explanatory Declaration.Committee on the OathThat the local congregations and presbyteriesappoint appropriate committees to aid their membersin the use of the Explanatory Declaration.Temperance CommitteeThat on the fourth Sabbath of October, SabbathSchools devote their special offering to the work ofthe Temperance Committee.Elders' Conference1. With concern for the spirit of reverence inour worship services, we recommend that one Sabbatheach year be devoted to a special emphasis onthis subject.2. We recommend that congregations who haveshown significant gains in their membership,publish the account of this growth in the CovenanterWitness for the incentive and benefit of the entireChurch.3. We recommend that substantial improvementbe made in salaries, pensions, and fringebenefits for ministers, missionaries and other churchemployees.Committee on Canadian Centennial Celebration1. That U. S. A. congregations cultivate a "holybrotherhood" with Canadian congregations by writing,both as individuals as weU as by congregations.2. That ministers and lay people give themselvesto Candian Covenanters, especially in missionwork.3. That henceforth, the entire church labor forthe progress of the Reformed Presbyterian ChurchOF NORTH AMERICA.Travel Fund CommitteeThat the congregational assessment remain at$1.75 per communicant member.Coordinating Committee1. That the Contributed Budget for Synod for1968 be set at $165,000.2. That pastors preach on the subject of Stewardshipat least once a year.3. That the clerks of presbyteries be directedto send to the chairman of the Coordinating Committeethe names of their representatives as soon astheir presbyteries know about them so that informationcan be sent to them before the meeting.4. That any surplus in the 1968 Budget be givento the Board of Home Missions and Church Extensionand the Board of Christian Education up to$5,000 for the purpose of underwriting a summertraining program for youth.88 COVENANTER WITNESS

Our YouthSeveral hundred international Christian studentsdemonstrated in a "Christ-in" against hatred, discrimination,and bigotry.With slogans such as "Christ is relevant," "Christin,hate-out," "God proved His love — Christ diedfor you," these students marched on July 15 onHollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles, with the streetsresounding with Christian hymns.Participants came from Taiwan, Thailand, Singapore,Hong Kong, the Philippines, Indonesia, Netherlands,Mexico, Puerto Rico, Guatemala, Argentina,Iran, Italy, India, and the United States.Members of over 60 churches of several denominationsin the Southern California area joined theranks of the Christ-in.The sponsoring organization, Chinese For Christ,was founded in 1959 by the Rev. Calvin Chao, aformer minister in mainland China, for evangehsticministries among Chinese and other overseasstudents in the United States. It has centers inBerkeley, Chicago, New York, with headquartersin Los Angeles.Stating the reason for the march, John Chao,student spokesman, said, "We march because weare concerned about eruptions of violence, breakdownof moral standards, rising crime rate, misuseof drugs, hatered, discrimination, and bigotry."The basic solution to the problems facing thisnation and the world, according to Chao, hes in thechange of hearts through Jesus Christ."A collective evangelistic action like this marchhas spearheaded a new frontier for our Christianfaith in the world today," Chao added.In rows of fours, the marchers covering threelong city blocks lined the boulevard. Dressed neatlyand marching uniformly, the students of the Christ-In drew the attention of thousands of shoppers,businessmen, tourists, and others.Remarks of passers-by were various. A Jewishwoman with tears in her eyes commented, "Finally,young people are marching for a religious cause."A young man noted, "What a contrast to the Newaikriots." A tourist from Illinois, expressing enthusiasmover the Christian unity of the marchers, said, "Wewould like to have such a march in Chicago."Also participating in the faith demonstrationwere goverment officials. Bill Orozco, representativeof Governor Ronald Reagan of California, andArthur Snyder, Los Angeles City Councilman ofthe 14th District, marched at the head of the ranks.When asked about Governor Reagan's responseto the Christ-in, Orozco said. "Indeed, he would thinkhighly of the march. He would be very proud ofeveryone in the faith demonstration."Following the march on Hollywood Boulevard,Dale Evans, author and actress, spoke to and sangfor the participants congregated in a victory rallyon the lawn of the Hollywood High School.Expressing her faith in Christ as the sustainingand motivating force in her life, Miss Evans praisedthe marchers for their courage and spirit.In an article describing the Christ-in, a journalistof a major Los Angeles newspaper assessed thevalue of the faith demonstration: "Project Christ-inmay have a resounding impact on the communityand the world, not only a. interdenominationalendeavor, but as a demonstration of dedicated Christian unity among different nationalities and racesto emphasize a basic answer to personal and worldproblems."AUGUST 9, 1967 89

A PAGE FORA BOWL OF MILK — IN HIS NAMEby Miss Rose A. Huston"Tim kaai ni? Is no one at home? I saw boththe Koo Neungs at church. Why don't they let theold Grandma in?"Such was the monologue I heard as I came infrom church Sabbath afternoon, and found GrandmaNip groping about from door to door trying toget someone to let her in. She being a "steady," Iknew just what kind of entertainment was expected,so I slipped out and told the cook to heat somewater. Then I same in to hear what she had to say.I had hstened to it many times, so I can give it toyou just as it was told to me."Haai! Chan pai ai lok! Koo Neung, I teU you toknow, Grandma is very poor and, in exceedinglyhard straits — no brother, no sister, no son, nodaughter-in-law — only poor old Grandma, all alone— eyes blind, ears deaf, feet sore, backbone hurts— no one knows my hardship. Truly Grandma isvery poor and sad. I'm sick, too. My stomach hassuch a gnawing pain; and after I walk a mUe or two,my legs are all weak and shaky."Grandma in eighty-several years old. . .. Mystomach hurts some right now. . . Sometimes whenMrs. Wright hved here my stomach hurt this wayand she gave me some foreign milk to drink, andit healed it rightaway. Mrs. Wright certainly wasa good woman. . . She had heart. Yes, she was agood woman. .. Milk helps the pain in my stomach.It's hurting very bad right now. Oh, poor Granma isso sad!"By this time the hot water had appeared, witha can of condensed milk and a generous slice ofbread, much to Grandma's surprise (?) and delight."Oh! truly you have heart—just like Mrs. Wright.Thank the Heavenly Father." Then she bowed herhead: "Thank the Heavenly Father, for giving meto drink and eat; I pray God to forgive my sin;protect me and give me peace. Amen."Then one boul quickly disappeared — two bowls— and a third — then came a happy sigh. "Mystomach is better already; thank the Heavenly Father."After a few moments of seeming satisfaction andcontentment, she began another tale of woe abouther dire poverty and distress, but knowing that shehad a daughter who is well able to provide for her,and who has been known to appropriate some of ourSee page 96JUNIORSJunior TopicTO THE JUNIOR SPONSOR:STEPS TO SALVATIONFour lessons in unit for September1. Conviction2. Repentance and Confession3. Belief4. AcceptanceMemory Psalm for unit; Psalm 51,p.133, vv. 5-8.Suggested handwork and objectlessons for sponsors:1. A page may be made of thememory verses for the unit by headingthe page "Steps to Salvation" andarranging the verses in stair-step order,starting with the first at the bottom ofthe page at the left indenting the nextwhich is added above the first, andcontinuing this way through the unit.2. A "wordless book" may go withthese lessons. The sponsor may use oneas an object lesson, and give one asan award to each child memorizing acorresponding verse for each page.3. Lesson 7 in Mrs. R. H. McKelvy'sbook, "Taught of the Lord" is mostappropriate with these lessons.4. Prepare a pattern of a fairlylarge heart and trace on typing paperor craft paper. The first week addblack sin spots on the heart. Thesecond week cover the sin-spottedheart with a new, clean white heart,and attach with scotch tape hingesat the top. The third week attachanother heart and fill it with a pictureof an open Bible. The last week, writeII Peter 3:18a at the bottom of thepage.5. Several flannalgraph lessonsfrom Child Evangelism are suggested.John 3:16 in colorChrist FirstGospel in a NutshellChristian's Birth and Growthfor September 3, 1967.STEPS TO SALVATIONPart IConvictionby Mrs. J. Richard HutchesonOftentimes when a person doessomething wrong, those who see itwill remark, "Oh, that is just humannature to do a thing like that." Humanssee page 92COVENANTER WITNESS

j Lesson Helps for the Week of September 3, 1967 j!___ s iSabbath SchoolLessonfor September 3, 1967.WITNESS BEFORE RULERS:Acts 23:12 to 25:12.Comments by John K. Gault.We left off our consideration ofPaul's life when the chief captain,Claudias Lysias, rescued him from thehands of the mob which was aboutto tear him to pieces. Since such ariot had arisen because of Paul, thechief captain mistook him to be anEgyptian who headed an abortive rebellionof wrong-doers. Upon learningthat Paul could speak Greek and thathe was a native of Tarsus he permittedhim to address the multitude. AsPaul stood on the stairs he declared hisloyalty to the religion of the Jews,speaking to them in their own language.He told how he had been educatedto become a rabbi and had beena zealous exterminator of the followersof Christ. His conversion on the Damascusroad was then described aswas also his baptism by Ananias, whorepeated the voice from heaven whichsaid concerning Paul, "The God ofour fathers hath chosen thee, that thoushouldest know his will, and see thatJust One, and should hear the voiceof his mouth. For thou shalt be hiswitness unto all men of what thouhast seen and heard."yet he himself was more hurtful thanthem all." When occasion offered, hedid not hesitate to employ assassiansfor his own ends. Trading upon theinfluence of his brother at court, hiscruelty and rapacity knew no bounds.As soon as Paul was brought beforeFelix, that official asked him of whatcountry he was, and when he learnedthat Paul was from Cilicia, he knewthat he was a Roman citizen who wouldhave no object in stirring up troublein Judea. But he kept Paul in custodyuntil his accusers had come from Jerusalem,to present their charges.2: The Charges Brought AgainstPaul.In five days Ananias, the highpriest, came from Jerusalem and hebrought along with him a lawyer tospeak for him. This prosecutor beganhis address by expressing flattery ofFelix who could be, when his objectivescalled for it, as cruel and unjustas any tyrant. Concerning Paul, Tertulluscharged him with being a"pestilent fellow," "and a mover ofsedition among all Jews throughoutthe world, and a ringleader of the sectof the Nazarenes: who also hath goneabout to profane the temple: "Thesewere all general charges which couldnot be supported by facts. He alsoaccused the chief captain for rescuingPaul from the band of forty men whowe:e intending to lynch Paul. (Acts24:1-7)this I confess unto thee that after theway which they call heresy, so worshipI the God of my fathers, believing allthings which are written in the lawand in the prophets:" Paul had proclaimedthe truth of the Old Testamentby showing how it was fulfilled inChrist. "Belief in Christ" was theheresy to which the Jews referred.Paul also declared that he "had hopetoward God, which they themselvesalso allow (look for), that there shallbe a resurrection of the dead, both ofthe just and unjust."The unbelieving Jews had seenPaul associating with a Gentile fromEphesus in the city of Jerusalem andthey jumped to the conclusion thathe was about to bring such a one intothe temple, which was strictly forbiddenupon the penalty of death. Paulhad come to Jerusalem to keep thePassover and to signify the completionof his vow as a Nazarite. He came withshaven head and special offerings.Four other Jews came with him andPaul purified himself in the ceremonialmanner and purified the four othersalso and paid their expenses (charge;-)as well as his own. Paul, therefore,established the credibility of his witnessas he said, "And herein do Iexercise myself, to have always a consciencevoid of offense toward God andtoward men" (24:16). He maintainedthat his accusers could not name oneunlawful act whereby they mightbring him to trial. They could have1: Paul Witnessed Before Felix, the 3: Paul's Refutation of the Charges no reason to accuse him, "Except itGovernor.Brought Against Him.be for this one voice, that I criedBecause of a plot to kill Paul, We are told about this in Acts 24: standing among them, touching tl

Paul from the mob and had him escortedwith an armed guard to thegovernor, along with a letter of explanation.After a few days Felix and hiswife, Drusilla, who was a Jewess, sentfor Paul, "and heard him concerningthe faith in Christ. And as he reasonedof righteousness, temperance, andjudgment to come, Felix trembled, andanswered, Go thy way, for this time;when I have a more convenient season,I will call for thee." Evidently the"convenient season" never came toFelix for "after two years PorciusT«Mon baaed on International SundaySchool Lessons: the International Bible Lessonsfor Christian Teaching, copyrighted 1863by the Division of Christian Education, NationalCouncil of Churches ef Christ in theU5A."JUNIOR TOPICFrom page 90must be likely to do the wrong things,even if they are humans who havelived a long time, and have had experiencedoing lots of things. Eventhe very finest people we know havemade mistakes sometimes in theirlives, as I'm sure that each one ofus has done. Can you think of sometime when you did wrong, perhapswithout knowing it at the time andwished that you could change it afterward?This is human nature, and wewould like to have for a friend aperson who always wanted to have hisown way? Of course not. A selfishperson is not a happy person, either.But it is our human nature to thinkthat we can do everything pretty wellwithout God's help. (Do you supposewe sometimes appear as full of mistakesas a little child who wants toget dressed "all by myself" and endsup with the socks on wrongside outand the shoes on the wrong feet?)Our ways are not perfect like God'sways.The Bible tells us, "The heart ofman is deceitful and desperatelywicked" (Jer.l7:9). We can tell thisfrom our own experience because meanor wicked thoughts have a way ofpopping into our minds without ourwanting them at all. We must recognizethem for what they really areand put them away before they becomeactions. This is Satan's doing, but wehave God's promise that if we resistthe devil, he will flee from us. (James4:7b)Why do we have this human natureFestus came into Felix' room: andFelix, willing to show the Jews apleasure, left Paul bound." This doesnot mean that Paul was bound witha chain as verse 23 says, "And hecommanded a centurion to keep Paul, have it with us all our lives. It doesn'tand to let him have liberty, and that sound like a very perfect kind ofhe should forbid none of his acquaintanceto minister or come unto him." evil, or as if we find evil more "catch­nature, does it? It seems inclined toFelix was undoubtedly influenced by ing" than good. One example of thishis wife who was a Jewess, and so he is the saying, "If a white glove fallsdecided that it would be for his best into the mud, it is always the gloveinterests to please the Jews. It is no that gets muddy, and not the mud that seems to be fighting against us?wonder that Felix trembled as Paul that gets glovey." Evil comes easily We have inherited it, as did ourreasoned of "righeousness, temperance to us while good comes harder. Our own parents, and their parents beforeand judgment to come" for as Paul human nature is not very perfect them. The story goes back to the firstlater said in Hebrews 10:31, "It is a compared to God's nature.of our Bible in the book of Genesis.fearful thing to fall into the hands Another thing about our human Most of you will probably know theof the living God."nature is that it is short-sighted. We Bible story of Adam and Eve whom5: Paul's Trial Before Festus.can plan what we want to do in the God created in His own image andWhen Festus took Felix' place asfuture, but we cannot really see what placed in the garden of Eden. Godgovernor he commanded Paul to beis ahead. We are like people climbing gave them dominion over all thebi ought before him. Many Jews camea hill who cannot yet see what will be creatures He had made to live on thedown from Jerusalem to Caesarea "andon the other side. But God can see. earth. Their duty was to take care oflaid many and grievous complaints a-He can see both the past and the the garden. But God gave them directions,also. They might eat the fruitgainst him which they could not prove.future. How much better it is to tryWhile he answered for himself, Neitheragainst the law of the Jews,to learn His plan for us than it is to of all the trees but one, the tree of theinsist on having things our own way, knowledge of good and evil. God warnedthem that if they ate of that tree,neither against the temple, nor yetespecially when we know it is notagainst Caesar, have I offended anyGod's way.they would surely die. With a warningthing at all. But Festus, willing to doThis is another thing about our like that, wouldn't you think theythe Jews a pleasure, answered Paul,human nature, its selfishness. By naturewe do not want to share things. Satan, in the form of a serpent, camewould be very careful to obey? Butand said, Wilt thou go up to Jerusalem,and there be judged of these thingsWe have to be taught. We are not to tempt Eve first by making her doubtbefore me? Then said Paul, I standnaturally kind and thoughtful of what God had said. Satan told a lie toat Caesar's judgment seat, where Iothers. We have to be taught. We do this. God had said, "Ye shall surelyought to be judged: to the Jews havedo not always treat others the way we die," but Satan said, "Ye shall notI done no wrong, as thou very wellwould like to be treated, so we need to surely die." He told Eve that insteadknowest" (25:7-10). —"Then Festus,have laws and supervisors and teachersto guide us in the way we should listened to Satan rather than to God,she would become much wiser. Evewhen he had conferred with the council,answered, Hast thou appealed untodeal with other people. We have to and she ate the fruit and gave someCaesar? unto Caesar shalt thou go"learn about politeness and forgiveness to Adam as well. He also ate it. They(v.12). Felix and also Festus were moresince we are not born with these good had disobeyed God! Now they knewconcerned about pleasing the peoplequalities. Some people will tell you evil as well as good, so God couldthan they were about doing what wasthat people are born perfect, and that not let them live in His perfect gardenright.they must be allowed to have their any longer. Evil had entered into theown perfect way. Do you think you world, and the evil nature has con-92 COVENANTER WITNESS

tinued ever since that time.We may try to be as righteous aswe possibly can in our own humanway. Will that be good enough? Surelyif we try our very hardest, God will bepleased with our efforts. But no,Isaiah 64:6 tells us that the very bestwe can do in our strength is just likefilthy rags in God's sight, because Heis so much holier than we are. Godcannot look upon sin, so sinners cannotcome to Him by themselves. Sinblocks the way between us and God.Romans 3:23 tells us, "All have sinnedand come short of the glory of God."Some of the sin we may have doneourselves, and certainly a part of it isthe sin we have inherited by being inhuman form, inheriting the humannature from all the generations beforeus. Romans 6:23 tell us, "The wagesof sin is death." How terrible we mustlook in God's sight! But it goes onfurther to say, "The gift of God iseternal life through Jesus Christ ourLord." Even in our sins, God lovedus so much that He sent His Son topay our death penalty and give usHis perfect righteousness so that wecan appear before God with our sintaken away. What a wonderful lovethat is! Repeat together John 3:16.TO THE LEADER:Scripture: Romans 7:14-25.Memory Verse: Romans 3:23.Other References: Rom. 6:23;Rom.310; I Peter 2:24; Rom. 5:19; I John 18,9; Rom. 5:12; John 3:19,20; I Cor. 153,4; I Cor. 15:22.Psalms to sing: Ps. 55, p. 140, vv. 12,13,17; Ps. 106, p. 261, w. 5,6,7; Ps. 116,p. 282, w. 1-6.Discuss Questions 16, 19, 82, and 84from the Shorter Catechism.Suggested Prayer Requests:A. Our college students leavinghome for the first time.B. Our public schools, students,teachers, and boards.C. Our men in the armed services.D. Our Covenanter Sabbath Schoolteachers.E. The parents of small children,teaching them to pray.Suggested Questions for Group BibleStudy and Discussion:1. Give a 5-minute summary of thelife of Ezra.2. According to Ezra 9:4 whatbrought the people to the prayermeeting? Is this true tonight?3. According to Ezra 9:2, what sincaused Ezra to mourn? What situationsparallel this problem inour church?4. In Ezra 9:2 who had led out inthe sin? Is this a problem needingprayer in our church today?5. Prepare a list of ways in whichour church and nation have beenshown favor as mentioned inEzra 9:8.6. CONSIDER together the areasin which our church and yourcong. egation need a "little reviving"— Ezra 9:8.7. According to Ezra 9.12 we havea responsibility to prepare forwhat special group in our midst?Is this being done in your congregation?8. After considering Ezra 10:1, howshould a . Covenanter congregationapproach sin in the ranksof her membership?He that hath my commandments,and keepeth them, he it is that lovethme: and he that loveth me shall beloved of my Father, and I will lovehim, and will manifest myself to him.John 14:21.Promising And ProducingWhen the minister moved to a new community, as ministers do — Methodist!;quite often and Presbyterians not so frequently — he noticed a sign thatintrigued him. It was the name of a firm offering one of those serviceseveryone likes to have done quickly. Pronouncing the name the way it appearedon the sign one got the impression that work would be completed in twentyfourhours. It didn't say so, it just sounded that way, and of course thespelling would not satisfy any teacher or win a spelling bee. The ministerthought to himself, "How wonderful! I have always waited several days forthis service and here I can have it done in a day." That's what he thought,but when he took work there, expecting to be told to return for it the next day,the time he was told to come back was several days beyond "tomorrow." Thepromised service was no better than it had been where he had lived before.What is more, when he did come for what he had left, on the day he was toldto return, it wasn't ready, and he soon found out that he would be told thevery same things he had always heard. If he came in the morning it wouldPrayer Meeting probably be on the afternoon delivery, and if in the afternoon it would surelybe there tomorrow morning. In spite of the implication of the sign, the servieeTopicand the industriousness of the people, or lack of these, were just about whathe had found elsewhere. However the quality of work done was very good, andfor September 6, 1967.that helped to keep him from being quite so put out by a name that seemed"THE PRAYER OF EZRA" to promise what the firm failed to produce.by Rev. Robert McFarland.Pondering these things the minister realized that he too must be carefulScripture: Ezra 9:l-15;Ezra 10:1. about the impression he was giving. He must resist the temptation to use aSuggested Psalms:138, p. 338, w. sermon title that promised much when he knew that what he would say was1-4; 113, p. 279, w. 1-5; 86, p. 210 w.1-3. only average. He must not put a "come on" kind of title on the bulletin boardTonight we are beginning a study unless he knew the sermon content would justify it. As for the people, he mustof several prayers of the Bible. Our not expect too much of them for they were like folks everywhere. They wouldstudy this evening is the prayer of have their excuses, but there would be a quality too that would make up forEzra. It is suggested that you seek a common weaknesses. Set high standards by all means, but remember humanBible study atmosphere as you answer nature. And after all was not his own salvation and theirs due to the grace cfthe discussion questions which follow: God and not to work that so often fell short of promised expectations?AUGUST 9, 1967 93

MILROY — MATHEWSMr. Raymond H. Milroy and Mrs.Iva Allen Mathews were married June30, 1967, in the home of Mr. and Mrs.Larry Coon in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania.Drs. M. K. Carson and C. E.Caskey officiated. The Milroys willlive at 416 Nineteenth Street, BeaverFalls, Pennsylvania, 15010.ORLANDO, FLORIDAThe CYPU served a dinner to thecongregation on May 5 to celebrate"Family Night." The donations receivedwere turned in to the campfund.On May 14, Jonathan Lee Formanwas baptized. In June, he and hismother and father, Rhea and KeayForman, left for California whe^eRhea is to continue his studies. Wewere sorry to see them leave and misstheir willingness to take on any taskasked of them.The ladies of the congregationheld a bridal shower for RosemarieGriffin. On June 30, Rosemarie wasmarried to Mr. Clinton Moye Baileyin a beautiful ceremony in the church.A reception was held in the churchsocial room following the service.Rosemarie's sisters were able to behome for the wedding and her youngersister, Grace, was maid of honor. Mr.Bailey has three more months to servein the Army and then will be attendingStetson University in Deland.The congregation was blessed byhaving the Rev. and Mrs. M. K. Carsonwith us while Rev. Keith Copelandwas on vacation. Mr. Carson preachedon five Sabbaths.Our Bible School was held, June19-28, with a good attendance. Theladies of the church willingly gave oftheir time to make it a success.We are thankful to have Mr. CecilHall well again following surgery anda stay in the hospital.We were saddened by the passingof Mrs. Will Brown in June. Mr. andMrs. Brown had celebrated their 67thWedding Anniversary this spring. Mr.Brown lives with his son LeRoy herein Orlando.We are happy to have our pastorand his family safely home after theirlong trip. They were able to visit ourmission in Oklahoma among the Indiansfor a few days.Mr. W. C. McFarland was our elderdelegate to Synod this year.He gave afine report of the activities to the congregation.Our annual Sabbath School picnicwas held at Camp Ithiel on July 15.Even with many families away onvacation, there were 85 there to enjoythe swimming, games, and bountifulpicnic supper.Mrs. Wm. Robb is improving slowlyafter a bout of vertigo. She was ableto be out to church this past SabbathDay.Mr. and Mrs. Roy Leino and daughter,Terry, left to spend the summerin Michigan. We miss them and will beglad when they return this fall.COLDENHAM, NEW YORKOn May 1, 1967, a daughter, LauraJean, was born to Mr. and Mrs. DavidWilson, members of our SabbathSchool. Her four brothers were happyto have a baby sister.A speech contest was held by theWCTU at the church on July 10. About14 children participated. There wereeight in the older group and thisdivision was won by Kevin Robinson.These young people recited Biblepassages. Donald McMillan was thewinner in the younger group of sixparticipants.The Senior CYPU participated inthe Heritage Day held recently in connectionwith Historic Newburgh Week.They had a cotton candy booth at Mid-Valley Mall and made a profit of$25.00 toward their current expenses.Listed under our visiting ministersthat we are happy to have when Rev.John McMillan is away are these: OnJuly 2, Rev. Waldo Mitchell; on August6, Rev. and Mrs. M. K. Carson wereagain with us; and on August 13, Mr.Jonathan Chao was the guest speaker.Plans are underway to hold theSabbath School picnic sometime theearly part of August before the youngpeople make plans to attend WhiteLake Camp.MANCHESTER CHURCHThe Manchester congregation continuesto enjoy the blessing of theLord in many of her activities. At thequarterly meeting of the congregation,our Pastor reported that the SabbathSchool attendance doubled from 1958to 1962, and then has shown an increaseof 25 per cent since 1962. In1958 the attendance was 32 for thefirst quarter. (Manchester 10, Parnassus22). In the first quarter of 1962the attendance averaged 64; and for1967 the attendance averaged 80. Thisis evidence of our growth in the community,since in this period only onehas come to us from another Covenantercongregation.The Rev. Robert Henning servedas our Communion assistant thisspring. At that time we were happyto welcome into the fellowship of thecongregation Mrs. Margaret Black, byletter; and Miss Kathy Wise uponher profession of faith.Late in March a suprise party washeld for Wendell Blair just beforehe left for military service. Each onepresent gave him a 'useful' gift, suchas a potscrubber, or compass to findhis way home.Manchester, like so many otherplaces, also had a 'June bride'. With alovely church wedding, Carol Kremerbecame Mrs. William Townsent, Jr.Her sister, Rose Yockman was theMaid of Honor; Marilyn Imm andSharon Townsend were bridesmaids.Wendell Blair was the best man, andWilliam Kremer and John Petersonwere the ushers. Carol has now joinedBill in North Carolina were he is.serving with the Marines.Our Vacation Bible School was heldin June, with a special class for youngpeople in the evening, while the otherclasses met in the morning. The averageattendance was 90 plus out of anenrollment of 101. There were about130 at the closing program.THIRD PHILADELPHIAOur assistant at the Communionseason was Rev. M. W. Martin. Underthe theme, "The Cup," he spoke of"The Trembling Cup," or "The Cupof Fear"; "The Cup of Salvation";"The Cup of Fellowship"; "The Cupof Service." At the closing service, theBroomall congregation joined us. Allthe services were very imformative andchallenging.In connection with the Thursday94 COVENANTER WITNESS

evening service, the Sacrament ofBaptism was administered to MissDale Schaefer, Miss Deborah Morris,and Martin Paul. Also uniting with thechurch this Communion season wereMrs. Ellen Shanks and Mrs. LucillePaul.On May 19, 1967, Elder William J.McClay went to his heavenly home.He is sadly missed here at ThirdPhiladelphia.Elder Alexander M. Adams underwentsurgery on May 29, at the ChesterCrozier Hospital. He is still in thehospital at this time.Elder William Gregory and MissJanet Boye, were married Saturday,June 10, 1967, in the Walton Church.Rev. G. W. Price had part in the weddingceremony and quite a numberof our young people attended thewedding.This year we had our VacationBible School in the evening from 7:00till 9:00 o'clock. We had an enrollmentof 57 boys and girls, with an averageattendance of 40 each evening. Thirtysevencertificates were awarded forattendance at the closing service.any other infectious disease. In agiven population not everyone comesdown with tuberculosis, so we say it'sa matter of predispostion: a man withsevere predisposition is more likely tocontract the disease. But, howeversevere the predisposition, no man willcontract the disease if the germ nevergets into his system. The argumentno girl is ever ruined by a book islike the contention that there is noneed to control the spread of germs,since the only people who succumbto germs are those with a predispositionto disease.Predisposition is a hypothetical concept.A healthy man can't say whathis predispositions are. Only when hecontracts a disease can he concludethat he must be predisposed thereto.Every moment that we are awakeour minds are filled with fantasies.The stream of consciousness is astream of ideas, images, impulses, de­you if you saw her come into thehouse with Fanny Hill under herarm?" She quickly replied, "Yes, itwould." I said, "There's your answer.""Oh," she exclaimed, in a stateof mild shock, "you caught me unawares."I replied, "The truth cameout when you spoke unawares."One recent history gives a cleardemonstration of the correct way totreat this matter of predisposition. Irefer to legislation governing the saleof fireworks. There was a time whenthe newspapers after the Fourth ofJuly would report the hundreds ofpeople who had been killed or blindedby the fireworks. Now the fact isthat fireworks are perfectly safe solong as they are used by people ofdiscretion who read the directionsand take the necessary precaution.But there are so many people, especiallychildren, who lack the experienceand the wisdom to observe theprecautions. Our law-making authoritiescould have taken the view thatthere is no need for legislation, sinceonly those are harmed who are lackingin good sense. But instead theytook the view that it is precisely thesehelpless ones in our midst who needour protection.So it is with pornography. The daywill surely come when we will be asthoughtful of the literature thatreaches the eyes of our youngstersas we are of the germs that entertheir lungs. There are organizationssuch as Citizens for Decent Literature(3701 Carew Tower, Cincinnati, Ohiosires, etc., arising either spontaneouslyfrom within or in response toexternal stimuli. The reading of apornographic book—or of any book—will generate a stream of fantasies.How destructive are the fantasies thatare induced by a pornographic book?PORNOGRAPHY ANDIt would be foolish to try to giveOUR YOUNGSTERSa precise mathematical answer. WhenMax Levin, M.D.a youngster commits a delinquency, orMax Levin, M.D., is Clinical Professorthinks of committing it, his behaviorof Neurology at the New YorkMedical College; Visiting Neurologist,Flower and Fifth Avenue Hospitals,is the culmination of his entire lifeup to that moment. A jury of psychoanalystscould spend years in aand Metropolitan Hospital Center, vain attempt to pin down the specificNew York, New York.role of a given traumatic incident.In the Time magazine essay, April But no one can doubt that some 45202) that are striving toward this16, 1965, on "The New Pornography," youngsters are affected adversely by goal.—Medical Digestthere is this statement:the torrent of pornographic and sadisticliterature that overflows the r'or God's inheritance made meet!Accepted, perfect, and complete"As for psychiatrists, they are greatbelievers in the Jimmy Walker dictum paperback shelves in the corner drug Hon- true, how glorious, and howthat no girl was ever ruined by a store—even those youngsters who are sweet!book, asserting, in effect, that no one not "sick to begin with."is harmed by pornography who is not I once appeared in court in proceedingsbrought by public authorityIn the Beloved—by the Kingsick to begin with."Accepted, though not anythingThis is a favorite argument of the against the publishers of Fanny Hill.But forfeit lives had we to bring.publishers of pornography, and of the I expressed the opinion that the book And perfect in Christ Jesus made,experts who defend them. I doubt thatthis view is widely held by psychiatrists,but whether it is or not is immaterialhere.is pornographic and could be harmfulto some of its readers. A few days laterI attended a party where some ofthe guests knew my testimony, andOn Him our great transgressions laid,We in His righteousness arrayed.Complete in Him, our glorious Head,The statement that no girl was so I had to undergo a second crossexamination.With Jesus raised from the dead.ever ruined by a book is deceptive,since it wears the facade of logic.What it says is true enough, but whatit doesn't say is equally true.One of the cross-exam­iners was a mature woman, a culturedlady with an interest in noble causes.She had read Fanny Hill and she tookAnd by His mighty Spirit led!O blessed Lord, is this for me?Then let my whole life henceforth leThe statement is related to the polite exception to my opinion of the One Alleluia-song to Thee! Amen.question of predisposition in the cause book. I asked her, "If you had a 16-— Mrs. F. R. Havergalof disease. Consider tuberculosis or year-old daughter, would it disturbAUGUST 9, 1967 95

W.M.S. TOPICfor September, 1967.STUDY OF THE GOSPELSby Sharon AlexanderTwenty centuries ago, Jesus Christasked His disciples who men weresaying he was. They said, "Some sayJohn the Baptist; some, Elijah; andothers, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets."Then He asked them, "But whosay ya that I am?" Simon Peter answeredand said, "Thou art the Christ,the Son of the living God." Jesusreplied, as He looked at him with eyesfull of divine love, "Blessed art thou,Simon Bar-Jonah: for flesh and bloodhath not revealed it unto thee, butmy Father which is in heaven" (Matt.16:13-17).Today, as in that day long ago,flesh and blood, the reasoning ofscientists, the efforts of philosophers,the thundering of preachers, can notreveal to anyone that Jesus Christ isthe Son of God. Only God Himself canreveal to you, personally, the truth ofHis Son. When the living Christ confrontsus in our own lives, He leavesno room for doubt. He is part of God,who can still work miracles, care forHis own, and change lives.Our sources for the life and teachingof Christ are the records ofMatthew, Mark, Luke and John, apparentlywritten between 65 and 125A. D. These are not mere biographiesin either the ancient or the modernsense, but set forth the early Christianproclamation of the message ofsalvation in terms of the life, the ministry,the teaching, the death, and theresurrection of Jesus. 1. These fouraccounts, referred to as "the Gospels,"have come to be recognized as part ofthe holy Scripture, divinely inspiredby the Holy Spirit. Everything beforethem points to their story; everythingwritten after refers back to them. Thestory they tell is the focal point ofthe whole Bible. They make up the"audience chamber" of the Bible!God had chosen a people to redeemand had seen them fall away from Hisperfection; but He had forgiven themand carefully prepared a Way toA BOWL OF MILKFrom page 90gifts to the old lady, I suggested that it was time forher to go if she got home before dark.So, there she goes. Poor, almost blind, deaf,bring them back to Himself. In theGospels, God Himself, God the Son,walked out onto the stage of His worldto allow His people to touch Him, toknow His love, to teach them, andfinally to die in their place. Yet Herose again and demonstrated for themthe new life in God's love which wasthen theirs and now is ours.A few non-Christian writers (Tacitus,Pliny the Younger, Suetonius,and one or two others) refer to theearly Christians, and even to Christ,but give no details. The state of thesources is exactly what we shouldexpect. The recollections of the earliestteachers and evangelists werehanded down orally (Luke 1:1-4) aswas the custom in transmitting Jewishreligious teaching; in the second andthird generations, after the churchhad spread far afield in the Gentileworld, where books were commonlyused to set forth religious teaching,and where the living voice of traditionwas less relied upon, the Gospelsbenefit of foreigners. Mark's themethroughouthis book is "Christ, theTireless Servant of God and Man."He shows the Lord as a man of actionwho healed the sick, raised the dead,.and cared for His followers.The "beloved physician", Luke, whowrotethe third Gospel, is thought to'have been a close friend and companionof Paul. He addressed his Gospelto Theophilus, an unknown person whoprobably was a Gentile. His purposewas to give a connected and orderlynarrative of the life of Christ. HisGospel has many passages of specialbeauty. It is a devotional Gospel; itcontains many of the prayers of Christ.It is a book of joy and praise, andcontains many songs and eloquentnarratives.John is considered by many to bethe "deepest" Gospel. John, the author,emphasized Christ's divinity and thewere written. Modern scholars recognizea difference in purpose andpower and mystery surrounding Him.3.character between the first threeEach author of the Gospels presentedthe facts which seemed to beGospels and the Fourth Gospel (John);they also recognize the existence ofthe most important and useful to himearlier sources underlying all four... .2for his readers; but the four writersThe Gospel of Matthew was addressedprimarily to the Jews. Thepresented the same messageJohn admitted that Jesus had donehuman author, Matthew, was one ofand spoken many wonderful thingsthe twelve apostles. He had been awhich were never recorded. The recordleft, however, gives the believerRoman tax collector, but had left allhe had and followed Christ when heall he needs to know. John pointed towas called. He wrote to show histhis fact in one of his last chapters,fellow Jews, who were very interestedas he said, "Jesus gave a great manyin the necessity of the Christ fulfillingother signs in the presence of Hisall the Old Testament prophecy, thatdisciples which are not recorded inJesus of Nazareth was the Kinglythis book. But these have been writtenMessiah fortold by their prophets.so that ye may believe that Jesus isMark, the author of the nextChrist, the Son of God, and that inGospel, is alleged to have been athat faith you may have life as hisyoung companion to Peter. Many believethat Peter may have furnisheddisciples." (John 20: 30,31, Phillipstranslation)or suggested much of the material1. Encyclopedia Americana, Vol. 16,found in his account. Mark probably1958, p. 41.had the Roman or Gentile Christians2. Ibid.in mind as he wrote his book, for he3. Frank Charles Thompson, "Analysesof Books," The New Chainmade little attempt to establish relationshipsof prophecies and theirReference Bible, Indianapolis: B.fulfillment and explained many Jewishwords, as he wrote, likely for theB. Kirkbride Bible Co., Inc., pp.207-209 (Appendix).wretched, and forsaken. She may be a "rice Christian";we'll let another be her judge. But as shetotters down the steps, leaning heavily onan old crooked stick, one bony hand over the placein her back where the hurt is, out of the depths ofyour heart you say: "Poor Old Nipt"96 COVENANTER WITNESS

TheREFORMED PRESBYTERIANTHEOLOGICAL SEMINARYPITTSBURGHTo The TruthJESUS CHRIST AS SAVIOUR, LORD, HEAD OF MEN, THE CHURCH AND NATIONS.VOLUME LXXIX NO. 7 AUGUST 16, 1967 STERLING, KANSASBIBLE LESSONS FOR THE WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 10, 1967MIDWEST PRESBYTERY MENS RALLYHebron R. P. Church, Idana, Kansas

THE COVENANTER WITNESSOfficial organ of tbe ReformedPresbyterian Church of N. A.— CVAHWUCAL MM MNCUMNEditor: Rev. M. W. Dougherty, DD.125 N. 4th StreetSterling, Kansas 67579Phone 316 — Br. 8 • S472Printed each Wednesday under the supervision of theBoard of Publication by The Patterson Press, Winchester,Kansas 66097.Contributing Editors: Department Editors:Rev. Kenneth Smith Rev. John TweedDr. G. M. RobbMrs. Robert B. MaineRev. John McMillan Mrs. Willis EdgarRev. C. E. Caskey Rev. John K. GaultOpinions expressed in our columns are those of theindividual writer, not necessarily the views of the ReformedPresbyterian Church or the editor.All material to appear in The Covenanter Witnessshould be typewritten, double-spaced, and should be inSterling, Kansas two weeks before it is to be printed.The cost of all pictures is 30 cents per square inch.Obituaries — All words in excess of one hundred fifty,one cent per word. Money should accompany such notices.SUBSCRIPTION RATESIndividual (1 year): U.S. and Canada, $4.00, BritishIsles 35/-, all other places, $5.00;Individual (2 year): U.S. and Canada, $7.00, BritishIsles 63/-, all other places, $9.00;Group: U.S. and Canada, $3.00, British Isles 28/-, allother places, $4.00.9-month student subscription — $1.50; 5-month introductoryoffer —$1.00; 2 gift subscriptions to persons outsideof the R. P. Church — $2.00 each. Single copies, 10c.Subscription Agent for U.S. and Canada: Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Subscription Agent for the British Isles: Rev. HughWright, B.A., 12, Knutsford Drive, Belfast 14, NorthernIreland.All checks should be made payable to The CovenanterWitness in U. S. currency.Give one month's notice of a change of address. Sendboth the new and the old address to Mrs. M.W. Dougherty.Postmaster: Please send Form 3579 to Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Second class postage paid at Winchester, Kansas 66097WE HOLD THE FOLLOWING TO BE TRUTHS OF SCRIPTURE:The Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the only infalliblerule of faith and conduct.The Trinitarian conception of the Godhead.Faith in Jesus Christ as the only way of salvation.Salvation by Grace.Assurance of salvation as a possible Christian experience.The Gospel Call and Election.The Holy Spirit as the Author of regeneration.Sanctification through the cooperating agency of the Holy SpiritThe fact of death and hell as the destiny of the lost and heavenas the destiny of the saved.That the Church of Jesus Christ consists of all those who believein Him together with their children.The Divine Right of the Presbyterian form of Church Government.The Lord Jesus Christ as the only King and Head of His Church.That terms of membership or commuai»n are essential te thewelfare ef the Chureh.Quote -SCRIPTURE NO SCIENCE TEXT BOOKSometimes it is objected that Scripture is toteach rehgion, and science is God's voice aboutcreation. Nevertheless, if the Bible said that two andtwo were five or that the River Euphrates was inEurope you would have cause to complain of itsinaccuracy. If it is God's book at aU it cannot helpbut be factual at any point it touches. It uses manyforms of speech, but never descends to myths.Where it differs from science, science is mistaken."Who art thou that repliest against God?"This Week's WitnessBroken Purposes •• -99Glimpses of the Rehgious World 100The Gospel is God's Remedy for Sin 101A Church Tension Area — The Eldership 102First Things First . . 103Scientist Finds Facts, Faith in Bible 105A Bowl of Milk — In His Name . ... 106Lesson Helps 107State Inspection 109Church News 110The Question: The AnswerIllHead — On Collision Is Best 112The duty which rests upon officers to maintain discipline andpreserve the purity of the Church.Spiritual worship as a divine requirement mediated through theLord Jesus Christ.The exclusive use of the Psalms in the worship of the Church.The Protestant interpretation of the Sacraments.The divine right of the institution of Marriage and that it is notto be dissolved except by adultery or "irremediable" desertion.The Sabbath as a day sacred to rest and worship.The duty of nations and their civil rulers to honor Christ asKing of Kings and Lord of Lords.That Christian citizens are under obligation to obey lawful authority.The right and duty of the Christian citizen to dissent from allgovernmental and national disobedience to the Law of God.That the Covenants of the past are still binding.From "The CommunUant's Class" by J. B. Tweed98 COVENANTER WITNESS

EditorialComment &BROKEN PURPOSES.rWe think of Paul as making his plans underthe guidance of the Holy Spirit, but this was notalways so. The Spirit does not always point outahead aU the details of one's life. Many of our decisionshave to be made a day at a time and a step at atime. God knows the end from the beginning, but Hedoes not always grant that we should know aUthings, even as they relate to us or to His work. Ourpurposes may seem good, and may not be wrong inthemselves, but may have to be changed to be inaccord with His purposes.Paul knew he was appointed to preach the Gospelto all the world, especially among the Gentiles. Yeton one occasion he was forbidden of the Holy Ghostto preach the Word in Asia Minor. They then triedto go the other direction into Bythinia, but the Spiritsuffered him not. He discovered later that the strategyof God was to go immediately into Europe withthe Gospel. In later years he was permitted to preachin these areas, I think, but now his purposes werebroken.Job cries out also, "My purposes are broken off,even the thoughts of my heart." We do not knowwhat those purposes were, whether they concernedbusiness arrangements, or his family, or his plans ofcharity. These were important things in his life.But they had been changed. How often are our ownpurposes broken off.Some are broken off because they are wrong andwould cause us harm. We break them off when wediscover this, and rightly so. It would be very foolishto do otherwise. Some purposes are broken off becausethey are not the best for others. We really donot wish to do that which will harm our friends orour family. Some of our purposes God breaks off, asthose of Paul and Job mentioned above. They arenot in accord with His wiU. He has other plans forus, or He may have a plan that others will do whatwe had purposed. We need to realize that His plan isaways best, and that His eternal purpose will be fulfilled.I am so sure that every reader has had suchexperiences. For this reason the writer dares to usehis own experience as an illustration. He and hisfamily were happy in the work of the Lord in whatis now Pakistan. He had no intention other than tocontinue mission work as a life career. But on accountof a strange health trouble the medical authoritiesinformed the Board and it became necessaryfor him to return to the States. Here medicalauthorities failed to find the cause of his trouble,but the difficulty ceased in this country. Our purposeswere broken. But we decided that whateverthe Lord's will should be, we would be happy in it.The interest in the foreign mission work of theChurch is still keen, but we have been truly happyin the work to which the Lord has appointed us.We do not understand all of it, but we do knowthat God's plan was best.There are some whose purposes are broken bydeath. The plans for one's future are incomplete.But another rises up to carry his work forward. Hehimself is caUed to a higher purpose in the heavenlyhome.Associate Reformed PresbyteriNEW YORK — The American Bible Society hasbeen giving Scriptures to the Armed Forces since 65Bibles were distributed to the John Adams, a USnaval corvette of 24 guns, 150 years ago. Today theABS gives approximately 1 million Bibles, NewTestaments and Scripture portions to the ArmedForces of the US each year.* * *NEW YORK — Because of a government banon importing all books in Indonesian languages, theIndonesian Bible Society has opened its own printingplant in Bogor and expects to produce 100,000whole Bibles by the end of 1968. One of 35 UnitedBible Societies, of which the American Bible Societyis the largest, the IBS offers Scriptures in approximately50 languages and dialects.When a man and a woman know and understandthe truth about themselves and about eachother, and through this knowledge find themselvesdrawn to the experience of hving as one, they knowwhat is meant by the statement, "What thereforeGod has joined together . . ."Joseph B. Henry,FULFILLMENT IN MARRIAGE(Revell)AUGUST 16, 1967 99

Glimpses of the Religious WorldTHE TROUBLES OF A STATE LOTTERYAs this column is being written, New York Stateis holding the first drawings in its new lottery.Nearly 6.5 milhon dollars worth of tickets were soldduring the month of June. The most shocking factorconcerning these sales is the disappointment of statetreasury officials — they are aiming at a goal of30 million dollars a month. The reaching of such agoal would mean the average purchase of two $1tickets a month by every citizen of the state.Meanwhile the House of Representatives haspassed and sent to the Senate a bill which wouldban the sale of lottery tickets in banks affihatedwith the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.This would include almost all the banks in NewYork State.The state has said it expects to sell more thanhalf of the tickets through banks. Tax CommissionerJoseph Murphy has stated that final approval of thebill would force substantial increases in the costof operating the lottery. Perhaps such legislation willhasten the failure of a foolish and dangerous experiment.A MESSAGE BLOWING ON THE EAST WIND(EP) In mainland China today, the book bookreaders read is a httle volume called "Quotationsfrom Chairman Mao Tse-Tung."The little red-covered book has suddenly becomea runaway best seUer in America, despite the chargeof subversion hurled at some bookseUers who displaythe pohtical heresy. Westerners are scrambhngto read the doctrine of the head of the "Great ProletarianCultural Revolution" in order to learn howto cope with China in the years ahead, or to find outfrom Mao himself the official pohcy with regardto the church.The reader must wait until page 114 of the179-page Bantam book to find the first mention ofdeity. "God," says Mao, "is none other than themasses of the Chinese people. If they stand up anddig together with us, why can't these. . . mountainsbe cleared away?"Regeneration, according to the yellow doctrine,"should rest in our own strength, and that meansregeneration through one's own efforts."THE REV. JOHN McMILLANR. D. 1, Box 337WALDEN, NEW YORKThe book clearly names the enemy of the GreatProletarian Cultural Revolution — the people ofthe United States. U. S. military bases on foreignsoil are described as "so many nooses around theneck of imperialism."RELIGIOUS LITERATURE COURSE IN PENNA.HIGH SCHOOL(EP) Thirty-two Pennsylvania high school Enghshteachers have begun preparations to teach the state'sfirst rehgious hterature course.The teachers, who represent 32 districts throughoutthe state, started a four-week institute at PennsylvaniaState University on July 10.Developed over the past winter and spring bythe University's Department of Rehgious Studies,the course is supervised by the Pennsylvania Departmentof Pubhc Instruction.BIBLE RANKS HIGH IN JAPAN(The Banner) Although the number of baptizedChristians in Japan totals fewer than 800,000, thenumber of Bible and New Testaments sold each yearis 600,000. The question therefore arises, who buysthese Bibles?A possible answer was given recently by repliesto a survey of 100 leading Japanese business men,most of whom are not Christians, as reported byEcumenical Press Service. According to the monthlyjournal, Bungei Shunju, the Bible was the secondmost frequently mentioned book when the questionwas asked, What book would you take with you ifyou were making a three-month space trip in acapsule and could take only one book?The general secretary of the Japan Bible Societyoffered as a possible explanation for the choice, "InJapan the Scriptures are thought of as one of themost important cultural books."INDUSTRY'S LOSS THROUGH THEFTU. S. industry lost at least two billion dollarslast year in stolen property — and another twobillion in stolen trade secrets, according to a reportin Newsweek. These losses were sustained in spiteof an enforcement army of 176,000 guards, costing1.3 billion dollars to maintain.100 COVENANTER WITNESS

Devotional Message at SynodTHE GOSPEL IS GOD'S REMEDY FOR SINby Rev. Robert A. Milliken Pastor ofBloomington, Indiana R. P. ChurchRomans 1:16The theme of this series of devotional messagesis "Great Bible Confessions." So far we have hadour attention directed to great confessions by David,Peter, and Isaiah. Today we turn to a great confessionby the Apostle Paul: "The Gospel is God'sRemedy for Sin." It is found in Romans 1:16. It wasPaul's whole-hearted confession. In it we find twomatters.The fact that Paul asserts — "it (the Gospel) isthe power of God unto salvation." He is boldly proclaiminghis confidence that the Gospel is God'sremedy for sin.Man's gospels, Paul would tell us, are impotentremedies. The problem that existed in the Galatianchurches was the introduction of a human gospel. Itwas a gospel of salvation throught law-keeping. Itwas a message that had its origin in the proud mindof man. Paul plainly declared it to be impotent.(Gal. 3:21). And thus it is with all "gospels" ofhuman origin. However plausible they may sound orpopular they may become, they are absolutely powerlessto save men from sin.God's Gospel, however, is a potent remedy. Paulcalls it "the power of God." The preaching of thecross may be foolishness to them that perish, butto us who are saved it is the power of God. It isthe means through which God brings salvation toman. Salvation requires an act of divine power inthe soul. God does this through His Gospel. And Heis pleased to do it because it is "the message of God."A message that originates with man can carry withit nothing but human power; a message that originateswith God is one that has divine power behindit. And this leads to the second matter.The response that Paul gives — "I am notashamed." Convinced as he was that the Gospel wasGod's potent remedy for human sin, Paul wasthoroughly unashamed of it. In the face of sufferingand death; in the face of ridicule and animosity —Paul steadfastly proclaimed this God-given message.No matter where he was, no matter whom he faced,Paul held forth the word of truth, confident of thedivine blessing upon it. He was not ashamed of theGospel.And we Covenanters must not be ashamed of iteither. We must not be ashamed to confess it inevery inhabited place. The Lord has commandedus to "go into all the world and preach the gospel toevery living creature." Through foreign missions anhome missions we should be pushing farther andfarther into the masses of mankind, proclaimingunashamedly this Gospel that is Gods's remedy forsin. In pulpits or parlors, on campuses and in Congresswe should be found holding forth this powerfulword of truth.And we must not be ashamed to confess it inevery revealed part of it. The Gospel is a rich andfull-orbed message. Indeed, Paul showed us that itembraces "all the counsel of God (compare Acts 20:24 with v. 27.). We need to beware of a truncatedGospel presentation in these days of streamlining.To proclaim the Gospel adequately means to proclaimthe Gospel fully, to be unashamed to confessit in all of its parts.There is a sense in which even our "distinctives"are a part of the Gospel. They are not just disconnectedappendages that may or may not be pinnedon to the Gospel — hke a-pin-the-tail-on-the-donkeygame. Rightly considered, they are part and parcelof it. The Gospel is a corporate body of truth, anorganic whole. To earnestly contend for the faithonce dehvered to the saints means to contend forthe whole Gospel in all its parts. It means to beunashamed of any part of God's revealed message.Dr. Lester Kilpatrick in his excellent booklet,What is the Gospel of Jesus Christ? shows how theGospel claims and reaches into all areas of life —and thus how our "distinctives" are reaUy a part ofthe Gospel of Christ, and not disconnected additionsto it. In a young people's Bible study one afternoon,I tried to show how our church's doctrine and practiceof Pohtical Dissent was based upon the universalheadship of Christ, as set forth in Ephesians 2.Suddenly one of them sat bolt upright, her face allaglow. "Now I see it," she exclaimed. "I alwaysthought that the reason we didn't vote was becausesome old ancestor in Scotland years ago decided weAUGUST 16, 1967 101

shouldn't do it, so we don't. But now I see that it isbecause of the honor of Christ!" She told how shehad been ashamed to answer when a school teacherhad asked if her parents were going to vote in aforth-coming election. Now, however, she was filledwith zeal to testify to this same teacher not onlythat her parents did not vote but why they didn't —for Christ's sake.So there is a very real sense in which even ourdenominational distinctives are a part of the Gospel.To be ashamed of them means to be ashamed of theGospel, at least in some of its parts. With the fullorbedconcept of the Gospel we display in ourTestimony, how shall we justify being ashamed ofany part of it?Paul's great confession was that the Gospel isGod's potent remedy for sin; therefore, he was unashamedof it. It is also our great confession — towhich we are bound in covenant. Let us never beashamed of it — in any of its parts! Let us boldlyproclaim it in our day and to our generation — inall its fulness. Paul did; and we must too.A Church Tension Area - The EldershipIt is the intent of this paper to focus attentionon what I have termed a church tension area — theproblem, in the writer's judgment, of the electionof unquahfied men to the eldership. I have formedthis judgment through my contact with the spirituallife of the church, through the judgments of othersexchanged in discussion groups, through findingothers in agreement with the basic concern of thepaper, and through an intuitive focusing in on thequality of the eldership as an explanation for thelack of vitality and power of our church.It is hoped that this paper will stimulate discussionon the question of the election of elders,and that, if the weight of the discussion agrees withthe judgment of the paper, action to correct theproblem will be initiated.Like a rope with httle slack, a tension is affectingthe relationship between church members andthe Reformed Presbyterian Church as an institutionalbody. There are, I beheve, two reasons forthis stress. The first reason is that congregations,sessions, presbyteries, and synods have not beenwilling to concretely identify the areas of tensionwhich exist. Secondly, when a concerned minorityof lawmen have identified tension areas, the eldershiphas not recognized the legitmacy of thesetension areas; consequently, the eldership has beenreluctant to examine problem questions with laymenwho want to resolve these issues according to Scripturalteachings.I beheve the Covenanter Church stands indictedof a serious charge. The charge leveled at hercongregations is that they have permitted the durationof church membership, the degree of churchfaithfulness and other un-Scriptural qualificationsto become weightier criteria in the election of elders102by Robert S. Hawthorneof Third Philadelphia, R. P. Churchthan Paul's instructions in I Timothy and Titus.This examination of the eldership problem willrevolve around a pivotal question evoked by theabove charge: Why have congregations given improperqualifications priority over Scriptural teachings?One answer to this question is the fact thatcongregations have disregarded Scriptural teachingswhen electing an elder. Nevertheless, even if eldersare elected this way, the session, possessing inherentauthority, retains the responsibility to preserve theintegrity of the eldership according to Scripturalteachings. I maintain that the failure on the partof the session to exercise this authority, and thusfailing their responsibihty, is one basic answer tothe pivotal question. It is apparent that if thegifts and practices of an elder-elect reflect that heis not ScripturaUy qualified and if he indicatesin discussion that he does not feel a responsibihtyto develop the quahties he is lacking, the sessionhas the responsibility to refrain from ordaining thecandidate. A drastic measure? Surely. But it is alsoa Scriptural one; one that wiU prevent an unqualifiedman from becoming an elder. I maintain thatwithin our church, however, sessions are reluctantto act in defense of the integrity of the eldershipand are apt to accept the election of an unqualifiedman in the interest of sessional and church harmony.Just as a student mirrors the knowledge andattitudes of his tutor, the baUot of a congregationfor an elder often reflects the prior teaching andpreaching ministry of the minister and the session.If a congregation fails to elect an elder accordingto Scriptural teachings, this lack of spiritual discernmentand spiritual self discipline may indicate thatCOVENANTER WITNESS

esponsible persons has failed to meaningfully bringScriptural pressure to bear on the decisions andmotivations active in the hves of members of thecongregation. I affirm that this lack of relevanceof the Scripture in the lives of the members is asecond answer to the pivotal question. Members areunable to discern true Scriptural qualities of theeldership because the essential nature of these quahtieshas not been burned into their awareness by theministry of the Word of God. Concerned laymenperceive in this situation a need for a reorientationof the principles of the congregation's ministry,a de-emphasizing of faithfulness in churchattendance and to Covenanter principles as a signof Christian maturity and an emphasizing of Christlikenessin attitude and perspective as portrayingthe deeper and more complete meaning of spiritualidentification with Christ. It appears to me thatlaymen who confront the session with this mostbasic step in connecting the problem of the electionof elders will meet with reluctance. The session willnot recognize the legitimacy of the need for a shiftof emphasis in the church's internal ministry andwill not incorporate the spiritual concepts and actionsforwarded by the laymen into this ministry.A third reason answering why congregationshave given priority to un-Scriptural qualifications inthe election of elders is that ministers have incorrectlyinterpreted and subsequently wrongly taughtthe meanings of the qualifications for the office.An interpretation of the qualification "apt to teach"as meaning primarily teaching the character ofone's hfe, and the abihty to teach the Word of Godas only the secondary meaning, or even as unnecessary,is a wrong interpretation which guides thethinking of the congregation un-Scripturally. TheScripture purposely hmits the eldership to men whopossess key spiritual gifts for the growth of thechurch. These qualifications are not common to allChristians and they should not be interpreted insuch a broad manner. I contend that laymen whoobject to an incorrect teaching of the elder's qualificationswiU find their session unwilling to recgonizethe legitimacy of their objection. I behevethat the reason for this unwillingness is that sessionshave wrongly merged the gifts of the Spirit with thefruit of the Spirit and feel that if a man lacks theneeds spiritual gifts, this lack can be compensatedfor by the fruit of the Spirit in his hfe.Scripture marks the eldership as possessing thepower and authority to direct and oversee the growthof the church. Scripture also indicates that a dynamicchurch life comes when this office is filled withthe preaching and teaching of God's Word by themen who are qualified to exercise the power andauthority of the office. It is a startling reahty thatthe spiritual power achieved by this union of menand office is lacking in many of our Covenanterchurch. It is the conclusion of this paper that thisspiritual power will not be possessed until congregationselect qualified men to the office of the elderor until the sessions exercise their authority toassure and insure the integrity of this vital office.FIRST THINGS FIRST!"Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness;and all these things shall be added untoyou." These words, coming from the greatest teacherthe world has ever known, are very pointed inrevealing the indisputable position that God shouldhave in our hves. Jesus said, "Seek ye First."Here is a simple, certain imperative that will leadus into lives that are permeated with the love of God,hves that will exemphfy our confidence and trust inHim, hves that will give impetus to our expressionsof faith in God and His righteousness, hves that willdirect others to a new life in Christ.Coupled with this imperative, as often is thecase, is a wonderful promise to us upon its fulfillment."—All these things shall be added unto you."What things is He talking about? The precedingverses in this sixth chapter of Matthew reveal what"these things" are. He speaks of the things whichmen generally consider their primary concern —food, water, clothing — needs for physical survival.Here Jesus is saying that these reaUy are secondaryto the giving of our love and service to God — ourcreator and sustainer. But "these things" are promisedto us if God is given the proper place in ourhves. In other words He is suggesting that alwaysGod should be first in our life's program.As Jesus pointed out the Father's care for theflowers, the birds, and even the grass of the field,He reminds us how much more God cares for youand me. How much more, then, will He provide forHis own.A traditional sentence given to us by Origenpresents it this way, "Ask great things, and httlethings shall be added to you; ask heavenly things,and earthly things shall be added to you."Do we beheve in God and His Word enough toput Him first in our lives? Who is first in your life— God or You? Put God first and trust Him tosupply all your need by Christ Jesus. S. P.The United BrethrenAUGUST 16, 1967 103

Our YouthScientist FindsFacts and FaithIn Bibleby Helen PannoneAn associate professor of physics and astronomyat Washburn University believes that though theBible is not a book of science, it does contain scientificdata.The scientific facts which the Scriptures relateis one proof to Prof. Darrell Parnell* that the Bibleis the authentic inspired Word of God."Have you ever considered the size of a raindrop?"Parnell says. "The size of a raindrop is hmitedand was created that way. In the book of Job, 36thchapter, 27th verse, it is written, 'He maketh smaUthe drops of water; they pour down rain accordingto the vapour thereof.' However, until 1950 A.D.,man had not examined this fact scientifically."The evaporation of water, the water cycle is alaw of physics, but 1,000 years before the birth ofChrist, it was recorded in Ecclesiastes, first chapter,seventh verse, 'AU the rivers run into the sea; yetthe sea is not full: unto the place from whence therivers come, thither they return again,'" he said."What especially impresses me as a scientist,in an overall study of the Bible, is that even thosethings stated just in passing are accurate to thenth' degree. Not only are the major items detailedwithout contradiction, but the details within thedetails are perfect."Long RecordedParnell lists several facts of science the Biblerecorded long before the facts were estabhshed byman.First are man's various theories for thousands ofyears about what supported the earth — elephants,giants, or other fantastic means."The author of Job, which book was probablythe first book of the Old Testament, written about1400 B. C, recorded in the 26th chapter, seventhverse, 'The Lord hangs the earth upon nothing.'Man didn't know this as fact until 1680 A. D.,"Parnell said."The Greek, Pythagoras,' found this theoryaround the sixth century B.C., but it was Sir IsaacNewton who proved the theory to be fact in 1680.Now we know that gravitation force exists betweentwo bodies which have mass, force of attraction orrepulsion between two magnets when not touchingeach other. We devised what is caUed a magneticfield — a field is that imaginary something thatexplains action at a distance. Back in the time ofJob, who knew the earth hung on nothing but itsCreator?"The Book of Jeremiah was written about 600B. C. In the 33rd chapter, 22nd verse, it begins, 'Thehost of heaven cannot be numbered, neither thesand of the sea measured.' When did man discoverthat the stars could not be numbered? After theinvention of the telescope, Galileo found this outin 1610 A.D. How did Jeremiah know the starscould not be counted in 600 B. C?"Does anyone know how many stars there are?God does. Psalms 147, verse four, says, 'God knowsthe number of the stars; He calls them all by theirnames.'Movement Recorded"That the sun moves, David recorded in his 19thpsalm, sixth verse, 'His going forth is from the endof the heaven, and his circuit unto the ends of it;and there is nothing hid from the heart thereof.'David, Solomon, and others composed the book ofPsalms around 1000 years B. C. How could it beknown then that the sun travels — which it does,200 miles per second, in an orbit which will take200 milhon years to complete. This fact was notestabhshed until the 20th century."Parnell points out even the shape of our earthwas accurately described in Isaiah 40:22 when mentionwas made of "the circle of the earth.""The earth has a circular orbit, too. Aristarchusin 300 B. C. suspected this but it was in 1543 A. D.that Kepler actuaUy estabhshed it as fact. Yet Isaiahwas written in 700 B. C. and he gave this fact," hesaid.104 COVENANTER WITNESS

"In 320 B. C, Aristotle decided the earth mustbe round but the theory was not proven until the20th century when it was proven so beautifully fromour sateUite explorations."We also know our world rotates, just as a potterpresses and rotates his clay on a wheel as the wheelturns. In 1851 A. D. it was proven the world rotateson its axis though Galileo had a theory about it in1610 A. D. But long, before, 1400 B. C, Job 38:14declared, 'It is turned as clay to the seal', or a stricterHebrew translation, 'It is changed as clay into whicha seal is pressed.'Parnell, a native Topekan, graduated fromTopeka High School in 1952, received a bachelor ofscience degree from Washburn University in 1956and a masters degree from Kansas State Universityin 1959. He has been teaching in the sciencedepartment in physics and astronomy at Washburnsince 1962.Until about five years ago Parnell hadn't givenmuch consideration to serious study of the Bible,he said.Visited Churches"Then five years ago while in the Air Force,stationed at Cambridge, Mass., my wife and I visitedseveral churches. Church attendance had beenour lifelong habits, if nothing more. In one churchwe visited, we appreciated the attention they paidto the study of the Bible, and we evidenced themembership's warmth. We feel we had a conversionexperience with God at that time. The verses I hadlearned as a child, by rote, now took on new meaning,"he said."We found fact, too at that time. There are twothings that will not change. The Bible, left alone,will not change. Although it remains on the shelf,is left unread, the Word doesn't change. The secondthing, with the Bible left alone, unread, we don'tchange."Where can we find the truth concerning Godand the soul of man? The plan of redemption ismapped out for us in the Bible, whose Author isthe Creator, all knowing, all-wise God that I, as ascientist, have found Him to be through the revelationof His Son, Jesus Christ."Two questions keep popping up to me whenI speak on the subject of science in the hght ofScripture with anyone. Ill mention the secondone first. Do I beheve the Genesis account of creation?Of course. God who did the making could dothe recording by inspiring His writers."I've been interested recently in reading EnghshAUGUST 16, 1967zoologist Kerkut's book, Implications of Evolution,which, written strictly from an academic viewpoint,points out the difficulty in the evolution theory —evolution such as is the common understandingof it. Kerkut confesses he even likes the theory ofevolution but it is not a workable one."This should be carefully pointed out. Evolutionis a philosophic dogma which must be held byfaith. It is not fact. By evolution, I mean the start ofsomething inanimate becoming anirnate."There are no proven facts that disprove the Bibleconcerning time. Scientific fact is that phenomenathat is observable and repeatable. Outside of thisdefinition, it comes under speculation, science fictionor philosophic dogma."Evolution is too broad an issue to go into. Wcwould have to get into the subject of delineation ofclassification and the definitions basic on skullstructure," Parnell said. "It'd be a mighty weakargument for many a scientist, but I believe that,regardless of changes over the years in the horse,for example, a horse is still a horse — you know,a horse is a horse is a horse."He added, 'The question most often posed to meconcerns the evidence of God and His existence.That seems to be a place of difficulty for manypeople today."Within the context of the Bible, I'm convincedthere is sufficient evidence in the things in ourphysical universe to show there is a God. The firstchapter of Romans is utterly specific in this generalarea. The Amplified Version states so beautifully,'For that which is known about God is evident tothem and made plain in the inner consciousnessbecause God Himself has shown it to them. For theinvisible things of Him from the creation of theworld are clearly seen, being understood by thethings that are made, even His eternal power andGodhead; so that man is without excuse. For eversince the creation of the world His invisible natureand attributes that is, His eternal power and divinityhave been made intelligible and clearly discernablein and through the things that have been — Hishandiworks. So men are without excuse — altogetherwithout any defense or justification.'"I'd like to add Psalms 19 to that — The heavensdeclare the glory of God and the firmament showsHis handywerk'," Parnell concluded.Topeka Daily CapitalJuly 1, 1967* Mr. Darrell Parnell is an elder in the TopekaR. P. Church.105

A PAGE FOR JUNIORSthe work. He had beautiful furniture, and the veryfinest food. He had lovely gardens filled withflowers. He had groves of trees, and all the landanyone could want. And yet he wasn't happy.TimmieA certain man owned a small garden near KingAhab's palace, and Ahab wanted that garden! Heasked the man to sell it to him. But the man said,by Gertrude M. Vannest"No, my father gave that piece of ground to me, andhis father gave it to him."King Ahab was angry. He pouted like a naughtyTimmie's nose was red. But he didn't have a cold little boy. He stomped into the house sulking. His— he had been crying. His face was dirty, where he dinner was ready, but he said, "No, I don't wanthad wiped away the tears with grimmy hands. His to eat!" His wife tried to coax him, but he said, "No."eyes were still filled with tears. To look at him you The corners of his mouth truned down, and he lookedpretty sour. He went into his bedroom and flop­would think something terrible had happened. Itcouldn't because he didn't have a good home and ped down on his bed and turned his face to the wall.parents. His Mama and Daddy loved him very much, When Timmie heard the story of King Ahaband he knew it. He hved in a nice house. He had a he said, "He was selfish and silly!" Then he droppednew bicycle in the garage that he had received for his head, and his face began to get red. He said, "Ihis birthday. He had toy trucks and cars. He had guess I was selfish and siUy, too. Please don't calltoy soldiers, Indians and cowboys, and aU kinds of me Ahab any more, andI'll try never to act like himother toys. He had books to read. He wasn't sick — again. I'U be happy and play with what I havehe didn't have a toothache and he hadn't hurt himselfable."instead of making myself and everyone else miser­Why was he crying? You could never guess. And Timmie reaUy tried. But sometimes whenThere was a httle toy that he couldn't find, and he he would forget, someone in his family would say,wanted it! It wasn't a nice toy, just a little plastic "King Ahab," and Timmie would quickly brightenthing from a box of crackerjack.up and smile.The Free MethodistHis Mama looked for it, and she couldn't findit. She said, 'Timmie, why don't you play with yournew road grader?""No," he pouted.His Daddy looked for it, and he couldn't find it.BIBLE QUIZHe said "Timmie, why don't you ride your new Match names and phrases.bicycle or wagon?"1. Beersheba A . City in valley of Jordan"I don't want to," said Timmie. T want my 2. GreeceB. Place of Christ's birthcrackerjack toy!"3. CyprusC. City of EgyptAll day he sat around as gloomy as a rain cloud. 4. Damascus D. Capital of PalestineHis Mama fixed a nice lunch for him, and tried in 5. Bethlehem E. A city of Syriaevery way to make him happy, but he just refused 6. Alexandria F. An islandto be that way.7. Jerusalem G. Seven wells therePoor Timmie! He had everything a httle boy 8. NileH. Land where Cain dweltneeded or could want, and yet he wasn't contented. 9. BethelI. Pool of healing waterHe wasn't enjoying life because, instead of thinking 10. JerichoJ. River of Egyptabout what he had, he was crying for more. His 11. NodK. Country of EuropeMamma and Daddy began to call him Ahab. Timmie 12. Bethesda L. Means "house of God"asked, "Why are you calling me that name?" Sothey told him the story about King Ahab in the Bible. Answers:Ahab had a big palace, with servants to do allIZl HIT V01 16 f8 Q.L 09 39 3fr d£ XS 01106 COVENANTER WITNESS

j Lesson Helps for the Week of September 10,1967 jSabbath SchoolLessonfor September 10, 1967.AN AMBASSADOR IN CHAINS:Acts 25:13 to 26:32.Comments by John K. Gault.Felix kept Paul in custody for twowhole years, at the end of which timehe was succeeded by Festus. We aretold the reason for his doing this;for one thing he thought that Paulwould eventually bribe him withmoney in order to gain his freedom:for another thing he wanted to pleasethe Jews. They were his constituencyand they were very desirous that Paulbe executed.Shortly after Festus became procuratorover the province of Judea hewent up to Jerusalem from Caesareato confer with the chief priest concerningPaul since much turmoil hadbeen stirred up over him. The highpriest showed himself to be a manutterly without honor in that he triedto persuade Festus to bring Paul toJerusalem for trial and he would seeto it that a band of assassins wouldkill him on the way. Festus showedhis fairness in that, while he had noregard for Paul's philosophy, yet hewould see to it that Paul had a fairtrial when he said, " Paul should bekept at Caesarea, and that he himselfwould depart shortly thither. Let themtherefore, said he, which among youare able, go down with me, and accusethis man, if there be any wickednessin him."When Festus returned to Caesareahe commanded that Paul be broughtbefore him. The Jews who had comefrom Jerusalem were present and theyvoiced "grievous complaints againstPaul, which they could not prove."Paul stood up and emphatically deniedtheir allegations. He said, "Neitheragainst the law of the Jews, neitheragainst the temple nor yet againstCaesar, have I offended anything atall." Festus, however was desirous toplease the Jews and so he asked Paul,Wilt thou go up to Jerusalem, andthere be judged of these things beforeme?" But Paul was thoroughly conversantwith the duplicity of the Jewsand so he answered Festus, "I stand atCaesar's judgment seat; — I appealunto Caesar."After a few days King HerodAgrippa, with his consort Bernice, whowas also his sister, came to Caesareato pay their respects to Festus, thenew governor. When they had beenthere "many days," Festus told Agrippaabout Paul whom he held incustody. He said concerning him,"They brought none accusation of suchthings as I supposed; but had certainquestions against him of their ownsuperstition, and of one Jesus, whichwas dead, whom Paul affirmed to bealive" (25:18,19). He continued to sayto Agrippa, "But when Paul had appealedto be reserved unto the hearingof Augustus, I commanded him to bekept till I might send him to Caesar"(v. 21). Agrippa then said to Festus, "Iwould also hear the man myself." So,on the next day Paul was broughtbefore Agrippa, who said to him,"Thou are permitted to speak forthyself."Paul expressed his pleasure overthe opportunity to speak before theking. He told that as a youth, hehad lived in Jerusalem and had beentrained to be a Pharisee. He said hewas being "judged for the hope of thep:omise made of God unto our fathers;— for which hope's sake, King Agrippa,I am accused of the Jews" (26:6,7).He told how he had persecuted thefollowers of Christ and "when theywere put to death, I gave my voiceagainst them." He continued to tellof his own conversion on the Damascusioad and followed by saying, "Whereupon,O king Agrippa, I was notdisobedient unto the heavenly vision."Paul declared before Festus andAgrippa, "I continue unto this daywitnessing both to small and great,saying none other things than thosewhich the prophets and Moses didsay should come: that Christ shouldsuffer, and that he should be the firstthat should rise from the dead, andshould show light unto the people,and to the Gentiles" (26:22,23).As Paul spoke, Festus said loudly,"Paul thou art beside thyself; muchlearning doth make thee mad. ButPaul said, I am not mad, most nobHFestus; but speak forth the words oftruth and soberness." Festus consideied Paul to be a fanatic, but Agrippasaid, "Almost thou persuadest me tobe a Christian." Agrippa was a fairmindedruler and he was convincedof Paul's innocence of any wrongdoing.He said to Festus, as he broughtthe hearing to a close, "This manmight have been set at liberty, if hehadnot appealed unto Caesar."1: Paul Was Not Disobedient to theHeavenly Vision.He had just recounted, beforeAgrippa and Festus, the particularsof his vision. As he journeyed to Dnmascus for the avowed purpose oiarresting more believers in Christ andbringing them in custody to Jerusalemfor trial and perhaps death, suddenlythere was a great light which madeeven the bright sunlight to be dimmed.Paul and those with him all fell tothe earth. They had to shield theireyes from such intense light. It wat 1then that he heard the voice of Jesuswho said, "Saul, Saul, why persecutestthou me? It is hard for thee :

God, for he said, "Who are thou, Lord?"It is implied that Paul had already begunto question the ethics of his conductin the stoning of Stephen and thearresting and imprisonment of others;but it had not occurred to him thatin so doing he was doing an injuryto Christ. But now the voice said, "Iam Jesus whom thou persecutest,"and yet it was the "Lord's" voice whichPaul recognized. Jesus and the Lordmust be one, therefore. Paul had beenperforming the most reprehensible ofall acts in that he had been persecutingChrist Himself. Suddenly Paul sawhimself as an exceedingly great sinner,and shown, by the light which blindedhim, that he could be immedatelykilled by the Jesus whom he had beenpersecuting. All people should seethemselves as exceedingly great sinnerswho are worthy to be put to deathby the very Christ whom they persecute.3: Paul Was Not Disobedient to aVision of His Capability.The heavenly voice said to him,"I have appeared unto thee for thispurpose, to make thee a minister anda witness both of these things whichthou hast seen, and of those things inthe which I will appear unto thee;"So, throughout his journeys Paul hadbeen endeavoring to fulfill the requirementsof this vision which hehad on the Damascus road. Whereverhe went he preached the gospel bothto "small and great." He could truthfullysay, "for me to live is Christ."In. his witness before Felix, Festus,and Agrippa he was fulfilling theideal of his vision.4: Paul Was Not Disobedient toHis Vision of a Needy World.Jesus continued to say to him,"Delivering thee from the people andfrom the Gentiles unto whom now Isend thee, to open their eyes, and toturn them from darkness to light, andfrom the power of Satan unto God."Paul saw a world lying at his feet,in a state of gross darkness. He resolvedthat he would do his utmostto bring people out of the darkness ofsin into the glorious light of the gospelof Christ. Through his obedience tothe vision Paul became one of theworld's greatest benefactors.Sin means "missing the mark."Agrippa in being "almost persuaded"missed the mark. His life became aconsummate failure."Leason based on International SundaySchool Lessons: the International Bible Lessonsfor Christian Teaching, copyrighted 1968by the Division of Christian Education, NationalCouncil of Churches of Christ in theU.S.A."Junior Topicfor September 10, 1967STEPS TO SALVATION: PART IIREPENTANCE AND CONFESSIONby Mrs. T. Richard HutchesonIn our last lesson we realized that"all have sinned and come short of theglory of God." We saw that it is impossiblefor us sinful creatures toapproach to God with our burden ofsin. How can we be rid of this so we canbe acceptable to God.First, we must hate our sins. Whenwe see how they must look to Godin His perfect righteousness, then weare ashamed and sorry for our sin.We can remember times when we forgotGod and did our own will, or wedid not do to others as we would likethem to do to us. Now we wish we haddone better. We wish we could makeall wrongs we have done right again.This is repentance — being sorry forour sin. How sorry? Sorry enoughto want to change ourselves and thewrong we have done.We find examples in the Bible ofpeople who repented and were sorryfor their sin when they saw how itlooked in God's sight. When Jesuscame to Zaccheus's house, Zaccheusrepented. He was a tax collector, andmay have taken in more taxes than heshould, keeping the extra for himself,as some of the other tax collectorsdid. When he saw his sin, he said thathe would give half of his riches to thepoor, and if he had taken anythinghe shouldn't, he would give back fourtimes as much. (Luke 19:8)When Jesus was a guest in thehome of a Pharisee, a woman who wasa sinner came in, weeping. She washedJesus' feet with her tears, and wipedthem with her long hair, then anointedhis feet with ointment which she hadb: ought. She did this to show that shewas sorry for her sin. Jesus said, "Hersins, which are many, are forgiven."This story is found in Luke 7:36-50.The Old Testament book of Jonahtells how the whole city of Ninevehrepented when they heard that the citywould be destroyed because of itssinfulness. Then it says in Jonah 3:10that God saw their repentance, and Hedid not distory the city after all, becausethe people were sorry for theirsins.We may think of Peter as one ofthe disciples, one of the three whowere closest to Jesus, as an especiallygood man, but he also was sorry forhis sin. He was human, like any ofus. He was the one who denied threetimes that he even knew Jesus, butwhen the cock crew, he rememberedwhat Jesus had said to him in warning.When he realized that he had alreadydenied his Lord, he was very sorry,and went out and wept bitterly. (Luke22:62)Another time when Peter realizedwhat a sinful man he was, was thetime when the fishermen had all workedall night, but had caught no fish.Jesus told them to let down their netonce more, so many fish were caughtin it that the net broke. Peter realizedthat this truly was the Son of God whocould do such miracles, and that hehimself was only a poor sinful humanperson, so he cried, "Depart from me;for I am a sinful man O Lord" (Luke5:8).When John the Baptist preachedabout the coming of Christ, the textof his message was, "Repent ye, forthe kingdom of heaven is at hand"(Matt. 3:2). Also Jesus, when He beganHis preaching ministry, gave the samemessage, "Repent, for the kingdom ofheaven is at hand" (Matt. 4:17).The Bible stories do not alwaysend with repentance, as we would wishthem to do. Many people did not believe.In the Old Testament the prophetswarned the people many times torepent and turn from their idols, butthey would not.If we repent we must really meanit, for God can see our hearts. InLuke 6:46 we read about some peoplewho wanted to be included withJesus' followers, but Jesus could seethat they were not really ready tofollow Him. He said to them, "Andwhy call ye me Lord, Lord, and do notthe things which I say?" (Luke 6:46)If we say we have changed, we5: To Be "Almost Persuaded" isshould be ready to do something aboutFatal.it. But the opposite is also true. Ifwe have changed, we should be ready108 COVENANTER WITNESS

to say so. This is confession. Repentanceis a feeling in the heart of beingsorry for our sin, and confession issaying so. If you had taken somethingwhich belonged to another person, andwere truly sorry afterward, you wouldwant to go to the other person, tellhim what you had done, that you weresorry, and that you wanted to returnto him what you had taken. Feelingsorry is not enough; we should say so.James 5:16 says, "Confess your faultsone to another, and pray one foranother." If we confess our faults toone another, how much more shouldwe confess our sin before GodourFather.There is a temptation to look a-round us and say, "Oh, my sin isn't sobad when I see what someone else hasdone. He's lots more of a sinner thanI am." This is Satan's temptation tokeep us from confessing our sin. Ifwe just compare sins with sins, ofcourse none of them look very bad.But when we compare them with theperfect righteousness which Christwould like for us, then we see how badour sins really are. This brings us toconfess them. The Holy Spirit helpsus.God's Word is full of promises forus, and one of the most wonderful isfound in I John 1:9: "If we confess oursins, He is faithful and just to forgiveus our sins, and to cleanse us from allunrighteousness."TO THE LEADER:Memory verse: Proverbs 28:13 —He that covereth his sins shall notprosper, but whoso confesseth and forsakeththem shall have mercy.References are to be found inII Cor. 7:10; Ezekiel 18:30,31; Mark 1:5; Mark 1:14,15; Luke 15:3-7; Nehemiah9:2.Discuss Shorter Catechism QuestionNo. 87.Psalms to sing: 32, p. 74, w. 5,6,7;25, p. 59, w. 7-12.Prayer MeetingTopicfor September 13, 1967."THE PRAYER OF HEZEKIAH"Scripture: Isaiah 37:1-38by Rev. Robert McFarlandOur study this evening is a Biblestudy of a prayer of Hezekiah. Encourageall members of the congregationto read this chapter before thetime of prayer. It is suggested thatyou approach the discu?sion questionsin an atmosphere of a Bible study.Suggested Psalms: 118, p. 284, w. 1-4;123, p. 317, vv. 1-4; 130, p. 325, w. 1-5.Suggested Prayer Requests:A. Select a specific missionaryfamily; pray for each member.B. Pray for a minister for the IndianMission in Apache, Oklahoma.C. Pray for a spirit of love duringthe coming communion seasons.D. Pray for each of your elders,that they might be a witness in yourcommunity, and an encouragement toyour pastor.E. Pray for the visitors you havehad at your church during the summermonths. (Have these listed before theg- oup)Suggested questions for group andBible study discussion.1. Give a 5-minute summary of thelife of Hezekiah up to this time.2. What had Hezekiah heard? (Accordingto Isaiah 37:1)3. What part of prayer is foundin Isaiah 37:16?State Inspection4. What part of prayer is foundin Isaiah 37:17-20? What would yousuggest that misht apply to your congregation?5. Y. hat pa.t of a prayer meeting issuggested by the appearance of Isaiahin Isaiah 37:21,22?6. According to Isaiah 37:14, howdid Hezekiah approach the problemsof his "congregation"?7. Yv'hy should we pray for a victoriousChristian life? Isaiah 37:20.8. What were the results of theprayer of Hezekiah? Isaiah 37:36. Whatresults can we expect of our meetingtonight?For if there come unto your assemblya man with a gold ring, ingoodly apparel, and there come inalso a poor man in vile raiment; Andye have respect to him that weareththe gay clothing, and say unto him,Sit thou here in a good place; and sayto the poor, Stand thou there, or sithere under my footstool: Are ye notthen partial in yourselves, and are becomejudges of evil thoughts?James 2:2-4.When the number of chariots on the highways was multiplied the senatorsmade a decree, and the ruler of the land signed it, that evelry chariot shouldbe inspected twice a year. If the proper sticker were not affixed at the leftside of the windshield before the last day of the first month, and again beforethe last day of the seventh month, then was the owner subject to punishment atthe hands of the magistrate. Therefore did every man take his chariot to aninspection station twice yearly. Some there who went at the first opportunityand got it over with. These were the wise. But many the:e were who were foolishand put it off till the last possible moment. Occasionally one would overlookit till the final month and he would be told, "See, many have entered in beforcthee.Take thy chariot home and come at a more convenient season and leaveit and we'll work on it when we can."Now there be some who keep their chariots in good condition, and he th;>tdoeth this hath little to fear at inspection, but there be many who do not.Therefore is inspection a good thing, for without it who knoweth if the otherfellow coming at high speed hath good brakes and can stop in time, or even ifthine own exhaust system is safe so that carbon monoxide cometh not nearthee and thy passengers? And who likes to be blinded by lights that are out ofadjustment? Many other such things there be that are caught at inspection.If the handiwork of man needs to be checked regularly so also does manhimself. Let him see his dentist twice a year and have regular physical checVups,and let him not neglect his spiritual nature as well. This is the season ofconferences and camp, an excellent opportunity to be brought face to face withone's true condition, so that which is lacking may be supplied and what is outof order may be made right.AUGUST 16, 1967 109

SUBSCRIPTION NOTICESubscriptions are due from thesecongregations, September 1, 1967:Chicago, Denison, Oakdale, Syracuse.TOPEKASeveral men attended the Men'sRally at Hebron, Saturday, May 20.Good reports came back from theirmeeting.We were all saddened at the deathof Mrs. Taggart on May 21, 1967. Shefaithfully attended all the worshipservices right to the time of her deathand was a lovely Christian example forall.Graduates from various schools thisyear are as follows: Helmar Heckelfrom Washburn University, KathrynElliott from Geneva College, AllenKoci from Western Bible Institute.From the Topeka High School: SharonDavidson, Jerry Jolmston and PaulNusbaum, and Kim Stegall from WashburnRural High School. Fred Martinfrom the Jefferson Medical School.Congregatulations to each of theseyoung people.While our pastor was away forSynod the young people conducted themorning service, June 18. In the eveningwe had Rev. Peter Fosburg of theCentral United Presbyterian Churchof Topeka as a guest minister.We rejoice with Mr. and Mrs. MarkPierson in the birth of their son,Jeffery Dale, on May 27. Mrs. Piersonis the former Joyce Calhoon.Congratulations to Geary andNeva Beeson (Neva Johnston) on thebirth of their new son, Geary Lewis,Jr., born June 22, 1967. Mr. Beeson isstationed with the Marines at SanDiego, Calif.A successful Vacation Bible Schoolwas held from July 10-21. About 80were enrolled, with an average attendanceeach day of 55. Thirty-eight hadperfect attendance. The closing programwas presented Friday evening,July 21, with many parents and friendsattending.the messages of the day.Dr. Elliott and family vacationedin Colorado for two weeks the last ofJuly. While they enjoyed their rest wewere happy to have Dr. M. W.Dougherty minister to us on July 30.We expect to have the Rev. J. PaulMcCracken with us on August 6, 1967.Our prayers and interest go withMr. Leroy Gibeson as he enters theNavy for a four-year term of duty.He will be stationed at San Diego forabout 10 weeks. His address is asfollows:Leroy GibesonB62 7519Company 395USN RTCSan Diego, Calif. 92133FRESNO, CALIFORNIAFour babies, Tamara Copeland,Charles Hammond, Janet Keithley,and Kathy Martin were baptized onMarch 12.Rev. Frank Stewart brought helpfulmessages as our pastor's communionassistant on April 16. We were happythat our elder, Mr. Matt Chestnut,who had been unable to come tochurch for six months due to illness,was able to attend all these services.A revealing highlight of our March31 family night was the "NewlywedGame" with Janice Keithley as M. C.and Bill and Willa Copeland, Philand Karen Hammond, George andEileen Wagner, and our pastor andhis wife, Ray and Mary McCrackenas contestants.The fire-damaged parsonage wasmoved off the church property onApril 13, opening the way for an offstreetparking lot. Russ Webster completedthe insulating of an attic classroomand a number of other workprojects were undertaken — especiallywith all the work involved with preparingto move the building, andclean-up, plumbing, and filling thebasement hole. Mr. and Mrs. GeorgeW T agner were especially helpful withtheir tractor and truck for haulingdebris.The Mother-Daughter Banquet washeld on May 11 at the Villa BasqueRestaurant. On the evening of May 14,the WMS sponsored a Thank Offeringmeeting featuring Joe and JaneBourgoine and their family, speakingfor the Wyeliffe Bible Translators.They told how Christ had brought anabrupt about-face in their lives andgave an interesting presentation, withcolor slides, of the work for whichthey training.Our pastor has been conducting amembership training class.In June, Don Gouge representedour congregation as elder delegate atSynod along with Rev. RaymondMcCracken.Dianne and Julie McCracken celebratedtheir first birthday on June 2.Our congratulations go to SteveFischer and Shirley Northrup whowere graduated from high school inJune. A family night dinner was heldon June 16 to honor the graduates andthe fathers in the church.VBS was held for eight days, July5-12. On Sabbath, July 9, the VBS childrenwere guests at a special worshipservice with Rev. Mr. and Mrs. Mc­Cracken presenting an illustratedGospel message. Eight children respondedby going forward at theconclusion of the service indicatingtheir desire to accept Christ. Therewere 63 children from age 3 throughthose who completed the 6th grade whowere enrolled. Mrs. Jeanne Gougewas the director; Mrs. Janice Keithley,Mrs. Eileen Wagner, and Mrs. KarenHammond taught 17 Beginners; Mrs.Mary McCracken, Mrs. Virginia Copelandand Mrs. Annette Fischer taught26 Primary children; and Mrs. WillaCopeland and Mrs. Frances Mooretaught 20 Juniors. Lois Copeland wasrefreshments chairman for the closingprogram at which there was an excellentturn-out of parents. Twentythreechildren received awards forperfect attendance and another 22 missedonly one day. Norma and DianneWagner, Kathy and Bill Gouge, andGloria Chavarria were efficient VBS"all around helpers." Bill Copelandmade two new tables with folding legs,which were a big help to the school.Our S. S. Superintendent, LoisWe were happy to have the Dr.Copeland, has been teaching the children'sdepartment ABC verses fromJ. Renwick Wright of Dromara, NorthernIreland, and his family worshipthe Psalms during the opening worshipperiod.with us on July 23. Dr. Wright brought110 COVENANTER WITNESS

The Question:Answer Man Carroll Stegall says there can beShould a Christian be a Member of the Masonic no Actual Agreement Between Christianity andLodge?MasonryThe Answer:There are a great many good people who belongto the Masonic Order and its various affiliated bodies(DeMolay for boys, Rainbow for girls, Eastern Starfor women.) The Masonic Order is also involved inmany good works which no one could die approve:hospitals for crippled children, retirement homes,and so on. A great many important people have beenMasons: George Washington, Benjamin Franklin,both Roosevelts, Harry Truman and about a dozenother Presidents were Masons. In many parts of thecountry, membership in one or more secret lodges isnecessary for acceptance and success in businessand politics. It would be surprising if many churchmembers did not belong to such groups; and hundredsof thousands do. I have been told by those whohave talked with me that they were helped by theirparticipation in various ways.In spite of this, Masonry and Christianity havenever co-existed comfortably; devotion to one willalmost certainly reduce participation in the other.There are denominations which forbid their membersto belong to the Masons (Roman Cathohc,Missouri Synod Lutheran, Christian Reformed,Reformed Presbyterian of N. A., etc.) The reasonsfor this are not hard to define.Firstly, Masonry seems to go counter to severalexplicit Scriptural admonitions. The Bible forbidsthe joining in wicked oaths (Lev. 5:1-5). Masonry isfull of oaths to commit violent acts against personsdisloyal to the order (tear out their tongues, burntheir entrails, bury them at low tide, etc.) Of coursethese oaths are a childish sort of play-acting; evenso, there they are. The Bible further forbids Christiansto bind themselves in mixed bodies (II Cor. 6:14-18) and Masonry is historically tolerant of non-Christian religions, accepting Jews, Moslems, Buddhistsor any who will profess a behef in God —although Voltaire, the famous atheist, was alsoaccepted. Then, too, the Bible forbids Christians toparticipate in secret activities. In Ephesians 5:11-13Paul makes reference to "mystery religions" of theFirst Century and directs behevers to have no feUowshipwith such, but rather to reprove them. Masonrycorresponds in many ways (including the use ofmuch sexual symbolism) to ancient mystery secretorders.Apart from direct Scriptural injunctions, wemust ask whether Masonry tends for the individual:toward greater Christian growth or awsy from it?It would be a strange arrogance for any group tocontend that their contribution could improveChrist's kingdom; but, of course, countless cults dojust this. It is here that Masonry seriously requiresour examination, for as we have suggested, it competesdirectly against Christianity, rather thansupplementing or assisting it.For an individual to rise through the "orders"he must pay increasingly large fees; this money doesnot go to any work that brings glory to the name ofChrist or His church. The Mason must also spendlong hours in memorizing the "rite work" to advance;this time does not save souls, does not memorizeScripture, and does not result in prayer or Biblestudy. It is all taken away frcm Christ, if a believerindulges in it. Most serious of all is the fact thatMasonry competes with Christianity in the areasof theology and ethics. The ethics is sub-Christianand cultic; a Mason must promise not to commitadultery — with the wife of another Mason. Hemust promise to provide help — to other Masons.This ethics is seriously taken but the corollary implicationis very serious indeed: it is that by a lifeof good Masonic works the member can assurehimself of salvation.It is on this ground that I must conclude thatthere can be no actual agreement between Christianityand Masonry. I have known a Mason whodied a lost soul, explicitly denying Christ becau*xhe said he did not need Him; he showed me hisShriner's fez and sabre and said, "There's my religion."Masons who profess Christ and want to clingto their Masonry deny this conflict exists, but theyare not honestly facing the implications of theirMasonry or their Christianity. In my pastorates Ihave known many Masons; none of them weregrowing, Bible-hungry, prayer-meeting and witnessingChristians. On the other hand, I also hav

SEMINARY CONVOCATIONThe pubhc is cordially invited to theopening Convocation of the Reformed PresbyterianTheological Seminary, Wednesday, September6, 1967, 7:45 P. M., at the SeminaryChapel.Professor E. Clark Copeland, S. T. M., D. D.,Professor of Bibhcal Languages and Literature,will deliver the lecture, "Pastoral Preaching inthe Epistle to the Hebrews."HEAD-ON COLLISION IS BESTA leading theologian, called Van Til, has writtena striking book, and in it he declares that God meansthe Christian to state his position "without compromise."The true position must, he says, come intohead-on collision with modern thought and modernscience; and I will give his reasons for the benefitof the older person at high school or university, whois surprised why reasons for behef in God, so clearto the Christian, fail to convence. AU men "know"God, according to Romans 1. AU men suppress thisknowledge. "The natural man will always find theChristian revelation incredible and the evidenceinadequate." Why? Because he is a rebel, runningfrom his Maker. He has an "axe to grind." He muston no account admit that there are footprints ofGod all around him, or his cause is lost! He wiUinvent a naturalistc theory hke evolution, and wiUstick to it in spite of lack of evidence. The mostfairy-tale fables, such as the freckle that turned intothe eye, can be solemnly swallowed, yet revelationby the Creator about the way He made things is"clearly incredible.""By faith we understand" creation, and, as VanTil says, if we rely upon the Spirit of God and useScripture and steer clear of the "design proving aDesigner" argument, however clear it may seem tous once we are Christians, God wiU work and dothe convincing as He chooses.15^08THE ANSWERFrom page 111against lodges. Moody, Wesley, Torrey, Finney,A. J. Gordon and many other such men did so.Those interested in pursuing this matter shouldobtain The Encyclopedia of Freemasonry by AlbertG. Mackey; it is obtainable in used bookstores, andis the definite apologetic for the order. There isalso a mission to Masons, seeking to lead them toChrist, caUed The National Christian Associationitprovides pamphlets andJxacts. Address is 850 W.Madison St., Chicago, 111.Reformed Presbyterian ReporteNOTICEWe have been most grateful to the readers ofthe Covenanter Witness for responses that you havegiven to our calls for help. Again, we come to youwith the hope that there are periodicals which areno longer of any use to you that may be needed tocomplete our fUes in the Seminary Library.We need, and have not been able to secure fromthe pubhshers, the foUowing:Church and State, Vol. XXVIII, No. 2, June, 1959.Evangelical Quarterly, F. F. Bruce, present edit1943 Vol. 15, No. 2 - April-June1944 Vol. 16, No. 4 - Oct.-Dec.1947 Vol. 19, No. 4 - Oct.-Dec.1948 Vol. 20, No. 4 - Oct.-Dec.1949-1953 - all issues are missing1954 Vol. 26, No. 2; No. 3; No. 41955 Vol. 27, No. 1; No. 2; No. 41957 Vol. 29, No. 3; No. 41958 Vol. 30, No. 41959 Vol. 31, No. 2; No. 41960 Vol. 32, No. 11961 Vol. 33, No. 1recent fdes of the Christian Statesman. From 186We have also been trying to complete the more1899 these are complete. From that point on thefollowing are needed:1900 — aU issues are needed1901 — all issues are needed1917 — aU issues are needed1918 Vol. LII, No. 3-April1925 Vol. LIX, No. 2-Feb.1926 Vol. LX, No. 2-Feb.1928 Vol. LXII No. 5; No. 7; No. 8;No. 9; No. 11; No. 121930 Vol. LXIV, No. 2; No. 41931 Vol. LXV, No. 121932 Vol. LXVI, No. 101934-1952 aU issues missing1953 Vol. XCVII, No. 1; No. 2; No.61957 Vol. CI No. 3Also, The Goal Post1964 October (needed before we can bind thelast three years)112 COVENANTER WITNESS

To The TruthJESUS CHRIST AS SAVIOUR, LORD, HEAD OF MEN, THE CHURCH AND NATIONS.VOLUME LXXIX NO. 8 AUGUST 23, 1967 STERLING, KANSASBIBLE LESSONS FOR THE WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 17, 1967! \j ALCOHOL AND TURNING-POINTS IN HISTORY jDrinking (only beer and wine up to 1200 A. D.for there were no distilled spirits before that time)\ definitely mentioned in history as one of the factors jin each of these events:B. C. 720 "The Captivity of Israel" — Hosea606 "The FaU of Nineveh" — Strabo, Grindrod586 "The Captivity of Judah" — Isaiah,Jeremiah539 "The Fall of Babylon" — Grindrod323 "The Death of Alexander the Great" —Grindrod, RoUinA. D. 200 "The FaU of Rome" — Pliny, Gibbon1066 "The Battle of Hastings" — Malmesbury,Grindrod1776 "The Battle of Trenton" — AmericanHistory.I1815 "The Battle of Waterloo" — Scientific jj Temperance Journal, Summer 1932 j1914 "The First World War" — Gordon: TheDry Flight in Europe, PP 35-38.j1940 "The FaU of France" — Newsweek, jj September 2, 1940. ji" National Voice t

THE COVENANTER WITNESSOfficial organ of the ReformedPresbyterian Church of N. A.— CVANWUCAI pnm* AWOCUTWHEditor: Rev. M. W. Dougherty, D.D.125 N. 4th StreetSterling, Kansas 67579Phone 316 — Br. 8 • 3472Printed each Wednesday under the supervision of theBoard of Publication by The Patterson Press, Winchester,Kansas 66097.Contributing Editors: Department Editors:Rev. Kenneth Smith Rev. John TweedDr. G. M. RobbMrs. Robert B. MaineRev. John McMillan Mrs. Willis EdgarRev. C. E. Caskey Rev. John K. GaultOpinions expressed in our columns are those of theindividual writer, not necessarily the views of the ReformedPresbyterian Church or the editor.All material to appear in The Covenanter Witnessshould be typewritten, double-spaced, and should be inSterling, Kansas two weeks before it is to be printed.The cost of all pictures is 30 cents per square inch.Obituaries — All words in excess of one hundred fifty,one cent per word. Money should accompany such notices.SUBSCRIPTION RATESIndividual (1 year): U.S. and Canada, $4.00, BritishIsles 35/-, all other places, $5.00;Individual (2 year): U.S. and Canada, $7.00, BritishIsles 63/-, all other places, $9.00;Group: U.S. and Canada, $3.00, British Isles 28/-, allother places, $4.00.9-month student subscription — $1.50; 5-month introductoryoffer —$1.00; 2 gift subscriptions to persons outsideof the R. P. Church — $2.00 each. Single copies, 10c.Subscription Agent for U.S. and Canada: Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Subscription Agent for the British Isles: Rev. HughWright, B.A., 12, Knutsford Drive, Belfast 14, NorthernIreland.All checks should be made payable to The CovenanterWitness in U. S. currency.Give one month's notice of a change of address. Sendboth the new and the old address to Mrs. M.W. Dougherty.Postmaster: Please send Form 3579 to Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Second class postage paid at Winchester, Kansas 66097WE HOLD THE FOLLOWING TO BE TRUTHS OF SCRIPTURE:The Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the only infalliblerule of faith and conduct.The Trinitarian conception of the Godhead.Faith in Jesus Christ as the only way of salvation.Salvation by Grace.Assurance of salvation as a possible Christian experience.The Gospel Call and Election.The Holy Spirit as the Author of regeneration.Sanctification through the cooperating agency of the Holy Spirit.The fact of death and hell as the destiny of the lost and heavenas the destiny of the saved.That the Church of Jesus Christ consists of all those who believein Him together with their children.The Divine Right of the Presbyterian form of Church Government.The Lord Jesus Christ as the only King and Head of His Church.That terms of membership or communion are essential to thewelfare of the Church.Evangehst Kenny Joseph, having servedover 15 years in Japan as an evangelist-editor,announces that the S. O. S. (Save Old Stamps)program in 76 countries has resulted in helpingprint over 34 miUion pages of Christian hteraturein five languages. The S. O. S. programis being accelerated into not only postagestamps, but also TRADING STAMPS — thecurrent project is a VW unit and other missionaryequipment to take back to Japan inAugust. All canceUed postage and tradingstamps and books should be sent only to thisaddress % REAP, 6821 North Ottawa Avenue,Chicago, Illinois, 60631. Please do not use theformer Cahfornia or N. Y. addresses. Any andall kinds of trading and postage stamps arewelcome, with no exceptions at aU.This Week's WitnessAround the World 115Glimpses of the Rehgious World ... .116Christ WU1 Return In Judgment . . 117Break Down of Law and Order 118Training — 1967 120A Page For Juniors 122Lesson Helps 123Packing 125Church News 126The duty which rests upon officers to maintain discipline andpreserve the purity of the Church.Spiritual worship as a divine requirement mediated through theLord Jesus Christ.The exclusive use of the Psalms in the worship of the Church.The Protestant interpretation of the Sacraments.The divine right of the institution of Marriage and that it is notto be dissolved except by adultery or "irremediable" desertion.The Sabbath as a day sacred to rest and worship.The duty of nations and their civil rulers to honor Christ asKing of Kings and Lord of Lords.That Christian citizens are under obligation to obey lawful authority.The right and duty of the Christian citizen to dissent from allgovernmental and national disobedience to the Law of God.That the Covenants of the past are still binding.From "The Communicant's Class" by J. B. Tweed114 COVENANTER WITNESS

AROUND THE WORLDRev. Mr. Charles Chao, through the good officesof his daughter, Helen, was able to complete a3-month trip around the world. He spoke 60 times,in many countries, including many meetings withChinese groups in such countries as Japan, Hongkong,Taiwan, France, HoUand, Belgium and GreatBritain. This contact with Chinese Christian ministers,and with business, consular and diplomaticleaders, is vital to the development of an indigenousChinese hterature work, such as Mr. Chao envisions.He gave a very encouraging report of interestin this great undertaking, to the Board of Directors,meeting last month in Pittsburgh and later in BeaverFalls, Pennsylvania.In Taiwan he met with the hterature committeeof the Presbyterian and Reformed Missions Council(the Rev. Richard B. Gaffin, OPC, the Rev. Isaac C.Jen,CRC, and the Rev. Mr. Kim, Korean PresbyterianChurch). They are working to aid and encourage theproduction of Christian hterature in Chinese, andare eager for Mr. Chao to move to Taiwan immediately,to establish a headquarters for the work there.Mr. Chao was introduced to several able youngmen, some of whom have been translating andpublishing Reformed materials privately, one inHongkong, another in France. A young man hasjust finished his theological seminary training inthe Reformed Seminary in Austraha and is interestedhi hterature work, and there are Chinesepastors in Japan, the Philippines, Singapore, GreatBritain, and many other places, besides Taiwanwhere the bulk of RTF distribution has been going,who have read and promoted RTF hterature formany years.Mr. Murray of the British RTF had been verydiligent and effective in gaining speaking engagementsfor Mr. Chao in the British Isles, includingthe General Assembhes of the Free PresbyterianChurch of Scotland at Inverness, and the FreeChurch of Scotland in Edinburgh. At this latter hemet one of our directors, and formerly Chairman ofthe British RTF, Prof. G. N. M. Collins.3-YEAR PLAN AND MOVE TO TAIWANBy motion the Board of Directors accepted thereorganization plan proposed by the ConstitutionCommittee (Drs. Boyle, Vos, WiUson, and Loughridge),already approved by means of a mail pollof the Directors. This plan provides for a three-yeartransition, from a translating-publishing-distributingagency, to a fund raising agency. While the translating,publishing, and distributing would be carriedby Chinese leaders, approved manuscripts wouldbe financed by units, by the RTF. Functions suchas employment of translators, administration andmanagement would be carried by Chinese.In order to carry out this plan, a tentative schedulewas approved, which calls for Mr. Chao to go toTaiwan by air (cost about $1400, fare $900 andextra hving aUowance, $100 a month) in January1968, for 6 months. He would then return for Mrs.Chao and their two youngest chUdren, Lois andRose. They would go to Taiwan by ship ($2700) fortwo years, with the expectation that this movecould be permanent.This orderly — and, we beheve, wise plan oftransition wUl be expensive. However, we beheve itwill provide a sohd base for a continuing and expandingpublication work in Chinese hands. It willprovide for cooperation of western Christians inareas where they are competent to serve, withChinese who almost alone, are competent in theirown language and culture. It faces realistically thediminishing effectiveness of the foreign missionary.We have suffered a httle more than usual fromthe summer drop in contributions, so are back about$500.The Reformation Translation Fellowship NewsletterNEW YORK — Probably the earliest associationof any size or permanence organized to distributeBibles was the Canstein Bible Institute, formed inGermany about 1710. The Institute printed Luther'sBible and by 1722 also issued Scriptures in Bohemianand Polish. The British and Foreign BibleSociety, the "mother" of the American Bible Society,was organized in London in 1804, and the ABS wasformed 12 years later.GLIMPSES OF THE RELIGIOUS WORLDfrom page 116"Selective conscientious objection. . . tends topromote chaos and anarchy in time of nationalemergency," the statement said.Capital punishment, which numerous Protestantchurch bodies have opposed, was declared "inaccord with the Holy Scriptures and the LutheranConfession."AUGUST 23, 1967 115

Glimpses of the Religious World"TRUE BUDDISM" GROWS RAPIDLY IN U. S. A.(EP) Two years ago there were an estimated25,000 behevers in Nichiren Shoshu ("True Buddhism").Today there are 40,000 and leaders say2,000 new converts are being added in the UnitedStates each month as the Nipponese sect wages itsholy war in the west."This isn't like Zen Buddhism which appeals tobeatniks," says Masayasu Sadanaga, chief of thejoint headquarters of Nichiren Shosu of America inLos Angeles. "These are good common-sense people."The Buddhist sect requires self discipline forits followers — enough to ask them to spend asmuch as one hour each morning and an hour atnight reciting from books caUed sutras. Over andover they chant a four-word ritualas their devotionaltime wears on: Nam-myoho-renge-kyo" — roughlytranslated from words in Chinese and Sanskritsignifying devotion, univeral phenomena, the lawsof cause and effect and all "living sounds" or activityin the world. It is intended to signify the essenceof the universe.Mr. Sadanaga told EP News Service the movementbegan as the f anaticaUy nationalistic Sokagakkaiin Japan but that in America Nichiren Shoshuhas dropped the offensive nationahsm in favor ofthe rehgious doctrine.No ethical standards are prescribed by theleaders of the rapidly growing sect, but the foUowersof the rehgion have no appearance of lazinessor immorahty. They are running a tight ship toreach their goals of worldwide evangehzation forBuddha.THE REV. JOHN McMILLANR. D. 1, Box 337WALDEN, NEW YORKThe mark of the sword, stiU clearly visible, althoughcarefully repaired, is a reminder that three centuriesago it was illegal for Protestant Christians to holdservices of worship.Herbert Brinks, of Heritage HaU, is of theopinion that a small congregation was surprisedby soldiers who dispersed the worshipers and triedto destory the Bible by cutting it to pieces, but it wasspared with only the scars of the sword-thrust whichcut through much of the New Testament portion.THE CONTINUING REVIVAL IN INDONESIAEstimates of the number of new behevers inJesus Christ in Indonesia during the past 18 monthsvary from 200 to 250 thousand.The Presbyterian Journal points out that one ofthe amazing things about this mass movement isthat many of the converts are coming out of Islam.There has never been such a large scale movementof Mushms to Christianity.Indonesian Protestants number approximately5 milhon — about five per cent of the population.One Batak church group which in 75 years hadgrown to a membership of 30,000 by the end of1965, reports that in the subsequent 14 months15,000 new members were added and 6,000 areunder instruction.A large segment of the converts are disiUusionedCommunists who had thought that Indonesia wouldfind its future in Communism but have now turnedto Christ.Early morning, and in some cases all night,prayer meetings are common in the revival areas.CALVIN COLLEGE GETS 1636 BIBLEA 330-year-old Bible, the prized possession ofa South Dakota famUy, was given recently to theHeritage HaU coUection of Calvin College by Mrs.Angeline Hannink of New HoUand, South Dakota,and her sister, Mrs. Nelhe Vander Zee of Platte,South Dakota.The Banner reports that the Bible, which wasprinted in 1636 and was once desecrated by a swordthrustthat nearly destroyed it, was brought from theNetherlands many years ago by Frederick Van Zee.116MISSOURI SYNOD ON CIVIL DISOBEDIENCE(EP) In the final session of its 47th RegularConvention in New York City, the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod endorsed non-violent, civU disobedienceas a means of protest against laws that areclearly unjust.However, selected conscientious objection wascondemned and conscientious objection of any kindwas approved only in exceptional cases and on thebasis of conscience.see page 115COVENANTER WITNESS

DEVOTIONAL MESSAGE FOR SYNODChrist Will Return In JudgmentPastor Keith E. Copeland, Orlando, FloridaRevelation 1:7The subject of Christ's return in judgment isone of great value to the Christian and to the churchin carrying out the task of glorifying God and extendingHis kingdom. It exalts Christ as King ofkings and Lord of lords. It reveals Him as bothSavior and Lord. It declares His glory and triumph.Our text declares that "every eye shaU see Him."It tells us that He shaU come "in the clouds." Theserefer back to the prophecies of Zechariah 2:10 andDaniel 7:13. Jesus prophesied it in Matthew 26:64when He said, "Hereafter shall ye see the Son ofMan sitting on the right hand of power, and comingin the clouds of heaven." It was verified by theangels who spoke to the disciples after the Ascension."Why stand ye gazing up into heaven? Thissame Jesus which was taken from you into heavenshall so come in like manner as ye have seen Himgo into heaven."This great doctrine is ignored by many, fearedby some, and misused by others. But since thisdoctrine exalts the person of Jesus Christ, andpresses His claims upon us and others, we mustconsider how it is of value to us in our ministry.Challenges to RepentanceFirst of aU, it chaUenges the unregenerate torepent. "Every eye shaU see Him," says our text.It further declares that especially those that "piercedHim" shall see Him. Finally it declares that "allkindreds of the earth shall wail because of Him."The Arab-Isareh war has caused many overimaginativeminds and speculative souls to be extrainquistive about the time of the Second Coming. Totheir credit, many of them have used their calculationsto urge people to repent before it is too late.However, there are several things inherent inthis great doctrine which urge, yea, demand thatmen repent, without the speculations about thetime that the event shall take place.For instance, the Bible speaks of it as an eventwhich is always near at hand. A characteristicverse is Philippians 4:5. "Let your moderation beknown unto aU men. The Lord is at hand." Hebrews10:37 and Jame 5:8 verify this. In Revelation 3:11,Christ declares, "Behold, I come quickly." TheseScriptures say that the Second Coming was at handin the apostles' day, is at hand now, and shall be athand in the future. Therefore, repent and be ready!Further, Scripture speaks of the Second Comingas a time which is unknown to man. In I Thessalonians5:2 we read, "For ourselves know perfectlythat the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in thenight." This is confirmed in Matthew 24 and Revelation16:17.In addition, Scripture speaks of it as a time ofpunishment, separation, and fear. Matthew 25 recordstwo parables which teach this. The wise andfoohsh virgins are separated by the coming of thebridegroom. The wise who had oU were receivedinto the feast and the others were left out. Also, inthe parable of the talents, those who used theirtalents heard, "Well done, thou good and faithfulservant, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord." Theother one had his talent taken from him and waspunished.This is all supported by Matthew 25:31-33,"When the Son cf Man shall come in His glory, andall the holy angels with Him, then shall He sit uponthe throne of His glory: and before Him shall begathered all nations: and He shaU separate themone from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheepfrom the goats: and He shall set the sheep on Hisright hand, but the goats on the left."So you see, sinners are urged to repent becauseJesus is coming in judgment.Charges FaithfulnessThe second value of the doctrine of Christ'sreturn in judgment is that it charges the Christianto be faithful. Though our text points out thatsinners shall see Jesus' glorious return and beafraid; it also says that "every eye shall see Him."Christians shaU see Him, too. "For we must allappear before the judgment seat of Christ; thatevery one may receive the things done in his body,according to that he hath done, whether it be goodor bad." Since we must also stand and be judged byChrist at His second coming, we had best be faithfulbetween now and then.In Titus, chapter two, aged men, young men,aged women, and young women, are aU charged toAUGUST 23, 1967 117

e faithful and consistent in their Christian hvesbecause as verse 11 says, the grace of God hasappeared to us all, "teaching us that, denying ungodlinessand worldly lusts, we should live soberly,righteously, and godly in this present world; lookingfor that blessed hope and the glorious appearing ofthe great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; whogave Himself for us, that He might redeem us fromall iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiarpeople, zealous of good works."You see then we are warned to separate fromsin and chng to Christ because of our hope in Himat His coming! It is a httle hke the lord in Luke 19who gave his goods to his servants and said, "Occupytih I come." In other words, use these goods to thefuUest extent for my benefittill I return.In John 15 we read about abiding in Christ. Johnalso writes of this in I John 2:28. There, abiding inChrist is that which wiU make us confident in Hispresence when He comes again!Therefore, let us be faithful.Comforts in Trial and CrisisThe third value of this great doctrine is that itcomforts the Christian in trial and crisis. In I Thessalonians4:16-18, we read, "For the Lord Himselfshall descend from heaven with a shout, with thevoice of the archangel, and with the trump of God:and the dead in Christ shall rise first: then we whichare alive and remain shaU be caught up togetherwith them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air:and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore,comfort one another with these words."Note the closing of that verse. The coming ofthe Lord to judge the world is a comfort or asource of strength to us!Several passages such as Colssians 3:4; I Peter5:4; and John 14:1-3 also support us in this point.But John 14:1-3 is the classic verse, "Let not yourheart be troubled; ye beheve in God, beheve also inMe. In My Father's house are many mansions; ifit were not so, I would have told you. I go to preparea place for you. And if I go and prepare a place foryou, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself;that where I am, there ye may be also."When, in the end of aU things, we are with Himforever, we read, "And God Himself shall be withthem, and be their God, and God shall wipe awayall tears from their eyes."So you see that this doctrine is of great value tous in our ministry to the sick, the afflicted, thediscouraged, and the downhearted.Though the doctrine of Christ's return in judgmentis ignored, feared, and misrepresented bymany, yet we dare not let it slip away by default,for it is clearly revealed in Scripture. Remember,"All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and isprofitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction,for instruction in righteousness."In II Timothy 4:1-2, 5, we find a chaUenge toour ministers in the hght of Christ's return in judgment."I charge thee therefore before God and theLord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick andthe dead at His appearing and His kingdom; preachthe word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove,rebuke, exhort with aU long-suffering anddoctrine. . But watch thou in aU things, endureafflictions, do the work of an evangehst, make fullproof of thy rninistry."BREAKDOWN OF LAW AND ORDERCAUSE AND CUREThe classic Ulustration in Bibhcal history of thebreakdown of law is recorded in the Book of Judges.The last verse summarizes, "In those days therewas no king in Israel: every man did that which wasright in his own eyes."It doesn't happen aU at once, in an "incident."Nor wiU a nation recover, merely by curfew ornational guard or presidential commission, necessaryas these measures are.There are fourteen phrases scattered through theRev. Lester E. Kilpatrick, D. D.Pastor of Phoenix, Arizona R. P. Churchbook of Judges, some of them repeated again andagain.1. drove not out2. did that which was evil3. served Baalim4. forsook the Lord5. provoked the Lord to anger6. hearkened not to their judges7. played the harlot8. bowed themselves to other gods118 COVENANTER WITNESS

9. turned aside quickly out of the way10. obeyed not the commandments11. dealt more corruptly12. ceased not from their stubborn ways13. transgressed God's covenant14. forgat the Lord.These phrases teU the story. Read the latterchapters of Judges for an account of some sordidand gory details of what place, and these phrasescome frighteningly to life in our own day. Peopleare doing foohsh things utterly contrary to theirown interests, and contrary to the interests of thepeople they profess to be seeking to help. Riotsdon't just happen. "Professing themselves to bewise, they become fools," says Romans 1:22, ofthose who, "when they knew God, they glorified himnot as God, neither were thankful."Why was there a breakdown of law during theera of the judges? Are the reasons in any way similarto the reasons for the breakdown of law in theU. S. A.?1. They forgot God. Paul teU us that "the invisiblethings of (God) are clearly seen, being understoodby the things that are made, even his eternalpower and godhead, so that they are withoutexcuse."Carelessness concerning some things is trivial,others is tragic. Israel neglected one of God's specificdirections. There were many of the peoples whomthey "drove not out." They associated with them,intermarried, worshiped with them at their shrines.No doubt they found many of them "good people,"such as are muhtiudes of our neighbors who haveforgotten God — and beause they are "good" wehave forgotten to witness to them, pray for them,and seek their salvation.2. They disobeyed the commandments. Thereis widespread disobedience of the commandmentstoday. "After all, no one's perfect. And this disobedienceis very trivial." Multitudes of men — andmany nations — have suffered shipwreck on therock of God's commands. Today the disobedienceis not merely excused. It is declared to be right.Fletcher's book, Situational Ethics, the New Morality,while it may make us squirm as we are facedthere with the duphcity and hypocrisy that someprofessing Christians evidence, in their apphcationof God's law, yet it is a dehberate, defiant attackon the law of God. Fletcher assumes that anyonewho is "pious" is fraud. One of the basic propositionsthat he defends is, 'The end justifies themeans." He even quotes Nikolai Lenin in his support:"If the end does not justify the means, then inthe name of sanity and justice, what does?" he asks.Of course, Fletcher always insists that he isadvocating what is "right." But so did the people inthe days of the judges. They did that which was"right" in their own eyes. Fletcher says that whathe advocates is that in everything we be guided by"love" (And his book is published by WestminsterPress, PhUadelphia, if that means anything.)A sense of responsibihty for keeping the commandmentsof God, because they are of God, doesnot stand high in the U. S. A. today.3. They went after other gods. "God is dead,"we are told, but no one hstens much any more. Butwe have our gods. Albert Sweitzer's "historical Jesus,"a Jesus who was not virgin-born, performed nomiracles and did not rise from the dead, is beingwidely honored today. It is a "Jesus" who neverexisted, a false god. The worship of this "Jesus" iswidespread. It is taught in the official curriculumof many Protestant denominations. It is taught inlarge seminaries. It is presented as the "more reasonable"view of Jesus Christ, and as being more inkeeping with our scientific learning. There are manyvariations and degrees of such heresy, for liberalinterpreters of Scripture are far from agreementamong themselves, and so the United States ofAmerica has gone after gods. In the name of Christianfaith, the doctrine of "civU disobedience" istaught and encouraged by example, even by theforemost official of the United Presbyterian Church,Eugene Carson Blake. Is there not a parallel betweenIsraelites of the time of the judges and ourselves?The worship of other gods bears bitter fruit.4. They became adulterous. Israel "played theharlot." Fornication is not merely tolerated by thesociety of our day, but flaumted openly in magazines,TV, and other communication media, asacceptable. Fornication was often an integral partof the worship of other gods at the time of thejudges. In fact, in every country and age, this istrue, and our generation is no exception. In 1965more than one marriage in four ended in divorce.WhUe adultery is not always directly involved indivorce, generaUy it is involved. And those casesthat actually get to the divorce courts and end indivorce, do not begin to cover the cases of adultery.A vocal portion of our society boasts of its scorn forsee page 128AUGUST 23, 1967 119

Training - 1967The Summer Training Program was conductedthis year at the Reformed Presbyterian Seminaryin Pittsburgh, June 2-9. Rev. Ken Smith, Directorof Christian Education, served as the director andwas assisted by Rev. David Armstrong, KarlCunningham, Dean Smith, Janet Armstrong, JoyceLynn, and Floy Smith.The emphasis at S. T. P. this year was on evangehsm.During the week, STPers hstened to an hourlecture on counseling, heard one method of presentingthe Gospel, and rang doorbeUs one evening.The rest of the time was spent learning Bibhcalprinciples of spiritual conditioning: how to developa babe in Christ; and discovering in some cases howinfantile we ourselves are."Go ye therefore and teach aU nations, . . . teachingthem to observe aU things whatsoever I havecommanded you." One message of the week: gettingpeople to "accept Christ" is only a part of an evangelist'stask. Like Paul, an evangehst must "foUowup"his converts and work with them untU they arefirmly established in the faith, able themselves tobe effective witnesses. Another message: babiescannot reproduce themselves. Before you can hopeto see fruit in your own hfe you must be growingyourself. And so, the objectives for the whole summertraining program were two: to learn how togrow, and, then, to see a "ministry" develop, naturally,hke fruit.Some STPers were able to go out on teams,working in congregations, helping out, and receivingvaluable training. Among those congregations receivingteams were: North HiUs, WUkinsburg,Allegheny, Hot Springs, Cambridge, ParkSyracuse, Quinter, and Greeley.City,The Indianapolis Training Program was conductedat the Indianapolis Church, 4800 N. MichiganRoad, June 16-July 14 (4 weeks), under thedirection of the pastor, Dr. Roy Blackwood, andassisted by staff members, Rev. Ray Joseph, DonFields, Duane Bundt, Dorothy Huff, and MaryBudger (cook). Don Mulhnix, member of Indianapoliscongregation, and accountant with Eh LUlyCo., was program treasurer.The program was purposely directed to producespecific growth objectives. . . growth in the trainees'hves and attitudes in wisdom, in stature, in favorwith God and in favor with man. This meant earlyrising time (5:45 a. m.), calisthenics, and devotionaltime before breakfast (trainees took turns conductingfamUy worship) aiming toward an "on the job" timeof 7:45.Girls did cleaning, cooking, and interior paintingunder the direction of Dorothy Huff.The men were divided into two teams underrotating team captains, one team on the grounds,and one team on exterior painting. The men learnedto obey directions and to give directions when theirturn came as captain. Attitudes on the part of bothmen and women were watched closely.The central feature of training was in personalBible study with frequent checkout times with eachof the trainees conducted by the staff. Special Biblecharacter assignments were often given. Roy Blackwoodlectured for two hours each morning on BasicDoctrines of the Christian Faith.The Training Program is one phase of thereaching, training, and building ministry of theIndianapolis congregation.120COVENANTER WITNESS

CE. "Team" Reportsby Rev. Ken SmithAt this writing our itinerary is about half over.We are presently spending a couple of days at SanDiego before returning to Los Angeles for a dayand then heading back for Covfamikoi Conferencein Chattanooga.For some time it has been the concern of theBoard of Christian Education to tackle the wholetask of "training workers" relative to the Church'steaching ministry. But only after having given anumber of years to the realm of curriculum — inwhich is determined the goal, content, and basicapproach in this ministry — is the Board now beginningto bring its attention to bear on the phUosophyand methods of training.It is true that ever since 1951 there has been theprogram of summer training, now caUed "STP,"geared to young people out of high school. But thisrepresents a hmited amount of time, a hmitednumber of people, and to a large degree a hmitedvision. That is to say, it can hardly be called anadequate program of training. Besides this denominationalprogram, the Board has had since 1962 anAdministrative Assistant in the Christian Educationoffice whose number one job description has beento learn. Mr. Dean Smith, a third year seminarystudent, now fiUs this half-time position.This summer seemed to be a critical time tomove on into another step of training: namely,provide the opportunity to involve some men in thework of Christian education through the fieldworkexperiences for which the Director is involved. As aresult of this vision, prayer began to be offered forthe raising up of certain men who might accompanyme this summer. The result of those prayers can beseen in the picture. Early in February three menindicated their desire and avadabihty for this trainingexperience, and later a fourth was added. Wecommitted the whole project into the hands of theLord, and watched Him open up the doors forevery one to attend the initial STP week at theSeminary, June 2-9; and then looked forward tomeeting in Kansas City, July 15, for the remainingweeks of the summer in a "team ministry."From Kansas City, we journeyed to CovenantHeights where we shared in a variety of ways in theresponsibihties of the conference. Los Angeles wasour next area of ministry where we originaUy intendedto focus all attention for about ten days. Asit worked out, our time was shared with Santa Anaand San Diego as well. From here we head towardCovfamikoi, with brief stopovers in Phoenix andthe Indian Mission, where we will carry much of theload for the C. Y. P. U. program. Our last area ofministry will be Lawrence, Kansas, where we winspend something over a week. Unlike some of ourformer traveling quartets — I well remember our1948 Covichcrds trip — our teamwork this summerhas not been to cover a great number of congregations,but rather to work in depth in a few places.At this point, I beheve this judgment has been soundboth from the training standpoint and the ministryvantage point.Christian Educat on Team: Rev. Ken Smith,Jim Wright, Lee Bittner, Paid Martin, and Dr. DickWoods.Traveling with me are Lee Bittner, recent graduateof Geneva who plans to enter Seminary thisfall, Paul Martin of Santa Ana and Jim Wright ofKansas City, both of whom enter their secondSeminary year this faU, and Dr. Dick Woods ofPittsburgh, a dentist who has a young practice in thecity while teaching at the University of PittsburghDental School. We have been enjoying wonderfulfellowship wherever we have been; and thanks toone who loaned us an air-conditioned car, we havebeen privileged to have what might be termed a"mobile seminar' as we've sped across the country,reading certain books and papers, praying, andsharing the Scriptures together.Having seem the excellent work done at theIndianapolis Training Program, June 16 Julv It,.it seems that the Lord is helping manv personsbecome more aware of the importance, vision, andmethods of training seen in our Lord Jesus' trainingsee page 128AUGUST 23, 1967 121

A PAGE FOR JUNIORSJunior Topicfor September 17, 1967.STEPS TO SALVATION — BELIEFby Mrs. T. Richard HutchesonWe have studied about recognizingour sinfulness, confessing it, and turningaway from it, knowing that itkeeps us away from God. But how canwe come near to Him again? Our ownminds cannot tell us, neither canman's best intelligence, nor can natureshow us any way in spite of all itsbeauty and wonder. But God has givenus a way. It is found in His Word, theBible. People who seek it in other wayswill never find it. Some have tried bypaying a large sum of money to agood cause, or by giving up as asacrifice something that was very dearto them, or others have gone on longpilgrimages, or tortured themselvesto win some kind of favor. These thingsdid not give them the assurance theywanted, that they were accepted withGod.After Adam's sin, the Bible tellsus in Genesis 3:15 that sin (the serpent)would some day be overcomeby a person who would descend fromthe family line of Adam and Eve. Thisis the very first promise of a Saviorfrom sin, and the whole of the OldTestament leads up to the time whenthis promise came true in the comingof Jesus Christ. During the years beforethe promised Savior from sinwould come, God gave His people aplan of worshiping Him which wouldkeep in their minds the promise of theOne who would come to pay the penaltyfor their sins. Their part was tobelieve that He would come. To helpthem remember and believe, God gavethem directions for worshiping Himthat would remind them of the comingSaviour. These were very differentfrom the way we worship Him. Sacrificesand offerings were used to remindthem that some day there wouldbe a greater offering. Their offeringshad to be perfect, as Christ would beperfect. The prophets told more aboutthe coming Savior as we read inIsaiah 53. The people's part was tobelieve in Him although they hadnot seen Him.see page 124DOUBLE BIBLE PUZZLEby Elinor F. NealDirections: Find the answers to the definitions. Place each letterof your answer on the numbered blank in the word column. Then placeeach letter on the same numbered blank in the diagram. The resultwill be a Biblical quotation.Definitions1. A brother of Peter.2. Highest mountain in Syria.Joshua 11:3.3. "Thou art 10,000 of us.'II Samual 18:3.4. Son of Seth. Genesis 5:6.5. Beseech. Ruth 1:16.6. Tax gatherer. Matthew 9:9.Words51 45 24 57 18 2912 31 36 50 5 2316 44 6 43 214 42 49 4034 52 15 48 27 9 5420 38 25 1 30 17 87. Run away from. II Timothy 2:22. 47 4 56 288. Cain's oldest son. Genesis 4:17.9. Father. Mark 14:36.10. Wild plants.11. There are Commandments.12. Pronoun used for a man.Biblical quotation.12 3 4 5 6 713 14 15 16 17 18 193 19 53 11 5535 13 39 2233 46 21 710 37 3226 4125 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 3435 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 4344 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57Answer:See page 125 for answer.8 9 10 11 1220 21 22 23 24122 COVENANTER WITNESS

Lesson Helps for the Week of September 17,1967Sabbath SchoolLessonfor September 17, 1967.PAUL'S JOURNEY TO ROMEActs 27:1 to 28:16Comments by John K. Gault.At the close of the hearing beforeFestus and Agrippa, the latter officialsaid concerning Paul, "This manmight have been set at liberty, ifhe had not appealed unto Caesar"(26:32). Since Paul had made a formalappeal in court, he must then be sentto the highest tribunal of the empire,which was Caesar's court in Rome.In company, therefore, with otherprisoners, and also with Dr. Luke,Paul was placed on a coastwise vesselwhich stopped at Sidon.Paul was somewhat like Joseph inthat he made friends even with thosewho held him in custody. Julius, thecenturion, "treated Paul kindly, andgave him liberty to go unto hisfriends to refresh himself." FromSidon the ship sailed leeward ofCyprus and past Cilicia and Pamphyliato Myra on the coast of the provinceof Lycia. At this place the centuriontransferred all of his soldiers andprisoners to a ship from Alexandria,which was to sail to Italy.After they left Myra the ship wasbecalmed for "many days" but theymanaged to sail past Cnidus and fromthere to the southern shore of Creteto a place called "The Fair Havens,"in which was the city named Lasea.1: Paul Proved to be a Good Navigator.Itit said that at this time of theyear it was especially dangerous tobe out on the Mediterranean Sea."The fast was now already past." Thisstatement referred to the Day ofAtonement, a yearly religious festivalobserved by the Jews. Evidently theonly significance of this statement wasto denote the time of the year as the"fast" would have no effect on theweather either bad or good.AUGUST 23, 1967Paul had been on the sea manytimes before this; consequently, hewas well acquainted with conditionswhich affected the sea. He, therefore,advised the centurion to remain atFair Havens until a more favorabletime of the year. This was the timewhen "a tempestuous wind, calledEuroclydon" was liable to blow fordays at a time, thus making seafaringa dangerous undertaking. Paul knewthis but "the centurion believed themaster and the owner of the ship,mo.e than those things which werespoken by Paul." The "south windblew softly," and so the captain of theship decided that if was safe to sailon, thinking that they could make itto Phenice and spend the winter thereasit was a more commodious harbor.But they were soon to realize that itwould have been much better to havetaken Paul's advice.2: God Sent the Severe Storm.He has absolute control of all theforces of nature. It was sent not becauseof any sin of Paul's, as was thecase with Jonah, but because Godwished to give to Paul an opportunityto testify for Him to the worldly-mindedmariners and owners of the ship.The sailors worked very hard to overcomethe elements. They "undergirded"the ship, so as to brace it and theythrew cargo overboard and reducedthe sails so as not to be driven so hardby the wind. But there was nothingwhich they could do to save the shipand they no longer had any hope ofbeing saved.3: Paul's Faith Gave Him PerfectConfidence.He reminded the sailors by saying,"Sirs, ye should have hearkened untome, and not have loosed from Crete,and to have gained this harm and loss.And now I exhort you to be of goodcheer: for there shall be no loss ofany man's life among you, but of theship. For there stood by me this nightthe angel of God, whose I am, andwhom I serve, saying, Fear not, Paul;thou must be brought before Caesar:and, lo, God hath given thee all themthat sail with thee. Wherefore, sirs,be of good cheer; for I believe God,that it shall be even as it was toldme." Paul was not afraid of losing hislife and God had promised that noneof the others would lose their livesbut the ship and cargo in which theothe_s trusted would be destroyed.4: Paul's Observance Thwarted thePlan of the Sailors.They "sounded" twice and foundthat they were coming close to somecountry, so they put out four anchorsto prevent their crashing against rocks.The sailors, at this point, decided totry to save themselves regardless ofwhat happened to the rest of those onboard. But as they prepared to escapein the small boat, Paul saw what theywere up to, and he immediately informedthe centurion, who ordered thesoldiers to cut the ropes to the smallboat and letit fall into the sea.5: Paul Inspired Confidence in theOthers on the Ship.All except Paul had given up hope.He besought them all to eat something.It had been fourteen days since theyhad eaten much; consequently, theywere about to perish with hunger.Paul said to them, "Wherefore I prayyou to take some meat: for this isfor your health: for there shall not anhair fall from the head of any of you.And when he had thus spoken, hetook bread, and gave thanks to Godin the presence of them all: and whenhe had brokenit he began to eat. Thenwere they all of good cheer, and theyalso took some meat" (27:33-36). Beingfilled with the Spirit, Paul's personalityexuded cheer and confidenceover all the others and there wei e276 people on the ship. Jesus said toHis disciples, "Ye are the salt of tinearth."Chtistian people like Paul canhave a salutary effect on the lives ofothers, especially in times of commondanger. A Christian soldier going intobattle, who will pray to God, will helpthe others to face the common dangerwith cou.age.123

6: They Lost the Ship and theCargo of Wheat.These were just possessions fromwhich the owners expected to makemoney. It is not likely that the ownershad any thought of using their shipand the cargo of grain for the gloryof God. These possessions, therefore,were the gods of the owners. God,therefore, permitted the ship andcargo to be lost. They discovered abay with a beach and so they took upthe anchors, raised the main sail,unfastened the rudder and let thewind drive the vessel on to the beach,where the bow stuck in the sand, butthe stern of the vessel was broken topieces "with the violence of thewaves." The loss of the ship proved tobe a great blessing to the others onboard for they had the opportunity ofknowing Paul and hearing about thetrue God. Perhaps some of them becamebelievers in Christ.7: Paul's Presence Prevented theKilling of the Prisoners.The soldiers advised killing all theprisoners "lest any of them shouldswim out and escape." Such an actwould have defeated their purpose,for the sharks would have been drawnto the site because of the blood andnone of them would have escaped. Thecenturion, however, didn't accept theirsuggestion for he wanted to savePaul's life if he possibly could. He,therefore, gave the order that all whocould swim should attempt to get toland, "and the rest, some on otherthings from the ship, — and theyescaped all safe to land."8: On the Island of Malta.The natives of the island werekind to them and they kindled a fire,for the shipwrecked mariners were allwet and cold. Paul helped to gathersticks for the fire and as he wasdoing it a viper came out of the woodand bit Paul on the hand. He shookthe reptile off and felt no harm, butthe natives expected him to fall downdead. Since he did not do that, theyconcluded that he was a god. Godsaved Paul's life and this time by amiracle. It would have been naturalfor him to have died, but he livedand felt no harm.9: Paul Healed Sick People of theIsland.These included the father ofPublius, who was chief, and alsoothers.10: Paul and Company Arrived inRome.They came by way of Syracuse,Rhegium and Puteoli."Lesson based on International SundaySchool Lessons: the International Bible Lessonsfor Christian Teaching, copyrighted 1863by the Division of Christian Education, NationalCouncil of Churches of Christ in theU.S.A."Junior Topicfrom page 122The observance that we can probablyunderstand the best is the PassoverFeast. This was begun in theland of Egypt when God was showingHis power by the hand of Moses,before delivering His people fromslavery in Egypt. Pharaoh did notbelieve in God, and was not going tolet the Israelite people go as Mosesasked him to do. Even after God sentpiagu-es, Pharaoh still would not believe.God told Moses to have peoplekill a lamb, and sprinkle the bloodon the two side posts and the upperdoor post of their houses. The deathangel would pass through the land ofEgypt to kill the firstborn in eachhouse, but if the angel saw the bloodon the doorposts, then he would passove_ and not kill the firstborn in thathouse. Those people who believedGod's word to Moses put the blood ofthe lamb on their doorposts and theirfirstborn were not killed. The blood ofthe lamb had saved them. This pointedtoward the time, many years later,when Jesus, the Lamb of God, wouldshed His blood so that those whobelieve on Him would not have to diein their sins. John 3:16 says, "For Godso loved the world, that He gave Hisonly begotten Son, that whosoever believethon Him should not perish, buthave everlasting life."God has given us many promises inHis Word, and this is the best of themall. If we believe what other peoplepromise to us, how much more weshould believe what God promises!This is true for all ages of time for allHis followers. In John 5:46,47, Jesuspointed out to the Jews that they couldlearn about Him from the Old Testament,too. He said, "For had ye believedMoses, ye would have believedme: for he wrote of me. But if yebelieve not his writings, how shall yebelieve my words?"Thomas lived when Jesus did, andwas able to walk and talk with Him.Yet it was hard even for him tobelieve that Jesus had risen from thegrave and was really there with him.He wanted to touch Jesus' hands andsee the print of the nails. Jesus saidto him (John 20:29), "Thomas, becausethou hast seen me, thou hast believed:blessed are they that have not seen,and yet have believed." This couldmean each one of us, for we did notlive on earth when Jesus did, and havenot walked and talked with Him asThomas did. But with the help of theHoly Spirit we can believe on Him,and be counted among those whoreceive His blessing, as did the faithfulones who lived before Him andwatched for His coming.Belief is related to faith, for faithis believing something which cannotbe seen. Often when Jesus performeda healing miracle, He commended thepeople for having faith in Jesus'power. One example of this is foundin Luke 18:42. Many people saw Hismiracles and believed that He was ofGod and the promised Savior. We maynot see miracles as they did, but wehave God's Word which tells us thatHis Son paid the penalty for our sins,that we might be free from them, andbe acceptable in God's sight. John 20:31 says, "But these are written thatye might believe that Jesus is theChrist, the Son of God; and that believingye might have life throughHis name."TO THE LEADER:Memory verse: John 14:6.Scripture: Romans 10:9-17.Other Scripture verses: Gen. 15:6;John 1:12; John 5:24; John 6:35; John6:69; John 11:25; Acts 16:31; Rom. 1:16; Rom. 10:9; I John 5:5.Psalms: 34, p. 79, w. 1-6; 62, p. 152,vv. 1,5,6,10; 125, p. 320, vv. 1-5.Object lesson:From a sheet of cardboard, cut acity wall with roofs of houses showingover the top. This can represent theheavenly city. Cut several ladders,none of which is long enough to reachto the top of the wall. One can begold, standing for wealth, anotherwhite for a clean life, or other ways124 COVENANTER WITNESS

y which people might try to get intoheaven.When none of the ladders willreach, point out a door with a cross onit at the foot of the wall, and use thememory verse John 14:6.Prayer MeetingTopicfor September 20, 1967THE PRAYER OF DAVIDI Chronicles 29:10-19Comments by Rev. R. W. Caskey, D. D.Psalms: 44, p. 112, vv. 1-4; 107,p. 264, vv. 1-5; 25, p. 57, vv. 1-4; 127,p. 322, w. 1-4.References: Daniel 4:34,35; Matt. 6:28-33; John 15:4,5; Phil. 4:17; I Tim.6:17-19.The background for this prayerof David is found in the 28th and 29thchapters of First Chronicles. We areall familiar with the desire of Davidto build the temple in Jerusalem.When he was not permitted to buildit, he set about gathering materialwhich would be used by his son Solomonin building the temple.The prayer which we have for ourconsideration this evening is the prayerwhich David offered, in the presenceof the people, after they had given,willingly, of their substance for thetemple. It is a wonderful prayer andteaches us several things.In this prayer David praises Godfor His greatness. He says "Thine, OLord, is the greatness, and the power,and the glory, and the victory, and themajesty: for all that is in the heavenand in the earth is thine; thine ishe has done, nor of what the peoplehave done; he acknowledges that allhas been accomplished because of thegoodness of God. "Who am I, and whatis my people, that we should be able tooffer so willingly after this sort? forall things come of thee, and of thineown have we given thee." Too oftenwe fo_ get that it is in God we live andmove and have our being. We forgetthat we are the branches, and thatthe branch cannot bear fruit of itself;it must abide in the vine. We mustgather- with Jesus Christ, or the netresult of all our best efforts will bethat we scatter abroad.All that we have and are is due tothe goodness of God. He has permittedus to be born, and we have been bornin America instead of in some povertystrickenarea of the world. In thisland we have received an education,and have had an opportunity to developour talents and enjoy the goodthings of the earth; yet too often wofail to give God the praise. When wegive a little to help with God's workwe thir.k we are being generous, andGod owes us a debt of gratitude.We also learn f:om this prayer thatthat which is given to God must begiven willingly. "In the uprightnessof mine heart I have willingly offeredall these things: and now have I seenwith joy thy people, which are presenthere, to offer willingly unto thee. OLord, God of Abraham, Isaac, and ofIsrael, our fathers, keep this for everin the imagination of the thoughts ofthe heart of thy people, and preparethei. heart unto thee." Jesus warnedthat if we give to be seen of men, wehave our reward, and we will haveno reward of God. Paul tells us thatwe can bestow all our gifts to feed thepoor and give our bodies to be burned,but if we have not love it profiteth ussee page 127PUZZLE ANSWER . . . From page 122The Lord watch between me and thee when we are absent onefrom another. Portion of Genesis 31:49.PackingJust fifty years ago Dr. R. A. Blair, a minister greatly beloved by many,traveled over our church telling what a joy it is to have Jesus Christ in one'sheart. An illustration he used was that of packing a trunk or suitcase. He saidthat after he let the Lord have full charge he and Mrs. Blair could do it andstill keep their sweet and cheery dispositions. Some people failed to see thepoint of this, but probably they had never done much packing, and certainlynot for a trip to China and back like the Blairs. After all, packing and dailyliving do have much in common.Today it is usually the car that is packed. Father removes from the trunkall the items that can be left at home and studies the situation. Some things areready, but there are always about two suitcases that can't be packed till the lastthe kingdom, O Lord, and thou art possible moment. He puts what he has in the trunk and mentally figures theexalted as head above all. Both riches space required for what is yet to come, lays the dress and suit bags on top, andand honor come of thee, and thou tries the trunk lid. Then he waits, which takes some patience. Finally the lastreignest over all; and in thine hand suit cases come, with an extra pile of dresses (one of which must be kept on topis power and might; and in thine hand so it won't get wrinkled). Happy is the man who has guessed correctly andit is to make great, and to give after removing dress and suit bags, draping them over the sides of the trunkstrength, unto all." Prayer would not till the suit cases are in and getting all in place finds that the trunk lid willbe so greatly neglected if we rememberedthe greatness of our God, for he is not immune himself, has forgotten one or more items that just must go in.close. However, there is usually another problem. Someone in the family, andthen we would marvel at the great Again, happy is the man who has taken this into account and has left a littleprivilege of prayer.extra space.God not only provides a way by In daily life the Lord gives grace to meet cheerfully the delays, to waitwhich we may come, but He encouragesus to come, and promises to help them if they are not what we expected, and to cope graciously with thepatiently for the unknown factors to materialize and then to accommodate tous, not in the way we ask, but accordingto His great wisdom.Blah* was right, and Jesus Christ in the heart, or perhaps more correctly theunforeseen and work it into a schedule that seemed fuil already. Truly Di.We also learn humility from this Holy Spirit guiding one's life, is the essential thing both in packing the trunkprayer. David does not boast of what and in daily living.AUGUST 23, 1967 125

August Subscription Honor RollAlmonte, Eskridge, Hebron, LaJunta, Olathe, Sterling, Third Philadelphia.HAVE YOUR OWNA 9-month college subscriptionto The Covenanter Witness can beyours for $1.50.Send:NAMEADDRESSTo: Mrs. M. W. Dougherty125 N. Fourth StreetSterling, Kansas 67579AN APPRECIATIONI have just finished reading thehelps of Rev. John Gault in theCovenanter Witness for July 19 and Ifind them very good. In fact, I constantlyuse his helps in the preparationof the Sabbath School lesson andconsider them excellent. As a friendand a seminary classmate, I appreciatethe constant and helpful work of Mr.Gault. It must be quite a task to preparenotes for the lesson every week,and I am sure the Editor and themembership of the church are greatlyindebted to him for this splendidservice.C. T. CarsonNORTH HILLS, PITTSBURGHNina Schott, who spent the lastyear in North Ireland, was a visitor atthe parsonage on July 12. After prayermeeting that evening, she showed someof her slides to the group that hadassembled. Nina was on her way hometo visit her parents in Nebraska.The Evening Church School wasbetter than ever this year. Mrs. Weirtaught a group of Junior High youngsters.The adults were led in a studyof the Holy Spirit by Dr. S. BruceWillson, President of the Seminary,and a member of the committe thatworked on the new chapter in ourTestimony on the subject of the HolySpirit. Attendance was up, discussionwas lively and several mentioned adesire for a continuing emphasis uponthe third person of the Trinity.On July 21, Miss Diane Pfeffer wasunited in marriage to Mr. WayneKosht. The ceremony was performedby the pastor, and was followed by areception in the Pfeffer home. Mr. andMrs. Kosht are hving in Etna and wepray God's blessing on them.A special vote of thanks goes to MissTerry Brown for her work with ourV. B. S. as recreation dkector and forher work with the children during ourEvening Church School. Terry is goinginto her Junior year at Slippery RockState Teachers College where she ismajoring in Physical Education.During the spring a dogwood treewas planted on the front island byMr. Robert Cook. This tree was placedon the church property as a memorialto Mrs. Cook's father.Our annual Sabbath School picnicwas a huge success thanks to Dr. Weirwho kept us busy with games andrelays and to Maribel McKelvy for herplans with the food which was plentiful.A tape deck has been installed inconnection with our sound system byJohn Schaefer which will aid in playingthe Psalms preceding our worshipservices.NEWS RELEASEREAP MISSION INC., ORGANIZEDAfter 15 years of service in Japanunder TEAM, Evangehst Kenny Josephannounces the organization of ReapMission, Inc., geared to reinforcingEvangelists and Aiding Pastors inJapan and Asia. Through mass evangelisticmeetings in Japan and Asiaand the publication of Reap magazinewhich goes to native pastors and leaders,as well as using paid Gospel adsin nation- wide magazines, Ev. Josephanticipates a "lengthening of thecords" and requests prayer to that end.BOOK REVIEWAnother Hand on Mine — TheStory of Dr. Carl K. Becker of AfricaInland Mission by William J. Peterson.McGraw-Hill Book Company, 330 W.42nd Street, New York, N. Y. 10036.228 pages. Price $5.50.William Petersen, Executive Editorof Eternity magazine, has made Dr.and Mrs. Carl K. Becker live indeliblyin our memories as we follow themthrough youth, financial strugglesthrough medical school, a growingpractice in Boyerstown, a suburb ofPhiladelphia, and over thirty-five yearsin mission hospitals in the Congo. Oneis impressed by Dr. Becker's dedicatedresponse to God's call to the missionfield. He turned his back on the comforts,the profits, and the entreatiesof his townspeople to serve the pygmiesand others so sorely in need ofthe Gospel of Jesus Christ and theministry of a medical doctor. He hadpromised the Lord earlier: "If youhelp me get a medical education andhelp me become a doctor, I will giveyou everything.... Yes, Lord, everything."Dr. Becker was a bundle of energy,never sparing himself. He trained nativemedical helpers and nurses, maintainedhigh standards of cleanlinessand medical practice in his hospitals,even with improvised equipment. Heestablished a model leper colony anddid valuable leprosy research that attractedworld-wide attention. Trainedonly as a general practitioner, hebecame by necessity and practice avery skilled surgeon. He said aftersome very difficult operation, "I wasconscious of another hand on mine."With Dr. Becker the spiritual needswere never eclipsed by the physical.Many patients were brought to genuinefaith in Christ during their hospitalstay.The rebellion in the Congo appearsin this story also, but natives beggedDr. Becker to stay at his post. He didreturn after many months of absence.This book will interest and inspireyou to new heights of devotion toChristian missions. V. O. D.EMERGENCY MISSION SENDSHOSPITAL EQUIPMENT TOVIETNAMBRIDGEPORT, Conn.— Completefurnishings from a wing of a localhospital were transported to Vietnamin February for distribution to hospitalsserving Vietnamese by membersof Emergency Mission of theMonth, an auxiliary of World VisionInternational which is supported by agroup of Christians who contribute$10 per month.General Hospital officials decided126 COVENANTER WITNESS

to modernize the equipment in one ofits wings by implementing disposableplastic washbowls, pitchers and bedpansto replace stainless steel ware.The stainless steel equipment was tobe scrapped.Administrator Clarence W. Bushnelloffered the stainless steel goods—234 beds, 100 basinets and otheritems—to World Vision after makingcontact with Richard Hamilton WV'seastern director.Members of the Black Rock CongregationalChurch of Bridgeportagreed to collect the equipment. WestEnd Moving and Storage Co. offeredto transport the equipment to a dockin Brooklyn, New York.From Brooklyn, United StatesAgency for International Developmentwould ship the goods to Vietnam,but several thousand dollarswere required to crate and preparethe goods for overseas freighting.Emergency Mission of the Month governingcommittee voted to use itsFebruary allotment to cover thesecosts.World Vision International is aninternational Christian service organizationmeeting emergency needs incrisis areas of the world. It is perhapsbest known for its program forneedy children which provides sponsorshipto more than 21,500 childrenin 19 countries. Founded in 1950 byDr. Bob Pierce, its president, WorldVision has its headquarters in Monrovia,California.PRAYER MEETING TOPICfrom page 125not at all.God does not need our gifts, butwe need to give, and when we givewillingly, God accepts our gifts. Godpromises blessing to those who bytheir giving acknowledge that all thatthey have belongs to God. By givingwe can show our love to God and ourdesire that His kingdom be establishedupon the earth. By giving we also canlay up for ourselves treasures inheaven where moth and rust do notcorrupt and where thieves do notbreak through nor steal.Suggestions for prayer:Pray for the spirit of David, who,when he was not allowed to build thetemple, still worked hard to gather thematerials for the temple.Pray that we might come to comprehendthe greatness of God.AUGUST 23, 1967Pray that we would realize ourneed to depend upon God if we areto accomplish anything worthwhile.Pray for the right spirit in all ofour giving.75,000 POUNDS OF RELIEF GOODSHEADED FOR VIETNAMMonrovia, Calif. — World VisionInternational, a missionary serviceagency headquartered in Monrovia, isshipping this month more than 75,000pounds of relief goods to South Vietnamaboard the SS President VanBuren.The vessel sailed from Long Beachbound for South Vietnam, carryingthe $130,000 shipment among its cargo,accoiding to World Vision President,Dr. Bob Pierce.Included in the shipment are suchdiverse materials as a complete bloodbank, a kidney pump, clothing, surgicalsupplies, 4,680 cases of beef andturkey, and 13,500 Viet Kits.The Viet Kits contain five personalhygiene items in a transparent plasticenvelope and will be given to woundedmen and refugees in the steamingtropical nation where there is a lackof soap and other materials for cleanlinessand comfort.The shipment was one in a continuingstream which World Visionhas dispatched to South Vietnam fortwo years. The agency spends some$4,000,000 a year overseas to meetemergency needs, assist in evangelisticefforts, care for orphans andneedy children, and perform otherwelfare work in depressed areas.World Vision is a non-profit organizationsupported by donations fromindividuals and organizations in theUnited States, Australia and Canada.TRANSLATING GOD'S WORD INTOMAN'S LANGUAGELate one night a Hindu came to thebungalow of a missionary in Vellore,South India. "My son is very ill," hesaid, obviously upset. "Long miles fromthe next village we have carried himhere." The missionary immediatelystarted to get the lad to the near-byhospital."But wait," gestured the Hindu."First, I want you to read from yoursacred Book and pray."Puzzled, the missionary replied,"But you are a Hindu. You have over3.000 gods. Why do you ask me to readfrom the Bible and pray?""Because," came the quick reply,"your Christ understands better, andthe words from that Book sound likewords from the heart of God."Indeed, the Bible's message goesstraight from the heart of God to theheart of man, telling what God didand does in the living Christ whounderstands. Such communication ofthe Word to the world is the unendingmission obligation of Bible translators:"That thy way may be known uponearth, thy saving health among allnations" (Psalm 67:2).—Blaise LevaiAmerican Bible SocietyTHREE KEYSWhen Billy Sunday was convertedand joined the church, a Christianman put his arm on the young man'sshoulder and said, "WilUam, thereare three simple rules I can give toyou, and if you will hold to them, youwill never write 'backslider' afteryour name."Take fifteen minutes each day tolisten to God talking to you; takefifteen minutes each day to talk toGod; take fifteen minutes each dayto talk to others about God."The young convert was deeply impressed,and determined to makethese the rules of his life. From thatday onward throughout his life hemade it a rule to spend the first momentsof his day alone with God andGod's Word. Before he read a letter,looked at a paper, or even read atelegram, he went first to the Bible,that the first impression of the daymight be what he got directly fromGod. —The War Cry (Chicago).THE OPENINGMr. Walter Scott was once speakingabout, the veil of the Temple beingrent in twain from the top to thebottom, when a man at the back stoodup and asked, "How big was thathole?" It was big enough to let anysinner pass through," immediately repliedMr. Scott. Thank God,it's tm< :the- new and living way" is free loall sinners. —John W. Ham.If any of you lack wisdom, let himask of God, that giveth to all menhberally, and upbraideth not: and itshall be given him. But let him ask infaith, nothing wavering. For he thatwavereth is like a wave of the siadriven with the wind and tossed.James 1.0127

CHRISTIAN EDUCATION "TEAM" REPORTSPROGRESS . . . From page 121of the Twelve. This does not suggest a spurning ofpresent education, nor suggesting its failure. It sayssimply this: until a person has learned how to walkwith the Lord Jesus on his own, use the Scripturesboth for his own growth and the encouragement ofothers, employ prayer as an essential part of hislife and ministry, and see his entire life broughtunder the discipline of Christ, he can hardly becalled "trained" in the Bibhcal sense. As the Churchprays and experiments — and delightedly findspersons eager for such training — we should expectthe Holy Spirit to lead us. In time, such training willinevitably bring tangible results.BREAK DOWN OF THE LAW AND ORDERfrom page 119the 7th commandment.5. They provoked the Lord. Provocation is disobediencethat is deliberate and intended to assertone's independence. Hebrews, chapter three, bringsthis as lying at the heart of the conduct of Israel,which resulted in their being denied entrance intothe Promised Land. Their "carcasses fell in theWilderness." Ten spies brought up the unfavorablereport, but all the nation, 20 years old and over,died in the wilderness, save Caleb and Joshua.Provoking is a sin against which fathers arewarned in Ephesians 6:4. That is a necessary warning.Fathers are bigger and stronger than theirchildren, and when they are provoked, are liable toprovoke in retaliation and make matters worse.God does not provoke us, but we are dealing "morecorruptly" against God.6. They defied lawful authority. In Judges 18:14-26 is told an incident in which the Danites,after plundering the house of Micah — who himselfhad turned far from God — made on effort to justifyor excuse themselves. They simply brandishedtheir superior strength. Defiance of lawful authorityhas not come upon these United States of Americaall at once. The attitude of permissiveness towardall wrongdoers, but especially toward the young inmany of our educational institutions, is simplycoming to fruition.It has become a policy and a doctrine of many,that if people are doing a thing in great numbers,'then better to legalize it. "Then there will be lesscrime, because there are fewer laws to break." Butit hasn't worked out that way — which any elementaryschool pupil who believes the Bible could havetoldus. It seems hardly necessary to elaborate onthe defiance of lawful authority today.7. They forsook God. O, there are still fewatheists in our county! The "God is dead" pitch hashad its day. But this does not mean that we havenot yet forsaken God. Aaron, you remember, whenhe had made a golden calf, and heard the peopleshouting, "These be thy gods, O Israel, . . .," madea proclamation and said, "Tomorrow is a feast tothe Lord." When Samaria fell to the Assyrians,Israel "feared the Lord and served other gods."Men don't readily cast off all profession of faith inGod, but the practice of trying to combine with ittheir own selfish vanities, is common indeed. Ithardly needs argument today, to establish that ournation has forsaken God. For national disasters arejudgments of God.The cause should be evident, for our lawlessness.What is the cure? We find it in the book of Judgestoo. Only it is so simple that we are apt to missit, or to dismiss it as too naive. "They cried untothe Lord." It was the mercy of God alone to whichthey could turn. When a prisoner "casts himselfon the mercy of the court," he is long past the placeof trying to establish innocence or excuse or extenuatingcircumstances. This may sound naive,that this could have a place in the cure of the ills ofthe United States of America, but it was demonstratedagain and again for Israel. When we knowthe mercy of God, truly know it, we will certainlyturn in sorrow and repentance to the Lord. We willput away the false gods. We will turn from our sinsof injustice against minorities and the underprivilegedand immorality of all kinds. We must cryunto the Lord for mercy and He will raise us upjudges as His instruments of our deliverance.Charles Kingsley said, "Thank God every morningwhen you get up that you have something todo that day which must be done, whether you likeit or not. Being forced to work, and forced to doyour best, will breed in you temperance and selfcontrol,diligence and strength of will, cheerfulnessand content, a hundred virtues which the idle neverknow."12«COVENANTER WITNESS

To The TruthJESU5 CHRIST AS SAVIOUR, LORD, HEAD OF MEN, THE CHURCH AND NATIONS.VOLUME LXXIX NO. 9 AUGUST 30, 1967 STERLING, KANSASBIBLE LESSONS FOR THE WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 24, 19677FORGIVENESS OF SINS MEANSTO PURGE. "When he had by himself purged our sins, (He) satdown on the right hand of the Majesty on high" (Hebrews 1:3).TO PUT AWAY. "For then must he often have suffered since thefoundation of the world; but now once in the end of the world hath heappeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself" (Hebrews 9:26).TO REMEMBER NO MORE. "Their sins and inquities will I rememberno more" (Hebrews 10:17).TO CLEANSE. "If we walk in the hght, as he is in the hght, we havefellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Soncleanseth us from all sin" (I John 1:7).TO WASH. "Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sinsin his own blood, and hath made us kings and priests unto God andhis Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever" (Revelation1:5,6).TO COVER. "Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sinis covered" (Psalm 32:1).TO REMOVE FROM. "As far as the east is from the west, so farhath he removed our transgression from us" (Psalm 103:12).TO CAST BEHIND HIS BACK. "Behold, for peace I had greatbitterness; but thou hast in love to my soul dehvered it from the pitof corruption; for thou hast cast all my sins behind thy back" (Isaiah38.17).TO BLOT OUT. "I, even I, am he that blotteth out thy transgressionfor mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins" (Isaiah 43:25).TO CAST INTO THE SEA. "He will turn again, he will have compassionupon us; he will subdue our iniquities; and thou wilt cast all theirsins into the depths of the sea" (Micah 7:19)."Thou shalt call his name JESUS, for he shall save his people fromtheir sins" (Matthew 1:21).

THE COVENANTERWITNESSOfficial organ of the ReformedPresbyterian Church of N. A.CVAH«CUCAl PMM AMOCUTMMEditor: Rev. 1VT. W. Dougherty, D.D.125 N. 4th StreetSterling, Kansas 67579Phone 316 — Br. 8 • S472Printed each Wednesday under the supervision of theBoard of Publication by The Patterson Press, Winchester,Kansas 66097.Contributing Editors: Department Editors:Rev. Kenneth Smith Rev. John TweedDr. G. M. RobbMrs. Robert B. MaineRev. John McMillan Mrs. Willis EdgarRev. C. E. Caskey Rev. John K. GaultOpinions expressed in our columns are those of theindividual writer, not necessarily the views of the ReformedPresbyterian Church or the editor.All material to appear in The Covenanter Witnessshould be typewritten, double-spaced, and should be inSterling, Kansas two weeks before it is to be printed.The cost of all pictures is 30 cents per square inch.Obituaries — All words in excess of one hundred fifty,one cent per word. Money should accompany such notices.SUBSCRIPTION RATESIndividual (1 year): U.S. and Canada, $4.00, BritishIsles 35/-, all other places, $5.00;Individual (2 year): U.S. and Canada, $7.00, BritishIsles 63/-, all other places, $9.00;Group: U.S. and Canada, $3.00, British Isles 28/-, allother places, $4.00.9-month student subscription — $1.50; 5-month introductoryoffer —$1.00; 2 gift subscriptions to persons outsideof the R. P. Church — $2.00 each. Single copies, 10c.Subscription Agent for U.S. and Canada: Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Subscription Agent for the British Isles: Rev. HughWright, B.A., 12, Knutsford Drive, Belfast 14, NorthernIreland.All checks should be made payable to The CovenanterWitness in U. S. currency.Give one month's notice of a change of address. Sendboth the new and the old address to Mrs. M.W. Dougherty.Postmaster: Please send Form 3579 to Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Second class postage paid at Winchester, Kansas 66097WEQuote -NOTHING SHOULD BE "SECULAR"Whatever position a man or woman occupiesshould be one in which Christ is the Lord of life.A Christian cannot be a mere teacher; he cannotbe a mere lawyer; he cannot be a mere carpenter.He must be a Christian businessman; he must bea Christian teacher; he must be a Christian lawyer;he must be a Christian doctor; he must be a Christiancarpenter.Whatever his vocation may be, and whateverhis sex, color, or location, he must recognize, accept,and practice the Lordship of Christ in respect tohis calling. He must bring Christ to bear upon hislifework. "The secular" does not exist in the life ofthe Christian. Everything is sacred. —SelectedThis Week's WitnessUnanswered PrayerGlimpses Of The Religious WorldLex Rex . . . .The King's SoldiersCollege vs. Home . ....The Crowd Was Wrong .The Lesson of The Lost Key . . .Lesson HelpsHidden ImperfectionsChurch NewsMarshall Smith Case to CaliforniaSupreme CourtRecrimination100th Anniversary of Apostle to Islam131139,133135.136.137.... 138. 139... 141142.143144am . . . .144HOLD THE FOLLOWING TO BE TRUTHS OF SCRIPTURE:The Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the only in­The duty which rests upon officers to maintain discipline andfallible rule of faith and conduct.preserve the purity of the Church.The Trinitarian conception of the Godhead.Spiritual worship as a divine requirement mediated through theFaith in Jesus Christ as the only way of salvation.Lord Jesus Christ.Salvation by Grace.The exclusive use of the Psalms in the worship of the Church.Assurance of salvation as a possible Christian experience.The Protestant interpretation of the Sacraments.The Gospel Call and Election.The divine right of the institution of Marriage and that it is notThe Holy Spirit as the Author of regeneration.to be dissolved except by adultery or "irremediable" desertion.Sanctification through the cooperating agency of the Holy Spirit.The Sabbath as a day sacred to rest and worship.The fact of death and hell as the destiny of the lost and heaven The duty of nations and their civil rulers to honor Christ asas the destiny of the saved.King of Kings and Lord of Lords.That the Church of Jesus Christ consists of all those who believe That Christian citizens are under obligation to obey lawful authority.in Him together with their children.The Divine Right of the Presbyterian form of Ohurch Government. The right and duty of the Christian citizen to dissent from allThe Lord Jesus Christ as the only King and Head of His Church. governraantal and national disobedience to the Law of God.That terms of membership or communion are essential to the That the Covenants of the past are still binding.welfare of the Church.From "The Communicant's Class" by J. B. Tweed130 COVENANTER WITNESS

UNANSWERED PRAYERRev. A. S. Home'Therefore his sisters sent unto Him. . .To some, however, the problem remains andit"When he heard he was sick, he abode two days still would seem that this arises from a misunderstanding,first of God's dealings, and then betweenin the same place where he was" (John 11:3-6).Recently at a "Question Time" session I was their equating failure to answer with delay andasked this question: "Why is it that God sometimes fulfilment. These two things are amply illustrateddoes not seem to answer prayer?" Since the questionwas received I went back to the Scriptures to try todiscover some of the places where God seemed todeny the answer. Seemed is the key word here, forin the story from which our text is taken an illustrationof the way delay can bring greater glory. Tothese distraught sisters there seems a callousnessabout this delay. Their words to Jesus seemed to bealways an answer was given, although not exactly all mixed up between faith and rebuke. Our Lord'sas the request.words in verse 40 are surely the climax of theOne or two aspects regarding prayer ought to whole story. "SAID NOT I UNTO THEE THAT IFbe pointed out at the outset. God has guaranteed that THOU WOULDEST BELIEVE THOU WOULDESTprayer will be answered. What is that guarantee?"If we ask anything ACCORDING TO HIS WILL,He heareth us" (I John 5:14). This is perhaps one ofmany problems associated with prayer today. GuyH. King says, "Prayer is not a breaking in upon thelaws of God's universe; but is itself one of theselaws." To know His will is one of the greatest secretsof prayer and this can only be known through ourstudy of His Word and the experience of hving inHis presence. The Psalmist gives a word along thisline when he says: "The secret of the Lord is withthem that fear Him; and He will show them Hiscovenant" (Psalm 25:14).Another of the laws governing prayer is that ofan obedient walk. Take chapters 13 to 17 of John'sGospel and note the references to prayer and all theSEE THE GLORY OF GOD." Oswald Chambers saysthis: "The devil calls it unanswered prayer; incase of Mary and Martha the Spirit of God callit a sign that He loved them, and because He lthem and knew they were fit to receive a biggrevelation than ever they dreamed of, He staywhere He was." His silence must not be interpretedas unanswered prayer. Paul knew this too. He tellsus in moving words when he refers to the thorn inthe flesh, "For this 1 besought the Lord thrice, thatit might depart from me." To some God said, "No".But as we read on we find that this was not theanswer. God gave Paul something infinitely better."And He said unto me, MY GRACE IS SUFFICIENTFOR THEE: FOR MY STRENGTH IS MADE PER­FECT IN WEAKNESS" (II Cor. 12:9).way through there is one dominant note. The connectionbetween the way we hve and the way weMost commentators point out that the words arevery much more meaningful than our Authorizedpray. The one conditions the other. Isaiah remindsVersion would indicate. The words are 'He hathus so forcibly of this when he says: 'Tour iniquitiessaid'. It is present as well as past. The weaknesshave separated between you and your God andis but the foil to His strength forit serves to magnifyit. This is the reason that Paul after that lessonyour sins have hid His face from you, that He willnot hear" (Isaiah 59:2).is content. Thrice he prayed and no more, for God'sFrom these points it will be seen that theanswer was far beyond his feeble request. Theproblem of "unanswered prayer' does not arise fromsecret of prayer is to be seen in the desire of PaulGod's side but from ours. We must, of course,for the Colossians, 'That we might be filled withdistinguish between our own and God's answers.the knowledge of His will... increasing in the knowledgeof God" (Colossians 1:9).He gives what is best for His own people. This isHis desire for us: "No good thing will He withholdfrom them that walk uprightly" (Psalm 84:11).Often when He says NO, this is His answer becauseHe knows what is best, and it must be acceptedGeorge Mueller, that great prayer warrior, wasonce asked what was the secret of his success in hiswork and ministry of prayer. Very simply he said,trustingly and cheerfully. One writer puts it like this:"What His love dictates, and His wisdom approves,"If there is any success, then I can only sayit comesfrom the fact that my Heavenly Father is very fondHis power can supply!"of my company."The Bulwark.AUGUST 30, 1967 131

Glimpses of the Religious WorldNEW PSALM BOOK ACCEPTED INNETHERLANDS(R. E. S. News Exchange) Culminating a workof 20 years by theologians and poets, the generalSynod of the Reformed Church in the Netherlands(Gereformeerde Kerken) adopted a new metricalversion of the Psalms. Six years ago the churchesstarted using a trial version which elicited muchcritical commentary. The writers took account ofthe responses of the churches in preparing the editionnow adopted.The decision of the Synod, according to Informatiedienst,does not exclude the use of the 1773version but does eliminate other Psalters that havebeen in use. Appreciation of the new metric version,a product of interdenominational cooperation, hasbeen great.NCC SHOWS SOME CHANGE OF ATTITUDE ONVIETNAM WAR(EP) A different tone and emphasis is noted inthe report this month (July) of a delegation from theNational Council of Churches just returned fromSouth Vietnam.Following an earlier report adopted by the GeneralAssembly of the National Council in December,the July report reflects a greater awareness of thecomplexities and practical problems facing theUnited States.The December appeal indicated an uncertaintyas to the validity of the U. S. rationale for fightingin Vietnam; the July statement recognizes that theU. S. has "clear objectives for its presence there."The July statement seems more reconciled to theuse of American power in South Vietnam, though iturges such power be used with greater effect andsophistication to help achieve social justice for Vietnam.The December appeal just called for negotiationswith the National Liberation Front (Vietcong);the July statement takes a more complex view of theN. L. F. 's composition, recognizing its communistleadership and control as well as some of its nationalistsupport. It no longer calls for negotiations withthe NLF but rather asks whether its non-communist132THE REV. JOHN McMILLANR. D. 1, Box 337WALDEN, NEW YORKelements can be disassociated from the organization.The July statement also points to the expresseddesire by South Vietnamese themselves for democraticinstitutions and emphasizes the importanceof the coming elections. It suggests that a churchdelegation be sent as election observers.The December appeal placed the burden forinitiating negotiations on the U. S.; the July statementrecognizes that "no single belligerent cannegotiate alone." While continuing to call for a haltto the bombing of North Vietnam without assurancesof reciprocity, the July statement shows greaterawareness of the mihtary consequences shouldthis step be taken and negotiations then be delayedor the war prolonged.UNITARIAN LEADER DENIES PERSONAL GODHistorically the Unitarians have rejected thedeity of Christ and the idea of the Trinity. Nowtheir president, Dr. Dana McLean Greeley, hasvoiced his disbelief in a personal deity at all. "WhenI say God," he says, T mean a power that is withinthe whole hfe process, within all of us."Dr. Greeley, an athletic 58-year-old Bostontheologian who heads the 276,944 Unitarians in theUnited States, sees his creed, or one like it, as"definitely the wave of the future in a democraticfree society."The Unitarian leader beheves "everything mustbe rethought again. We are not bound by adherenceto a particular book — the Bible — or a particularperson — even Jesus — or a particular city as aplace of our birth and authority, neither Rome norMecca nor Boston." He denies that there is either aheaven or a hell, or that Jesus had any thought offounding a new church.Dr. Greeley's remarks were recorded by Lifemagazine correspondent China Altaian and pubhshedin the periodical's July 28, 1967 issue.RADIO STATION TO BE BUILT AT "NORTHPOLE"(EP) A radio station devoted solely to the propagationof the Gospel of Jesus Christ will be erectedSee page 144COVENANTER WITNESS

"LEX REX"by Samuel RutherfordPaper writtenThe probability is strong that most young peoplein the United States have never heard of Lex Rexnor of Samuel Rutherford its author. Yet in the pastLex Rex played a not inconsiderable part in theshaping of political thought and pohtical action thathave resulted in freedoms and privileges which we,today, take for granted. Lex Rex is not modernpohtical philosophy, full-blown. But Alexander Popewrote, "As the twig is bent, so is the tree inclined."Lex Rex was written in a day when the tree couldhave inclned in any one of a number of directions.It was a bending of the twig in a direction that hasinclined the tree toward our present view of thingspolitical.Samuel Rutherford hved at a time when oldsystems were losing their values, and the shape ofthe new systems was indistinct. Perhaps it could besaid that we are always hving in such a time. InRutherford's day, and in his country, the "DivineRight of Kings" was being called into serious question.Some three quarters of a century before, JohnKnox had stood out against Mary, Queen of Scots,and had advocated the duty of rebellion againstidolatrous sovereigns. When Mary, Queen of Scots,demanded imperiously, "Think ye that subjectsmay resist their princes?" John Knox told her,bluntly, "If princes exceed their bounds, Madam,they may be resisted and even deposed." When sheburst into angry tears and cried, "What are youwithin this commonwealth?" John Knox rephed,"Madam, I am a subject born within the same. Andalbeit I neither be Earl, Lord, or Baron within it:yet God has made me a profitable member of thesame."Some historians have expressed the opinion thatModern Democracy found its germination in thatanswer.In Lex Rex Samuel Rutherford attempted toexpress the principles back of the reason whyprinces might be resisted and deposed, and back ofthe reasons why ordinary men are to be recognizedas profitable members of the commonwealth. Hismethod was to ask a series of forty-four pohticalquestions — which he then answered by closelyreasoned syllogisms, much demonstration of theScriptural basis for his thinking, and copious cita-In powerful Scriptural argument, we are shownthe relationship between God and government — arelationship that cannot be properly establisheuntil Christ's Kingship is acknowleged by thenations of the world.by G. M. RobbFor Synod', < Committeetions from accepted thinkers of the time. He laiddown what he understood to be the rules that shouldgovern relationships between rulers and subjects.In this respect Lex Rex marks this Scottish ministeras one of the early, and one of the most influential,writers on the principles underlying ConstitutionalLaw.Samuel Rutherford was born in 1600 at Nisbet,Roxburghshire, Scotland. From 1617 to 1621 hestudied at the College in Edinburgh. He was madeprofessor of the humanities in 1623. In 1627 he wasEpiscopally ordained and from 1627 to 1636 heserved as pastor at Anworth. Because of his defianceof Bishop Thomas Sydserf he was banished to Aberdeenin 1636, but was restored to his parish in 1638.The years following 1637 were years of Scotland's"Second Reformation" in which Rutherfordfigured prominently. He participated in the GlasgowAssembly in 1638, emerging as the spokesman fortriumphant Presbyterianism. He was in Londonfrom 1643 to 1647. He participated in the historicWestminster Assembly.However, by the middle of the SeventeenthCentury, Scotland's unity was shattered. Rutherfordstood with the "rigid" Covenanters. During the latterpart of his hfe he was ill, and he was broken by the"overthrow of the sworn Reformation." He wasindicted for treason and was awaiting trial in 1661,but died before being brought to trial. Lex Rex wasburned by the hangman, as treasonable.The full title of Lex Rex as given on the titlepage is Lex, Rex, or The Law And The Prince; adispute for the just prerogative of King ang Peoplecontaining the reasons and cause of the most necessarydefensive wars of the Kingdom of Scotland,and of their Expedition for the Aid and Help oftheir Dear Brethren of England: in which theirinnocency in asserted, and a full answer is given toa seditious pamphlet entitled Sacro-Sancta Re gumMajestas or the Sacred and Royal Prerogative ofChristian Kings; under the name of J. A., but pennedby John Maxwell, the Excommunicate Popish Prelate.With a Scriptural confutation of the ruinousgrounds of W. Barclay, H. Grotius, H. Armisaeus,Ant. De Domi. Popish Bishop of Spalato, and ofother late anti-magistratical royalists, as the authorAUGUST 30, 1967 133

of Ossorianum, Dr. Feme, E. Symmons, the Doctorsof Aberdeen, etc. in Forty-Four Questions by theRev. Samuel Rutherford, some time professor ofDivinity in the University of St. Andrews. Pubhshedin 1644. At the bottom of the title page is the quotationfrom I Samuel 12:25, "But if ye still do wickedly,ye shall be consumed, both ye and your king."Lex Rex brings into focus the views that werebeing developed in Scotland's previous rehgious andpohtical history. Scotland's men of influence hadcustomarily used a part of their influence in settinglimits to the authority of their monarchs. Sometimes this was done by action of the nobles, sometimesthrough their governmental and ecclesiasticalassembhes, and some times through the show offorce on the part of the people.The forty-four questions with which Rutherforddeals, show clearly the issues he felt should be met.All but the last ring the changes on the wordWhether. Some of the questions were:I. Whether government be by a divine law.III. Whether royal power and definite formsof government be from God.IV. Whether or no the king be only and immediatelyfrom God, and not from thepeople.IX. Whether or no sovereignty is so in andfrom the people, that they may resumetheir power in time of extreme necessity.X. Whether or not royal birth be equivalentto divine unction.XIII. Whether or no royal dignity have itsspring from nature, and how it is truethat "Every man is born free" and howservitude is contrary to nature.XIV. Whether or no the people make a persontheir king conditionally or absolutely; andwhether the king may be tied by anyXIX.such covenant.Whether or no the king be in dignity andpower above the people.XXIII. Whether the king hath a prerogativeroyal above law.XXXVIII. Whether monarchy be the best ofgovernments.XL. Whether or no the people have any powerover the king, either by his oath, covenant,or any other way.XLII. Whether all Christian kings are dependentfrom Christ, and may be called hisvice-regents.XLIII. Whether the king of Scotland be anabsolute prince, having a prerogativeabove laws and parliaments.XLIV. General results of the former doctrine insome few corollaries, in twenty-two questions.Lex Rex begins with a discussion of the originsof government, asserting God's authorship of allpohtical authority, and at the same time assertingthe activities of the people in initiating pohticalsystems. Rutherford regarded all forms of governmentas lawful. Living at a time when monarchywas the accepted form of government, Rutherfordspoke of monarchy, aristocracy, and democracy.He envisioned monarchy as contracted aristocracy,and aristocracy as diffused monarchy. He used theillustration of a hand, clenched or opened. It is aproper hand, whichever position it may assume.Monarchy, he saw as the clenched hand, aristocracyas the opened hand.Recognizing that the majority can be wrong,Rutherford felt that an uninformed people could notbe trusted with the decisions necessary to goodgovernment. He recognized that parliaments mayerr, and that popular resistance to tyranny mightbe necessary and therefore lawful. However, he tooka dim view of any such form of government as thatof a repubhc. He feared that the total will of thepeople might make for no government at all. Accordingto his view, the solution to problems of governmentlay in a "contained" monarchy — a monarchyrestricted by law.Underlying all of Rutherford's thinking was theidea of covenants. He adhered to the principles laiddown in Philip Mornay's Vindiciae — that thereare three parties, God, ruler, and people; and thatthere are two covenants, one between God and thetotal nation, and the other between ruler and people.Rutherford maintained that, should the king violatethe covenant with God, the pohtical covenant wasthen broken, and the king was no longer a lawfulruler.According to Lex Rex the people may not governby popular opinion alone, for the people are boundin the covenant no less than the king; and the kingis duty-bound to compel the people to observe theterms of the covenant. All rightful authority Hes inlaw, whether it is the authority of the king, theEstates, the church, or the people. This is the maintheme of Lex Rex. This is the basic conception thatunderlies our modern thinking on constitutionallaw.Rutherford was fully persuaded of the truth ofRomans 13:1 that "the powers that be are ordainedof God." In his judgment it was from the covenant134 COVENANTER WITNESS

with God that the political covenant derived itsforce.As to the degree of religious liberty envisionedin Lex Rex, the silent heretic was not to be molested;but "the king was to take vengeance upon blasphemy,idolatry, and professed unbehef." It is worthyof note that this view has largely prevailed in ourAmerican society until very recent times.From Samuel Rutherford's correspondence,rather than from the reasoned arguments of LexRex, we can learn the extent of his hopes for aChristian social order. Reading what he consideredas the signs of the times from the events of Scotland's"Second Reformation," Rutherford behevedthat he was hving to see the day when God was atlast working His miracle of history, whereby Christ'sIn I Chronicles, chapter 12 we find recordedfive characteristics of the mighty men gatheredaround David while he was in exile from Saul.These were the men who later helped him establishhis claim to the throne and to extend his kingdom toall the neighboring nations.First, in verse two, we read that they wereambidexterous. They could use either hand in hurlingstones or shooting arrows. This is not a characteristicnatural to the human race. It is a gift ofGod. It is a characteristic which could be developedand preserved through long, careful hours ofpractice.Lome Sanny tells of a young Christian sailorwho would go up to a cult street meeting. He wouldhsten and then say, "Excuse me, but the Bible says—," and he would quote the Bible until the cultleaders had nothing more to say. At the crowd'srequest he would get up on his predecessor's stooland give a brief Gospel message.That experience was preceded by hours of Scripturememory, regular quiet times, and talking aboutChrist in his everyday life! He didn't suddenlybecome what he was at that cult meeting. He usedto say to Lome Sanny, "We've got to have the Scriptureon the tip of our tongue."Christ has many ambidexterous soldiers in thebattle field today. He is calling for us to becomeskillful in throwing the stones of the Gospel intomany a vital spot.Second, in verse 32, we read that they weremen who "had understanding of the times to knowTHE KING'S SOLDIERSKeith E. Copeland, Pastor, Orlando CongregationKingship would be fully acknowledged by the nationsof the world.Those who never read, nor even heard of LexRex would do well to make its acquaintance. Forin a day when government was often by the tyrannyof the king, this work by a Scottish minister was apowerful voice raised to declare that govenment,whatever its form, must be by estabhshed law.Christian men would do well not only to read,but to re-read Lex Rex. For here, in powerful Scripturalargument, we are shown the relationship betweenGod and government — a relationship thatis not, and cannot be, properly estabhshed untilChrist's Kingship is acknowledged by the nations ofthe world, over whom He rules as "governor amongthe nations."what Israel ought to do." Here is the wisdom, notnecessarily of age, but of experiece with God. Theydid not merely talk about God; they walked withGod. Therefore, they had a discernment which camefrom God. They had learned from God how Helooked at things.Third, in verses 33 and 38, we read that theywere men who "could keep rank." They knew theirplace in the formation. When marching out to battlethey did not break step, or falter. They could respondinstantly to the command of their captain.They did not ask, "How?" Rather they asked,"What?" In their army the chain of command didnot break down. Each did his job in his place.Fourth, in verse 33, we read that they were notmen of double heart. They had no divided loyalty.They did not sit in the middle of the road, undecidedwhether to serve David or Saul. Their eyes wereupon David. They looked to him and to him alonefor leadership. His wish was their command. Theydid not put their hand to the plow and look back.Fifth, in verse 38, we read that they came toserve him "with a perfect heart." Unitedly theywould work to make him king over all Israel. Theydidn't want just a sectional king, but king of "all thepeople." They were wholly and completely his. Theywould put their swords in the place of their mouths.They would give their hves to see their king enthroned.We, who are soldiers-of-the-cross, need thesesame characteristics. King Jesus is above KingDavid. As David foreshadowed Christ, so his soldiersforeshadowed the soldiers of King Jesus.AUGUST 30, 1967 135

Our YouthCOLLEGEvs.HOMETo enter college for the first time means manythings — leaving home, your family, friends, hometown, church, and the completion of twelve yearsof public school. There is some suspense, excitementand confusion all in one during the time youleave home and enter college. What will all the newpeople be like? What can and can't you do? How canyou remember all the dorm rules and regulations?What courses should you take? Will you be able topass the courses? It is a big adjustment and expense.A lot of savings and time have gone into the preparationfor you to go to school and even if it turns outto be different from what you expect, you don't wantto leave and admit you were a failure.And so you accept it as it is, with all its advantages,disadvantages, happiness and sadness andfind that for once you have become independent,free, from the demands and restrictions of home.You soon find that college life can be very rewardingand happy. For the most part you arecompletely content in your new environment untilthe end of the first pangs of loneliness and homesickness.There seems to be a httle too much of thisglorious independence.Nostalgia AppearsSomehow you find yourself looking forward togoing home and not having to sign out or in, hearingyour telephone ring, driving a car, having a room toyourself, sleeping late, and eating peanut buttersandwiches instead of cafeteria food. You can takea long, hot sudsy bath with both hot and cold waterand have a nice fluffy towel.There may not be a grandstand audience orband to welcome you home but it will seem hkeone if only your family meets you at the bus, train,plane or car. They will be there to help with theluggage and souveniers, plus all the books you planto study (during your spare time).f m a f 0*f t t amOn the way through town you'll enjoy spottingfamiliar landmarks and you'll be a little surprisedto find them unchanged. It seems as though youhave been gone for years.You may notice that your room has been convertedinto a sewing room or donated to a youngerbrother or maybe completely rearranged. Or youmay notice that all the things you saved, pictures,bulletin board, paper cups, etc. have been removed.This may be a httle disturbing for a moment, butthe things that haven't changed are what shouldinterest you.Now you will want to sit down and relax andenjoy just being at home. Of course you will bequestioned about classes and grades. You will bequestioned to practically the third degree by yourfriends and family and some one is sure to ask theeternal question, "Do you think you've finally foundyourself?" You probably hadn't even realized youwere lost. But you at least try to act sophisticated,mature, gracious, cosmopolitan and collegiate sinceeveryone is going to be watching every move youmake; especially your parents. They've got a lot ofmoney invested and are already looking for dividends.You'll be awfully busy if your visit is only threeor four days. Something will have to give. You maypostpone working on your term paper because it'surgent that you contact all your old friends of bothsexes. A reunion with all the gang might not proveto work out too well however, since many did notgo to College and you won't be speaking the samelanguage.But just about the time everything seems to fallback in place — the family feuds, visiting relatives,soda shop talks and noisy neighbors, the time hascome to return to college. The visit has been greatbut hooray for that wonderful independence again!College and ReligionOne common and disturbing problem among collegestudents and famihes today is the effect collegeis having on its students' rehgion. However, the realproblem is over-emphasized and very seldom understood.The mother or father who states that she orhe cannot understand how their child could go offto school and get all these new ideas about faith136 COVENANTER WITNESS

and religion, probably has never done much studyand research in the field of rehgion. Many parentshave long since arrived at a simple Christian faithwith no questions and no doubt, but also with only afew answers. Some parents of course, prepare childrenwith a wider world of knowledge. They encouragethought and investigation. They know thatinquiry can be a threat only to uncertain faith, afaith without adequate foundations.Why Do Some People Believe ThatCollege Is A Threat To Faith?Many feel this way because faith as they knowit is not open to test or analysis. Whereas coUegeinsists upon opening every area of hfe to investigation.Teachings many years ago were point blankwith no questions and no discussion. There was onlycomplete acceptance of what was taught.But college today will not leave untroubled orsimplified answers as such. It requires analysis inevery area including rehgion. Thus they achieveindividual and personal experience of truth.Parents expect their children to meet new ideasabout history, hterature, art, science and otherdisciplines. But not always about rehgion. Theyexpect this to remain simple, unchangeable andthe results usually are confusion, inconsistence, orrejection. They do not realize that facts have beenuncovered over the past one hundred years thatmake the study of the Bible an exciting adventure!The college student faces the responsibihty toinvestigate on his own. Every professor, even inreligion, insists that they open every availablesource. It is the only way a person can discover thevalues that are meaningful for him. Too manypeople believe in a hand-me-down rehgion, and hkea hand-me-down shirt it often does not fit the onewho now has to wear it. He has a lot of dogmaticassertions at hand but they may have no connectionwith the hving issues of the modern world. There isno room for growth, no effective apphcation, nocreative possibility.What will college do to your faith? It will helpyou discover new insights that will give meaningto the faith for your life. Vast new truth will open.God's Word will become understandable in yourterms. In the process you may have to unlearn somethings you have been taught. You may have todiscard some false, longheld beliefs, but you can besure that others more meaningful will take place.You should then be able to exclaim "Now I have afaith of my own!."Associate Reformed PresbyterianTHE CROWD WAS WRONGby Kenny Joseph"The blood, sweat and tears of the minorityhave achieved all that is noble.. ."These ten men proved that "the crowd may bewrong."1. Adam Thompson of Cincinnati, Ohio, filled thefirst bath tub in the United States in 1842, and doctorspredicted rheumatism and inflammation of thelungs would result. A ban against baths was postedin Philadelphia from November 1 to March 1, andProvidence and Hartford set up extra heavy waterrates.2. In 1896, England still had a law prohibiting anypower-driven vehicle from traveling over four milesan hour on public highways and required it to bepreceded by a man bearing a red flag.3. Samuel Morse had adverse crticism from thepress and Congress, but today the telegraph is heardthe world over.4. Alexander Bell was called a fool in Philadelphiawhen he exhibited his telephone, but today we converseacross great distances because of his invention.5. McCormick's first reaper was derided as a crossbetween a chariot, wheel barrow and a flying machine.6. Westinghouse was called an idiot when he proposedan air brake to be used on trains.7. Goodyear was "booed" by everyone but his wifeas he worked 11 years on vulcanizing rubber.8. When Jenner discovered the smallpox vaccination,he was jeered by serious-minded men who saidthat man would contact all animal diseases.9. Robert Fulton's steamboat was called "Fulton'sFolly" by the crowd.10. Madam Curie sorted through tons of was'cmaterial in search of radium as the crowds laughinglyasked, "What is radium?"There's a big difference between a toothpick air]a salmon. The biggest difference is seen when youput these two into a river that is rushing downrapids. The toothpick floats along with the water,while the salmon swims against the tide. J. B. Gouvhechoes, "The chosen heroes of this earth have beenin the minority. There is not a social, political cireligious privilege that you enjoy today that wasn'twrought lor vou by the blood, tears and patientsuffering of the minority: they have achieved allthat is noble in the worlds history."The Kansas IssueAUGUST 30, 1967 137

A PAGE FOR JUNIORSJunior Topicfor September 24, 1967.STEPS TO SALVATIONPART 4: ACCEPTANCE.by Mrs. T. Richard HutchesonCan we believe God? Whom canwe believe more than God? He madeus for His glory and is continuallyguiding and caring for us.In His Word, God had promisedthat His Son, Jesus, would come toearth to pay the penalty for our sinin His death, so that we might befree. One place where we find thispromise is in John 3:16, "For God soloved the world that He gave Hisonly-begotten Son, that whosoeverbelieveth on Him should not perish,but have everlasting life." In John 14:1 Jesus Himself said, "Ye believe inGod, believe also in me."What shall we believe about JesusChrist? First of all, that He is the Sonof God. God Himself announced thisat the time when John the Baptistbaptized Jesus. The record of this isfound in Matthew 3:13-17. Verse 17says, "And lo, a voice from heavensaying, This is my beloved Son, inwhom I am well pleased." Many othersbelieved because of the miracles whichJesus did. One of the soldiers whowatched Jesus' death on the crosssaid, "Truly this was the Son of God"(Matt. 27:54). The Holy Spirit in ourhearts enables us to believe this now.Second, the Holy Spirit leads us tobelieve that Jesus died for our sins.When John saw Jesus coming, he saidof Him, "Behold the Lamb of God,which taketh away the sin of theworld" (John 1:29). Do you rememberthe Passover in Egypt when the bloodof the lamb sprinkled on the doorpostkept the firstborn from death? Thelamb had to be perfect, without blemish.So Jesus was the perfect Lamb ofGod to keep us from death because ofour sin. If He had been a sinful man(and all of us are sinful) He couldhave died only for his own sin, butbecause He was God and a perfectman He could pay the penalty forthe sins of others. What a greatsacrifice that was for the perfect, holySon of God to die for us!138See page 140The Lesson of the Lost KeyWhen I was about eight, I lost thekey to a toy windup duck. Mother hadtold me not to take it out of thehouse because I might lose the key."Oh, no, Mother, I'll be very carefulwith the key."Only ten minutes later Mother'sprediction came true, and hunt as Iwould for that shiny key, I couldn'tfind it. Tearfully I went back to thehouse to admit my loss, fully expectinga spanking.My wise mother reprimanded me,and then suggested we pray about itright then. She stopped whatever shewas doing and took me to the bigchair in the living room, which at thetime was the center of daily prayers.As we knelt side by side Mother said,"You pray first. Tell Jesus you aresorry you wanted your own way, andthen ask Him to help you find the key.Then I'll pray." Those words still livein my memory.Rising from her knees, Mother gaveme some more sound counsel: "Nowyou go out and look for the key whereyou think you lost it."In no time that silvery key, reflectingthe afternoon sun, caught my eye.I snatched it up and dashed back tothe house, smiles replacing my tears.Mother rejoiced with me, and togetherwe knelt again by that big chair to1. Earthquake2. Ebony3. Ecclesiastes4. Ehzabeth5. Esau6. Evil7. Famine8. Firmament9. Gleaning10. Kid11. Latin12. PestilenceAnswers:by Louise F. Hauththank Jesus for answering our prayers."Now," Mother cautioned, "you'dbetter keep the duck in the house."Many years have passed since thatsummer day, and other keys have beenlost and found, each one more importantthan the last. Mother's formulastill works.Sometimes the "keys" of our livesare lost because of willfulness or disobedience,sometimes because of carelessnessor neglect. If we will first ofall admit that we are to blame, nexttell Jesus we are sorry, and then askHim to help us, we will find that Hewill answer our prayers. Having aregular place of prayer makes it mucheasier.The fourth step is an importantone, too. We must do something aboutour prayers. We must try to do undothe wrong we have done-make restitution,ask forgiveness, or pay backtithes.The Lost-Key Formula still has twomore steps, however. After the prayeris answered, we need to take time tothank the Lord for His mercy. The laststep is to "keep the duck in the house,"or determine to keep ourselves fromgetting into the position where we loseour "key."—The Free MethodistBIBLE QUIZA. SkyB. Gathering grainC. Young goatD. Language spoken by RomansE. Mother of John the BaptistF. Contagious diseaseG. Shaking or tremblingH. Lack of foodI. SinJ. Son of JacobK. Book of Old TestamentL. Black wood"dSI QII 001 36 V8 UL 19 fS 3fr XC IS OICOVENANTER WITNESS

| Lesson Helps for the Week of September 24,1967 j! iSabbath SchoolLessonfor September 24, 1967.PAUL'S CONTINUING CHRISTIANWITNESS: Acts 28:17-31.Comments by John K. Gault.Paul and the other prisoners weredisembarked at a place in Italy calledPuteoli where they "found brethren,and were desired to tarry with themseven days." From this place theytraveled on land, stopping first at"Appii Forum." Paul's friends seemedto know that he was comingand so they went to Appii Forum andthe Three Taverns to meet him. Paulhad written the epistle to the Romansabout three years before this and so,they were expecting him some time,but it is difficult to know just howthey knew that he would be on thisgrain ship from Malta. A probableexplanation might be that as soon asPaul and his company landed atPuteoli the Christian brethren theresent on word to the Christians atRome, and so they same "as far asthe Appii forum" to meet him.When Paul saw these brethren "hethanked God, and took courage." Whenthey arrived in Rome, "the centuriondelivered the prisoners to the captainof the guard: but Paul was suffered todwell by himself with a soldier thatkept him."1: The Treatment of Paul WasBetter at the End of the Journey thanIt Was at the Beginning.The other prisoners were deliveredover to the captain of the guard: "butPaul was suffered to dwell by himselfwith a soldier that kept him." In thestorm at sea Paul ingratiated himselfinto favor of the centurion, and allthe others by assuring them that therewould be no loss of life. He persuadedthem to eat, and he paused to offerthanks to God for the food and forsaving their lives. In Proverbs 16:7it is said, "When a man's ways pleasethe Lord, he maketh even his enemiesAUGUST 30, 1967to be at peace with him." The Jewswho had harangued against him atJerusalem and Caesarea did not-followhim to Rome. Festus and Agrippawould undoubtedly send an officialword with the centurion that as far asthey could see there was nothing aboutPaul which would justify his execution.2: Paul Did Not Delay in BeginningHis Testimony.Verse 17 says, "After three daysPaul called the chief of the Jews together:and when they were cometogether, he said unto them, Men andbiethren, though I have committednothing against the people, or customsof our fathers, yet I was deliveredprisoner from Jerusalem into thehands of the Romans. Who, when theyhad examined me, would have let mego because there was no cause ofdeath in me." He desired first toappeal to his countrymen becausethey believed in God and were familiarwith the law and the prophets.Paul's objective in doing this was topersuade the Jews that Jesus wastheir Messiah whose coming was foretoldby the prophets whose sayingsthey revered.3: Paul Did Not Accuse the Jewsir. his Witness.He said in verse 19, "But whenthe Jews spake against it, I was constrainedto appeal unto Caesar; notthat I had aught to accuse my nationof." He did not wish to stir up anyanimosity among the Jews since theywere not speaking against him." Heundoubtedly thought that the besthe could do was to win them to hisside in presenting Jesus Christ tothem and to the Gentiles. He said inverse 20, "For this cause I called foryou, to see you, and to speak withyou."4: Paul Felt Honored to be Boundfor Christ's Sake.He said, "For the hope of Israel Iam bound with this chain." What wasthe "hope of Israel"? The "hope ofIsrael" was that the Messiah wouldeventually come, who would reign overthem and deliver them from all theirfoes. Moses had, long before, said,"The Lord thy God will raise up untothee a Prophet from the midst of thee,of thy brethren, like unto me; untohim shall ye hearken" (Deut. 18:15).In Isaiah 53 the prophet presentedto the Jews a clear picture of thesuffering Messiah and he wrote aboutwhat had already happened. "He waswounded for our transgressions, hewas bruised for our iniquities." Thiswas the "hope of Israel". For this,Paul said, "I am bound with thischain." Paul's chain, therefore, whichhe was wearing was a badge of honor.It was a sign of liberation for theJewish nation. Christians have theexalted privilege of wearing this badgeof honor in this our modern day. Itis an honor to suffer and to be restrictedfor Jesus' sake, in the recalcitrantsociety such as exists in themodern world. Many resent suchfrustration but the Apostle Paul didnot regard his chain in that light. Hewas wearing it "for the hope of Israel."5: Paul's Witness Was Based ona Profound Knowledge of Scripture.The Jews of Rome had not heardanything against Paul, neither byletter nor by any person. But they hadheard of the "sect," thus implying thatthey regarded it as a heresy. Theemperor Claudius had, before this,commanded all Jews to depart fromRome. But they were interested inwhat Paul had to say and so they seta. time fo.' him to speak to them. Althe appointed time, "there came manyto him into his lodging; to whom heexpounded and testified the kingdomof God, persuading them concerningJesus, both out of the law of Moses,and out of the prophets, from morningtill evening." Paul had been educatedir. Jerusalem, having "sat at the feetof Gamaliel" in order that he mightbecome a rabbi. He knew far monabout the lew and the prophets thanany of his hearers did. But he appliedwhat was said in the law and theprophets to Jesus, who had been putto death on the cioss and then in thr< vrw

days had risen from the dead. Paul'switness was entirely Christo-centric,and that made the difference.6: Having Heard the Testimonythe Hour of Decision Came.When they had listened to Paulall day, "some believed the thingswhich were spoken, and some believednot. And when they agreed not amongthemselves, they departed, after thatPaul had spoken one word, Well spakethe Holy Ghost by Esaias the prophetunto our fathers, saying, Go unto thispeople and say, Hearing ye shall hear,and shall not understand; and seeingye shall see, and not perceive: Forthe heart of this people is waxed gross,and their ears are dull of hearing,and their eyes have they closed" (w.24-27). Paul gave to the Jews a partingshot" as they went out from his presencewith "great reasoning amongthemselves." Not all who hear theGospel will accept of it. Only those,like Lydia, "whose heart the Lordopened" will respond favorably to theoffer of salvation. But as far as humannature is concerned the hour of decisioncomes, and one must answerthe question which Pilate asked, "Whatshall I do then with Jesus which iscalled Christ?"7: The Gospel is Not Chained.Paul was chained but his Gospelwas not. As the Jews left his househe said to them, "Be it known thereforeunto you, that the salvation ofGod is sent unto the Gentiles, andthey will hear it." Paul's freedomwas quite restricted, but he "dwelttwo whole years in his own hiredhouse, and received all that came inunto him, preaching the kingdom ofGod, and teaching those things whichconcern the Lord Jesus Christ, withall confidence, no man forbiddinghim." Undoubtedly there were manywho came in to talk with Paul, bothJews and Gentiles, but probably moreof the latter. To every one Paul wouldtalk about Christ and many of themwould go out from his presence, "madeinto new creatures in Christ Jesus."They would go away from Paul andtell others of what they had heard.Paul was chained but not his Gospel.God continues to find a way for theunchained Gospel to spread throughoutthe earth. It is being translatedand published into every majorlanguage and dialect of the earth.Paul "dwelt two whole years inhis own hired house" and probablythen was given his freedom, for a timeat least."Lesson based on International SundaySchool Lessons: the International Bible Lessonsfor Christian Teaching, copyrighted 1963by the Division of Christian Education, NationalCouncil of Churches of Christ in theU.S.A."Junior TopicFrom page 138A third part of our belief in Christis that He rose from the grave, havingwon a victory over sin and death. Hetook away our sin and gave us Hisperfect righteousness so we can appearbefore God as perfect, and have eternallife in heaven with Him. Jesus said inJohn 14:19b, "Because I live, ye shalllive also." He went back to heavensoon but He prayed to His Father to bevery near to those believers whom Hewould leave in the world, and forothers who would believe on Himafter that time. John 10:28 promisesthat no one will ever take away fromHim those who are truly His own.Those promises are given to us,if we will receive them. If we acceptHis sacrifice of Himself for our sins,we can be cleansed from them, andbe acceptable to God. Not only this,but John 1:12 says, "To as many asreceived Him, to them gave He powerto become the sons of God, even tothem that believe on His name." Whata wonderful thing for Christ to dofor us, to change us from hopelesssinners to sons of God.But we must accept this for ourselves.The most tempting, beautifullywrapped gift does us no good as longas it only sits there in front of us.We must accept it, open it, and useit before it will be of any good to us.So it is with salvation. We must acceptit for ourselves, receive it, and thankGod for it. The Holy Spirit gives usthe grace to do this also. Would youlike to receive this gift of forgivenessof sins and the right to have Christ'srighteousness? Then tell Him youbelieve in Christ's sacrifice for you,and ask to be received as righteousfor His sake. Romans 10:9,10 says,"If thou shalt confess with thy mouththe Lord Jesus, and shalt believe inthine heart that God hath raised himfrom the dead, thou shalt be saved.For with the heart man believeth untorighteousness: and with the mouthconfession is made unto salvation."When we accept the salvationbought for us by Christ, it is likestarting a new life as a member ofGod's family. We are "babes" in thisfamily and as all babies we have muchgrowing to do. We need to learn manythings from God's Word to help us inour new life. We need to learn to"walk by faith" depending more andmore upon God and watching foranswers to the prayer we offer up toHim. We need to grow in grace. Weneed to learn to spend time with Himdaily. We need to learn how to resistthe devil. We need to learn how topraise God in ways that will be pleasingto Him. We need to learn whatis God's will for us to do during ourlife on earth.One of the most important thingsto learn is the way to tell others ofour Savior, and of our faith in Him.He has placed us here on earth fora purpose — to glorify Him — andif we truly love Him, we will wantto spread the good news of salvation.In the Lord's Prayer we pray, "Thykingdom come. Thy will be done onearth as it is in heaven." Telling othersabout Christ so they may accept Him,too, is a way of helping to have Hiswill done on earth. If you have studiedthe Christian soldier as found inEphesians 6:14-17 you will rememberthe sword of the Spirit, the Word ofGod, was a very important part of hisarmor. If we have the Word of Godwell-studied and laid up in our hearts,we will be ready to tell others thereason for our faith in Jesus Christ.We are saved m order to be goodservants for Him.TO THE LEADER:Memory Verse: Romans 10:9.Scripture: Ephesians 2:13-22.Other verses: Ps. 116:12,13; John 5:24; John 11:25,26,27; Heb. 5:9; II Tim.2:15; Col. 1:12,13,14; I Pet. 3:15; II Cor.6:2; Matt. 16:16.Psalms: Review memory Psalm 51, p.133, vv. 5-8; Ps. 116, p. 282, vv. 1,2,5,6,8,9; Ps. 98, p. 234, w. 1-4; Ps. 118, p.285, vv. 13-15.Ques­Discuss Shorter Catechismtions 33, 34 and 35.A new commandment I give untoyou, That ye love one another; as Ihave loved you, that ye also love oneanother. John 13:34.140 COVENANTER WITNESS

Prayer MeetingTopicfor September 27, 1967.THE PRAYER OF HABAKKUKScripture: Habakkuk 3:1-19.Comments by Rev. R. W. Caskey, D. D.Psalms: 46, p. 119, vv. 1-4; 81, p. 200,vv. 6-8; 73, p. 179, vv. 9-11; 91, p. 224,vv. 14.References: Deut. 11:13-17, 26-28;Deut. 28:15-20, 63-64; Isaiah 5:20-25;Isaiah 47:10-11; Romans 8:36-39; Revelation3:5.In the Hebrew this prayer is writtenin poetry and I am told that themeaning of some of the words usedis obscure. However, it is not difficultto learn the lessons from this prayer.The prayer begins with a recitalof the great power of God. The figuresof speech which are used tell us ofGod's deliverance of his people asHe brought them out of Egypt, andled them into the Promised Land.The author dwells upon this deliverancethat he may have hope in thisdark hour of history.This time the prophet is consciousthere is to be no deliverance. God'sjudgments are to be meted out uponHis people. They have passed the pointwhere they can repent and escapethe judgment of God. This should warnus that God's mercy is not alwaysextended to His people. The day willcome when it is too late; this is thehour when Habakkuk prays thisprayer. If this happened to that nationwhich God chose for His own, it willcertainly happen to modern nationswho disregard God's commands. Weonly kid ourselves when we tell ourselveswe can disregard the laws ofGod and prosper.We are also warned that the innocentwill suffer with the guilty whenthe nation is punished. I think wecan assume that Habakkuk had warnedof the sins, and that he and otherslike him, had had no part in the sinof his nation, but they would sufferwhen their nation suffered. Habakkukbe no herd in the stalls; it is a pictureof want, perhaps of famine. Those whotell us that what the other man doesshould not concern us, forget that noman lives to himself, and no man diesto himself. All profit from the righteousnesswhich exalts nations, and weall suffer from the wickedness thatbrings the judgments of God. Thisis the reason that we should alwayslabor to keep our nation right withGod.The last two verses of our lessontell us that all is not lost. In themidst of trouble we can rejoice in theLord and have joy in the God of oursalvation. In Revelation we find theletters to the seven churches, and ineach of those letters there is a promiseto those who overcome. Judgmentmay be pronounced in the letteragainst the church, but a blessing ispromised to those who overcome. Thelast verse of this chapter is a promiseto those who overcome, and it is awonderful promise."The Lord God is my strength."Come what may, God is his strength.It reminds us of the New Testamentpromise, "I can do all things throughChrist who strengthens me," or weare more than conquerors throughChrist who loved us and gave Himselffor us."The Lord will make my feet likehind's feet." The Lord will give swiftnessto his feet so that no one will beable to harm him. In Ephesians weare told to have our feet shod withthe preparation of the gospel of peace.When God gives us swiftness we donot need to fear the nets and snareswhich others set."The Lord will make me to walkupon mine high places." When Godmakes us to walk upon our high placesthe way may be dark, but we will beable to see the sunlit heights of faith.Through the darkness we will be ableto see the morning star, the harbingerof a new day. We will know that God'schastening is in love and He willreturn to comfort His people.Suggested Prayer:Pray that men will see the folly ofrebelling against God's ways.Pray that men will see that disobediencebring judgment.Pray that we will set our hope inGod through Jesus Christ.Pray that the church will always dothe will of Christ her head.Hidden ImperfectionsThey were "bargain" electric cords. They looked perfect but they causedfuses to burn out. The first was bought as an extension cord for power tools,although it was really a trouble light. The storekeeper said he could sell itcheaper than the cord by itself and one would have the advantage of the troublelight when needed. In fact the man of the house found it so handy that he wentback and bought one for each of his sons. However it suddenly developed ashort circuit. Investigation showed that it had evidently been put togetherhurriedly and too much insulation had been removed. This allowed the barewires to come together when the cord was twisted. It had to be rewired andas a precaution insulating tape was added.The other cord was new, but it too caused a fuse to blow, and tests showedthat it was definitely shorted. It had to be split before the defect was found.In its manufacture a space had been left where there was no insulation at allbetween the wires. Bending the cord brought them into contact with each other.This cord was discarded as dangerous, for there may have been other uninsulatedplaces on it.The man wrote to his sons and advised them to check their trouble lightsimmediately. Moreover he lost faith in ready-made cords and for a number ofyears he bought tested cord of high quality and made up his own!We too need to watch out for hidden imperfections that show up when we arcunder stress. A twist or bend shorts us out and we fail to do our work. What ismore we blow a fuse and hinder the work of all around us. When this happenswe make people lose faith in us. We need the check of daily Bible reading andprayer, and the insulating work of the Holy Spirit. It may seem like a spiritual"bargain" to ease up on our devotions, but it isn't.says, "I must wait quietly for thecoming up of the people that invadethus" (Revised V.) The fig tree will notblossom, there will be no fruit in thevine, the olive shall fail, the fieldswill yield no meat, the flock will becut off from the fold, and there willAUGUST 30, 1967 141

MRS. MARY DAVIDSON REIDThe session of the Almonte congregationregretfully reports the deathof Mrs. Mary Davidson Reid. Shepassed away on July 10, in her ninetyfirstyear, at the home of her daughterand son-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. BertBishop, Sheerness, Alta.She belonged to the ReformedPresbyterian Church all her life,having been lately re-enrolled in theAlmonte congregation under the pastorateof the Rev. Robert More, Jr. Anhonorary lifetime member of the Britishand Foreign Bible Society, she alsohad conducted prayer meetings inCarievale, Sask., and Sabbath Schoolon her farm in Sheerness, Alta. Shewas the widow of Mr. John Reid, aSaskatchewan pioneer.One sister survives, Mrs. SaraMacCay of Oro Station, Ont.; a sonArchie of Carnduff, Sask; Iter daughterWillene of Sheerness; eight grandchildrenand three great-grandchildren.Burial services were conducted bythe Rev. R. Munro in Carievale, andinterment was in the Workman Cemetery.A delayed funeral address waslikewise delivered in her home congregationof Almonte. Throughoutlife she confessed, "I will mentionthe lovingkindness of the Lord"(Isaiah 63:7).NEWBURGH, NEW YORKIn our last news items, we wererejoicing with Mrs. Sarah McVey onher 93rd birthday. Since then, on May19, she was called to her heavenlyhome. She is survived by one nephew.We have also lost another member bydeath, Mr. James R. Wilcox, who wascalled home, on July 16, after a briefillness. His mother and wife survivehim, also several nieces and nephews.Both funerals were conducted by ourpastor, Rev. Alvin W. Smith, Jr.The sacrament of baptism wasadministered by our pastor to ErieDayton, son of Mr. and Mrs. WilliamDayton, and to Jeffrey Hunsinger, sonof Dr. and Mrs. Hugh Hunsinger, onSabbath, June 4.Our pastor attended the Pastors'Refresher Course and Synod. ElderRobert A. Meneely was our delegate142to Synod. On Sabbath evening, July 2,he and our pastor gave their reportsto the congregation before the eveningservice.Congratulations are due to MissNancy Klomp, on her graduation fromthe local high school. Our pastor tookpart at the baccalaureate service, heldin the high school on Sabbath, June 25.Through the courtesy of Mr. BobAnderson, we have had a sound systemamplifier installed in several of thechurch pews for those who have difficultyin hearing.Prayer meeting is held on Wednesdayevening at the church. On July 5,those in attendance spent time inwriting letters to Senator Dirksen andto the two Senators from New YorkState regarding the Prayer Bill beforeCongress. We pray that some goodmay come from these and other letterswritten at home by some.Our pastor and Mr. William Daytonparticipated in the Orange CountyBible Society booth at the OrangeCounty Fair in Middletown, NewYork, Thursday, August 3. Many portionsof the Scriptures were distributedand discussions held with many aboutthe Word of God.We were happy to have Mr. DeweyMclllwee home for a short visit fromhis duties in the U. S. Navy aboard theU. S. Preble and have him worshipwith us and visit in our homes.Mr. Marshall Smith and familyworshiped with us recently and Mr.Smith gave his personal testimonyregarding his position on PoliticalDissent in his work.THE THREE BIRTHS OF CHRISTChrist was not only born to Mary.He was born to God His Father. Hemay be born in us, His creatures.An old English writer has stated itquaintly and with discernment.His eternal birth in heaven is inexpressible,where He was born withouta mother. His birth on earth isinexpressible, where He was bornwithout a father. His third birth in thysoul is most inexpressible, withoutfather or mother.He had a heavenly birth, by whichHe was the eternal Son of God, andwithout which He had not been aperson able to redeem thee. He had ahuman birth, by which He was the sonof Mary, and without that He had notbeen sensible of thine infirmites andnecessities. But He hath a spiritualbirth in thy soul, without which bothHis divine and human birth are utterlyunprofitable to thee, and thou art nobetter off than if there had neverbeen a Son of God in heaven or a Sonof Mary on earth.It seems bold, and almost untrue,to speak of the second Person of theTrinity as being of the Father. Wealways associate birth with an eventin time. Jesus was the only begottenof the Father, but it is not impliedthat once He was non-existent. Inregard to Christ, being begotten isnot an event of time but a fact irrespectiveof time. Christ did not becomea son; He was and eternally isthe Son. The word Son primarily expressesa relationship, not an event.God is eternally the Father, Christis eternally the Son. The Father hasprimacy; the Son is subordinate. Thesepositions are plainly taught and inferredfrom passages in the Old andNew Testaments. The truth unfoldedis full of sweetness and meaning tous, since by grace we also become thesons of God (which Satan never intended,tempting us rather to be godsourselves). Christian CynosureAMY MONTGOMERYServices were held in Sterling forMiss Amy Montgomery who passedaway July 24, 1967; Amy was born atMorning Sun, Iowa on February 27,1881. When she was a few months old,the family moved to Jewell County,Kansas where she spent her childhood.Later they moved to Olathe, Kansasand in 1915 she began working as aGirls' Supervisor in the Kansas Schoolfor the Deaf. In 1928 she took a similarposition in the Iowa School for theDeaf at Council Bluffs, where sheworked for 21 years. For the past 18years she had made her home inSterling.While living in Jewell County sheunited with the Holmwood ReformedPresbyterian Church. Later she transferredher membership to Olathe andthen to Sterling where she was amember at the time of her death.She is survived by two sisters,Mrs. Margaret Humphreys and Mrs.Ida Milligan, both of Sterling.COVENANTER WITNESS

MARSHALL SMITH CASE TOCALIFORNIA SUPREME COURTWe would like to bring you up to date (August3) on the Marshall Smith case. Since the Judge ofthe Superior Court of San Diego County failed totake into consideration the fact that Marshall Smithindicated his willingness to take the Oath with theExplanatory Declaration on Jan. 17 (rather thanJan. 30) while he was still in the employ of theCounty; and since the Judge had given his opinionthat there is nothing contrary to the intent of theConstitution in adding an appendage such as theExplanatory Declaration, we asked him to reconsiderhis decision on the basis of this additional testimonywhich he had failed to notice in the minutes of theHearing before the Civil Service Commission.The Judge agreed to this, but when the CivilService Commission lawyer saw that he would bebeaten, then he introduced the objection that theCourt had no right or precedent to rule on the"administrative policy" of the Civil Service Commission.Our attorney argued that this was a "constitutional"issue since his client was being deprived ofhis constitutional rights. The final ruling given July12 was that the Judge did not think there wasprecedent for his assuming jurisdiction over thecase.Now the Ad Interim Commission has with ourAttorney, Mr. Goss, and in consultation with membersof the Oath Committee, has decided to appealthe case to the California State Supreme Court.The Synod of 1967 has given to us both the authorityto make this decision and the availability ofFunds from the Oath Committee and the Miscellan-eous Fund. (See recommendations of the Oath Committee.)The Appeal has been made. It is possiblethat the Supreme Court will remand the case to anAppellate Court, but both Appellate and SupremeCourt decisions are precedent-setting. In addition,if the decision is not favorable, we will appeal to theSupreme Court, and likely, if the decision is favorableto us, the Civil Service Commission will appealto the Supreme Court.Our attorney will have to appeal both on jurisdictionalgrounds and on constitutional grounds,but he feels that there is every probability that thecourt will assume jurisdiction and rule on the constitutionalquestion of whether Marshall's expressionof his religious conviction in taking the ExplanatoryDeclaration can infringe upon his rights as a citizen.The Smiths are thankful for God's leading inthese experiences. They have been consideringmoving to Philadelphia, and the case as it hasdeveloped seems to confirm this leading. God hasopened up a new job for Marshall in Philadelphia,and they were able to sell their house almost immediately.If anyone feels led to help them withmoving expenses, he may send contributions toMr. Lewis Keys, Clerk of Presbytery, 12892 RosalindDr., Santa Ana, California. Contributions not designatedfor moving expenses or those designatedwhich exceed the actual moving expenses will beused for legal fees.Bruce C. Stewart, Moderator; J. D. Birdsall, ClerkAd Interim Commission of Pacific Coast PresbyteryNEW YORK — For the past 10 years a Chicagobusinessman has purchased over 1,144,000 copiesof Scripture from the American Bible Society, andthen resold them at a fraction of his original cost.Gabriel Skrudland, proprietor of Skrudland PhotoService, considers the personal capital on which noreturn is received his tithe. Mr. Skrudland has distributedScriptures in the United States to homemissions, institutional chaplains, rural SabbathSchool teachers and others in Christian work. Hedoes not ship overseas.In an effort to reach people everywhere with theprinted Word at a price all can afford, the AmericanBible Society sells Scriptures at cost or gives themaway to those who cannot afford them. The Societyhas distributed over 800 million Bibles, Testamentsand portions since it was founded in 1816. •"IN HIS HANDS (Calvin's), for the first time in thehistory of the church, the doctrine of the Holy Spiritcame to its rights. Into the heart of none more thaninto his did the vision of the glory of God shine, andno one has been more determined than he not togive the glory of God to another. Who has been moredevoted than he to the Saviour by whose blood hehas been bought? But, above everything else, it isthe sense of the sovereign working of salvation bythe almighty power of the Holy Spirit which characterisesall Calvin's thought of God. And above everythingelse he deserves, therefore, the great name ofthe theologian of the Holy Spirit.''— From "The Theology of Calvin," by Dr.Benjamin Warfield.AUGUST 30, 1967 143

HAVE YOUR OWN COLLEGE SUBSCRIPTIONA 9-month college subscription to The CovenanterWitness can be yours for $1.50. Send yourname and address including zip code to:Mrs. M. W. Dougherty125 North Fourth StreetSterling, Kansas 67579RECRIMINATIONby Walt MasonI received a red hot letter from old Reuben J.McSwat; than this Reuben few can better hand outlanguage smoking hot. He is bitter and sarcastic,he's a master of the game, and his adjectives aredrastic and his nouns a burning shame. SomethingI had said provoked him, roused the ire of theMcSwat, without malice I had poked him in a soreand tender spot. So he wrote me such a letter aswould make one's whiskers fry, and I muttered,"Donnerwetter! I will write a fierce reply. I candish up words so torrid they will make his fiercestfade; I can hand out threats as horrid as this Reubenever made." But my second thoughts are better,always, than my first ones are; and I said, "Whywrite a letter that will sear Hke blazing tar? It's asign of moral blindness if one lets his anger rule;I will chasten him by kindness;I'll be sweet andcalm and cool." So I wrote to Reuben saying that hisletter rung the bell; I deserved, I knew, the flayinghe administered so well. I was thankful for hischiding since I knew 'twas kindly meant; he wasgenerous in guiding to the light a wayward gent.When I met this Reuben later he came up andgrasped my hand, and he said, "My shame is greaterthan you well can understand. It's a bitter recollectionthat I wrote you such a screed; I am plunged indeep dejection over that atrocious deed." Then myheart with pleasure tingled as I clasped old Reuben'sneck, and our tears of rapture mingled and the foolfeud was a wreck.GLIMPSES OF THE RELIGIOUS WORLDFrom page 132at North Pole, Alaska, a httle town near Fairbanks,to serve a quarter million people in the far northof the 49th state.Financial support for the station with the callletters KJNP will be supplied in part by the Back tothe Bible Broadcast, Lincoln, Nebraska; Havenof Rest in Hollywood, California; and theHeaven and Home Hour in Glendale, California.100TH ANNIVERSARYOF "APOSTLE TO ISLAM"Protestants around the world this year are maing the one hundredth anniversary of the birth ofDr. Samuel M. Zwemer, a pioneer in Christian missionsto the Muslim world and in the early beginningsof evangelical cooperation.Dr. Zwemer, born in Holland, Michigan, andreared in the Dutch Reformed Church, was a scholar,teacher, missionary and author of more than 50books.While still a student in Michigan, he was thrownin jail in Grand Haven for distributing Scriptureswithout a license. It took a telegram from a BibleSociety Secretary in New York to effect his release.He later served as the first recruitment secretaryof the Student Volunteer Movement, an interdenomiofthe Student Volunteer Movement, an interdenominationaleffort to recruit college students formissionary work.In 1890, at the age of twenty-three, Zwemer washimself sent by his church to the mission field —a supremely difficult one — Saudi Arabia. Here hespent the next twenty-two years, learned Arabic,became a specialist on Islam, traveled in variousparts of that vast sub-continent, and produced numerousbooks, chiefly on Arabia and Islam.Opposition from the forces of Islam, however,was always present. At a time when Bibles werebeing destroyed in wholesale fashion, Zwemer conceivedthe idea of printing the New Testament witha Koran, the New Testament printed on one sideof the page and the Koran on the other. He knewthat even the most extreme Muslims would not dareto tear the Koran. A copy of this unique edition waslater presented to the Bible Society by Dr. Zwemerand can be seen today in the library at Bible House.In 1929, Zwemer became Professor of Missionsat Princeton Theological Seminary and continued inthis chair until the age of seventy when he attainedemeritus status. He died just short of his 85thbirthday in 1952.This year Princeton Theological Seminary hasplanned centennial celebrations to honor him andanother ecumenical and mission pioneer born thesame year, Dr. Robert E. Speer. Dr. Speer headedthe Presbyterian Board of Foreign Missions for 46years.Bible Society Record144 COVENANTER WITNESS

THECovenanter WitnessTo The TruthJESUS CHRIST AS SAVIOUR, LORD, HEAD OF MEN, THE CHURCH AND NATIONS.VOLUME LXXIX NO. 10 SEPTEMBER 6, 1967 STERLING, KANSASBIBLE LESSONS FOP. THE WEEK OF OCTOBER 1, 1967GATHERING OF MISSIONARIES AND TEACHERS IN CYPRUSMISSIONARYNUMBER

THE COVENANTER WITNESSOfficial organ of the ReformedPresbyterian Church of N. A.; CVANMUCAL MMM AtMCUTMNEditor: Rev. M. W. Dougherty, D.D.125 N. 4th StreetSterling, Kansas 67579Phone 316 — Br. 8 • S472Printed each Wednesday under the supervision of theBoard oi Publication by The Patterson Press, Winchester,Kansas 66097.Contributing Editors:Rev. Kenneth SmithDr. G. M. RobbRev. John McMillanRev. C. E. CaskeyOpinions expressedindividual writer, notDepartment Editors:Rev. John TweedMrs. Robert B. MaineMrs. Willis EdgarRev. John K. Gaultin our columns are those of thenecessarily the views of the ReformedPresbyterian Church or the editor.All material to appear in The Covenanter Witnessshould be typewritten, double-spaced, and should be inSterling, Kansas two weeks before it is to be printed.The cost of all pictures is 30 cents per square inch.Obituaries — All words in excess of one hundred fifty,one cent per word. Money should accompany such notices.SUBSCRIPTION RATESIndividual (1 year): U.S. and Canada, $4.00, BritishIsles 35/-, all other places, $5.00;Individual (2 year): U.S. and Canada, $7.00, BritishIsles 63/-, all other places, $9.00;Group: U.S. and Canada, $3.00, British Isles 28/-, allother places, $4.00.9-month student subscription — $1.50; 5-month introductoryoffer —$1.00; 2 gift subscriptions to persons outsideof the R. P Church — $2.00 each. Single copies, 10c.Subscription Agent for U.S. and Canada: Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Subscription Agent for the British Isles: Rev. HughWright, B.A., 12, Knutsford Drive, Belfast 14, NorthernIreland.All checks should be made payable to The CovenanterWitness in U. S. currency.Give one month's notice of a change of address. Sendboth the new and the old address to Mrs. M.W. Dougherty.Postmaster: Please send Form 3579 to Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Second class postage paid at Winchester, Kansas 66097Quott -"A man has deprived himself of the best thereis in the world who has deprivid himself of aknowledge of the Bible. It is very difficult indeedfor a man or for a boy who knows the scripture,ever to get away from it. It haunts him hke an oldsong. It follows him like the memory of his mother.It forms a part of the warp and woof of his life."— Woodrow Wilson.This Week's WitnessMiracles 147Glimpses of The Rehgious World 148Blessed Are The Persecuted 149News From Japan 150Examine Me, O Lord 152Scripture and Science: Blood 153The African Pastor, His Dogs,And a Deadly Mamba Snake 154Lesson Helps . . 155Scribe With A Hard Pencil 157Church News 158This and That in W. M. S 160WE HOLD THE FOLLOWING TO BE TRUTHS OF SCRIPTURE:The Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the only infalliblerule of faith and conduct.preserve the purity of the Church.The duty which rests upon officers to maintain discipline andThe Trinitarian conception of the Godhead.Spiritual worship as a divine requirement mediated through theFaith in Jesus Christ as the only way of salvation.Lord Jesus Christ.Salvation by Grace.The exclusive use of the Psalms in the worship of the Church.Assurance of salvation as a possible Christian experience.The Protestant interpretation of the Sacraments.The Gospel Call and Election.The divine right of the institution of Marriage and that it is notThe Holy Spirit as the Author of regeneration.to be dissolved except by adultery or "irremediable" desertion.Sanctification through the cooperating agency of the Holy Spirit.The Sabbath as a day sacred to rest and worship.The fact of death and hell as the destiny of the lost and heaven The duty of nations and their civil rulers to honor Christ asas the destiny of the saved.King of Kings and Lord of Lords.That the Church of Jesus Christ consists of all those who believeThat Christian citizens are under obligation to obey lawful authority.in Him together with their children.The Divine Right of the Presbyterian form of Church Government.The right and duty of the Christian citizen to dissent from allThe Lord Jesus Christ as the only King and Head of His Church. governmental and national disobedience to the Law of God.That terms of membership or communion are essential to the That the Covenants of the past are still binding.welfare of the Church.From "The Communicant's Class" by J. B. Tweed146 COVENANTER WITNESS

EditorialComment a*rMIRACLESThere are some who question the reliability ofthe Scriptures because they are unwilling to acknowledgethe facts concerning the miracles. Theywill accept nothing, they say, that is at variationwith natural laws. The truth is that they acceptmany things which they cannot understand if theywish to do so.One writer defines a miracle as an unusualinterposition of providence, a counteraction or suspensionof the operation and laws of nature. Iprefer to think of a miracle as the operation of aforce stronger than a law of nature. For instance,the law of gravity ordinarily pulls a body towardthe stronger body. A ball will fall toward the earth.But a strong magnet may keep a steel ball fromfalling to the earth. The natural law has not beenbroken but the stronger always overcomes theweaker. Christ's power to work miracles was strongerthan the ordinary laws of nature.Someone has said that a genuine miracle shouldbear the following:1. That it should be palpable to the senses.2. That it should be performed publicly.3. That it should be recorded and made known.4. That documents should be fairly traceable tothe names they bear.5. That the miracle should be connected withsome important event or subject of instruction.6. That the witnesses of the miracle should beabove suspicion.7. That the witnesses should agree in theirtestimony.The miracles of Christ conform to all thesetests. Besides these things we read of the manykinds of miracles which Jesus worked. He healedthe sick of fevers, of blindness, of leprosy. Heopened the ears of the deaf, and enabled the dumbto speak. He raised the dead. Also He exercisedauthority over the forces of nature, turning waterinto wine, stilling the storm, multiplying food to feedthe thousands. He had power over the demons, castingthem out. They met the wide scope of humanneed. Sometimes He touched the persons involved,and sometimes He merely spoke a word. He hadpower to overcome the natural laws. This did notchange these laws. They are still in effect. Butsupernatural power was exercised.Not every sickness is due to a special sin. Insome cases the diseases of the body are the result ofsin. But in some cases Jesus first forgave sin, thegreatest miracle of all.The miracles of Jesus were real and complete.There was nothing deceptive about them. The cureswere permanent. The storm was stilled while thedisciples reached the shore. The hungry multitudewere satisfied, with some left over. All the miraclescould be examined. Even in one case proof of forgivenessof sins was shown to be a fact by the additionalmiracle of healing.Jesus is the Son of God with all power andauthority in heaven and in earth. He is ready tobless and save as much as He ever was.Associate Reformed PresbyterianNEW YORK — With servicemen in Vietnam andother trouble spots around the world as well as intraining camps, what has been called "the world'slargest Bible reading class" takes on special significancefor military personnel this year. More than40 milhon people all over the world are expected toparticipate as the American Bible Society's WorldwideReading program and National Bible Week ofthe Laymen's National Committee are combinedfor the first time this year. The two programs willrun concurrently from October 15 through October22, with the American Bible Society's WBR programcontinuing through Thanksgiving for a total of 40days. A bookmark containing the Bible readings isavailable free on request from the ABS, 1865 Broadway,New York, N. Y. 10023.GLIMPSES OF THE RELIGIOUS WORLDFrom page 148"Prayers are wasted words on the desert air. Noprayer since time immemorial has ever been answered.The great Robert G. Ingersoll said: 'Hands thathelp are better by far than lips that pray.' We alsoobject to the dating of your proclamation 'in theyear of Our Lord. . .' as utterly anachronistic. 'Liberty,justice and equality of all men before the law'was first proclaimed to the world on July 4, 1776and the Lord was not present on that date. It waspurely a secular declaration."SEPTEMBER 6, 1967 147

Glimpses of the Religious WorldCMS MEDICAL-DENTAL TEAMS PENETRATEMEXICO(EP) Free medical and dental care for some10,000 Mexican people has been provided by 99medical, para-medical and support personnel in atwo-week group missions project south of the border.Sponsored by the Christian Medical Society, thestaff of fifteen physicians, five dentists, nineteeninterns, medical and dental students and a complementof nurses, assistants, technicians and interpretersserved villages surrounding Galeana in theSierra Madre Mountains in Nuevo Leon state duringtwo weeks of early July.Five medical-dental teams (or "brigadas" as theyare known to Mexicans) went to 47 country villagesby many modes of transportation: cars, jeeps,horses, burros, ox-carts and by foot.CMS youth teams of doctors' children and otherstaught the villagers Bible verses, sang choruses inSpanish and played together. Evangehstic meetingsfollowed each clinical visit.Christian medical Society began this form ofLimited Group Missions three years ago, arrangedinitially by Mel Alexander on duty as CMS WesternRegional Director. Other LGM projects are plannedfor foreign countries in 1968.PROBLEMS OF THE CLERGY: A SURVEY(EP) "Demands on time" is the No. 1 practicalproblem of American Protestant ministers, accordingto a survey sponsored by the Ministers Life andCasualty Union, a Minneapolis-based insurancefirm.They feel that much more time needs to be spentin study and prayer, in preparation for church services,in youth work, in visiting the sick, and incounseling.Half of those who responded feel that less timeshould be spent in administration and one-fourthfeel that they should devote less time to churchfinances.Salaries paid to clergymen have improved slightlysince 1962. The survey found that the medianannual salary for all ministers, excluding parsonageallowance, was $5,914, an increase of $885 overTHE REV. JOHN McMILLANR. D. 1, Box 337WALDEN, NEW YORKtLe past five years.Ministers' wives, asked to enumerate their threema or problems, listed them as "money problems,""excessive denands for responsibilities in thechurch," and "(.oo many meetings."Thece were closely followed by "absence ofhusband," "rot enough family time," and "need forfamily privacy."The survey was conducted by Mid-ContinentSurveys, Inc., and was based on 1,833 questionnairesreceived from a cross-section of Americanclergy.CONSERVATIVE BELIEFS AND PREJUDICE(EP) A Lutheran pastor who is also a researchpsychologist holds that youth who accept the conservativebelief of the Church tend to show thegreatest sensitivity to human need.Those who least accept a conservative theologytend to be the least sensitive to human need, accordingto Dr. Merton P. Strommen, executive directorof Church Youth Research and research director ofReligious Education Association."There is a positive relationship, and a significantone, between orthodoxy and tolerance," heconcluded.Dr. Strommen thus took issue with the findingsof two sociologists, Charles Glock and Rodney Stark,in their book, Christian Beliefs and Anti-Semitism.They implied that feelings of prejudice increase inrelationship to one's orthodoxy.Dr. Strommen based his findings on a survey ofyouth of the American Lutheran Church-MissouriSynod.FREETHINKER TELLS PRESIDENT: "PRAYERSARE WASTED WORDS"(EP) The leader of the Freethinkers of Americahas told President Johnson that "prayers are wastedwords."Joseph Lewis sent this wire to the White Housefollowing the President's appeal for a day of prayerto bring "order and reconcihation" to the nation'sriot-torn cities:See page 147148 COVENANTER WITNESS

News From Our Mission Field^^v^iBLESSED ARE THE PERSECUTEDNicosia, CyprusJuly 22, 1967Dear Friends,What a week this has been! It's been so excitingthat I'm just taking time to sit down and share itwith you.For the week of July 17-22, Misses Helen Barba(17) and Evniki Philippidou (15) Evangehcal studentsof mine, and I have conducted Bible school forthe first time in Ormedhia. The girls had no experiencealong this hne. Each morning after Iattempted to teach the children to sing Psalms (inGreek), Evniki had a Bible lesson based on theWordless Book series. The children would divide intotwo groups (1-3 and 4-6 grades) and learn thememory verses connected with the story. Afterrecess, Helen would tell the story of Yuji, a Japaneseboy. They would again divide for memory work,which consisted of learning the books of the NewTestament. Then I would conduct handwork projectsconnected with the Wordless Book story forthat day. We lived in Larnaca at the Hutchesons.My aunt generously prepared dehcious meals forus tired people.But this was not an ordinary VBS. Let me shareit with you day by day.Monday, July 17Started out with only 14, but more kept comingduring the morning until the number was 35.Average attendance was 35, total was 55. Theywere somewhat restless at first, but the stories weretold so interestingly that the children soon quieteddown. We had three children of the local GreekOrthodox priest. One mother came during Helen'sstory and called out her two sons, gave each a goodswat with a stick and profanely chased them home.One boy still inside said pityingly, "Poor ones." Itfit right in with Helen's story of how Yuji's motherand brother didn't want him to come back to thekindergarten where he was learning about Jesus.Tuesday, July 18Arrived this morning to find a pile of "fragrant"manure shoved through a hole in one door on apiece of paper with some Greek writing on it. I toldone of the girls to read it but she misunderstood andthrew it away instead. We found out later that somechildren who would stand outside but refuse to comein, knew that the paper made some strong accusationsagainst us. The daughter of the priest hadshown her father a copy of the first day's memoryverse. Her father said, "Oh, this is from the Bible.You can go back."Wednesday, July 19Things were relatively quiet to-day, but the boyswere troublesome yesterday from the outside, camein and although we endured it until near the end,they were talkative and naughty. Later, Mr.Constantinou, one of our church members, visitedthe family and the boys were not allowed to comeback after that.Thursday, July 20Today, Mr. Constantinou thought we'd want toshake off the dust of our feet at his village. But wehad no such ideas and shared, "Blessed are they whoare persecuted for righteousness'sake, for theirsis the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, whenmen shall revile you and persecute you and shallsay all manner of evil against you falsely, for Mysake." We arrived to find that some paper had beenstarted afire and stuck under the same hole in thedoor. But it soon died out. During the first memoryperiod, I was in with Helen to help keep order.Mrs. Constantinou came over with her baby daughterjust to see how things were getting along — andbeheve me, God sent her, for just as she stepped inthe door, some girls (about 18 or 20 years old)called through a window, "Who brought these prostituteshere?" Mrs. C. answered them. The girls wereapparently swearing, and Helen was just a httlefrightened. She said the way they talked made heralmost faint. Later the Constantinous called on thegirls' parents, who said they would prevent it fromhappening again. They also called on the "mucktar"(mayor) who said he would take steps if anythinghappened again. The Constantinous requested thatSEPTEMBER 6, 1967 149

we call in Tom Hutcheson on the matter, so he camedown to Larnaca from Troodes and he went withus to the village.Friday, July 21Things were quiet to-day. The little boy troublemakerscame around during recess and might havecaused some trouble afterwards, but Uncle Tomwas there, and then a man in the village died, sothat was a bigger attraction for them for a while.In the afternoon, we had our program. It wentweU, though we had only the Hutchesons, Mr.Constantinou and some small boys for guests. Iwish you could have heard those tiny httle childrenreciting the books of the New Testament. I still canand smile. Mr. Constantinou spoke to the childrenafterwards and encouraged them to talk and hvewhat they had learned.Saturday, Jidy 22We went back for a final session this morning.After another exciting story of Yuji, some discussionof Christians-in-name-only came up. One boy gavethe example of his own father. "My father callshimself a Christian, but he never goes to church."The oldest daughter of the priest prayed in theprayer-time, "Now that we love Jesus in our hearts,help us to live better Christian hves." The certificateswere given out later and all the fond farewellswere said with requests that we come back next yearand promises that they would all come back.PRAISE THE LORD!BUT PRAY! —For the Constantinous who endured as much ormore persecution than we.For ah those who came that they may hvechanged lives.For me in every way and for Helen and Evniki.For the village that it may be influenced forChrist.In His Name,Winnie Wilson.News From JapanP. O. Box 10, TarumiKobe, JapanAugust 9, 1967Dear Friends around the Globe:If you want to know how much at a loss I amas I begin this letter, let me herewith inform youthat I am limited in my vocabulary to only wordswhich do not have within them the last letter of ourEnghsh alphabet. Now I may be able to understandthe predicament of the older Japanese who have hadto cut down their number of writing characters(kanji) to the 1,800 set by the Ministry of Education.I do hope our American Department of Educationdoesn't get any wild ideas hke cutting our alphabetdown to 25 letters by ehminating the last letter ofthe alphabet. I trust you all know your alphabetwell enough to know which one I am talking aboutbecause I can't even tell you. There seems to be aparalysis of a sort in the very bottom left handcorner of my typewriter. With all due respect tothe influence on English grammar and spellingduring my four years in the Island of Cyprus (asover against the American language) I see I shalleven have to choose carefully always to use theAmerican when there is a choice of an's' as overagainst the last letter of the alphabet. (By the way, Ihave no explanation for any errors in the use of anyof the other 25 letters. I really thought on readingmy letter as printed in the Witness this past springthat I must have fallen asleep at the keyboard occasionally!E. R. F.)When I was informed the day before yesterdaythat it seemed to be my month for writing anotherletter to this pubhcation, I was more impressed bythe shortage of writers than by the passage of time,which in itself has kept my head whirling at adi—y (oops! ! I forgot my limitations!) pace. Inearly spring when I wrote, it had been a full yearsince my turn had come to write the mission letter,and now it is only five months later. But this certainlyis not the only time this shortage is evident.Except for Miss Lynn having come back from hervacation for these few days this week to help withHigashi Suma Daily Vacation Bible School now inprogress, only two missionaries, Miss Everett inthe Okamoto area and myself in the Tarumi area,are on active duty during the rest of this month.Rev. Mr. Masunaga is the only pastor, with the Spearfamily having gone away last night for needed restand relaxation out on the island of Shikoku, andhe and his family need rest, too. Pray for specialgrace and strength for Mr. Masunaga, and for atime of refreshing for the family sometime. ReformedChurch Seminary professors and studentswill help some on the preaching during the monthbut this only indicates how urgently we should bepraying the Lord of the harvest to thrust forthlaborers into the harvest.150 COVENANTER WITNESS

I was able to get away for a few days a coupleof times during the last two weeks of July when Itook part of my vacation (the rest of it to comeduring the first half of September) and went up to aski resort about 60 miles or so northwest of Kobe.No snow was there but it was cool enough to usea cover for sleeping in contrast to sleeping in Kobewith an electric fan turned on all night long. Eversince the bad flood which hit Kobe on July 9, it hasseemed hotter than other summers, though in thelast few days it has been a drier heat, which ismuch easier to bear.Because of a special need to keep the doorsopen here all the time as a witness to the communitythat we do not intend to give in to Satan's attemptsto close down this area of the work, I asked theyoung couple, Mr. and Mrs. Yamashita, who weremarried last September, to come and stay here inthe house from July 7 until their baby was born.This made it possible for me to come and go morefreely and to get away completely a couple of timesas I mentioned above. The extra conveniences andwider space here made her last month much morerestful and pleasant before the baby was born. Andthe httle girl, Miho Chan, seems to have one of herDaddy's fine traits — punctuahty. He works for aprivate railway company and the trains in Japanrun on schedule to the minute. She kept the appointmentthe doctor had set many months ago forAugust, the 8th, arriving yesterday morning at4:20 a. m. Her mother, formerly Kesho Sumiko San,worked for us when I hved at the Book Roomapartment with Miss Lynn, and she has been aChristian for about ten years. Her daddy becamea Christian last summer before the wedding — andis an older brother of Miss Yamashita, a member ofthe Keiyaku Church. The name chosen for her is"beautiful fruit" (Miho, pronounced Me-ho), havingbeen chosen with the book of Ruth in mind and thefruit of the grain, that she may grow up to be hkeRuth in character and love for God. We thank Godfor another covenant baby and desire your prayersfor her, too, as well as all the other covenant childrenin the churches here. Mother and baby aredoing fine.The other two churches have had or are nowhaving vacation Bible schools with quite good attendancethis year. We are not attempting one herein Tarumi because of lack of personnel, not only forconducting the VBS as such, but also for trying tofollow up such contacts in Sabbath School later. Itmay be possible to work out another schedule forSabbath School in the fall, but at present it seemedSEPTEMBER 6, 1967wiser to wait until we can handle that area of thework effectively. At that time we plan to use anothermeans of attracting children.How necessary it is for us to keep our sightsadjusted. When the eyes of our hearts get out offocus, our whole sense of values and purpose gettopsy-turvy. We begin to see only people and losesight of the fact that back of them is the prince ofthe power of the air, the real enemy. But thenduring vacation it was showed to me out of Psalm66, that behind all of that is God. Verses 10-11 areall directed to God and in verse 12, "Thou hastcaused men to ride over our heads; . . ." whichindicates that for a time God causes His own to passthrough times of crushing defeat, of very humiliatingexperiences for His own purposes. Yet, whata hope is placed before us in the last part of theverse, ". . . but thou broughtest us out into a wealthyplace." His Word leads us in faith to know thewealthy place that some day we shall inherit fullythrough Christ in the house of the Lord forever.Therefore, let us not be content to falter haltinglyalong but seek wholeheartedly for the power andstrength promised in Isaiah 40:28-31. And justyesicrday I was thinking of the growing acceptanceof evil in society and the evidence of its deadening ofthe voice of the Church against evil as evil. Noahwas known as "a preacher of righteousness" andthat's the only kind God elected to save in the flood,but in how many of our pulpits would he bewelcomed to give a series of evangehstic sermons,were he to appear with his pre-flood vision? Wow!That's quite a thought! (And besides it looks hkeI've been able to say quite a lot without that lastletter — no wonder it got left to the last.) SoI'llleave you to go on with other work now.Sincerely yours in Christ,Eleanor R. FarisNEW YORK -- Outdoor theaters opened inBangui in the Central African Repubhc recentlywhen "Bearer of the Book'' and "My Right and MyCause," two of 16 such films available from theAmerican Bible Society, were shown at a denominationalopen air meeting. Last year more than140,000 Scriptures were distributed in the CentralAfrican Republic, an increase of almost 280 percentover the preceding year, according to the AmericanBible Society's annual report.151

Our YouthScripture andScience - BloodPoor Peter cut his finger on his pocket knife. It Refusing Blood. A man was in the news recentlywas not a bad cut, but out of the end of his fingercame the oddest fluid imaginable! Oh, yes, "ordinary"blood. You've guessed rightly.Now people from all parts of the world have thesame varieties of blood. God's Word never makesscientific blunders, so we read in the Book of Actsthat "God has made of one blood all nations of menfor to dwell on all the face of the earth."If you were sick and needed a blood transfusion,and the doctor said, "I think we came from monkeys,soI'll give you monkey's blood," it would be poison.Your blood would become gluey and you would verysoon die.because he would not consent to the blood exchangefor his baby girl. The child died. The man was heldresponsible. What is your reaction here? Was itreally the man's fault, if "clean blood" was available?We have heard of parents who forbade theirchildren to hear the Gospel of Christ and opposedtheir taking any interest in Christian matters. Weare certain that God holds such parents responsibleand they will one day have to give account to Him.Blood Banks. What a wonderful discovery it waswhen the knowledge of blood types enabled transfusionsto be given and thousands of hves saved."Tons of blood," says Prof. Bagadarasov, "have beenapphed with truly tremendous success." The RedHobgoblins or Haemoglobin?If you are sick in a country where the Bible hasnever come, the witch doctor may tell you you havean evil spirit inside your head. In some tribes theywould chisel a hole in your skuU to let it out. Butthe civilized doctor may get your blood to see aboutits haemoglobin.Cross does a wonderful life-saving work in collectingblood and making it available to those who are indesperate need.There was a minister, who should have knownbetter, who went around telhng people to avoid theidea of "Christ dying for sinners." All the old hymnson these lines he thoroughly hated, saying suchWhat is blood, anyway? It is composed of ideas were the "rehgion of the butcher shop." Heplasma (a yellowish fluid), red cells (of a fantasticdesign), white cells (of several kinds), also bloodplatelets (which luckily assist clotting when you cutyour finger). The red color is due to haemoglobin, aniron compound of very exact formula.Blood Groups. Although Harvey in 1628 discoveredthat blood circulates, it was not till 1900that it was found that there are four main groupsor kinds of blood. For a transfusion to save yourhfe you must get the right type of blood. The maintypes are called A, B, AB and O. Now O type bloodis unusual in that its possessor is called a "universaldonor." That kind of blood can be given to anybodyon earth, no matter what their skin, color or race.evidently had the wrong reaction, too.Blood Shocks Us. How strange that in oldentimes virtually a "trail of blood" is seen in relationto human sin. As soon as sin appeared in history,sacrifice at once foUowed. Blood had to be shed.Every morning an animal was slain; every eveninganother; day in day out; year in, year out; centuryin, century out. Why? Man had sinned, man mustdie for his sins—unless—someone else could diefor him. Shocking? It was meant to be. If a boy saidto his father, "I don't hke blood," his father couldsay, "God does not hke sin." "But it's revolting." "Sois sin, to an infinitely holy God." So they had thisterrible object lesson. There came a time whenRH Blood, Negative or Positive. Blood can cause someone called "the Lamb of God" came to thisdeath. In certain cases a mother's blood can produce scene.antibodies so that a second child born to her will Oddly enough, too, not very long after that,have a blood called RH Positive which is certain to blood sacrifices in Jerusalem ceased and have nevercause death to the child before or soon after birth. been resumed.In such a case the only hope is to have the blood "All have sinned and come short of the gloryexchanged for that of a wholesome type.of God," says the Bible. Why, it's just hke having the152 COVENANTER WITNESS

disease-carrying blood that causes death.it, or countit pure joy? Do I speak kindly to my"Christ died for us." That's like the transfusion opposers?of healthy blood.Am I more keen to share His suffering than His"Whosoever will may come" is like the Universal joy?Donor's blood available to any man on earth.When others do wrong, do I feel loveless to"See that ye refuse not Him that speaketh" is like them? (a) Or doesit not even hurt me? (b) Do Ithe warning against despising the Red Cross Blood criticize them in my heart? (c) Do I evertell a-Bank. What does God think of the one who despises nother? In what spirit? (d) Do I fulfill my duty ofthe so-called "blood rehgion" of the Bible? Here it Lev. 19:17 in rebuking him? (e) Isit hard to hurtis: "Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, him by speaking openly, or do I enjoy belittlingshall he be thought worthy, who hath. . . counted him? (f) Have I been at some time or another guiltythe blood ... an unholy thing?" But simple rehance of the same sin?says:Is another's reputation safe in my hands?"By faith I lay my handHave I resigned forever my rightful rights forOn that dear head of Thine,the sake of Calvary? (comfort, respect, friendships,While hke a penitent I standenjoyable, innocent pastimes, getting married, theAnd there confess my sin."special place in someone's affections, self-defense,What is your reaction? Hostihty to the idea of to sleep, to be ministered unto).Christ "shedding His blood" to redeem sinners? Such Can I say, "Be ye foUowers of me in all things"?an attitude will lose you your own soul. Or is it Do I forgive readily, even ifit be those fromthankful acceptance? UNCLE HARRY whom I expect most, and they are not sorry for whatEvangelical Action (Australia) they have done, and even feel I am to blame?"EXAMINE ME, O LORD, AND PROVE ME;TRY MY REINS AND MY HEART'Do I treat the outsider with more consideration,respect and victory in my spirit than those I hvewith?Regarding those whom I love most dearly, (a)Am I overexacting, adopting the wrong attitude forthe slightest offense? (b) Am I less careful aboutdetails: politeness, keeping my testimony true, etc.?How much tenderness goes out to my defeatedPsalm 26:2by Alletta N. JacobszDoes my will clash with God's? Am I willing forHis wiU, or dehghted without it?neighbor? How much prayer have I spent on himDo I have an unbroken record of. . . 'Tes, Lord,"without telling my best friends about his defeats?"nven gladly?"Let a man examine himself, and so let him eatCan God write, "Victory" over my hfe (a) whereof that bread, and drink of that cup" (I Cor. 11:28)other eyes see? (b) in secret when I am alone?Herald of His ComingDo souls come to find help? Am I wilhng tolocate the hindrance?Do I have a tender conscience? reporting the NEW YOR.K — Although some people insist thatvery motives for a look, an expression in the face, the Bible is a religious relic and that even Godisa tone of the voice, and a word, a deed?dead, there is an unprecedented demand for Sciipturesin modern languages. Alittle over 10 month--:Am I crucified to the world? Its passions? Outwardadornment?after the American Bible society published "GoodWhat about so-called innocent things, such News for Modern Man," the New Testament inas newspapers, and the amount of time spent on Today's Enghsh Version more than four millionthem?copies had been distributed. In addition the ABS hadAm I watchful to redeem the minutes?placed print orders for at least another two millionWhat about Quiet Times that mean sacrifice? copies.Do I practice self-denial daily? In my friendships,my emotions, my money?Are my tears ever sanctified? Are they merelyWhose Creation? The world God made was afor myself, or are they given for His cause and forbeautiful world. The ugliness init is man's own idesouls?(Anonymous',Do I ever receive opposition? Do I grin and bearSEPTEMBER 6, 1967 153

A PAGE FOR JUNIORSThe African Pastor,His Dogs,and aDeadly Mamba Snakeby Ruth Hart, South AfricaNyawo, the African pastor, stepped quicklyalong the path. He had almost reached his home atGwaliweni mission station. He could hear his twodogs barking and called to them.When they heard their master's voice and hisfootsteps coming closer, they began their furiousbarking again. One was a httle fox terrier caUed"Vlekkie." He was old and a bit crippled with rheumatism,but a real fighter, especiaUy of snakes.The other was a very large, brown dog, not usuallyinterested in going after snakes, but he had learnedfrom Vlekkie.As Nyawo came near the patch of taU grasswhere the dogs were, they kept up their franticbarking. He knew something was there and went toinvestigate. Seeing nothing, he picked up two smallstones and tossed them into the tall grass. Up onits tail, rightin front of Nyawo, reared a six-foot,ten-inch black mamba, the deadliest snake in thatregion. Mambas often rear up hke that to strike ata person or animal. The victim dies within a fewminutes of a mamba's bite unless anti-mambasnakebiteserum is given immediately.He moved back quickly, but the snake wasdistracted by the dogs and did not strike at him.Instead he stayed upright, standing taller thanNyawo. According to African custom, a man neverleaves a snake, even if he can get away as Nyawocould have done. He must face it and kill it lest itbite someone else. Nyawo had killed 12 other blackmambas, but this was his closest encounter.There was no time to go to the house for hisfighting sticks. About 25 yards away he picked upa pole with a few branches on it. Taking this clumsyweapon in his hands, he returned to fight themamba — still standing upright and stiU guardedby the dogs. He swung at the snake, but the weightof the pole made it too heavy to reach the snake'shead. When he finaUy hit it in the abdomen, thesnake got tangled up in the branches at the end andthen started crawling up the pole toward him.Nyawo could not lift the pole again because ofthe added weight of the snake. He decided that, ifhe tried to grab the snake's neck, he would probablybe bitten in the attempt, and maybe both of themwould die. At that instant Nyawo lifted a silent,desperate prayer to Heaven. "Lord, help me," heprayed. "If it be Thy wiU, spare my life that I maystill serve Thee. Help me to kill this mamba."The two dogs now saw that their master was inextreme danger. Vlekkie quickly ran behind thesnake and jumped up at its back to distract and biteit. Soon the other dog did the same.The snake, now just about a foot from Nyawo'shand, turned to one side to strike Vlekkie, then tothe other side to strike the brown dog. In doing this,he got himself loosened from the pole. This helpedNyawo to get another swing at the snake, and thistime he killed it.But both dogs were already dead. Their barkingand biting had saved the life of the pastor, but itcost them their hves.God had heard Nyawo's call for help, and theanswer came — just in time!The Missionary BroadcasterHenry Martyn prayed: "Lord, let me have nowill of my own, or consider my joy as dependingthe smallest degree on anything that can befaU meoutwardly, but as consisting altogether in conformityto Thy will."154 COVENANTER WITNESS

Lesson Helps for the Week of October 1,1967Sabbath SchoolLessonfor October 1, 1967.Unit 4.MESSAGES FROM THE PROPHETS.When Prophets are Needed.2 Kings 14:23 - 17:41; Amos 8:4-11Comments by John K. Gault.In this lesson we are taken awayback over eight hundred years beforeChrist, to the reigns of Jehoash andJeroboam II, kings of Israel, and tothe reigns of Amaziah and Azariah,kings of Judah. This was shortly beforethe fall of the Northern Kingdom,which was called "Israel" following therebellion of the ten northern tribesunder the leadership of Jeroboam I.From that time on, Jeroboam I is referredto, in the Bible, as the one "whomade Israel to sin." Every one of hissuccessors on the throne of Israelfollowed the example of Jeroboam.They "departed not from the sins ofJeroboam, the son of Nebat, who madeIsrael to sin." Jeroboam II was thegreatest of the kings of Israel. Hisreign lasted for over forty years, andhe greatly enlarged, through conquest,the borders of his kingdom. However,the moral conditions of the NorthernKingdom continued to deteriorate andthe life of the nation was characterizedby abysmal distress on the part ofthe poor and gluttony and debaucheryon the part of the rich. II Kings 17:16-18 tells us of the wickedness ofIsrael: "And they left all the commandmentsof the Lord their God, and madethem molten images, even two calves,and made a grove, and worshipedall the host of heaven, and servedBaal. And they caused their sons andtheir daughters to pass through thefire, and used divination and enchantments,and sold themselves to do evilin the sight of the Lord, to provokehim to anger. Therefore the Lord wasvery angry with Israel, and removedthem out of his sight: there was noneleft but the tribe of Judah only."1: What is a Prophet?In anwering the question impliedSEPTEMBER 6, 1967in the subject of this lesson our firstconcern should be to determine whatkind of a person a prophet is. A prophetmay serve in two capacities; hemay consider the present conditionsand then foretell what the future isgoing to be. This was what Amos didas he said in chapter 6, "Woe to themthat are at ease in Zion, and trust inthe mountain of Samaria, — Ye thatput far away the evil day, and causethe seat of violence to come near; —that drink wine in bowls, and anointthemselves with the chief ointments;but they are not grieved for the afflictionof Joseph. Therefore now shallthey go captive with the first that gocaptive, and the banquet of them thatstretched themselves shall be removed."Amos was a herdman of Tekoabut he was called to speak for God.A prophet, therefore, is not only onewho foretells future events but he isone who speaks for God. God spoke toIsrael, Judah and other nationsthrough the lips of Amos. God usedpeople, both men and women, to transferHis message to sinful people.2: Mankind Has Always Been inNeed of a Revelation from God.Ever since sin entered the worldthe propensity of human nature hasbeen to commit sin. God revealedHimself to sinful people through Hisservants, the prophets. Before theflood "God saw that the wickedness ofman was great in the earth, and thatevery imagination of the thoughts ofhis heart was only evil continually"...but "Noah found grace in the eyes ofthe Lord" (Gen. 6:5,8). It was onlythrough God's revelation of Himself toNoah that he and his family weresaved in the ark. Abraham went outfrom Ur of the Chaldees, "not knowingwhither he went" but he continuedto go as God revealed Himself to him.God also used Moses to reveal His willto the people of Israel, both beforeand after they went out of Egypt. Itwas God who gave to Israel the TenCommandments. But of all the revelationsof God, Jesus Christ was thegreatest. John says of Him, at thebeginning of his Gosepl, "In the beginningwas the Word, and the Wordwas with God, and the Word was God.The same was in the beginning withGod." Jesus was God's Word in thatHe came to speak for God and to revealthe divine will to people lost insin. At the conclusion of Jesus' baptism,by the Jordan River, the heavenlyvoice said, "Hear ye Him." WhileJesus was on earth He spoke directlyto people in behalf of God, and sinceHe ascended up to heaven He continuesto speak for God through theHoly Spirit, through the Word of God,and through providence.3: Prophets Are Needed When theGovernment of a Nation is Corrupt.That was the great trouble with thenation of Israel. Its government wascorrupt. Fiom the time of the firstruler, who was Jeroboam, the son ofNebat, until the last ruler, who wasHoshea, they all did "evil in the sightof the Lord." Of Jeroboam II, whowas ruler over Israel at the time ofthe events of this lesson, it is said in2 Kings 14:24, "And he did that whichwas evil in the sight of the Lord: hedeparted not from all the sins ofJeroboam, the son of Nebat, who madeIsrael to sin." Amos, therefore, wassent to warn the nation and governmentof Israel of the inevitable consequencesof the national sins into whichthey had fallen.Compared with most of the othergovernments of the world, the governmentof the United States is good.But the government of the UnitedStates has one fundamental defect,and that is she makes no acknowledgmentof Jesus Christ, the supremeEuler, in her fundamental law, whichis the Constitution. The ChristianAmendment, which has been introducedinto Congress many times, providesfor this acknowledgment. Becauseof this great omission the governmentof the United States is corruptand stands, today, in great needof prophets who will speak for God,to wain our lawmakers that the nationwhich will not serve God shall perish.4: Prophets Are Needed WhenSocial Injustice Is Permitted to Flourishin a Land.155

This was another characteristic ofthe wicked nation of Israel. Amosdescribes the fetid condition in 8:4-10as he says, "Hear this, O ye thatswallow up the needy, even to makethe poor of the land to fail, saying,When will the new moon be gone,that we may sell corn? and the Sabbaththat we may set forth wheat, makingthe ephah small, and the shekel great,and falsifying the balances by deceit?That we may buy the poor for silver,and the needy for a pair of shoes;yea, and sell the refuse of the wheat?The Lord hath sworn by the excellencyof Jacob, surely I will never forgetany of their works. Shall not the landtremble for this, and every one mournthat dwelleth therein? and it shallrise up wholly as a flood; and it shallbe cast out and drowned, as by theflood of Egypt — And I will turnyour feasts into mourning, and allyour songs into lamentation; and Iwill bring up sackcloth upon all loins,and baldness upon every head; andI will make it as the mourning of anonly son, and the end thereof as abitter day."The United States has done muchto promote social justice in our country,but there are great goals yet to beachieved. The Bible has been outlawedfrom the public schools. The infamousliquor traffic is responsible for morepoverty, more broken homes, morehighway fatalities, more bestial crime,than any other one single factor.America greatly needs prophets tospeak for God concerning these greatevils. If these forms of corruption arepermitted to continue as they are atthe present time, the time of retributionis sure to come. Amos had a visionof a basket of summer fruit. To himit was like the nation of Israel, whichwas soon to perish. Prophets are neededto warn America lest her civilizationbe like a basket of summer fruit,perishable."Lesson based on International SundaySchool Lessons: the International Bible Lessonsfor Christian Teaching, copyrighted 1963by the Division of Christian Education, NationalCouncil of Churches of Christ in theU.S.A."Prayer MeetingTopicfor October 4, 1967PRAYER OF SIMEONLuke 2:25-32by Rev. C. E. Caskey, D. D.Suggested Psalms: Opening Psalm, 98:1-4, p. 235; before prayer period, 145:9-13, p. 351; others that might be used,118:13, 16, 18, 19, p. 285; 16:1, 6-8, p. 27.Let us open our Bibles to Luke 2:22-24 and by answering the followingquestions we can get an idea of theoccasion for the prayer of Simeon.What was the purpose in bringingJesus to the Temple at this time?(Verses 22b and 24.) How old was thechild Jesus when He was presented atthe Temple? (See Leviticus 12:2,4.) Theprescribed offering (v. 24) was a lambof the first year for a burnt offeringand a young pigeon, or a turtle-dove,for a sin offering (Lev. 12:6). Whatexception was allowed and for whatreason according to Leviticus 12:8?Question 27 in the Shorter Catechismis answered by saying that Christ'shumiliation consisted in His beingborn... in a low condition. We citeLuke 2:7 as a proof text and does notverse 24 bear this out too? How?The above references and answersaccount for the presence of Joseph,Mary, and Jesus in the Temple. Letus see how it came about that Simeonwas there. We are not told who Simeonwas. (Legend and tradition, however,have tried to fill in what the Bibleleaves blank and have given us someinteresting conjectures. See the commentariesfor these.) An inscriptionin a soldiers' cemetery in Virginiareads, "Who these men were no manknows, what they were all men know."So it is with Simeon. Who he was noman knows, but what he was is moreimportant and we find it in verse 25.Besides his name and the place helived, Jerusalem, what four thingsare mentioned is this verse? Of thesethe last is important in telling us howhe came to be in the Temple at thistime. The Holy Spirit led him there,veise 27a. The same Holy Spirit whowas upon him (v. 25) had revealed tohim that before he would die he wouldsee the Lord's Christ (v. 26). Now thattime had come and the Holy Spiritcaused him to go to the Temple. Therehe saw the Christ, recognized Him,and took Him up in his arms.Before we take up prayer itself,and for our own instruction in praying,let us note how this is the prayer ofa spiritual person, of a Spirit-led person,of one who has just had a wonderfulpromise fulfilled in a marvelousway and so it is the prayer of a satisfiedperson. What does Romans 8:26tell us about dependence on the HolySpirit in prayer? Do we rememberto thank God when His promises arefulfilled for us? The Spirit broughtSimeon into the Temple at exactly theright time. Have you, or has someoneyou know, been led to the properplace at precisely the right moment?Can you think of other Bible examples?Simeon's prayer began with praiseof God (v. 28). He "blessed God." Hewould praise Him for fulfilling thegracious promise that he would seethe Christ of the Lord before he died,for the immediate leading of the HolySpirit that brought him to the Templeat the right time, and above all for theSavior he held in his arms. We arestudying these prayers to learn how topray. Let us not forget to "bless God."(The word "A-C-T-S" is used by someas a guide for praying: A — Adoration,C —• Confession, T — Thanksgiving,and S — Supplication.)Simeon prayed, "Now lettest thouthy servant depart in peace, accordingto thy word." "Lettest depart" (presenttense here) means to set free, release,send away, divorce, discharge, etc. Butit is used euphemistically of death.It is so used of the death of Aaronin Numbers 20:29, and the ApostlePaul uses a similar word in Philippians1:23 concerning his own death,and we rightly take that meaning forit here. But it has also the thoughtof dismissal or release. Simeon waitedfor the promise to be fulfilled, andnow he was ready to be dismissed,which would include his death.Simeon's prayer rings with joy forhe had found the Savior. What elsemattered when he had seen the Christ!So this is the prayer of one who hasfound salvation in Christ. Simeon'sprayer is without prejudice — a lessonwe might take to heart today.God's prepared salvation is for allnations, not just for a chosen people."A light to lighten the Gentiles" (v.32), for in his arms he held the Lightof the world (John 1:9; 8:12).Simeon's prayer was prophetic. Itwas prophetic for two reasons: theHoly Spirit gave Simeon a specialrevelation; and Simeon understoodfrom his study of God's Word what wasto be. Our prayers can be propheticas we lay hold of the promises of God,and as we learn from the Bible what156 COVENANTER WITNESS

the future is to be. His prayer was,and ours should be, in harmony witha right understanding of Scripture.The effect of Simeon's prayer isnoted in verse 33. Joseph and Marymarveled at what they saw and heard.Note, if you have time, the things hesaid about the work of Jesus Christ.Think about the fact that he blessedJoseph and Mary, but not the childJesus. Ordinarily the child would beblessed. Does Hebrews 7:7 throw somelight on this? If we can think of thePerson he held in his arms as he wasthinking of Him it will help us understandthe prayer of Simeon.Prayer Suggestions:This is the time of communions.Let us pray that Christ and the benefitsof the new covenant may be represented,sealed and applied to thecommunicants. It is also the time ofsome Presbytery meetings. Let us prayfor them. Students are already inschool, but sometimes the period justahead is a difficult one, especiallyfor new students. Let us pray for themin their adjustments and in meetingwhat each day brings to them.CorrespondenceAugust, 1967AN OPEN LETTER —From The Covenanter Witness ofJuly 19, 1967, we read from Notes onSynod's Proceedings for Friday, reportedby Rev. G. M. Robb the followingsentence: — "Dr. S. E. Boyle madean eloquent plea for the Church notto abandon her historic witness to therule of Jesus Christ over the nations,and was applauded."In light of the above mentionedapplause, we take it that the ChristianAmendment to the Constitution of theU. S. A. is favored by all members ofThe Reformed Presbyterian Church ofNorth America (Church of the Covenanters);that, this is a point of unison.Whereas the secret vote on the Reportof the Committee on Political Dissentheld over fiom the previous day, revealedthe fact all members of Synoddid not see alike as to the method ofobtaining a Christian Amendment tothe Constitution.Working from this point of unison,it would seem that all members of theChurch should use every opportunitySEPTEMBER 6, 1967possible to make known throughoutthe Nation the work of the ChristianAmendment Movement.Many people in our Nation knownothing of such a Movement and — itis also true that many are opposed toit, io various reasons. But our sovereignGod works in, and through Hiscreatures to bring about His purposes."The things which are impossible withmen are possible with God" (Luke 18:27). Let us as individuals believeit and,by His grace, be obedient to Him in allthings that we may discover His faithfulnessto His promises.The Christian Amendment MovementOffice is available for informationas to what one can do to make itswork known throughout the Nation.And also God's Word tells us that"The effectual fervent prayer of arighteous man availeth much" (James5:16b).Address:C. A. M. Office,804 Penn Avenue,Pittsburgh, Pa. 15221Signed by — One of the manymembers of the R. P. Church,who. by God's grace, love our^edeemer, the Lord JesusChrist.WILKINSBURG NEWSFrom page 159our church Home. For the past severalyears she has lived with her daughterin Ohio.Mrs. Edward Wachter and MissBetty Earney were hostesses at thoJuly meeting of the Women's MissionarySociety. They planned a picnicsuppe; at a rustic picnic grounds nearNew Kensington. The husbands of thesociety members were invited, andafter the meal and devotions enjoyedthemselves playing baseball.Dan Copeland was President of thePenn-O-Cove Conference, August 14-21. Others attending from Wilkinsburgwere Gladys and Bill Boyle, TerryBrown, Kathy and Jim Copeland.Scribe With A Hard PencilThe:e is little doubt, eating is good for us. Sometimesit can be good for usto eat our own words.The present writer recalls having inserted a few sarcastic lines in this columnabout an impudent tomato plant that was th:owing out its chest and flexing ilsmuscles out among the rose bushes. But a few weeks later that same mislocatedtomato plant was providing tomatoes of a quality and freshness that could notbe had in the stores.Then there was the electric, tooth brush. How much real labor, we wanted toknow, was expended in the operation of a hand tooth brush? What actual amountof drudgery was eliminated by electrifying the thin14? Admittedly an elect, iecrane could lift a good many tons; but — an electric tooth brush? ? Howevei,the next trip to the dentist b: ought from that dignitaiy tie verdict, "Xo cavities!"More recently it has been a junked auto yard in the community. ' This" wcaverred in the Scribe column "would fail to appeal (o Ladybird's sense of thoaesthetic." That statement still does not require great change.But there is more to the story than that. The tact is, that the owner ardproprietor of the junked auto yard is a Ch: istian man. In-as-much as he hasspare auto parts to sell at modest prices, his business is oiten visited by yourgbucks who want to soup up their jallopies o. decorate them with chrome strips.In his junked auto yard he is able to make contacts with some of these youngmen, such as most preachers and theologians could no*, make. While discussingthe price of a second hand engine block or a greasy transmission gear, thisChristian man is able to give his Christian witness to young fellows who may higetting the gospel message from no other souice.All of which indicates that we need to give careful attention to the injunctionof the Apostle Paul in Romans 14:13, where he said, "Let us not therefore judgeone another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumbling blockor an occasion to fall in his brother's way."

NOTICEDue to Geneva's Homecomingconflicting with the date of theAnnual Reception and DonationDay of the Reformed PresbyterianHome on October 7, the Receptionand Donation Day for the Homewill be held Saturday, September30 from 2 to 5 p.m.CHANGE OF ADDRESSAfter August 24, we will be locatedat the following address:Rev. Raymond P. Joseph816 Robinson StreetWest Lafayette, Indiana 47906CHANGE OF ADDRESSAs of August 31, 1967 the newaddress of David Ray and ElizabethWilcox is:2718 Fifth Avenue,Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania 15010.NEW ADDRESSRev. M. L. McFarland2569 Cedarwood AvenueLawrence, Kansas 66044Phone VI 2 - 3842SUBSCRIPTION NOTICESubscriptions from these congregationsare due, October 1, 1967: BelleCenter, Bloomington, Lake Reno, Lisbon,Orlando, Sharon, Southfield, Winchester,Wilkinsburg.SPARTA W. M. S. MEETSWITH MRS. CHRISTMASThe Sparta W T . M. S. enjoyed acooperative picnic dinner in the homeof Mr. and Mrs. Lem Christmas inMcLeansboro, Thursday, August 3. Adevotional meeting followed, afterwhich Mrs. Madison of Sparta wasgiven a Life Membership in the SynodicalWomen's Missionary Society.NELLIE CATHCART THOMPSONMrs. Thompson was born in Illinois,March 12, 1896, and passed to her rewardin Santa Ana, California on May11, 1967. She was a lifelong member ofthe Reformed Presbyterian Church.She is survived by a son, WendellThompson of Santa Ana, and by adaughter, Mrs. Lorraine Anderson ofVan Nuys, California; two brothersand two sisters, Clyde Cathcart of Bell,California, Ollie Cathcart of St. Louis,Missouri, Mrs. Myrtle Connery andMrs. Willa Mae Saylor of Santa Ana;nine grandchildren and one greatgrandchild.Mis. Thompson had lived in SantaAna for fifty-seven years and wasassociated with Security InsuranceCompany for thirty-seven years.She was active in church work,sang in the choir for many years, andwas treasurer of King's DaughtersMissionary Society when she was calledHome. For several years she had aselling project by which she earnedenough money to support a Koreanorphan, and this support she creditedto King's Daughters."Thy goodness and mercy attendmy life ways,At home with Jehovah,I'll dwellendless days" (Psalm 23).This quotation, from one of herfavorite Psalms, seems appropriatefor her homegoing.Covenanter King's DaughtersSanta Ana, CaliforniaMISS AMY MONTGOMERYIt is with sorrow that we recordthe passing of our dear friend, AmyMontgomery, yet we know that ourloss is her gain. We shall always rememberher faithfulness in her attendanceat the house of God. Thoughweak in body, she was strong in herLord. She was always willing to giveof her time and talent to those inneed.May her loved ones aways claimthe promises she so faithfully claimedand used for her strength. "Blessed arethe dead which die in the Lord, thatthey may rest from their labors andtheir works do follow them." "I willdwell in the house of the Lord forever."The Sterling, Kansas W.M. S.Margaret CopelandFlorence Edgarvisitors to America's historic East.The Dave Smiths, Betty, Davie, Mac,and Scott visited with us, while enroute to camping in New Hampshire'sWhite Mountains. Their visit was muchappreciated by their Smith relatives—• Aunt Jenny, Jim, Wendy, Roselyn,and Emily. Cousin Jim went back toNew Jersey with them for a 10-dayvisit.It's been some time since we lastsaw the Ralph Johnsons of Lawrence,Kansas. Ralph and Alice were herea few years back while Ralph was attendingHarvard.We held our VBS this month withtwo from our LTS helping out: BillEdgar of Broomall, and Rosalie Piperfrom Topeka, Kansas. Both also helpedout in some visitation evangelism inthe Cambridge area. VBS had 100enrolled, with 70 the largest dailyattendance. Many new contacts weremade and again the Reformed faithwas brought to the children of theCambridge community.Mr. and Mrs. Gilford Alexanderand Sharon (of Wyoming) were Eastvisiting their son and daughter-in-law,Lt. and Mrs. Bruce Alexander stationedat Ft. Devens, Massachusetts. Lt.and Mrs. Alexander are regular attendersat Sabbath worship.During their stay here, Bill Edgar,Rosalie Piper, and our young people,Barbara, Janice, Dick, and Greg Stuart,Betsy McKeown went with Jeff Smythto his parents' summer cottage in YorkBeach, Maine. The visitors from theWest could be excused, but alas, thesun was too hot for even our natives— all burned — necessitating a slowdown of their activities for about threedays.Mr. and Mrs. Abbott Cutter visitedtheir son Arthur and his family inAlmonte, Canada.Our pastor and family are on vacation— beyond the edge of the earth,past the Berkshire Mountains, visitingfriends along the trail as they wendtheir way to the Rocky Mountains,Greeley, Colorado to Mrs. McCracken'sparents' home, the Gilchrists. We hopethat, like Columbus, they won't fall offthe edge.During our pastor's absence we'vehad the following preaching: Rev.Wayne Spear and Rev. A. Smith, Jr. ofNewburgh, New York. It's always aCAMBRIDGE, MASSACHUSETTSpleasure to be able to hear CovenanterThe month of July brought manypreaching where the Bible forms the158 content and basis of preaching. Mr.COVENANTER WITNESS

Spear visited alone, but Mr. Smithwas accompanied by his wife Maria,his daughter Gretchen, and Mrs. Booksand her children, Pam, Jim, Janice,Diane.Margaret Smyth is making plansfor a three-week trip to NorthernIreland, where she will visit with herfour sisters and two brothers. "Ma"Smyth was born in Northern Ireland,at the least a few years ago and manyof her relatives still live there. Shealso hopes to visit and worship withour Irish Covenanter brethren.A final note ought to be added inappreciation for the work of Mr.Spezzaferro, a converted Jehovah'sWitness who has offered his muchneeded services to the church. He isa skilled worker with concrete andother masonry work, and as such isdoing much to improve the physicalplant of the church and is consideredto be an answer to our prayers inthis area. Our thanks go to the sovereignGod who always provides and toMr. Spezzaferro, a brother in Christ.CLARINDA, IOWAThe Sabbath School held theirannual Fourth of July picnic on thechurch lawn. Mr. Kenneth McCalla,our S. S. Superintendent, was in chargeof plans. The neighborhood was alsoinvited. A delicious supper, fireworks,and a social time made this a delightfulevening.Our college students spent thesummer with home folks. Duane Perryand Larry Falk came from I. S. U. atAmes and Carolyn McCalla andStanley Copeland from Sterling. Duaneand Stanley worked on farms andCarolyn worked in a nursing home.Larry Falk spent some time in Indianpolisand also attended CovenantHeights Conference.Howard Falk has spent the summerfollowing the wheat harvest.Mr. and Mrs. Howard Caskey, Mr.and Mrs. Raymond Moore, ArthurCaskey, and Miss Mildred Blair attendedthe Caskey reunion in Topeka,August 5.The Rev. and Mrs. John White ofBeaver Falls, Pennsylvania visited herparents, Mr. and Mrs. Homer Woods.Norma stayed with her parents whileJack attended Covenant Heights. Mr.and Mrs. Woods went back with themfor a visit. Their daughter, Mrs. RoyAdams, Mel, and Joel brought themhome.SEPTEMBER 6, 1967Mrs. Myrtle Tippin has enjoyedvisits this summer from her son Lyleof Newark, Delaware and from hergranddaughter Mrs. R. W. Been ofTopeka and Mrs. J. E. Murdock ofGirard, Kansas.Mrs. Walter Stokes (CharleneDunn) and children of Ventura, Californiavisited several weeks with hermother, Mrs. Mildred Dunn.Mrs. John Cabeen had a corneatransplant which proved successful.Charles Perry, son of Mr. and Mrs.Raymond Perry was honored by beingone of the six 4-H young people electedto the 4-H Hall of Fame at the PageCounty Fair.The Women's Missionary Societyhad an all day work day at the church,August 2. The regular monthly meetingwas held in the afternoon. Therest of the time was spent sewing formissions.Mrs. Jay Basler of Wenham, Massachusettsand Mr. and Mrs. TomJoseph and family of Kansas Cityvisited their parents, Mr. and Mrs.Howard Caskey, in August. The TomJoseph family are moving the last ofAugust to Marion, Iowa.Mr. and Mrs. Dale Beaver havemoved from College Springs to a farmeast of town which they recently purchased.Mr. and Mrs. Eddie McCalla, whowere married in May, live on the homeplace. Eddie's parents, Mr. and Mrs.Kenneth McCalla, have moved to anapartment in Clarinda.We have missed Miss Tommi Kirschthis summer. She has spent part ofher summer vacation with an aunt atBurlington Junction, Missouri and partwith the Rev. Marion McFarlandfamily. Tommi expects to return toClarinda this fall to enter the L. P N.course at our local college.Miss Gertrude Lee is spending twoweeks vacation in New York City withfriends. She is a teacher in IowaWestern College at Clarinda.Our sympathy goes to Mr. and Mrs.George (Feme McKeown) Baker ofDuncumbe, Iowa in the death of theirson Robert.The young people have been cleaningthe parsonage grounds.WILKINSBURG, PENNSYLVANIAWe salute this year's high schooland college graduates: Gladys Boylefrom Wilkinsburg High School, BillBrown from Hampton Township HighSchool, and Dan Copeland from GenevaCollege.Vacation Bible School was held,June 14-23, with an enrollment of 38.Those teaching and helping wereKathy Copeland, Director; WilliamEdgar and Mary Harsh from the SummerTraining Program; Mrs. E. C.Copeland, Fern Fish, Mrs. C. E. Caskey,Jean Caskey, Bill Boyle, JimCopeland, and Miss Rhoda Beatty.Immediately after our VacationBible School, Kathy Copeland left toserve in several congregations underthe Summer Training Program.We were happy to have as ourguest minister on Synod Sabbath Dr.Adam Loughridge. We felt as if wewere bidding farewell that day tolong-time friends as that was the lastSabbath Dr. and Mrs. Loughridgespent in the United States before returningto Ireland.We are glad to welcome back Dr.and Mrs. E. C. Copeland after theiryear in St. Louis where Dr. Copelandreceived his master's degree fromConcordia Theological Seminary.On the evening of June 12, thechildren of the Copelands held openhouse at the Reformed PresbyterianSeminary in honor of their parents'25th wedding anniversary.Ray Stohner has returned fromsix months of active training in theROTC. Robert J. G. McKnight IIIspent the summer in training in theUnited States Naval Reserves at Newpoit,Rhode Island.Dr. and Mrs. S. E. Boyle and familywent to Quinter, Kansas, for the weddingof their son Scott to Mary JaneMcBurney on June 10. The bride andgroom are living at Norfolk, Virginia,where Scott is stationed in the NavyAir Corps.On June 30 Mrs. J. C. Mathewswas married to Mr. Raymond Milroy.M.S. Mathews is greatly missed inWilkinsburg where she was active inevery phase of the congregational lile.The couple is living at 416 - 19th Street,Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania.The congregation was saddened onJuly 23 when Dr. C. E. Caskey announcedhis lesignation in order toaccept a call to Olathe. Our bestwishes go with them in their new homeand work, though they will be deeplymissed by Wilkinsburg. The resignationtakes effect on September 15.Airs. Edna Ostendorf has enteredSee page 157 159

SomeThis and That inWOMEN'S ACTIVITIESWe are happy to announce that ourSynodical president, Mrs. John Edgar,will be attending the meeting of theAdvisory Council of the Women'sActivities of the American Bible Societyin New York beginning on November13. Miss Sarah Archer will accompanyher. We shall look forward to areport from them on the JanuaryWoman's Page. Your Editor regretsthat she will be unable to attend.PUTTING FAITH TO WORK"Faith apart from works is inactiveand ineffective and worthless" James2:20 (Ampl. N. T.).A commonly heard complaint: "Theworld is getting worse all the time —there is increasing crime, juveniledelinquency, alcoholism — and thereis nothing I can do about it." Do youreally want to do something? Thenmay we suggest one or more of thefollowing areas:1. Prayer. Read your newspaper asa prayer sheet. Events such as storms,the fall of governments, and economiccrisis anywhere in the world affectsome evangelical mission and nativeChristians. Our own government policiesalso have an influence on thework of missions.2. Servicemen. Remember the menin the service of our country not onlyin prayer but with good literature.For information on ways in which youWWiScan be special help to them write to:Christian Servicemen's Fellowship,NAE, 1405 G. Street, N. W., Washington,D. C, 20005.3. Crime Prevention. Begin athome. "Homes with love, discipline anda religious concept," according toJudge Gilliam, "produce few courtcases." Your local P. T. A. VigilanteCommittee provides another place ofvital service.4. Moral Standards. Contact authoritiesregarding pornography. Go andbuy, together with a witness, the objectionableitem (even if you don't liketo do so) to use as evidence.5. World Relief. Collect used clothingand make them wearable. "Useyour- needle for God." Engage in sewingprojects. Watch for an announcementsoon regarding patterns formaking garments for Viet Nam. Forfurther information write: NAE WorldRelief Commission, 33-10 36th Ave.,Long Island City, N. Y., 111066. Community Needs. Volunteerfor 1 special needs in your communitysuch as reading to the blind, takinglonely old people for a drive in thecountry, caring for neglected or abandonedchildren, etc. The Lord willopen the door for a Christian witness— but let Him open the door.BE A RECRUITThere are many areas of action15203which an individual cannot enter alone.Therefore, it behooves evangelicalwomen to band together that their servicemay be more effective and theChristian women's viewpoint madeknown. That is one of the purposes ofWomen's Fellowship. Let's make thisa year to boost our membership bysimple arithmetic: each member enlistanother evangelical woman as amember of Women's Fellowship. Tellher about NAE and give her a WFbrochure to read. Send her name, orthe names of as many as you haveinterested in joining, to Mrs. S. D.Shanebeck, 918 Maxine Drive, FortWayne, Indiana, 46807. We appreciatethe encouragement gendered by thosewho recently joined.DID YOU KNOWMoslems and Buddhists have missionariesin the United States?The cost of crime in the U. S. ismore than $28,000,000,000 annually?One out of six known alcoholicsis a woman?The U. S. Supreme Court (1943decision) upholds the personal distributionof tracts as an act of worship?The U. S. Supreme Court's test forobscenity is "whether to the averageperson applying community standards,the dominant theme — taken as awhole, appeals to the prurient interest"?NAE Women's Fellowship Bulletin.ATTEND CHURCH, BUT DO NOT ATTENDA CHURCH WHICH PREFERSScience for ScriptureReason for RevelationTheories for TruthCulture for ConversionBenevolence for BloodGoodness for GraceSociability for SpiritualityPlay for PraisePep for PrayerProfession for PossessionProgress for PowerPreformation for RegenerationGood for GodSpeculation for SalvationJubilation for JustificationFeelings for FaithParalysis for PeacePolitics for Precepts—R. T. KetchamHAVE YOUR OWN COLLEGE SUBSCRIPTIONA 9-month college subscription to The CovenanterWitness can be yours for $1.50. Send yourname and address including zip code to:Mrs. M. W. Dougherty125 North Fourth StreetSterling, Kansas 67579160 COVENANTER WITNESS

THECovenanter WitnessTo The TruthJESUS CHRIST AS SAVIOUR, LORD, HEAD OF MEN, THE CHURCH AND NATIONS.VOLUME LXXIX NO. 11 SEPTEMBER 13, 1967 STERLING, KANSASBIBLE LESSONS FOR THE WEEK OF OCTOBER 8, 196;1967 Forest Park Conference

THE COVENANTER WITNESSOfficial organ of the ReformedPresbyterian Church of N. A.• tVAtMCUCAllIASMCUTMNEditor: Rev. M. W. Dougherty, D.D.125 N. 4th StreetSterling, Kansas 67579Phone 316 — Br. 8 • 3472Printed each Wednesday under the supervision of theBoard of Publication by The Patterson Press, Winchester,Kansas 66097.Contributing Editors:Rev. Kenneth SmithDr. G. M. RobbRev. John McMillanRev. C. E. CaskeyOpinions expressedDepartment Editors:Rev. John TweedMrs. Robert B. MaineMrs. Willis EdgarRev. John K. Gaultin our columns are those of theindividual writer, not necessarily the views of the ReformedPresbyterian Church or the editor.All material to appear in The Covenanter Witnessshould be typewritten, double-spaced, and should be inSterling, Kansas two weeks before it is to be printed.The cost of all pictures is 30 cents per square inch.Obituaries — All words in excess of one hundred fifty,one cent per wo:d. Money should accompany such notices.SUBSCRIPTION RATESIndividual (1 year): U.S. and Canada, $4.00, BritishIsles 35/-, all other places, $5.00;Individual (2 year): U.S. and Canada, $7.00, BritishIsles 63/-, all other places, $9.00;Group: U.S. and Canada, $3.00, British Isles 28/-, allother places, $4.00.9-month student subscription — $1.50; 5-month introductoryoffer —$1.00; 2 gift subscriptions to persons outsideof the R. P. Church — $2.00 each. Single copies, 10c.Subscription Agent for U.S. and Canada: Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Subscription Agent for the British Isles: Rev. HughWright, B.A., 12, Knutsford Drive, Belfast 14, NorthernIreland.All checks should be made payable to The CovenanterWitness in U. S. currency.Give one month's notice of a change of address. Sendboth the new and the old address to Mrs. M.W. Dougherty.Postmaster: Please send Form 3579 to Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Second class postage paid at Winchester, Kansas 66097Ouotc -What are the churches for but to make missionaries?What is education for but to train them?What is commerce for but to carry them?What is money for but to send them?What is life itself for but to fulfill the purposeof Missions!the enthroning of Jesusin the hearts of men?(Augustus H. Strong)This Week's WitnessThe Westminster Standards 163Glimpses of the Religious World 164Flags in the Sanctuary 165Colorful Salvation 167Geneva Grad on Lecture Tour 169Two Kinds of Fun 170Lesson Helps 171Scribe With A Hard Pencil 173Church News 174WE HOLD THE FOLLOWING TO BE TRUTHS OF SCRIPTURE:The Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the only infalliblerule of faith and conduct.preserve the purity of the Church.The duty which rests upon officers to maintain discipline aadThe Trinitarian conception of the Godhead.Spiritual worship as a divine requirement mediated through theFaith in Jesus Christ as the only way of salvation.Lord Jesus Christ.Salvation by Grace.The exclusive use of the Psalms in the worship of the Church.Assurance of salvation as a possible Christian experience.The Protestant interpretation of the Sacraments.The Gospel Call and Election.The divine right of the institution of Marriage and that it is notThe Holy Spirit as the Author of regeneration.to be dissolved except by adultery or "irremediable" desertion.Sanctification through the cooperating agency of the Holy Spirit.The Sabbath as a day sacred to rest and worship.The fact of death and hell as the destiny of the lost and heavenThe duty of nations and their civil rulers to honor Christ asas the destiny of the saved.King of Kings and Lord of Lords.That the Church of Jesus Christ consists of all those who believeThat Christian citizens are under obligation to obey lawful authority.in Him together with their children.The Divine Right of the Presbyterian form of Church Government. The right and duty of the Christian citizen to dissent from allThe Lord Jesus Christ as the only King and He«d of His Church. governra»»tal aad national disobedience to the Law of God.That terms of membership or communiwi are esimtial to the That the Covenants of the past are still binding.welfare of the Church.From "The Communicant's Class" by J. B. Tweed162 COVENANTER WITNESS

Editorial rComment oTHE WESTMINSTER STANDARDSIn the day when statements of faith are beingdrafted largely under Modernist influences it is wellto reflect the influences that led to the formation ofthe Westminster standards. The period of the earlypart of the seventeenth century in England andScotland was a stormy one theologically speaking.The Stuart dynasty that sat on the British thronewas thoroughly persuaded on "the divine right ofkings." Both James I and his successor Charles Iwere Episcopalians and were determined to forcethat form of church government upon their subjectsScotland included. Charles was influenced powerfullyby Archbishop Laud, an Arminian, whose prayerbook received such dogged resistance in Scotland.The Scotch Presbyterians were just as set on presbyteryas the divine form of church government andrefused to bow to the British king's ideas of conformityto episcopasy. The Solemn League andCovenant of 1643 bound the Scotch Presbyteriansto preserve the Reformed religion of the Church ofScotland and stated out-and-out opposition toPopery, prelacy, superstition and heresy. The Puritansin England were, too, in favour of this and sothe Parliament of that country called an assemblyof divines at Westminster, London, to revise the 39Articles of the Church of England, to draw up aconfession of faith and a directory of public worship,as well as a system of church government. Thiswas Presbyterian in form, although the bishops ofthe Anglican church were against it. The Assemblysat from 1643 to 1648. It had the chief of thePuritan divines and a delegation from the Churchof Scotland. Richard Baxter, a contemporary andeminent man of God, thought this synod comparedfavorably with any since the days of the Apostles.He called its members "men of eminent learning,godliness, ministerial abilities and fidelity." Certainit is that they were all faithful to the Bible. RobertBaillie, one of the Scottish delegates, in his Lettersand Journals, declared, 'The like of that AssemblyI did never see, and as we hear say, the like wasnever in England, nor anywhere is shortly hke to be.. . We meet every day of the week but Saturday.SEPTEMBER 13, 1967We sit commonly from nine to one or two afternoon. .. Ordinarily, there will be present above threescoreof their divines. These are divided into threecommittees; in one whereof every man is a member.Every committee, as the Parliament gives order inwriting to take any purpose into consideration, takesa portion, and in their afternoon meeting preparesmatters for the Assembly, sets down their mind indistinct propositions, backs their propositions withtexts of Scripture. After the prayer, Mr. Byfield, thescribe, reads the proposition and Scriptures, whereuponthe Assembly debates in a most grave andorderly way. No man is called up to speak; but whostands up of his own accord, he speaks, so long ashe will, without interruption.. . They harangue longand very learnedly. They study the questions wellbeforehand, and prepare their speeches, but withalthe men are exceedingly prompt and wellspoken."These standards were not gotten together in amonth or a year, but were slowly debated and consideredby the ablest minds of the Puritan period.It is questionable if the church has ever seen a morefruitful period since the days of the Apostles thanthe Puritan period. We do well to give earnest heedto these standards in such a day as we face, for theyspeak "the things which become sound doctrine"(Titus 2:1).Bible PresbyteriaCOLORFULFrom page 168SALVATIONshows that crowns and gold are associated. E16:17 displays God gives the behever golden jewels.This is pure gold; refined gold; tried gold. This isthe hue. So, dear friends, what kind of paintinghave you been doing this past week? God's paletteand spiritual brush he before you. Don't merelywhitewash. Don't use cheap water colors whichsmear, fade, and deceive. Employ the tint of God'scolors. That will be eternal beauty. You too willthen become an immortal masterpiece.GLIMPSES OF THE RELIGIOUS WORLDFrom page 164edition of the New Testament of which four mcopies have been sold since September, 1966.Confident of success, the American Bible Societyis planning to saturate a number of other cities.The 25 cents pays only the cost of printing.163

Glimpses of the Religious World"THE CONCEPT OF HERESY"An official Episcopahan report has been issuedwhich calls for a "dramatic revision" of canon law tomake heresy trials almost impossible. The reportis to be debated and acted upon at the denomination'striennial general convention in Seattle.According to the New York Times, oppositionto the report is coming from the American ChurchUnion, which represents the so-called "high church"wing of the Episcopal Church in this country. CanonAlbert J. duBois, the executive director of the ChurchUnion, is quoted as saying that abolishing the conceptof heresy would be a "most radical and destructiveaction.""While the word heresy may have an unfortunatehistorical connotation in cur day," Canon duBoissaid, "the concept is quite another thing."The "heresy issue" has been brought to the forefrontin the Episcopal Church by charges which werebrought against Bishop James A. Pike, the controversialformer bishop of California. Bishop Pike hasbeen accused of repudiating the doctrines of theTrinity, the Virgin Birth, and the Divinity of Christ.The Bishop has demanded an ecclesiastical trialbecause he felt his name had been impugned. Hehas now said that if the Seattle convention approvesthe committee's report he will withdraw his demand.REDS WILL HONOR GUTENBERG(EP) The inventor of printing, whose first bookwas the Bible, will be honored next year for an entiremonth by a Communist government.Marxist ideologists in East Germany are seizingupon the upcoming 500th anniversary of the deathof Johannes Gutenberg to popularize their materialistrewriting of history.Of the original 200 copies of the first printedbook, 40 "Gutenberg Bibles" have survived.Just as a Marxist biography of Luther has appearedin this 450th anniversary of the Reformation,emphasizing the revolutionary significance of the"early bourgeoise" leader, so a book on Gutenbergis being prepared "to give a Marxist-Leninist portraitof the life and work of Johannes Gutenberg."To the Marxist it is bothersome that the BibleTHE REV. JOHN McMILLANR. D. 1, Box 337WALDEN, NEW YORKwas the first printed book. Thus the Communist emphasiswill be on the importance of books in arousingthe masses from "ignorance and servility" andcreating the climate for revolution and a reshapingof history."A LIFE EVERY 105 SECONDS": THE SMOKINCOSTThe Government has issued a new 200-pagereport which strengthens and extends the finding ofits 1964 report on smoking and health. The currentreport is based on a review of the more than 2,000pertinent research studies pubhshed since 1964.It states that no evidence was found to refute theearlier conclusions.William H. Stewart, Surgeon General of thePubhc Health Service, who wrote a foreword to thereport, has said that smoking claims one life every105 seconds in the United States.As stated in the report, the evidence indicatesthat cigarette smoking is responsible for 11 millioncases of chronic illness in the country, 77 milliondays lost from work and 306 million days of restrictedactivity each year.Perhaps the most tragic finding is that since the1964 report cigarette smoking has continued toincrease in the United States, although the percentageincrease in recent years has not been as greatas in the past. The report urges more research intothe psychosocial aspects of smoking, because, itpoints out, only by understanding what initiates andperpetuates the smoking habit can effective stepsbe taken to diminish its frequency.BIBLE BLITZ TO SATURATE ATLANTA(EP) Plans to offer the New Testament for 25cents at virtually every home in America's 23rdlargest city have been revealed in Atlanta, Georgia,by the city's churches and the American Bible Society.The church people, expected to be joined bymembers of civic and social organizations in thiscity of 1,161,000 people, will carry to the doors theedition "Good News for Modern Man," a popularSee page 163164 COVENANTER WITNESS

'The Nation's flag might appropriately be displayed at the rear of the auditorium since this wouldto symbolize the nation listening to the voice of God."Flags In The SanctuaryThe displaying of flags in our churches is acommonly accepted practice, but there are somequestions which should be considered in connectionwith it.The first use of the nation's flag in the church isobscure. The custom probably developed graduallyand people accepted it without thinking about itsappropriateness. The obvious purpose of displayingthe flag, it would seem, is that the worshiper shouldrender unto God the things that are God's and untoCaesar the things that are Caesar's. Certainly, theChristian should be loyal to his country, and heshould express his patriotism, but the question arisesas to whether the sanctuary dedicated to the worshipof God, is the place where it should be done.The problem is set forth in a thought-provokingarticle entitled, "Heresy in the Sanctuary," in themagazine, Eternity (April 1967). This article, writtenby Donald Bruggink, a minister in the ReformedChurch in Anerica, also appears as a chapter in hisbook, "Christ and Architecture." It is also to benoted that in Blue Banner Faith and Life, (January-March 1967) the question is asked, "Why does theReformed Presbyterian Church endorse the practiceof displaying the American flag in the sanctuarywhere God is worshiped?" Dr. J. G. Vos, in replyto the question states, "The Reformed PresbyterianChurch as a denomination does not endorse thepractice mentioned in this query. There is nothingin the official standards of the denomination providingfor or in any way sanctioning such a practice..... Those congregations which display our flag intheir church auditoriums do so wholly on their owninitiative and responsibihty."CHURCH FURNISHINGS MEANINGFULThe use of flags in the sanctuary confronts uswith the matter of symbolism. It would appear thatthe furnishings of our churches are meaningful,even as the furnishings of the Tabernacle, in theOld Testament, pointed to Christ and the NewCovenant. The articles of furniture used today arenot typical to the same degree as were the articles inthe Tabernacle, but it cannot be concluded thatthey are devoid of meaning. Bruggink, in theRev. John O. Edgar, D. D., Pittsburgh, Pennsylvaniaseemopening statement of his book, declares, "Architecturefor churches is a matter of gospel." By this,he means that there are theological implicationsin the various forms of church architecture, andthat these forms become a means of transmittingeither truth or error.If we admit the validity of symbols in our churcharchitecture, we are confronted with the problem asto what furnishings shall be found in the sanctuary,and what symbolic meaning shall be attached tothem. Dr. Vos writes of this as foUows, "(The). ...sanctuary is net holy of itself, as a place, but whilea Christian congregation is assembled in it to worshipGod, it constitutes the necessary physical equipmentfor rendering the things of God to God. Nowthe furnishings and contents of such a place ofworship should be strictly in keeping with its purposeas the place for publicly expressing our supremeloyalty to God."COVENANTER CHURCHES PLAIN — WHY?The Covenanter church has never emphasizedthe importance of church architecture. Many ofour buildings are extremely plain. This may be dueto several reasons. First, there may have been adesire to get away from anything which might besuggestive of the Roman church with its emphasisupon things visible. Perhaps the most potent factoris that church architecture tends to follow patternsin home building. A century or more ago when ourcountry was being settled, homes tended to beutilitarian. Economic factors were involved andthe main consideration was four walls and a roofat the least cost. This utilitarian spirit also carriedover into the area of church building. A third factoris that many structures were planned by a localbuilding committee, without consultation with anarchitect, and with the result that no thought wasgiven to symbolism. Some of our churches havevarious kinds of adornment, but it serves only asdecoration and without apparent purpose. In ournewer churches there are distinctive features whichare meaningful, but as a denomination, our peoplehave not been educated in regard to the significantfeatures to be found in church architecture.SEPTEMBER 13, 1967 165

A FOCAL POINTIn this article we are not so much concernedwith the building itself as with its furnishings. Inevery sanctuary there should be a focal point —something which immediately catches and holdsthe eye when the worshiper enters. In the Romanchurch the focal point is the altar, which exalts themass with all its theological implications. But inour Protestant tradition, the focal point should bethe pulpit, with the Bible upon it. The pulpit andBible signify God's Word for His people. It alsomagnifies the prophetic office of the minister whospeaks from the Word of God and is in truth God'smessenger.COMMUNICATION ESSENTIAL TO WORSHIPCommunication is the key to acceptable worship.On one hand we have God communicating throughHis Word, through the Holy Spirit and through themessenger appointed to preach the Word. The worshiperon the other hand, through the singing ofpraise, and through prayer and meditation, communicateswith God. Some worshipers believe thatimages or other articles are necessary aids in communicatingwith God. But the true believer, whoworships God in spirit and in truth, comes directlyto Him and does not feel the need of things material.Nevertheless, the worshiper is surrounded by materialthings which may contribute to or detract fromthe spirit of worship.In the Shorter Catechism the question is asked,"What are the outward and ordinary means wherebyChrist communicateth to us the benefits of redemption?"The answer is as follows, "The outward andordinary means whereby Christ communicateth tous the benefits of redemption are His ordinances,especially the Word, Sacraments and prayer; allwhich are made effectual to the elect forsalvation." Since the Sacraments serve as ameans of communication, it therefore appearsthat the communion table should be another focalpoint in the sanctuary. The Sacrament of the Lord'sSupper is observed only a few times each year, butthe table upon which the bread and wine are placed,stands as a silent reminder of the Sacrament everytime the worshiper comes to the sanctuary, as wellas upon those days which are designated as communionSabbaths.In like manner the Sacrament of Baptism testifiesto the washing away of sin. In most of ourchurches Baptism is observed as the occasion mayarise. Usually, a silver bowl is used, and after theobservance it is put away and not seen again untilthe next observance of the Sacrament. Somehave a baptismal font, which is a distinct article offurniture and which is always visible to the congregation.It stands as a testimony to the believer thathis sins have been washed away and of his regenerationthrough the power of Christ. The font is also areminder to parents of the vows which they havetaken it behalf of their children.If the pulpit, the communion table and baptismalfont are accepted as scripturally approvedfurnishings, the question arises concerning flags.Where might one find scriptural warrant for flags,together with that which they symbolize? Some maydeclare that no consideration need be given to thesymbolism of the flags, for flags are merely decorativein their purpose. But if flags are in the churchonly for decoration, are there not other things whichmight be more decorative than flags? That a flagbears a message cannot be denied, and since it isapparent that a flag is symbolic, we must be able tojustify its presence in the sanctuary if it is to remainthere.FLAGS ON DISPLAYThe flags most commonly displayed in Covenanterchurches are the nation's flag, the Christianflag, and the Blue Banner. In consideration of thenation's flag, we observe again that we are to renderto Caesar the things that are Caesar's and to Godthe things that are God's. On this point, Dr. Vosmakes this significant comment, "Certainly thereare proper times and places for expressing ourpatriotic loyalty to our country. But it seems highlyinappropriate that the symbol of loyalty to ourcountry must be prominently displayed in the oneplace that is reserved for expressing our supremeloyalty to God. At all events the practice of displayingthe national flag in a church pulpit wouldseem to break down, rather than to preserve, thedistinction between rendering the things of Caesarto Caesar and rendering the things of God to God."Bruggink suggests that the flag should not be inthe midst of the congregation, for the nation, perse, is not a member of the congregation. He alsosuggests that the flag might appropriately be displayedat the rear of the auditorium since this wouldseem to symbolize the nation hstening to the voiceof God.ORIGIN OF CHRISTIAN FLAGThe origin of the Christian flag goes back to aSunday School rally at Brighton Chapel in ConeyIsland in 1897. When the scheduled speaker did not166 COVENANTER WITNESS

appear, Charles Carlton Overton spoke withouthaving made preparation. He began by talking aboutthe American flag which was draped over the pulpitand then suggested that since there was an Americanflag, there should also be a Christian flag. Inthis same speech he worked out the design of theflag. The symbolism of this flag suggests the loveof Christ and His death upon the cross. But there isno need for such a symbol in the sanctuary whenthere is already a communion table which testifiesto this truth. The presence of the Christian flag iswithout scriptural authority.Isaiah 1:18—Come now, and let us decide ourselvessays the Lord; though your sins be as scarlet,they shall become white as snow; though they bered like crimson, they shall become hke wool.What's your favorite color? For myself, I have aweakness for bright red and mellow blue. Color isespecially appropriate during this winter seasonwhen everything looks so blanch—and who hasn'talready day-dreamed about the blooming flowers ofthe spring, green fields, and budding trees? Coloris newsworthy, for all know a color identifies acertain pohtical ideology and because of the racialconflict in the U.S.A., the National Association forthe Advancement of Colored People is well known.Today let us consider God's colorful salvation.Many have surely seen that tract which sets forththe way of salvation in four colors—black, red,white, and gold. While the tract is ingeniousenough, it obviously derives its point and patternfrom the verbal—and dare I say colorful?—descriptionthe Scriptures give to salvation. So today let usColorful SalvationUSE OF BLUE BANNERThe Blue Banner is a flag which is dear to theheart of every loyal Covenanter. It is a reminderof the faithful martyrs in Scotland who contendedfor the crown rights of King Jesus. But again thequestion arises as to the appropriateness of thissymbol in the sanctuary. In many churches it hangson the wall above and behind the pulpit. Thus itbecomes a focal point which detracts from the Bibleand pulpit on which it rests. Perhaps the bannermight well be displayed in a stained glass windowwhere it would not detract from the basic furnishings.In our program of Christian education, instructionshould be given concerning the Reformationand the issues which are involved. Consequently,the Blue Banner may well be given a placein the class room or the assembly room, and peopleshould be made aware of all that it signifies. Butthe practice of making it the focal point in thesanctuary is questionable.The writer of this article realizes that he israising a controversial question. In the three congregationswhere he has served as pastor, flags havebeen displayed and he approved of them. However,last year, when assigned the subject, "The Theologyof Church Architecture," for a study group at theCarleton Conference, he became aware of this problem.The writer is not suggesting that we immediatelyget rid of all the flags in our churches, but hedoes suggest that a study of this question is mosttimely. There are some basic issues which involvenot only the displaying of flags but the symbolismof other furnishings as well. If we admit that thereis a valid symbolism, we ought to be educated concerningit. We should be able to justify the presenceof every article of furniture that is found in theHouse of God.Rev. Robert More, Jr., Almonte, Ontario, Canada(Sermon preached March 5, 1967and submitted on request)be dazzled by the brilliant shades and hues Godpaints about our redemption.A preacher is hard pressed to know where tocommence the color chart. Should the sermon beginwith man, and black? Or God, and shiningwhite? Or should Christ come first—the wearer ofpurple? It's not easy to decide. Let us begin thereforewith the text.Isaiah is here deahng with the sinful Sodomites(actually the Israehtes) and he gives a graphic callto repentance. He seeks they would repent and dothe fruit of righteousness. Then in v. 18 the Lord,as it were, stoops to a human level, and states thatthe time has come that the Sodomites and Godshould consult together and decide for themselveswhat is the case and problem at hand. To make itplain, the Lord then declares the difficulty. He saysthe Sodomites' sins resemble scarlet. This is probablya subtle way of reminding them that their sinswere the murderous blood-shedding mentioned inv. 15. Instead of outright calling them killers, GodSEPTEMBER 13, 1967 167

used a word so closely resembling the blood theyshed, they couldn't miss the thought. He saysthough you have shed scarlet blood, I will makethat sin so different it will come to appear like theglaring whiteness of snow. He repeats. Though yoursin is blood-red to the point of becoming crimson, Iwill bleach it so well that the guilt will becomewhite hke wool. But know well that the latter willcome true only if you obey; if not, then die in yoursin for I have decreed that too.An unstated truth hes there. Scientists today tellus that snow begins as microscopic particles ofmeteoric dust which, in falling through certain atmosphericconditions, are coated with moisture andfall to earth as snow. Thus at the core of whitesnow hes blackness. So too with wool for theircream-colored sheep (our sheep tend to be morewhite, don't forget) have a certain recognized discolorationabout them. In a word, the snow andtheir wool has a known degree of blackness or darknessabout them.This brings us to the first color. Draw a pictureof man, and smear him black. Some folks think thisholds man in a dim, biased prejudice and pessimism.But it's a true paint, for Lamentations 4:6,8reads, 'Tor the iniquity of the daughter of my peopleis greater than the sin of Sodom, their visage isblacker than a coal." Jude 13 talks about sinners"kept for the thick blackness of darkness for ever."Yes, smear man real black. There is no good withinhim. He is spiritually destitute of any hving color inGod's sight. He is like the pitch blackness of errorwhich exists where there is no hght.Now see God. Let the brilliant, dazzling, shiningwhite appear. Daniel 7:9 describing the Ancientof Days as "white as snow" shows this is the rightcolor here. Then Jesus is described in Luke 9:29 as"glistering white." This is no "flat white"; this is agleaming white, a brilliant white. It thus differsfrom the pale white of later mention.Paint Jesus, too. What color? Purple! The colorof royalty. The kings of Midian, in Judges 8:26,wore this. Jesus, in Mark 15:17,20 was called king;was robed in the royal purple; and then was insultedand killed in His kingly estate.There are the participants. Man is daubedblack; God is shining white; Jesus is enclothed inpurple. What happens when all are combined?Well, Jesus, both God and man, is the mixing. Theresulting color is the cross. Color this simply hideous,ghastly—whatever that color is. But color itdemanded, required. Color it godly blood— shedblood—ordained blood. I guess the best we can dois color it red. Wonderful red! Nahum 2:3 and thetext, Isaiah 1:18, show that blood and red areequated in the Scriptures. Color a bloody cross.Color a pierced Jesus. Color that spear whichcaused blood and water to spill forth and fulfillGod's Word. Color innocent blood. Know that withoutthe shedding of this red there is no remissionfor our sins. Comprehend with the saints that nomere animal and no insufficient human "decision"is the proper color of red. This must be God sheddingHis own blood as the apostle boldly declares.Stare long at that amazing ruddiness; you'll neversee another hke it.But what of man? Now comes pale white. Notthe silvery sheen depicting God, but white, nonetheless.David, the blackened sinner, in Psalm 51:7spoke about being "whiter than snow." Daniel 12:10likens the saint to whiteness and Rev. 3:4,5 promisesthe behever and the church this color. Note tooit is white. White, covered with stains, smudges,and taints, is not white. It is dirty. This colorthough is white, nothing less than white. While certainlythe attainment to a perfect and absolutewhiteness never becomes a fact while still hving inthe flesh, let not that grim fact deny the other factthat the standard is nonetheless one of whitenesseven yet. The white is not repainted into a lesseryellow, or tan, or gray; it is white. Any discolorationis what must be painted away. The white garment,covered by stains and splotches, must be bleached;the garments itself though can never be re-dyed toa darker color. The redeemed man must be white.White then progresses into blue. And what doesthis color bespeak? It tells of loyalty. "True blue"in the sense of absolute faithfulness is well known.Jeremiah 10:6-10 suggests this. There the everfaithful, loyal Lord and the fickle and unstablethings of man are contrasted. Even though the latterare clothed with many lovely colors, includingblue, the prophet says they are still the things ofman. Thus Jeremiah relates God with blue. Becauseblue was also closely allied to kings and great nobles(see Esther 8:15); therefore blue came to denotekingliness—or loyalty, fealty, naturally. So itis with the behever. We are not to be allured fromthe ways of God and depart from the Almighty'spath. We are to be "true blue" sons of the MostHigh.After the blue of faithfulness unto the end, thenindeed a crown of glory is laid up for us, appointedfrom the foundation of the earth and preservedentire for us. Color it gold because Revelation 9:7See page 163168 COVENANTER WITNESS

Our Youthfoirmw$J&fGENEVA GRAD TO EMBARK ON LECTURE TOUR. . . "UP WITH AMERICA"RECEIVES STRONG ENDORSEMENT. . . .• ' '••| l ! | « * " 'Larry C. Boren, Beaver Falls, who was graduated,August 11, from Geneva College, is concernedabout the apparent apathy and looseness of today'steenagers. He will embark early in September on alecture tour of some 15 states.His tour topic, "Up With America," is a pro-American speech prepared to appeal to teenagers.The lecture is not politically partisan, it is not acommittee, organization, or club, and not a governmentalsystem of any type. It is an idea in the mindof Mr. Boren to attempt to stimulate teenagers inhis appeal to their upholding the dignity and honorof being an American citizen and to point out thecreative and courageous role our nation has playedsince its founding.The program has received strong endorsementfrom several national governmental leaders includingPennsylvania Congressman Frank M. Clark,Governors Nelson Rockefeller, New York, andGeorge Romney, Michigan.Locally he has received endorsement from Dr.Edwin C. Clarke, President of Geneva College,Joseph Sarvadi, Garfield Business Institute, TheBeaver Falls News-Tribune, The Beaver CountyTimes, and radio station WBVP.The Beaver Falls Rotary Club Lower Valley andBeaver Falls Kiwanis Clubs, and Upper Valley JCshave cooperated with the program by sending ajoint letter of recommendation to clubs in areaswhere Mr. Boren will be lecturing.He begins his tour with a lecture, September 22,in Mohawk High School, Sycamore, Ohio, fromthere he is scheduled to speak on September 26 inSouth Bend, Indiana. His itinerary includes engagementsin various Indiana towns until the middleof October. From that time on the program isscheduled in Ripon, Illinois; Omaha, Nebraska;Wellington, Kansas; Troy, Missouri; Pilgrim Parkway,Wisconsin; Belle Plain, Iowa; Rosemont, Minnesota;as well as cities in Colorado, Wyoming, Ohio,Kentucky, West Virginia, and in areas in his homestate upon his return to Pennsylvania. He will becontacting Reformed Presbyterian Churches in variousareas where he will be speaking for the purposeof attracting qualified students to Geneva.Mr. Boren majored in sociology at Geneva andhas familiarized himself with the teenage cultureand juvenile deliquency. His speech, which is of aserious and directive nature, is dotted with humorousincidents of his own experience with teenagefads and frolics and an understanding of the reactionsof teenage young people in today's difficultage.He was president of his college junior class,1967 president of Geneva's Student Senate, and hisname appears in "Who's Who Among Students inAmerican Colleges and Universities."Never chase a he; if you let it alone, it will soonrun itself to death.— Eliphalet Nott.SEPTEMBER 13, 1967 169

A PAGE FOR JUNIORSTWO KINDS OF FUNby Ida M. Simon"Look Uncle Jim," said Billy. "See those httlekids trying to fly that kite? You wait here and I'llshow you some fun."Uncle Jim and BiUy were up on a small hill.Billy ran down to the boys."Boys," said he, "I'll show you how to fly thekite so it will go up high."Billy looked up to see which way the wind wasblowing."Stand right here," he told the boy who held thekite. The boy didn't know it, but he was standing sothat when the kite began to go up, the wind wouldwind the tail around him.The boys were small, so they thought that Billyknew more about kite-flying than they did. Theytrusted him, and did just as he said.When Billy felt a httle wind coming, he called ina loud voice, "There! Now, boys! Run, run!"The boy who had the string ran as fast as hecould go. Just as Billy had expected, the kite tail wasblown around the boy who held the kite. It tangledup, and broke off in the middle. The kite went upand got caught in the tree.As soon as Billy saw that his trick worked, heran back to his uncle, laughing all the way.But Uncle Jim wasn't laughing. BiUy had thoughthe would be. Instead, he looked at BiUy in such away that the boy felt very uncomfortable."Your trick worked, all right, didn't it?" saidUncle Jim. "Was it fun?""Yes," said Billy, though he wasn't so sure thistime that it really had been fun."Now," said Uncle Jim, "it is my turn to havesome fun. You stay right here and see what I do."Uncle Jim went down the hiU to the boys. Hetold them, "Don't worry, feUows.I'll help you clearyour kite."The boys looked surprised, but they were surethat the tall lieutenant could help them.He soon had the piece of kite-tail off the boywho had been holding the kite. Then he climbedthe tree and cut the kite loose.New Billy began to wish to go down where hisuncle was. He called out, "Uncle Jim, may I comedown there?""No," answered his uncle, "you stay where youare.I'll be back soon."He went on helping the boys get their kite fixedup again. When it was safely up in the air, he wentback to Billy."Why didn't you want me to come down andhelp you, Uncle Jim?""Because I didn't think that would be your kindof fun. Your kind of fun seems to be teasing boysand playing tricks on them. My kind of fun ishelping them. I thought you wouldn't like my kindof fun."BiUy didn't know what to say to that, so he keptstill as they walked along for a while. Finally hetold Uncle Jim, "You know, Uncle Jim, I think thatyour kind of fun is a lot better than mine. I'm goingto try helping somebody next time."That's the way BUly found out how to haveChristian fun in a way that the Lord Jesus wouldlike. — The Gospel StandardA WHO QUIZZby Elinor F. Neal.Directions: Can you, using Bibhcal references,from the hst, find the name answers to the questions?A. Zacchaeus. B. King Hiram. C. Moses. D. Nabal.E. Deborah. F. Absalom. G. Aaron. H. Joseph.I. Ehjah. J. Isaiah.— 1. Was hanged on an oak tree by his hair?I Samuel 18:9,10.— 2. Sat under a palm tree while judging Israel?Judges 4:5.— 3. Was sold for 20 pieces of silver?Genesis 37:28.— 4. Shipped cedar trees to Solomon to be used inbmlding the Temple? I Kings 5:1-12.— 5. Ordered a poultice of figs for King Hezekiah'sboils? II Kings 20:7.— 6. Climbed a sycamore tree to see Jesus?Luke 19:4.— 7. Called Palestine, "land of olive oil"?Deuteronomy 8:8.— 8. Used a rod made of almond wood?Numbers 17:8.— 9. Was fed by ravens at the brook Cherith?I Kings 17:1-6.— 10. Out of his plenty refused food to a friend?I Samuel 25:10-11.Answers:a—01 1-60—8 O—L V—9 f—S a—f H—£ 3~Z A-l170 COVENANTER WITNESS

Lesson Helps for the Week of October 8,1967Sabbath SchoolLessonfor October 8, 1967.AMOS: GOD'S SPOKESMANFOR JUSTICE:Amos 1:1-7; 7:7-15.Comments by John K. Gault.Amos lived about 760 years beforeChrist. His contemporaries on thethrones of Israel and Judah wereJeroboam II, king of Israel, andUzziah, king of Judah, each of whomhad long reigns. Jeroboam "did thatwhich was evil in the sight of theLord," while Uzziah "did that whichwas right in the sight of the Lord."Amos was a native of Tekoa, a villageabout ten miles south of Jerusalem,and the ruins are still visible. A nearbysite, reputed to be the "Tomb ofAmos," still attracts travelers.By occupation Amos was a "herdmanand a gatherer of sycomore fruit"as he says in 7:14. The area aboutTekoa is still used for grazing largeflocks of sheep and goats. Neither henor his father had ever gone to arabbinical school and so he had notbeen educated in religious law, buthe must have been an observant manwhose knowledge of the natural worldenabled him to live near to God.1: God Showed Amos What WouldHappen to Israel.It is to be noted in this lesson thatthe expression, "Thus hath the LordGod shewed me," is repeated a numberof times in the seventh chapter. Amoslived near to God and he was thoroughlyconvinced that God ruled overevery circumstance of people's lives.And, as he traveled around the countryselling wool from his flocks of sheephe would hear the complaints of thepoor and would observe the profligateliving of the rich. Then, God showedhim what would happen.God has prescribed a standard ofconduct for people both individuallyand socially. Israel knew of the TenCommandments and yet she hadbrought in idol worship by being sub-SEPTEMBER 13, 1967jected to the influence of the othernations adjacent to her territory. Therich farmers of Israel could hardlywait for the fallow years to end thatthey might plant more wheat throughthe hard work of their indenturedneighbors. God revealed to Amos whatwas soon to happen to the land becauseof the evil conditions whichabounded; and he was commissionedbe God to go and speak publiclyagainst the wrong-doers which includedJeroboam, the king, and Amaziahthe priest.2: God Showed Amos His Mercy.God made three revelations toAmos: the first two were of Hismercy. As it is presented in 7:1-6Amos had, first, a vision of a greatplague of locusts which invaded theland and ate all the "latter growth."When the "latter growth" wasdestroyed there was a famine fo.'there would be no other growth. WhenAmos prayed, "O Lord God, forgiveI beseech thee," then "the Lord repentedfor this: it shall not be saiththe Lord." Amos next saw in hisvision a devastating fire which wasso fierce that it dried up the watersand would have destroyed the land,but Amos prayed for mercy as hesaid, "O Lord God, cease, I beseechthee: by whom shall Jacob arise? forhe is small." And then, "the Lord repentedfor this: this shall not be,saith the Lord God." The third visionwhich came to Amos was that of a"plumbline." A plumbline is a partof a carpenter's or bricklayer's equipment.It consists of a pear-shapedmetal weight attached to the end of along cord with the pointed end suspendeddownward. When the point ofthe "plumb" is suspended over anestablished mark it is naturally perpendicularand hence a wall built toconform to the line will also be perfectlyperpendicular. A plumblineplaced along the edge of a wall alreadybuilt will easily reveal anyirregularities or leaning quantitieswhich it may have. This figure of the"plumbline" represented God's justice,for He said, "I will not again pass bythem any more." When people willnot respond to the mercy of God, thenhis inescapable justice will take effectupon them and they will be destroyed.3: The Word of God Is His "Plumbline."Humanity has built for itself awall and according to God's Word itis away "out of plumb." It leans sobadly in many places that it is sureto fall eventually. It needs to be destroyedand rebuilt according to God's"plumbline." When the "plumbline"of God's Word is placed against modernsociety it is clearly revealed thatevery one of the Commandments isbeing broken. If people do not rebuildtheir wall of civilization so as to conformto the Word of God, His justicewill become effective and they will bedestroyed. This applies to governmentsas well as to individuals. Our societytoday is characterized by many ofthe evils which made the nation ofIsrael entirely "out of plumb." Theprospect of inevitable disaster is, today,hanging over the United States,and the whole world, because theclaims of Jesus Christ, the King ofkings have been disregarded.4: Amos Became Very Unpopularin Israel.Amaziah, the priest of Bethel,heard what Amos had said. Thatchurchman then went to Jeroboamthe king and said to him, "Amos hathconspired against thee in the midstof the house of Israel; the land is notable to bear all his words." That seemsto be the way the United States Congressfeels toward the Christian A-mendment Bill which has been introduced.The majority think that "theland is not able to bear all his words."Jeroboam evidently did not thinkit worth his while to arrest Amos.He probably thought, "What harm canthat fanatical sheep-herder do us?"But Amaziah, the priest, requestedAmos to go south into the land ofJudah, "and there eat bread, andprophesy there." Amaziah basked inthe favors of the royal court and so171i

he did not like to hea. any adversecriticism of the way the governmentwas administered. Amos' reply to themocking words of Amaziah were entirelydoomful. He said, "Thy wifeshall be an harlot in the city, and thysons and thy daughters shall fall bythe sword, and thy land shall be dividedby line; and thou shall die in apolluted land: and Israel shall surelygo into captivity forth of his land.""Lesson based on International SundaySchool Lessons: the International Bible Lessonsfor Christian Teaching, copyrighted 1963by the Division of Christian Education, NationalCouncil of Churches of Christ in theU.S.A."Junior Topicfor October 8, 1967BIBLE MAIDENS WHO WERE"GOOD HOUSEKEEPERS"Proverbs 31:19-31by Mrs. R. H. McKelvyWorship Period: Repeat reverentlyHabakkuk 2:20. Follow this by singingthe prayer in Psalm 143, v. 4.This lesson is to help the childrenlive lives that will please their HeavenlyFather. Have a large picture of anOriental maiden drawn or pasted ona large sheet of paper. As each characteris discussed, draw a line fromthe part of her body with which sheserved God and place her name, referencein the Bible, or a few wordsconcerning her at the end of theline. Perhaps you have asked girlsbeforehand to tell the stories, or allmay read the storter ones from theBible, or the teacher may tell thestory and see who can guess the nameof the character. The memory verseis Luke 10:42. It may be interwovenwith the whole lesson.Introductory thoughts — Last weekMr. McKelvy found a wigwam in thewoods where some children had beenplaying. Did you know that every dayeach of you play at keeping house ina house far nicer than a wigwam? Itis a house that God has given you andit is fun to keep it clean and shiningfor Him and to use it in making othershappy. This house in which you liveis your body.There is a room in it where westore things. I think of it as a placewith drawers full of things which wehave placed there and with pictureshanging on the walls. This is the mindroom.Are you proud to let your Fatherlook through this room? Are thedrawers full of lovely, useful things?Are the memory-pictures things ofbeauty? The condition of the storeroom is the index of a good housekeeper.Keep your mind-room cleanand shining. Mary, the mother ofJesus, must have had a mind full ofsweet things. Read the beautiful songof praise which she sang when Godtold her that He would sent the littlebaby Jesus to her home and let herbe the baby's mother. Luke 1:46-55.There are little servants in ourbody-house. The tongue is one. Do wealways allow this servant to carryhappy, helpful word-gifts to others?The maiden who told Naaman theSyrian about the man of God wascommanding her little servant to givehim a most welcome message. II Kings5:1-14.There are two doors over whosethreshold came the words that otherssent forth. These doors are your ears.Never let anything unclean or unlovelyenter them for it is hard to clean outyour mind-room when only ugly thingsPrayer MeetingTopicfor October 11, 1967.PRAYER OF STEPHENActs 7:54-60Rev. C. E. Caskey, D. D.Suggested Psalms: For the referenceto Christ on the right hand ofGod, Ps. 110:1-3, page 275. For confidencein the Lord's receiving hisspirit, Ps. 31:1-4, page 71. Other Psalms:25:13-17, p. 60; 73:9,10, p. 179; and 90:7,8, p. 222. You may want to use the23rd and 121st Psalms too.As we did last week, let us get thesetting for this prayer by answeringsome questions about Acts 6. Who wasStephen (6:5)? What is said of him inverses 5 and 8 of Chapter 6? Whodebated with Stephen (6:9)? Who wonthe argument (6:10)? What is the meaningof "suborn" in 6:11? On what similaroccasion were men induced tocommit perjury (Mark 14:55-59)? Accordingto 6:15 how did Stephen appearwhen he was being falsely accused? Ifare stored there. Fill your mind so full Dr. Frank E. Allen's book, The Acts ofof valuable things that there will be the Apostles, is available have someonesummarize his comments onno room for trash. What lovelythoughts came through Mary's ears Stephen's sermon, (pages 215-218.)as she sat at Jesus' feet and heard His From the same book let someoneword! Luke 10:38-42.relate briefly the experiences of JohnOne of the most precious rooms in G. Paton, p. 219, and of his teacher,your house is your heart. Keep it with Namuri, who was a martyr — especiallyNamuri's prayer, (pages 221, 222.)all diligence. Dorcas did this whenshe loved God so much that she also This is a time of riots. Suppose youloved the poor people and was full of happened to be caught in one and forgood works and alms deeds which she some reason the mob turned on you,did. Acts 9:36-42.an innocent person, and began to beatYour hands are strong servants that you and you were certain that theygladly do your bidding. Ruth used would not stop till they had killed you.hers to glean in the field of Boaz and You would pray, that is certain. Tryhelp her mother-in-law, Naomi. Her to imagine what your prayer would behands brought happiness to others. in that situation. Now compare yourYour feet are the guardian of your imagined prayer with that of Stephenhouse. May they always take you in in Acts 7:59,60. Did you pray in imaginationfor some miracle to happen tosafe paths. If you bear tidings of joy,then these guardians are splendid in save you? Did you remember thetheir beautiful sandals of peace. Miriamran to bear a glad message to her Did you commit your spirit to JesusSavior at God's right hand (7:55)?mother. Exodus 2:1-10.Christ (7:59)? Did you think of othersBe good housekeepers, boys and besides yourself? And above all, ingirls. Keep your house ready for your your imagined prayer, did you prayMaster's inspection day and night. Be for the ones who were killing you?quick to choose the good part. Fill Not many of us could have prayedyour mind with the best thoughts; let as Stephen did under the samecircumstances.He was nearer the timeyour tongue carry kind words; listento your Father's voice; and let Jesus our Savior prayed, when He was beingdwell in your heart.crucified, "Father, forgive them; for172 COVENANTER WITNESS

they know not what they do" (Luke 23:34). He also had the vision of Christstanding at the right hand of God.(Standing, not sitting, as if He hadbeen brought to His feet by what washappening.)Stephen's prayer was offered at atime of extreme crisis. Times of dangermay make almost anyone begin topray, but how one prays depends onseveral things. Suppose, before readingany more, you think of some. Now,having thought, did you include whetherprayer is a habit or not? Did youthink of one's relation to Jesus Christ— how real He is to the one who ispraying? Did you consider the relationof the Holy Spirit to prayer?Stephen's prayer was modeled afterthat of our Lord. This stands out inthe request that the Lord would receivehis spirit, and in forgiving thosewho were stoning him. A later topicwill take up the prayers of our Lordand we will do well to learn from Him.Stephen's prayer was an unselfishprayer. Would we think of othersunder such circumstances, or wouldwe think only of ourselves? WhenDavid was an exile because of Absalom'srebellion he did not forget topray for his people. This is shown inthe ending of Psalm 3. Other prayerPsalms that close with petitions forthe nation are the 25th and 28th, andthere are still others.Stephen's prayer was a prayer offorgiveness. He not only thought ofothers but he thought of those whowere stoning him. He did not askforgiveness of his own sins but prayedin the spirit of the Lord's Prayer. Wepray, "Forgive us our debts, as weforgive our debtors." In this spiritStephen was asking that his murderersbe forgiven. This meant thathe forgave them, and as he forgaveso his own sins would be forgiven. Buthe was primarily concerned that thesin not be laid to their charge. Hewanted them to know Jesus Christand salvation through Him and not belost having this sin of murder againstthem in the judgment.We should not leave this topic withoutthinking of the probable effect ithad on a young man holding thegarments of the men who stonedStephen. Saul was consenting to Stephen'sdeath (Acts 8:1). But it isgenerally conceded that what tookplace affected him greatly. The bloodof the martyrs is the seed of theSEPTEMBER 13, 1967church. The writer, Celmens Alexandrinus,tells us that when Herod putJames to death the man who hadaccused James saw his extraordinarybehavior and became a Christian. Notonly so, but he insisted that Jamesshould not die alone and they wereboth beheaded at the same time. Dowe pray so that others are converted?A young man in Cyprus came intoa meeting where there was only prayerand was converted. Stephen's prayerwas real and such praying gets resultsbeyond the petitions which itmay contain.Prayer Suggestions: Pray for thoseinnocent persons who have sufferedbecause of riots and mob violence.Pray for Christians now being persecuted.Pray that we, and all Christians,may learn to pray more likeStephen.Scribe With A Hard PencilEven for small boys living in a small town, life is not always the apotheosisof the summum bonum of idyllic perfection. Troubles can creep in.It was a sunny afternoon, just the kind of day for fishing or for a ballgame. For a couple of young males, however, this was not to be.They were walking across the grass looking stiff and uncomforable in theirwhite starched shirts. Where were they going, all scrubbed and combed andshined? Who knows? Their conversation did not reveal their destination, —only their state of mind: "Boy! Is this ever crummy?" "Yea! But you know Mom!"One could only conclude that under duress they were going to a partywhere they would have to say "please", and sit awkwardly for a long time, andrefrain from licking their fingers — no matter how much chocolate icing gotleft on them.However, the accumulated experience of the human race seems to indicatethat attending a social function is not entirely devoid of blessing, even forsmall boys who would rather go fishing.One day, something like half a dozen years in the future, those boyswill want to know the social graces; for some young lady who has capturedtheir heart will expect them to know the social graces. They will be at aterrible disadvantage if they do not know the social graces. So, it's a case of:"Just now, learning how!"As it is with smjall boys, so is it also with the rest of us. We find ourselves,perforce, doing some things when we would much, much rather be doing someother things.This past summer, for example, young people on the STP teams went outpunching door bells. There is at least a strong probability that with some teams,they approached that first interview with hearts a-pounding, and sayinginwardly "These folks probably aren't at home — we hope!" But the folkswere at home. Possibly some of the STP teams felt that they made a messout of their first interviews."Just now, learning how!"Older Christians have tried witnessing to their next door neighbor aboutChrist. They said their say in exactly fifty three seconds, and couldn't thinkof one more thing. The neighbor? He sat mum and didn't say so much as oneword, yes or no or maybe! Was the attempt an utter flop? At least, it wasa case of:"Just now, learning how."Whether it's preaching, teaching, witnessing, farming, diagnosing chickenpox, driving a car in traffic, or quelling a riot, it seems that all of us have togo through that period when we are:"Just now, learning how."173

NOTICEThe new address of Rev. WayneSpear and family is:1422 Edgewood AvenueRoslyn, Pa. 19001During the coming year Mr. Spearwill be studying at Westminster TheologicalSeminary in a Th. M. program,under the sponsorship of our SeminaryBoard.CHANGE OF ADDRESSAfter September 15, use the address:Rev. C. E. Caskey, D. D.711 S. Mahaffie StreetOlathe, Kansas 66061GEORGE MILLIGANS HONOREDMr. and Mrs. George Milligan ofthe Santa Ana congregation werehonored, August 26, by their fourdaughters at an open house in thehome of Mr. and Mrs. H. H. (Martha)Hoch in Fullerton, California. Mr. andMrs. Milligan will observe their 60thwedding anniversary in January, 1968.Climaxing two days of festivities,the clan enjoyed an evening of food,fun, and fellowship. A talent show inwhich most everyone participated wasthe highlight of the evening.Those present were the four daughters,Marian, Martha, Georgia, andHelen, three sons-in-law, 9 grandchildren,and 7 great-grandchildren.ANNA E. LUCASAnna E. Lucas, daughter of Johnand Rose Adams, was born September8, 1891, near Mt. Clare, Nebraska, andpassed away from her home in HotSprings, New Mexico, August 9, 1967,during the mid-week hour of prayer.Early in life she joined the BeulahReformed Presbyterian Church, andlater, with her family, she became amember of the same church in Winchester,Kansas, where she was graduatedfrom high school in 1916, and thenserved her community as a capable,practical nurse for a number of years.On December 26, 1922, Anna wasunited in marriage with James W.Lucas of Billings, Oklahama. Theylived in Oklahoma and Iowa for manyyears before coming to Hot Spings,New Mexico, for health reasons, in1944. Being the first Reformed Presbyterianfamily in this communitychurch services were conducted intheir home. In November 1949 a missionstation was organized in the Lucashome, repeating what had taken placeyeais before in her parents home inNebraska.Although a longtime arthritic sufferer,Mrs. Lucas continued her dutiesin the home and in the church, untilshe fell and broke a hip, January 19,1964. After that, she often spoke of the"grace sufficient," which sustained heras a bed patient. She was cheerfuland patient in her affliction, testifyingto the love of God and the "blessedhope" of a home in heaven, free fromall pain, and overflowing with endlessenjoyments. Her life was an inspirationto many friends and neighbors.An infant daughter and four brotherspreceded her in death. She leavesto mourn her loss her husband, theirson, James Albert Lucas, his wife andtwo grand children; and also a widecircle of relatives and friends, whowith her family "will rise up and callher blessed."HOT SPRINGS, NEW MEXICOIt will be of interest to many in thechurch to learn that Mr. and Mrs.James Lucas, and their young son, werethe first Covenanter family to locate inHot Springs, New Mexico, coming fromthe Blanchard, Iowa congregation,where their membership continueduntil the Colorado Presbytery, in 1949,was the Stated Supply. In 1955 anaddition was built to the chapel,making it quite suitable for the missionarylabors of the small congregationin the community.After long illness, the first chartermember has been taken from ourmidst, by death, to join the ranks ofthe Church Invisible, there to unitein the praises of her Lord and Redeemer.About a week before hergoing, Mrs. Lucas experienced a remarkabledream, "just as real as life."She was "in the old home church inWinchester, Kansas, where David A.White (long time precentor) was leadingthe singing"; and she saw manywhom she had known. "It was wonderful!"She repeated the dream againand again. It was a foretaste of whatshe is now enjoying, which is "farbetter."For one who loved the House ofGod so dearly, it was appropriate thather burial service should be from thechurch. In the absence of the pastor,V. V. Dunn, on vacation and serving inthe west coast Y. P. Conference, BoydA. White conducted the service, withburial in the local city cemetery.SUMMER GRADUATION ATGENEVA COLLEGETwo Reformed Presbyterian studentswere among the 55 Geneva Collegeseniors who received degrees atthe summer graduation ceremony onAugust 11, 1967.William R. Cummings of the Sharoncongregation was awarded the Bachelorof Science degree. Mr. Cummings'major was in Psychology.Raymond Vos was also a Psychologymajor and received the Bachelorof Arts degree. Mr. Vos's father, Dr.J. G. Vos, Chairman of the Departmentof Bible offered the invocation,and pronounced the benediction in thecommencement exercises.The speaker at the graduation wasDr. G. Hall Todd, noted author andminister of Arch Street PresbyterianChurch, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.Dr. Todd spoke on the topic "AnEducation for the Full Man." Dr.Edwin C. Clarke, President of the College,presented Dr. Todd with a Doctorof Letters honorary degree.JOHN MONTINI, EDUCATIONALCOUNSELOR AT GENEVAThe appointment of John W-Montini as Educational Counselor inorganized a mission station in theirhome, where the first CovenanterLord's Supper sacrament in New Mexicowas observed. In 1950 a smallcement block chapel was built, and in1953 the Mid-West Presbytery organizedthe Hot Springs Reformed Presbyteriancongregation. The three membersof the Lucas family were amongthe charter members of the congregation,along with Mr. and Mrs. A. H.Cummingham, Dr. and Mrs. John DaleRussell (then living in Santa Fe), MissDolly Everett (sister of Oreta Everett,missionary in Kobe, Japan) and Dr.Edna Wallace White. Boyd A. White174 COVENANTER WITNESS

the Office of The Director of Admissionsat Geneva College has beenannounced by Dr. Harold A. Bruce,Dean of Students.Mr. Montini, who will assume hisduties at the beginning of the fallterm will work with Mr. Charles R.McBurney and his staff in the admissionsoffice.His special responsibility will bein the area of student aid. He also willbe involved in interviews on and offcampus explaining Geneva's purposeand program to prospective studentsand their parents, and high schoolcounselors.Mr. Montini, a resident of BeaverFalls, recently resigned after servingfor eleven years as elementary supervisorof Center Township Schools.He began 31 years of public schoolwork as a teacher in Aliquippa afterhis graduation from Geneva Collegein 1936. He continued his studies ingraduate work at the University ofPittsburgh where he received his mastersdegree in education. During hiscareer he held a number of schooladministrative positions.He is a member of the NationalEducation Association, PennsylvaniaStudent Association and a past-presidentof the Beaver County Branch, apast-president of Beaver Falls KiwanisClub, and an elder in the AssociatePresbyterian Church. During WorldWar II he served in the United StatesNavy.Mrs. Montini, the former FrancesMcCready, Beaver Falls, also is a 1936graduate of Geneva. The couple hasfour children, Sylvia (Mrs. H. DavidFaust), West Palm Beach, Florida, whograduated from Muskingum Collegeand received her masters degree inspecial education from the Universityof Florida; Robert, Sandusky, O., a1966 graduate of Geneva; Virginia, whowill enter her senior year at Geneva,and Alice, entering her junior yearin Beaver Falls High School. Virginiais a member of the College Hill ReformedPresbyterian Church and Aliceis a member of the Geneva ReformedPresbyterian Church.GENEVA COLLEGE NAMESDEAN OF WOMENMiss Joanne Hedenstrom has beennamed Dean of Women at GenevaCollege, according to an announcementby Dr. Edwin C. Clarke, GenevaPresident.A native of Lethbridge, Alberta,Canada, Miss Hedenstrom is presentlycompleting graduate study toward aMaster of Arts degree at the Universityof Alberta at Edmonton, whereshe also received her bachelor's degree.The new Dean of Women, replacesM-s. Halcyon Mueller who has resignedand will move to Greenville, Pennsylvania.Her husband, Dr. PaulMueller, Chairman of the Departmentof Modern Foreign Languages atGeneva has been named Professor ofGerman at Thiel College.In addition to her graduate study,Miss Hedenstrom has also been alecturer in English at the Universityof Alberta. She has been active instudent affairs and during the pastyear has served as Secretary of theGraduate Student Association, of theUniversity of Alberta, a member ofthe planning board for graduate studentresidence, and a member of theplanning committee for the new Councilof Student Affairs. Miss Hedenstromhas also served as Social Convenorfor Lethbridge Junior College.In 1966 Miss Hedenstrom was employedby C. B. C. Television whereshe conducted interviews and did researchfor the Canadian program"Dimension." She has also worked forat the spring meeting of the Ohio-Ulirois Presbytery in the IndianapolisR. P. Church, April 18 and 19.On May 10, preceding prayer meetinga dinner was served in the churchbasement, honoring these graduates:Jerry Arthur, Susan and Joe Comingorefiom high school; Wendell Mc­Burney who received his Ph. D. fromI. U; and Dr. Robert Rapp who iscompleting a year of post doctoralstudy at I. U. Dr. McBurney has accepteda position with I. U. as ScienceCoordinator. Dr. Rapp and family fromPennsylvania are leaving the Statesfor Korea. He hopes eventually to beteaching in one of the seminaries inthat country. He has attended ourchurch while enrolled at I. U. andseveral times has preached for uswhen the pulpit was vacant.On June 8, the Rev. Milliken went.to Belle Center, Ohio to moderate acongregational meeting for making outa call for a pastor.Our minister and family went toPittsburgh, June 13, and returned,June 24. On Wednesday, the 14th, Mi.Milliken met with the Christian A-mendment Movement Executive Committeeat the Seminary. He and Dr.Dale Russell represented the congregationat Synod.CJLH T.V. in Lethbridge and has On June 18 Mr. Robert J. Templetonserved as a student panelist for C. B. C.Radio.of Indianapolis preached for us.He is a graduate of the R. P. SeminaryDuring the summer months she in Pittsburgh and a licensed minister,taught swimming to children with but at present is employed by Lillycerebral palsy and has held severaladministrative positions at Banff NationalPark and Waterloo Lakes NationalPark. In the summer of 1967she was a private secretary for theFrick Company, in Waynesboro, Pa.A member of the United Church ofCanada, Miss Hedensti.om has been aSabbath School Teacher, Secretary ofCompany. He is clerk of Session inthe Indianapolis congregation.To raise money for their conference,the young people held their annualice cream social, July 22.Vacation Bible School directed byMrs. Minnie Wampler, was held, July24-23. On the last evening a supperwas served at the chuich with VBSthe United Church High-C group, pupils and their parents as guests.Secretary and Vice President of the On August 6, while our pastor wasYoung People's Group, and an officer away on vacation, Dr. John Daleand graduate of the United Church Russell, an elder in the congregation,Canadian Girls in Training.was the speaker. Our guest speakerBLOOMINGTON, INDIANA for August 13 was the Rev. DonaldThe Sacrament of the Lord's Supperwas observed, April 16, with theFelker of Bowie, Maryland. Dr. Felkercame to teach in the post session atRev. Adam Loughridge, of Portrush, I. U. i'.-om August 8-24. The familyNorthern Ireland, as the guest minister.Mis. Loughridge accompanied himand we appreciated the opportunityto meet and know them.The Rev. Milliken and Elder RayWampler represented the congregationaccompanied him to Bloomington, andafter a few days, went on to Gary tovisit datives.On August 20 Dr. Robert Tweed,of Geneva College, preached for us.While in 31oomington Dr. and Mrs.SEPTEMBER 13, 1967Tweed were guests of Dr. and Mis.175

Wendell McBurney.Several from our church attendedthe Presbytery Family Conference atLookout Mountain, Tennessee, August11-18. Lena Dixson was elected secretaryby the Presbyterial C. Y. P. U.for the coming year, and Carl Meekerof Indianapolis was elected president.Ruth Dixson accompanied the youngpeople. She was president of theIllinois-Ohio Women's PresbyterialMissionary Society, which also metduring the conference.On July 6, after a long illness, JudeFaris passed away. He is survived byfour daughters: Dorothy in Ohio;Helen in Boulder, Colorado; Phyllisin Coeur d'Alene, Idaho; and MaryFrances in St. Louis, Missouri; andone son, Charles Jude of Bloomington.All were here for the funeral service,July 9.Born to Mr. and Mrs. LarryTerhune was a daughter, Jill Christina,on August 13. The mother was formerlyAnnabelleArthur. Jill is theirsecond daughter.Plans are being made for a chickenbarbecue for the congregation at theRobert Stone farm, September 9.The fall communion services willbe held, October 19-22 with Dr. E.Clark Copeland, of the R. P. Seminaryfaculty, the assisting minister.The pastor plans to begin teachingin October a course on the Testimonyof the Reformed Presbyterian Church.It is designed for anyone interested inbecoming a member of our church,who would like more information beforetaking that step, or for memberswho would like to review.W.M.S. TOPICfor October, 1967THE STUDY OF THE BOOK OF ACTSby Rev. Verd V. Dunn"As we linger and learn in theworkroom (The book of Acts) of thePalace of the king." The study of thekey verse Acts 1:8 is all that spacepermits."But ye shall receive power... andye shall be witnesses unto me.. untothe uttermost part of the earth" (Acts1:8).Today we have many kinds of powerwith nuclear power being the mostrecent development. But power is notan unfamiliar word to us. Take ourproduces power to turn the wheels,they would be only objects to admirewith no practical value. America isbecoming more and more a mobilenation with so many people living inhouse trailers. When time for movingcomes it's not so much the packingof the furniture that is important butsecuring a truck or tractor to pull thetrailer. The owner needs power! (Matt.26:41; John 6:63)In the space age in which we livethe problem of supplying power forthe space capsules has been remarkablysuccessful. The problem of physicalpower will always be with manas long as the world lasts. In thestudy of the Bible the need for spiritualpower is even greater in comparisonwith the daily physical powerwe readily have access to around us.Bible study without the aid of theHoly Spirit can never stir our hearts.It will never give us a new vision ofthe regions beyond or what God reallywants us to do for Him. It will bejust a religious exercise with littlebenefit to us. (John 3:5; Rom. 8:1)Dr. Reginal Thomas tells the storyof two men who went for a walk inthe country. One turned to the otherand said, "Look at this maginificentlandscape; look at those trees, notone of them the same; look at theinfinite variety of shape and color;and look at those ugly telegraph poles.There they are along the highwaymeasured out at equal distances, allof them the same size, the same height.Wouldn't it be better if we could putWe cannot even think one goodthought without His aid. What confidencecould we have in eternal lifeif God by His Holy Spirit did not revealit to us? We could not come toChrist if the Spirit did not first act inour hearts! As we go through life weare not promised that we will be keptfree from all the storms of life thatbreak in upon us. But if sorrow, suffering,trials and temptations come,and they will, we will be kept on aneven keel if we are indwelt by theHoly Spirit. (Rom. 8:10)The lack of union destroys thepower of the human body or theChristian Church. Think how a fewchurch members who never unite inprayer, or those who just go throughthe mechanics of prayer, rob thechurch of power. Can you imagine thedisciples just talking about the weather,the ciops, politics, or finances, andnot saying one word about JesusChrist? True holy living is the onlygood testimony we can have for Christ.Without it all the talk in the world ismere hypocrisy. The power to bringabout our conversion, the power toinspire us to holy living, to place completeconfidence in God is possible becauseof the Holy Spirit. What are wedoing about this power? Are we willingto take advantage of His savinghelp? Certainly the resources of theHoly Spirit are not limited! Let eachone of us look inwardly and see howmuch power the Holy Spirit is allowedto exert in our daily lives. (John 3:3;John 3:6; Acts 2:17).all these things underground? Thisruins the beauty of the landscape."Of course, there is a sense in whichhe was right, but as these two friendswalked, down the mountain rolled themist, and very soon, with the lightbeginning to fail, they could see only Now the God of peace, thata few yards ahead of them. Said this brought again from the dead our Lordman to his friend, "How are we going Jesus, that great shepherd of theto get back to town?" "Oh, it's easy," sheep, through the blood of the everlastingreplied the other. "We will simply gocovenant, Make you perfectfrom one telegraph pole to another. in every good work to do his will,They may all seem the same; they may working in you that which is wellpleasingbe measured out at even distances;in his sight, through Jesusthey may seem to have the ugliness of Christ; to whom be glory for ever androutine; but when the mists are down ever. Amen. Hebrews 13:20,21.they are a sure way home." (Rom. 8:9)In the same way, do not despise Let us therefore come boldly untoroutine in your worship or in thethe throne of grace, that we maystudy of God's holy Word. For it is obtain mercy, and find grace to helpHis appointed way in which He speaks in time of need. Hebrews 4:16.cars. Without gasoline for fuel, which to us! To miss the ministry of the Holy176 Spirit would be to miss everything!COVENANTER WITNESS

THECovenanter WitnessTo The TruthJESUS CHRIST AS SAVIOUR, LORD, HEAD OF MEN, THE CHURCH AND NATIONS.VOLUME LXXIX NO. 12 SEPTEMBER 20, 1967 STERLING, KANSASBIBLE LESSONS FOR THE WEEK OF OCTOBER 15, 1967Psalm 119, Part 11. All that are undefiled, walking in the law of the Lord, are blessed.2. All they that keep His testimonies and that seek Him with thewhole heart are blessed.3. Also they do no iniquity; they walk in His ways.4. All thy precepts diligently to keep Thou hast commanded us.5. Ah, Lord! that my ways were directed to keep Thy statutes!6. Ashamed I shall never be, when I have respect unto all Thycommandments.7. Always will I praise Thee, with uprightness of heart, when I shallhave learned Thy righteous judgments.8. All Thy statutes will I keep: O forsake me not then utterly.Pastor Theodore Kubler, of Islington, 1880.,«»-^^«»-^^«»-^^«»- . it ~m II ~* ir ~>i ir ~> irr—> IT —» -»^^ «» l^fc.

THE COVENANTER WITNESSOfficial organ of the ReformedPresbyterian Church of N. A.> tVAMMUCM. PMM AtMCUTWMEditor: Rev. M. W. Dougherty, D.D.125 N. 4th StreetSterling, Kansas 67579Phone 316 — Br. 8 -S472Printed each Wednesday under the supervision of theBoard of Publication by The Patterson Press, Winchester,Kansas 66097.Contributing Editors: Department Editors:Rev. Kenneth Smith Rev. John TweedDr. G. M. RobbMrs. Robert B. MaineRev. John McMillan Mrs. Willis EdgarRev. C. E. Caskey Rev. John K. GaultOpinions expressed in our columns are those of theindividual writer, not necessarily the views of the ReformedPresbyterian Church or the editor.All material to appear in The Covenanter Witnessshould be typewritten, double-spaced, and should be inSterling, Kansas two weeks before it is to be printed.The cost of all pictures is 30 cents per square inch.Obituaries — All words in excess of one hundred fifty,one cent per word. Money should accompany such notices.SUBSCRIPTION RATESIndividual (1 year): U.S. and Canada, $4.00, BritishIsles 35/-, all other places, $5.00;Individual (2 year): U.S. and Canada, $7.00, BritishIsles 63/-, all other places, $9.00;Group: U.S. and Canada, $3.00, British Isles 28/-, allother places, $4.00.9-month student subscription — $1.50; 5-month introductoryoffer —$1.00; 2 gift subscriptions to persons outsideof the R. P. Church — $2.00 each. Single copies, 10c.Subscription Agent for U.S. and Canada: Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Subscription Agent for the British Isles: Rev. HughWright, B.A., 12, Knutsford Drive, Belfast 14, NorthernIreland.All checks should be made payable to The CovenanterWitness in U. S. currency.Give one month's notice of a change of address. Sendboth the new and the old address to Mrs. M.W. Dougherty.Postmaster: Please send Form 3579 to Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Second class postage paid at Winchester, Kansas 66097WEQuote -Martin Luther, in commenting on the twentythirdPsalm, said: "The heart of religion lies inthese personal pronouns — I and my, and theeand me; these hooks of steel that bind me, in all myneed and helplessness, to Him, in all His livingpresence and keeping power."This Week's Witness"Persimmon Nibblin' " 179Glimpses of the Rehgious World 180Debtors To The World 181What's Ahead For America? 183The Moral Law 184133 Register At Covenant Heights 185Pepita, The Gypsy Girl 186Lesson Helps . 187Scribe With A Hard Pencil 189Church News 190Beginning of Anti-Cigarette Campaign . . . 191HOLD THE FOLLOWING TO BE TRUTHS OF SCRIPTURE:The Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the only in­The duty which rests upon officers to maintain discipline andfallible rule of faith and conduct.preserve the purity of the Church.The Trinitarian conception of the Godhead.Spiritual worship as a divine requirement mediated through theFaith in Jesus Christ as the only way of salvation.Lord Jesus Christ.Salvation by Grace.The exclusive use of the Psalms in the worship of the Church.Assurance of salvation as a possible Christian experience.The Protestant interpretation of the Sacraments.The Gospel Call and Election.The divine right of the institution of Marriage and that it is notThe Holy Spirit as the Author of regeneration.to be dissolved except by adultery or "irremediable" desertion.Sanctification through the cooperating agency of the Holy Spirit.The Sabbath as a day sacred to rest and worship.The fact of death and hell as the destiny of the lost and heavenThe duty of nations and their civil rulers to honor Christ asas the destiny of the saved.King of Kings and Lord of Lords.That the Church of Jesus Christ consists of all those who believeThat Christian citizens are under obligation to obey lawful authority.in Him together with their children.The Divine Right of the Presbyterian form of Church Government. The right and duty of the Christian citizen to dissent from allThe Lord Jesus Christ as the only King and Head of His Church. governmental and national disobedience to the Law of God.That terms of membership or communion are essential to the That the Covenants of the past are still binding.welfare of the Church.From "The Communicant's Class" by J. B. Tweed178 COVENANTER WITNESS

EditorialComment"PERSIMMON NIBBLIN'"One writer has contended that the forbiddenfruit eaten in the Garden of Eden was not an apple,but a persimmon. It does seem reasonable to supposethat if the devil gave them a green one (andwhy wouldn't he) they would feel rather witheredand small. I do not know of anything else thatwould have a similar effect unless it were a chokecherry.No one has come up with that idea yet.But whatever it was, Eve thought Adam shouldhave some, too. Some who think it was an applesay that a bite of it stuck in Adam's throat and continuesto be an evidence of Adam's sin as it jumpsup and down when one swallows. It was inheritedalong with sin.Sin, which took up an abode in the midst ofhuman hormones and genes, was not first of alleating the forbidden fruit, but deciding in the heartto take it. Eating was a visible effect of a sinfuldesire and a decision.Green persimmons are not good, but when aperson hears about them and is given one, out ofcuriosity perhaps he will nibble at it. Evidence is"super-sufficient" to prove that people are stillnibbling. Not all the blame can be laid in Adam'slap. A mirror shows that each of us has an Adam'sapple. The bites seem to be getting larger and morebitter.In the various spheres of hfe in this world sinis epidemic. The life and property of others iscounted of no worth when they stand in the way ofgetting what one wants. They are destroyed becausehate, greed, and jealousy are in the heart.The fact that is most disturbing is that the "applebite," the withering effect, has moved into the throatof the visible church. As it was with our first parents,so it is today. They first put themselves and theirown will before God and His will.Someone has said, "God made man in His image,and man ever since has been trying to reverse theprocess." The stand taken by the fathers was takenin pools of blood. The declarations of behefs andlife principles they made were not made in a stupor,but were the conclusions after long and deep study.Hiding behind the screen of a new age and advancedlearning, we now have a form of "pop" theology and"high fly hop" discipline. The result of these deviationshas been shaking the edifice, the church. Wewill remodel the whole thing. Instead of a fullfoundation we will put in a few pillars (?) here andthere. We will make a creed that we can acceptand church laws that we can obey. The breath ofthe church smells much of green persimmons andapples. Declaring a law no longer effective or neededdoes not obliterate the transgression which it reveals.The sin must go first.The cure for the malady rampant today is twofold.First we must quit "nibblin' persimmons." Wemust turn from sin with deep contrition. Second,we must follow the prescription of the Great Physician.He will lead us away from the tree of thepuckering fruit to the tree of hfe. We must turnwhole-heartedly to God with "full purpose of andendeavor after new obedience." Then we shall findthe joy of our salvation once again restored.FOREIGN BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTAt the meeting of Synod the Board ofForeign Missions announced that specific appealshad been made upon the Rev. J. PaulMcCracken to go to Japan and upon the Rev.Alvin W. Smith, Jr. to go to Cyprus.We have received word that Mr. Smithhas decided to go to Cyprus and the Boardis in the midst of processing this application.Upon the successful completion of the necessarysteps, we anticipate sending Mr. Smithand his family to Cyprus.We have received the decision of Mr. Mc­Cracken declining our appeal. This means thatwe are still praying that the Lord will direct aminister to apply to the Board for the workin Japan.We ask for your prayers in both of theseareas of our work.Rev. R. A. Henning, Cor. Sec.SEPTEMBER 20, 1967 179

LORD'S DAY ALLIANCEGlimpses of the Religious WorldRAPS 'HOLIDAYS' BILLWashington, D. C. (EP) — The Lord's DayAlliance of the United States has voiced its disapprovalof a bill now before Congress which wouldchange five major holidays to Mondays.The Rev. Marion G. Bradwell, executive directorof the Alliance, told a Senate subcommittee consideringthe proposed legislation that the changeswould "not serve well the moral and spiritual needsof our citizens."THE REV. JOHN McMILLANR. D. 1, Box 337WALDEN, NEW YORKHe further claimed that the change would affectSabbath School attendance in the churches becauseof the long holiday week ends they would create.The legislation, sponsored by Sen. George A.Smathers (D-Fla.), would shift Memorial Day fromMay 30 to the last Monday in May; IndependenceDay from July 4 to the first Monday in July; VeteransDay from November 11 to the last Monday inOctober; Thanksgiving Day from the fourth Thursdayin November to the fourth Monday in November.Washington's Birthday would be changed to Presidents'Day, to honor all U. S. presidents, and wouldshift from Febuary 22 to the third Monday inFebruary.ADVENTIST RESTORED TO HER AIR FORCE JOBWashington, D. C. (EP) — For refusing to workon Saturday, the Seventh Day Adventists' Sabbath,an Air Force mess attendant was dismissed, butnot for long.The Senate constitutional rights subcommitteegave the order, stating that the employe hadchallenged her dismissal, charging she was toldwhen she was hired that she would not have towork on Saturdays because of her religious beliefs.SAC could defend the country even without theSaturday assistance of this mess attendant.FREEDOM, PROSPERITY BLAMED FOR SCORNOF RELIGIONHollywood, Calif. (EP) — "The reason increasinnumbers of people scorn rehgion is because theyare not afraid enough."So says Dr. Harry Douglas Smith here, ministerof the Church of Life."People are immune to threats," said Dr. Smith,referring to the awful canopy of total destructionthat nuclear physicists and modern science havespread over the world."When they really come to beheve — as theywill — that total disaster may really befall them,then they will return to the churches."CATHOLICS, PROTESTANTS TO STUDY'JUSTIFICATION'Auckland, New Zealand (EP) — The annualmeeting of the National Council of Churches herewas highlighted by a joint Roman Cathohc andProtestant announcement of a conference this fallto discuss "justification by faith."The National Council and the newly-appointedRoman Cathohc Commission on Ecumenism saidthat addresses on justification by faith — whichwas one of the issues causing the Protestant Reformationwhich marks its 450th anniversary thisyear — would be dehvered at a conference in October.The conference will also consider ways Catholicsand Protestants can work together.The report said, however, that on February 27the commander of the 804th Service Squadron atGrand Forks Air Force Base, North Dakota, had Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, andwritten her that "deviation from scheduled duties. . . the hfe: he that believeth in me, though he werecannot be tolerated."dead, yet shall he hve:And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shallSen. Sam J. Ervin Jr. (D-N. C.) said he was glad never die. Believest thou this? John 11:25,26.180 COVENANTER WITNESS

SermonPreached at Carleton Conference on Internati onal NightDEBTORS TORev. J. Paul"1 am debtor both to the Greeks and to the Barbarians;both to the wise and to the unwise. So,as much as in me is, I am ready to preach thegospel to you that are at Rome also. For I am notashamed of the gospel of Christ; for it is the powerof God unto salvation to every one that believeth;to the Jew first, and also to the Greek."Romans 1:14-16Dr. Joel Nederhood, preaching on the Back toGod Hour, has told the story of a brilliant younggraduate of a leading American university who wentto another land as a missionary. He had earned thePh. D. and in the process had been graduated withhigh honors. He was a man with exceptional talent.Yet he took this missionary job with a salary of$1200 a year. An American industrial company inthe land where he went spotted him, and offeredhim $10,000 to work for them. He turned down theoffer. Later, they repeated the invitation, this timeoffering $12,000. The next time, it rose to $15,000.Each time he gave them a firm "NO." The companyfinally asked him, "What's the matter? Isn't thesalary big enough?" His answer was: "Oh, yes, thesalary is big enough, but the job isn't."There is something very big and important aboutpreaching the gospel... so that it is hard to compareanything else in the world with it. Whether it isbeing done in the most remote village mission, ina small church in a large city, or from the massevangehstic pulpit, gospel preaching excels all othertasks in significance.Of course, to the average person such a statementis arrogant and foolish. "We need scientists,statesmen, or psychiatrists, but preachers? Of whatreal value are they?" And yet Christians go onasserting that while every vocation mentioned hasits important place in God's Kingdom, the worldneeds nothing hke it needs the clear message ofJesus Christ!I wonder if we really beheve that. And if ourlives are being lived right now with that profoundand gripping conviction.This was the way the Apostle Paul hved. Heknew his work was the greatest on earth. In thefirst chapter of Romans, he expresses this deeprootedpassion. Having already stated in v. 13 thathe intended to visit the city of Rome, he says inTHE WORLDMcCrackenv. 16, "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ;for it is the power of God unto salvation to every onethat believeth; to the Jew first, and also to theGreek."Paul could have had many reasons for beingashamed of the gospel. He was a Jew, and to mostJews, Jesus Christ was repulsive. How could thedisgraceful crucifixion of a Jew be good news, andwho would want to beheve it?Furthermore, what place did the gospel havein Rome? Hadn't Rome conquered the world? Whatplace did such a miserable message about someGalilean Jew being killed have in the pomp andpageantry of the world's capital?But instead of shrinking back, Paul set hisheart on Rome. He intended to preach Christ there,God willing. He felt impelled to take the messagethere. And he was not ashamed of the message. Hewould preach it anywhere, anytime, to anyone whowould listen.How does a person get to be like Paul, anunashamed proclaimer of Christ? That is our question.For we want to be possessed with a passion hkethat. We expect our ministers and missionariesto have that compulsion. Do we expect it of ourselves?Paul's great statement of conviction forcesus all ultimately to make a very personal evaluation.Can I say with Paul, "For I am not ashamed of theGospel of Christ"?Three elements in our text show us why Paulcould say what he did.The Knowledge of IndebtednessI. Paul was an INDEBTED MAN. V. 14 states,"I am debtor both to the Greeks and to the Barbarians;both to the wise and to the unwise."Americans know what indebtedness means, forwe live in a "no-money-down, somuch-a-month,"credit-conscious society. But Paul's indebtedness tothe Greeks and Barbarians was of a different kindentirely than that. These people had performed noservice for Paul. He owed them nothing materiallyor socially. He speaks of people he had never met.He is not speaking in humanitarian terms. . . sincehe was human being, and so were they, thereforehe should feel an impulse to help them out.No, the indebtedness Paul felt was a God-imposedindebtedness. God had given Paul a pricelessSEPTEMBER 20, 1967 181

treasure. He had presented it to Paul, enabled himto receive it, and it had changed his hfe. Now hewas both commanded, and inwardly impelled, tocarry it to all men.Imagine a doctor in South America ordered byhis government in to a remote tribe where a terribleepidemic rages, and where there is much loss oflife. His orders are that by whatever means possible,he must give the inhabitants his serum. At first,the people are suspicious of his bottles and hisneedles. They are afraid of him. But the doctorknows that his serum is a matter of life or deathfor these people. . . it is a treasure he must givethem. Both his orders and their need compel himfirst to persuade and then to inoculate them.Do you see how this takes away the shame?Paul here says that he was under orders to give thegospel to all men. Sophisticated Greeks, unculturedBarbarians, it did not matter. So Paul would notneed to shp ashamedly into Rome, afraid to speak.He could enter with his head high, with joyfulconfidence, on a mission of mercy to the lost ofRome.Nor is there need for you or me, in the placewhere we hve, to bear an apologetic, fearful manner.We are people like Paul. We have the same treasurein the same kind of earthen vessels. We have likewisebeen commanded to share our wealth. Andunless we preach, and teach, the gospel, people willdie without Christ.You cannot be ashamed if you remember thatyou are in debt to the world.The Necessary DedicationII. A second element in Paul's zeal was the factthat he was a DEDICATED MAN. "So," he says in v.15, "As much as in me is, I am ready to preach thegospel to you that are at Rome also."Prof. John Murray says that the first part ofthis verse means, "All that falls within my poweror prerogative is ready" or "As far as I am concerned,I am ready."We are often ashamed to hve and speak forChrist in the world because we are not ready. Thedoor of opportunity flies open, and we stand backtrembhng, afraid to leap through. Why? Becausewe have not prepared our hearts with "as much asin us is."Mary Slessor of Calabar, upon hearing of theQueen calling the finest of England's young meninto the army, wrote back, "Why should the Queenhave soldiers, and not the King of kings?" Yet in somany congregations, so few are "ready." Often evenministers are not "ready" in these terms, in the fullestsense. Other things become more importantto us, and first things are not kept in first place.Of course, being ready in the sense of our textimphes a great deal more than just being willingto do the will of Christ. It implies a submission totraining.When I fly in a commercial airplane, I want aman in the pilot's seat who is dedicated to flying,and who is dedicated to the safe arrival of all thepassengers. But when I am five miles up, I am alsohappy to know that he has previously flown morethan a single-engined Piper Cub. A dedicated personis a person trained and in training.When we Christians challenge the kingdom ofevil today, whether in an individual who needsconversion, or an institution which needs reformation,our consecration must be fortified by knowledgeand skill. This means that we ministers mustbecome specialists in training others. It means thatthe development of a church-school curriculum isimportant, that church-officer and teacher trainingare essential, that man-to-man and woman-towomantraining will be considered normal elementsin the Chruch.When a person is ready in terms of dedicatedskill, he is able to say, "I am not ashamed of thegospel of Christ."The Dynamic MessageIII. A third element in Paul's zeal was that heBORE A DYNAMIC MESSAGE. "The gospel is thepower of God unto salvation to every one that believeth,to the Jew first, and also to the Greek."It might seem strange that news could be power.But that is what "gospel" means. . . . good news.The word Paul used to describe it is the one fromwhich we get our word "dynamite." It had been dynamiteto Paul himself. It had caused a great explosionin him which had crushed his old heart. He hadbeen made a new creature in Christ, first brokenby the gospel, then made new by it.And now Paul was determined to carry thatdynamite to Rome sure that the explosion could berepeated many times over. If the gospel had brokenhis heart, hard, proud Jewish heart that it was,who could tell what it would do to both Jews andGreeks, as well as Romans? It could even explodeupon the evils of the Roman Empire and destroythem, perhaps.Let me remind you of what actually happened.When the book of Romans was written, Christianswere a small, despised group in Rome, virtually182 COVENANTER WITNESS

unknown. Luke tells us that Paul arrived in Romea prisoner. He taught in Rome for two years, andwas released. Later he came back again, and wasfinally slain. He did not live to see it, but JesusChrist did in fact conquer Rome. He put the emperorsoff their thrones, and thus changed the complexionof all history. So was set in process thatrepeated transmission of the gospel through thecenturies that here, today, we might know its explosivepower. In Syria and Japan, Cyprus andScotland, Ireland, Canada, and the United States,and across the face of the earth, it has come. Sometimesthe explosion has come with muffled force, asin an automobile engine, where we do not hearmuch exploding, but we see the car beginning tomove. But at other times, there is a terrible blast,and whole famihes and neighborhoods, and sometimeswhole nations, are shaken by it. The result ofthis gospel power is a new life, a new person, anew Christian.Has Christ done that for you? If he has. ... ifHis gospel has broken your heart, and made you anew person, can not the same thing happen toanyone?Is it right for us to say, "The Reformed PresbyterianChurch must carry the gospel to those with aProtestant background only... . there we will seesome result"? True, Paul went to the Jew first, tothose who had the background. But he never stoppedthere. Greek or Barbarian, the uncultured Scythian,those crushed by slavery or those born orbought to freedom. . . it made no difference to Paul.All were candidates for conversion.And it must make no difference to us. The colorof a man's skin must never deter us. . . the hard-corecharacter of his rehgious background cannot stopus. . . the fact that he is a brilliant, self-sufficientuniversity student must not frighten us. . . and thefact that he may be a dirty httle ragamuffin runningour city streets must not repel us. We have a gospelto proclaim, a gospel which is power, a gospel whichcan change any man, a gospel which is the powerof God unto salvation to every one that beheves,regardless!Where are those who are unashamed of thispower? In Japan, only one half of one percent evenprofess to know this gospel. In the United States,there reportedly are 60,000 empty pulpits. Where arethose who will fill them? And is the need less inScotland, Ireland, Syria, Cyprus, Canada or in anyother part of the world?What a thrilling thing it is to be united withthose from many lands who are possessed by thesame power, and are seeking to bring its explosivepower to bear upon a dying world. May God causeus never to be ashamed of this gospel!What's Ahead For America?by May CraigUnless there is a change, deep down, in theAmerican people, a genuine crusade against selfindulgence,immorality, pubhc and private, thenwe are witnesses to the decline and fall of theAmerican Repubhc.Death on the highways, a pack a day, cheatingfrom top to bottom in our society, get-rich-quick,breakup of the family, faltering in foreign policy,reckless debt — these have destroyed nations beforeus. Why should we think we can take that path andchange history?Look around you, and everywhere you see lackof principle and steadfastness in the right and brave.The disgraceful cover on the recent issue of a pubhcationwith a nationwide circulation and its palliatingstory of sexual immorality adds adult consentto the looseness of our youth, already far down theroad of delinquency, shiftlessness, derogation ofvirginity in our girls who will be the mothers oftomorrow.There is no financial morahty in our government— "charge it," is the accepted practice.Round the world they think they can take ourmoney with one hand and slap us in the face withthe other. We talk of our "leadership," but we areapparently incapable of giving leadership.One listens with dismay to the campaigning forthe Presidency that is going on. Oh, for a crusaderto call us back to dignity and strength and austerity.What was that last word? "Austerity" — plainhving and high thinking, putting our money intothe real things of life, not mink-handled saucepansand three cars in every garage; public servants whoare not Bobby Bakers. Schools for the young, carefor the elderly, strength so that none will dare attackus, a worthy succession to those men with feetwrapped in bloody bandages at Valley Forge to giveus liberty. How have we used the liberty they boughtfor us so dearly?—Reprint from "Sunday Telegram," Portland, MaineSEPTEMBER 20, 1967 183

The Moral LawIn many Fundamentalist circles today to speakof the Christian being under law seems a heresy. Wehave no hesitation to declare that the Christian isbound to obey the moral law and to follow it as longas he hves. We do not mean the ceremonial law,which was abolished through the work of the cross.The change of dispensation and covenant after Calvaryabundantly testifies to that truth. Christ hasredeemed all His own people from the curse of thebroken law. Once a sinner is justified by faith hehas perfect righteousness. "Christ is the end of thelaw for righteousness to every one that believeth"(Rom. 10:4). Dispensationalists teach that the beheveris thus "not under law." Romans 6:14 states,"Ye are not under the law, but under grace." But thismeans that the behever is not under the law as acovenant of works. Under that covenant he standscondemned. But grace has come by Jesus Christwith gospel liberty and salvation. But as a redeemedsoul he should love the law of God after the inwardman (Rom. 7:22). He should not want to go on insin. "What then? shall we sin, because we are notunder the law, but under grace? God forbid" (Rom.6:15). The moral law becomes a rule of hfe thus forthe behever under grace. "They that forsake the lawpraise the wicked: but such as keep the law contendwith them" (Prov. 28:4). "He that turneth away hisear from hearing the law, even his prayer shall beabomination" (Prov. 28:9).The Westminster Larger Catechism in Question96 asks, "What special use is there of the morallaw to the regenerate?" The answer is, "Althoughthey that are regenerate, and beheve in Christ, bedelivered from the moral law as a covenant ofworks, so as thereby they are neither justified norcondemned; yet, besides the general uses thereofcommon to them with all men, it is of special use,to shew them how much they are bound to Christfor His fulfilling it, and enduring the curse thereofin their stead, and for their good; and thereby toprovoke them to more thankfulness, and to expressthe same in their greater care to conform themselvesthereunto as the rule of their obedience." A thoroughstudy of the Larger Catechism on the law wouldsubvert many errors of a decadent day, and keepChristians in the narrow way that leads to hfe. Todeny the validity of the moral law as a rule of Christianlife in this dispensation is a grave error, onethat subverts the faith and practice of many professingChristians and keeps them from the Lord'sblessing in their hves.For the sinner the law speaks wrath. The morallaw is a mirror to the soul to show it exactly whatit is by nature — disobedient, unthankful, unholy."By the deeds of the law shall no flesh be justifiedin God's sight: for by the law is the knowledge ofsin." Many church members are trusting in theirlegal performances and thinking thereby that theywill attain heaven. Many preachers are preaching aworks of righteousness and deceiving souls everywhere.The generality of church members todayare under this delusion. The law should be a meansto drive the sinner to Christ. When the Holy Spirituses the law He uses it, as it is, a ministry of condemnationto show sinners how far they are awayfrom a holy God and how unable they are to doworks to measure up to His perfect standards. TheWestminster Larger Catechism says in Question 96,"The moral law is of use to unregenerate men, toawaken their consciences to flee from wrath tocome, and to drive them to Christ; or, upon theircontinuance in the estate and way of sin, to leavethem inexcusable, and under the curse thereof."How sinners need the Saviour and how wonderfullyHe meets their need! He saves with an everlastingsalvation. He offers grace and pardon to the vilest.He blesses in every way. If any unsaved person readsthis let him understand and seek the Lord JesusChrist while yet He may be found. Sinners mustrepent and believe the gospel. They must look to theSaviour hanging on the cross, a Substitute for theirsins, the Redeemer. "Neither is there salvation inany other: for there is none other name underheaven given among men, whereby we must besaved" (Acts 4:12).Bible PresbyterianO Thou who hast given so much to us, give usone thing more, a grateful heart; for Christ's sake.George Herbert, quoted inTHE QUIET CORNER (Revell)184 COVENANTER WITNESS

Our Youth133 REGISTER AT COVENANT HEIGHTSAt 9000 feet elevation high in the ColoradoRockies, 103 campers spent the week of July 17-23at Covenant Heights Family Bible Camp. By the endof the week, 133 had registered, and on Sabbath,July 23, 165 met for worship in the morning. Ofthe 133 registered 30 were juniors, 15 junior highs,51 CY's and 37 adults.The week was filled with Bible study, recreation,discussion groups, good food, scenic tours, campfires,horseback riding, and hikes to Wild Basin,Twin Sisters, and Chasam Lake. There was a programfor people of all ages.Juniors, under the leadership of Mr. and Mrs.Marlin McFarland, of Sterling, Kansas, enjoyedcrafts, painting, Bible stories, games, and sitting onShadrach the camp mule whenever no one else wason her. Every afternoon each junior rode the poniesat least twice. And on Saturday afternoon they madethe big hike to the top of Twin Sisters. It was along three and one-half mile climb, with the lastmile above timberline, before they reached the U. S.Forest Service fire lookout at 11,428 feet. Fromthere they looked east out across Colorado's wideplains and could see almost to Kansas. Looking westdown into the valley they saw Covenant HeightsCamp 3000 feet below, and up to the west was theeast face of Long's Peak, another 3000 feet abovethem at 14,256. After all the looking and a goodrest it was a three and one-half mile walk back downto supper.Junior high students met each morning in thenew outdoor amphitheater with their leaders LeeCampers in ChowSKPTKMBER 20, 1967Line at Covenant HeightsLyle Mclntyre Riding Shadrach, TheMascotBittner and Jim Wright. Here they considered someof the questions of life and what Jesus has to sayabout them. In the afternoons junior highs triedtheir skill at the archery and BB gun ranges as wellas going on three long hikes during the week anda scenic tour with the adults by car over Trail RidgeRoad in Rocky Mountain National Park. Carl Hoffmanof Greeley, Colorado and Rudy Scdillo of Truthor Consequences, New Mexico won the junior highand CY archery contests respectively. Mark Carsonof Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania topped all fishermanin camp with a good sized trout. Some adult fishermenhad only stories to tell.CY's along with the adults met in the morningsto hear a presentation by either Dr. Norman Carsonor Rev. John White on God's covenants with man.The first morning's topic was "The Need ''or and Originof the Covenant." The last morning's was "TheRebellious Covenanter." Following each presentationthe adults met to discuss the topic and make personalapplications. The CV'r. did the same, but onThursday thev had their discussion while eating apack lunch at limberline on their way to the topof Twin Sisters. They claimed it was the highestd : scussion ever held at a Covenanter camp.Again on Saturday, with lunches in hand, 4 1CY's hiked five and one-half miles to Chasam Lakeat the foot of the Diamond on the east face of Long'sPeak. It s an exhilarating experience to sit on therockv edges of crystal clear Chasam Lake and lookup at the famed Diamond a 1000-foot \ertical wallof granite. Numerous men have dared to climbit and several have died trying.Other speakers at camp included Rev Verd Dunn,Rev. Jim Pennington. Mr. Russell Reid. Rev RobertMcFarland, and Rev. Ken Smith.185

A PAGE FOR JUNIORSPepita, The Gypsy GirlIt was springtime. Stenburg, theartist, had turned his back on hisstudio in Dusseldorf for a few hoursand was wandering in the nearbyHim?" she asked. "Was He bad, verybad?""No, He was very good." That wasall she learned during that interview,of that love, that boundless love, whichcan brighten their lives as it has mine?It burns in my heart, but I cannotexpress it — the love of Christ!"countryside, sketchbook in hand, when but she treasured every word and So thinking, the artist idly took ahe caught sight of a Gypsy girl sitting remembered everything he had told piece of charcoal and drew a roughunder a tree weaving straw baskets. her.sketch of a thorn-crowned head. HisHer face was beautiful. Her coal "If He was good, why did they eyes grew moist as he did so. Suddenlyblack hair fell in ripples to her waist. crucify Him?" she asked one day. "Was the thought came, "I can paint. MyHer tattered red dress, faded by thesun, added to her picturesque appearance.But her eyes were the featureit for a short time only? Did they letHim go?""It was because —" and the painterbrush must proclaim it. In the otherwork His face was all agony. But thatwas not the truth. Unutterable love,that caught the artist's attention — paused. "Listen. I will tell you the infinite compassion, willing sacrifice!"restless, limpid, dark eyes whose expressionchanged every moment.As soon as the girl noticed the artistshe dropped her straw work, sprangto her feet, raised her hands aboveher head, and began to dance, snappingstory, once and for all, and then youmust ask no more questions." So hetold her the story.The day came when the painting ofthe Spanish dancing girl was complete.Pepita was about to leave the studio forThe artist fell on his knees andprayed that he might paint worthily,and thus speak.And then he wrought. The fire ofgenius blazed to the highest fiber ofhis power, and even beyond it. Theher fingers to keep time. Her white the last time. Turning away sadly resulting picture of the Crucifixionteeth flashed and her dark eyes from the great Crucifixion scene which was a masterpiece.sparkled with merriment.had captivated her, she said to the Stenburg would not sell it. He gave"Stand!" cried Stenburg, and hequickly began to sketch. As he sketched,artist, "You must love Him very much, it as a freewill offering to his nativeSignor, when He has done all that for city. It was hung in the public gallery,he said to himself, "She is not you, don't you?"and the citizens flocked to see it;only beautiful, she is better — a The artist's face flushed crimson; voices were hushed and hearts meltedcapital model. I will paint her as aSpanish dancing girl."So a bargain was struck. Pepitahe was ashamed. The girl in her poor,faded dress passed from his studio,but her words still rang in his heart.as they stood before it; and the peoplereturned to their homes knowing thelove of God and repeating to themselvesagreed to come to his studio three the words written beneath:He tried to forget them, but it wastimes a week to be painted.Upon entering the studio her eyeswere filled with wonder as she surveyedall the paintings, carvings, pottery,and pieces of armor. She wasimpossible. He hastened to send thepainting to the church, allowing aliberal discount, but still he could notforget, "All that for you."At last the pain was more than he"AU this I did for thee;What hast thou done for me?"Stenburg, from a corner of thegallery, watched the crowds and prayedfor God to bless his painted sermon.particularly interested in a large could bear. He must face it and conquerOne day he observed, when the restCrucifixion scene Stenburg was paintingfor the Church of St. Jerome. "Whois that?" she asked, pointing to thecentral Figure on the cross."That is the Christ," the artist replied."What is being done to Him?""He is being crucified. There, turnit. He went to confession, ac­knowledged all the doctrines of thechurch, received absolution and thepriest's assurance that "all was well."But still there was the old question,"You must love Him very much, don'tyou?" It demanded an answer.He learned that one of the Reformedof the visitors had left, a poor girlweeping bitterly before it. The artistapproached her. "What grieves you,child?"The girl turned, and he saw it wasPepita, the Gypsy girl. "Oh, Signor,if He had but loved me so," she said,pointing to the face of yearning lovea little to the right. That will do."people whom it was considered bending over them. "I am only a poor"Who are those people about Him hardly safe or respectable even to Gypsy. For you is the love but not— those with the bad faces?" the girl know, lived near the walls of the city. for such as I." Her despairing tearswent on."Now, look here," said Stenburg."I cannot talk to you. You have nothingStenburg sought his home, hoping thatthere he might find the secret ofpeace. And he was not disappointed,fell unrestrained."Pepita, it is also aU for you." Andthen the artist repeated the story ofto do but stand as I tell you." for his new friend possessed a living Christ's redeeming love, His magnifi­The girl refrained from speaking,but she continued to gaze on thefaith in Christ. He loaned Stenburga copy of the New Testament, whichcent death, and the crowning glory ofHis resurrection. Her questions didpainting. Every time she came to the Stenburg eagerly read.not weary him now, for the subjectstudio she became more fascinated bythe scene. One day she could keepquiet 186 no longer. "Why did they crucifyNo need to question now! He feltin his soul an ardent love. "He did allthat for me. How can I ever tell menwas the one he loved the best.Pepita listened and believed theSee page 192COVENANTER WITNESS

Lesson Helps for the Week of October 15,1967Sabbath SchoolLessonbodies. Last of all, of Israel's neighbors,Amos did not pass over Judah. Since all nations are under God, Hebooks of the Bible show this to us.He said, "I will send a fire upon Judah, has the power to raise one up and toand it shall devour the palaces of bring another one down. God also hasJerusalem." "They have despised the the power and right to use one nationfor October 15, 1967.law of the Lord, and have not kept in the punishment of another. ThisTHE LORD OF HISTORY: his commandments, and their lies was what God did with Israel and theAmos 1 and 2; 9:7-8.caused them to err, after the which other nations which did not serve Him.Comments by John K. Gault. their fathers have walked." (2:4-5). Since all nations are "under God,"The most of Amos' prophecy is Now, as Amos pronounced these He has various ways of destroyingtaken up with an indictment of Israel. maledictions against the neighbors of them when they have committedIn leading up to his main objective he Israel, that which he said met with "three transgressions — or four." Aproceeded to indict Israel's neighbors. complete approval of the government few years after the denunciationThe expression which Amos used in and people of Israel. They probably uttered by Amos, Pekah, the son ofhis indictment of each one of the clapped their hands in sheer delight, Remaliah, became king of Israel. "Hesinful nations was, "For three transgressions,— and for four." This means too great to inflict on these nations boam, the son of Nebat, who madethinking that no punishment could be departed not from the sins of Jero­that God's judgment did not fall upon with whom Israel had warred. But Israel to sin. In the days of Pekah,the rebellious nations for one or two the prophet came to his final maledictionas he devoted the rest of his king of Assyria, and took Ijon, andking of Israel, came Tiglath-pileser,transgressions but for transgressionafter transgression. So many transgressionshad been committed that the day sold the righteous for silver, and the Kedesh, and Hazor, and Gilead, andprophecy against Israel, "because they Abel-beth-maachah and Janoah, andof grace had passed and the time had poor for a pair of shoes; that pant Galilee, all the land of Naphtali, andcome when, as Amos said, "The Lord after the dust of the earth on the carried them captive to Assyria" (IIwill roar from Zion, and utter his head of the poor, and turn aside the Kings 15:27-29). Then later Hoshea,voice from Jerusalem." The prophet way of the meek: and a man and his the son of Pekah, reigned over Israel.began with Syria, with which nation father will go in unto the same maid, He also "did that which was evil inIsrael had fought, intermittently, for to profane my holy name: and they lay the sight of the Lord, but not as thehundreds of years. God said, through themselves down upon clothes laid to kings of Israel which were before him.Amos, "Because they have threshed pledge by every altar, and they drink Against him came Shalmaneser, kingGilead with threshing instruments of the wine of the condemned in the of Assyria, and Hoshea became hisiron: — the people of Syria shall go house of their god" (2:6-8).servant, and give him presents. Andinto captivity unto Kir, saith the Lord"1: All Nations are Under God.the King of Assyria found conspiracy(1:3-5). Amos proceeded to indictA nation is a moral personality. in Hoshea. — Then the king of AssyriaPhilistia because the people of thatIt is possible for a nation to do right came up throughout all the land, andnation had captured some of theor wrong. There is such a thing as went up to Samaria, and beseiged itIsraelites and then sold them, asnational ethics. The dictum of the three yeais. In the ninth year ofslaves, to the nation of Edom. Afterruling body of a nation does not, Hoshea, the king of Assyria tookPhilistia, Tyre was indicted becausenecessarily, make it right. In view of Samaria, and carried Israel away intothat nation had not "remembered thethis fundamental premise it is the Assyria;" and thus the identity ofbrotherly covenant" which Hiram andfii st duty of a national government to Israel became lost, forever. (II KingsSolomon had entered into. Edom wasacknowledge Christ, the King of kings. 17:1-6)next in line for destruction becauseChrist rules over all and He shapes 3: The Judgment of the Lord Will"he did pursue his brother (Israel)the destinies of nations. No nation is Be Severe.with the sword, and did cast off alla law unto itself; there is always a Amos compares the Lord to a lionpity, and his anger did tear perpetually,and he kept his wrath forever."God over all, to whom mankind, in which roars in the forest, thus causingevery relationship, owes its first allegiance.The great trouble with all he said, "The lion hath roared." Theother animals to flee in terror. In 3:8The transgression of the children ofAmmon consisted of their killingthe nations, which Amos denounced, day of destruction had come and thethe unborn children, with their mothers,of the inhabitants of Gilead. Moabwas that they had failed to do the will Lord would pounce upon the wickedof God, and that was a cardinal defectin their national existence.oi a raving lion. God is gracious andnation with all the violent savagerycame next in Amos' denunciation.They had "burned the bones of themerciful, but when nations flout Hisking of Edom into lime." This act 2: Nations Which Do Not Servecommandments and multiply transgressionupon transgression, then Herepresented their complete barbarity God Will Be Destroyed.in that they thought they could destroy The prophecy of Amos, and otherbecomes like a roaring lion.the souls of people as well as theirSEPTEMBER 20, 1967 187

4: The Highway of History is Litteredwith the Wreckage of SinfulNations.The nations denounced by Amosall fell before their enemies. AlsoAssyria, Babylon, Egypt and Rome, allwent down to destruction. They hadbeen world powers among the nationsof the world. Modern nations whichcontinue to disobey God will likewisefall. People of America like to hearof trouble arising in Russia or RedChina. America should consider thatshe has within her boundaries conditionswhich, if permitted to continue,could very conceivably cause her demise.Sabbath desecration was onefactor in the dissolution of the governmentsof Israel and Judah. If anythinghas gone into the moral discard inAmerica it is the Christian Sabbath.The government of the United Statesand her citizens no longer regard theSabbath as a divine institution, to beused for rest and worship, but ratheras a day of pleasure and business.Idolatry characterized the worship ofSyria, Moab, and Ammon. People inthe United States have made idols outof a wide variety of things such asautomobiles, games, and possessions.Christians should pray most earnestlythat the people of the United Statesmight repent of their sins and turnto God, lest they be like other nations,both ancient and modern, which haveleft the wreckage of their civilizationsstrewn along the highway of history."Lesson based on International SundaySchool Lessons: the International Bible Lessonsfor Christian Teaching, copyrighted 1963by the Division of Christian Education, NationalCouncil of Churches of Christ in theU.SA."some green grass with chalk. At theupper edge of this fasten the picturewith a pin or paste. In the center ofthe board near the top, outline alarge sun in yellow. While you areplacing the house, making grass, sun,etc. carry on this discussion.)What is a house? Something tolive in, did someone say? Does a housemake a home? Is this old empty housedown the road a home? You thinknot. What will make a house into ahome? (Write the juniors' suggestionsin groups on the board about thehouse.)Homes must have sunshine to makethem bright, happy places. (Draw thesun and several lines radiating fromit toward the house.) The best sunshinefor a home is the kind that boysand girls make. So this big sun isyour lives, and they are sending allthese sun-rays down into your homes.Now let us name these (and as theyare named write them along the radiatinglines). These might include:Obedience — Different times inGod's Word we read, "Children, obeyyour parents." To obey is the firstlesson that every soldier must learn;it is one of the best lessons for boysand girls to learn. Paul in Ephesianssays, "Obey, for this is right."When you were so tiny that youcould do nothing for yourself, yourmother fed and dressed you everyday, and watched over you so thatnothing would hurt you. Your fatherworked hard to earn money so thatyou could have the things you neededto keep you well and happy. The bestway to say thank you to them is byobedience.Another reason for obeying ourparents is because they know muchmore than you do about life. Onetime during the war between GermanyJunior Topic and England, a German ship, heavilyfor October 15, 1967.loaded with gold, was ordered to putA HOME LIKE HEAVENin at the nearest American harbor toby Mrs. M. W. Doughertyavoid attack. The captain did not knowMemory Verses: Ps. 101:2c; Proverbswhat to do for he was afraid of hiddenrocks. Then a man came up and20:11Psalms: 34:6,7, p. 82; 101:1-4, p. 239;said that he had been all along that128:14, p. 323; 112:1-4, p. 277; 103:14,coast in his yacht and knew all ofp. 246; 91:1-6, p. 224.the dangerous places to be avoided.Lesson: (Bring to the meeting theSo the captain took him up to thepicture of a house taken from a magazineadvertisement. Along the bottompilot and told the pilot to steer theship as this man directed. He showedof the chalkboard or cardboard, andthem the safe way into the harbor.extending up about three inches, makeBoys and girls are much like thisship in need of careful directing.Fathers and mothers stand by to showthe best way so that their childrenmay miss the dangerous rocks.Learning to obey our parents preparesus for obeying all of God'scommandments throughout our lives.His commandments are given to usin love because He knows what isright and best for us to do.Helpfulness is another ray of sunshine.Mother and father work hardevery day. How it cheers them whenMary can see the dishes to be washed,the playthings to be picked up, thebeds to be made, or when John pullssome weeds or runs some errands.Even if you cannot see things to bedone, but come promptly and cheerfullywhen called, that brings sunshine,too. Mother may have more time toread to you or play games if you helpher with the work. Should you expectmoney for the things that you do?Kindness is much like helpfulness,but I am thinking of it in light of theGolden Rule. Think of all the kindthings you would like someone to dofor you and then do them for someoneelse. Do not do to any one else whatyou would not like done to you. Doyou like to be teased? Then nevertease anyone else.Cheerfulness — Do you enjoy arainy day? Cross, quarrelsome, complainingchildren are just like so manystorm clouds. You can help to makeothers cheerful and happy by beingthat way yourself. Do not complain,but try to find something to be glador thankful about in everything.Unselfishness — It takes a lot ofit to make a happy home. There willalways be trouble if one member wantsall the good things and is unwilling toshare. One time a guest in the homegave two Japanese straw hats to thetwo little girls. Each wanted the otherto make the first choice of color.Self Control — When we hold ourtempers, keep back angry words, controlour fists so that they do not hurtothers, we surely help in making ahappy home. Solomon said, "He thatis slow to anger is better than themighty, and he that ruleth his spiritis better than he that taketh a city."Near to God — Sometimes boys andgirls are nearer to God than theirfathers and mothers are. Better thananyone else they can bring them nearto God, too. If there is not a period offamily worship in the home, juniorsmay encourage their parents in this.188 To keep nearCOVENANTERto God ourselvesWIWESSwe

must read the Bible and pray. We havebeen telling some characteristics ofa real Christian. The more each memberof the home becomes like Christ,the happier that home will be and themore like heaven. We think that Godmeant for homes here to be a littlesample of heaven with hatred, strife,selfishness shut out, and within love,peace, contentment, and happiness.'You boys and girls are among God'sbest gifts to your homes. May you bereal messengers from Him showingthe greatness of His love. (Above thesun write the words, "God's Love.")Prayer MeetingTopicfor October 18, 1967.PRAYERS OF PAUL.by Rev. Robert McMillanEphesians 3:14-21; Colossians 1:9-18Psalm suggestions: Ps. 95: vv.1-5, p.231; Ps. 64: w.1,2,8,9, p. 154; Ps. 141:vv.1-3, p. 344; Ps. 20: w.1-6, p. 43.Prayer suggestions: praying two-by-twois a good plan. Space yourselvesthroughout the church, then come togetheragain when the prayer-time isended. Pray: for our congregations atcommunion-time; for friends who arebeing tested; for our service men; forthose who are launching out in newministries; for students in collegesand seminaries.Read Paul's prayer in Ephesians 3:of Christ's love suggest to you?The breadth? Length? Height?Depth? v. 188. Paul was more impressed withthe dimensions of Christ's lovethan with the dimensions of thearchitectural wonder in the cityof Ephesus. What was that buildingwhich attracted visitors fromall over Asia Minor? (See Halley'sBible Handbook, page 576)Someone has suggested that verse19 is a fifth dimension of the love ofChrist after the four already mentioned.Not only are they to experiencebreadth and length and depth andheight, but also the INWARDNESS.They are to know by personal experiencethe love of Christ as it can onlybe known by those who have fellowshipwith Him.9. Paul concludes his prayer withan outburst of praise to God.How a.e you impressed by thisoutburst? How does Paul expandthe basic petition: "Now untoHim who is able to do all that weask"?For the word of God is quick, andpowerful, and sharper than any twoedgedsword, piercing even to thedividing asunder of soul and spirit,and of the joints and marrow, and isa discerner of the thoughts and intentsof the heart. Hebrews 4:12T.Scribe With A Hard PencilOur neighbors have a small yellow kitten who wants to chase any thin.uthat moves. Butterflies, beetles, balls of yarn — you name it, she'll chase it.In principle, this has much to be said in its favor. Down in the deep recessesof cat psychology there must be some notion that, for a kitten to chase everything that moves, is good preparation for chasing mice when a greater deg <

SEPTEMBER SUBSCRIPTIONHONOR ROLLChicago, Denison, Oakdale.COVFAMIKOI CONFERENCEGod richly blessed us this yearwith fine Adult, CYPU, Jr. High, andJunior Programs. We especially appreciatedRev. Ken Smith and his teamof men. They helped to make theconference a real blessing. Nextyear's conference will be on LookoutMountain, July 27 - August 2. Mr. KarlMeeker succeeds Mr. Bill Wilson asconfeience president. You are invitedto attend!AUGUSTUS JAMES HARDINGAugust 23, 1863 — August 28, 1967through the witness of some membersof the Third Church in New YorkCity, and in the radiant joy of histhankfulness for what Christ had donefor him he witnessed to all that hemet, even in his business associations.On his business trips he always searchedout a midweek prayer meeting ifit could be found.After some years he moved toMontclair, New Jersey, and became amember of the group that founded theReformed Presbyterian congregationin that city. For many years he commutedto New York for his work. Atage 86 and while still able-bodied, hewas retired against his will after servinghis firm for 47 years. About thetime of his retirement he moved toFair Lawn, about 10 miles from Montclairwhere he was a complete stranger,but soon he became the bestknown citizen in the community.This all started with his watchingthe construction of a new high schooladdition in his neighborhood, throughwhich he won the friendship of thebuilders and the school officials, andresulted in an invitation to be a speakerat the dedication ceremony. Fromthis time on he was a constant visitorin the halls and classrooms of theschool and a friend of all the studentsand teachers, and he was a favoritespeaker in the school assemblies.In 1963 he was made an honorarymember of the graduating class, andalways wore the ring presented to himby the class. He was made an honorarymember of the Rotary and was a wellknown speaker at many organizationsin the community. These activitieswere continued until prevented byillness early in 1967, and his strongChristian witness was felt all throughthe community because he alwasysgave the glory to God for his strengthand his talents.Elder Harding was the last survivingfounder in the membership ofthe Montclair congregation and issurvived by two daughters, Mrs. OrrinFerry and Mrs. Adolph Voss, who werebaptized members on the charter roll.Mr. Harding's wife died 37 years ago,and a son predeceased him. There arefour grandchildren and 11 greatgrandchildrensurviving.Elder Harding's love of the Lord'sHouse, and his spiritual example andguidance was always an inspiration tothe Montclair congregation. To hislast days his voice was strong in prayerand his beautiful petitions will be longremembered by those who heard him.On his 104th birthday when his voicehad become weak in his last illness,the last words heard by one visitorwere, "Lord, give me Thy benediction."Edwin H. McBurney,Clerk of SessionTHREE EVENTS HONORCOUPLE'S GOLDEN DAYMr. and Mrs. John Bayles observedtheir 50th wedding anniversary atthree gatherings of friends and relatives.The family, a son, J. D., from ColoradoSprings, Colo.; a daughter,Martha, from Orlando, Fla., and adaughter, Maxine from near Shenandoaharranged a reception at the ReformedPresbyterian Church southwestof Clarinda, August 22 in theafternoon and later at the John Bayleshome in Shenandoah.There were 150 friends and relativeswho signed the guest book andjoined in congratulations. In attendancefrom a distance were friends fromSouth Dakota, Nebraska, Colorado,Kansas, Ohio, Missouri, Pennsylvania,New York, Arizona and Florida. Abook of "Golden Memories" was arrangedby a daughter and presentedto the bride and groom. The two weddingcakes were baked and decoratedby a daughter and a daughter-in-law.A daughter designed and drew thetable runner of wedding bells andlovebirds, which carried out the goldenELDER A. J. HARDINGcoloring. Five nieces poured, twoDIES AT AGE 104granddaughters were at the guestOn August 28, 1967, Mr. Augustusbook.James Harding entered his eternalA program was arranged by thehome, after passing his 104th birthdayfamily. A son, J. D. was master ofon August 23. He was active and attendedthe services regularly untiled the piano, a great granddaughterceremonies. Two granddaughters play­February of this year in the Montclair,pleased all by reading a poem, whichNew Jersey congregation, which hewas written by a relative. John Cabeen,a waiter at the wedding in 1917,served as elder from its organizationin 1908 until his death.said a few well-chosen words: JoeMr. Harding, who was born in Englandtwo years before the assassina­the bride, one to the groom and oneMcKinley sang three numbers, one totion of Abraham Lincoln, came to thiswhich might be as the congregationcountry at the age of 23 and wassinging to both.brought into the Covenanter ChurchThe members of the Clarinda congregationhonered them with a dinner130 COVENANTER WITNESS

at the church, August 23. There wereabout 100 at the dinner.THE MONTCLAIR CONGREGATIONWith sadness, we record the passingof Elder A. J. Harding to hisheavenly home on August 28, 1967,after several months of weakness, andjust five days after his 104th birthday.He was born, August 23, 1863.Funeral services were conducted byRev. Wayne R. Spear and intermentwas in the Machpelah Cemetery, NorthBergen, N. J.Many columns could be written ofMr. Harding, telling of his jovial disposition;his life in the church; hisyears on the Foreign Mission Board;his years in the business world; andhis latter years as an influence amongthe youth in his community.Not many have had the privilege ofChristian fellowship and associationwith one who has been active for somany years, and for this we are mostgrateful. The congregation (extendsits sympathy to his daughters, Mrs.Orrin R. Ferry and Mrs. Adolph Vossand their families.Our congregation has been greatlyblessed by the ministry of many inrecent months: Rev. Argos Zodhiates,Mr. Edward Robson, Rev. Wayne R.Spear, Dr. J. R. Patterson, Dr. S. E.Boyle, Rev. J. Paul Wilson, Rev. MosesKnott (American Bible Society), Rev.Richard Olson, Dr. P. D. McCracken,Rev. Luther McFarland, Dr. R. C.Fullerton, Dr. Herbert Hays and Rev.Ronald Nickerson. We were especiallyhappy to have wives and familiesaccompany our guest ministers.It has indeed been a privilege toour congregation to have the Rev.Wayne R. Spear and family live in ourManse the past seven months, and tohave the excellent ministerial servicesof Mr. Spear, and fellowship with thefamily. They have recently moved nearPhiladelphia where Mr. Spear willcontinue educational work in the WestminsterSeminary. We shall miss themand our best wishes go with Rev. Mr.and Mrs. Spear, Amy, David, andBarbara.One lovely evening in June, thecongregation surprised Dr. and Mrs.Wade Marsters, David and Deborah,when we arrived unannounced for ahousewarming, and to give them ourbest wishes in their new home. Atable lamp was presented them, andwas much enjoyed. It was nice to haveMrs. Robert Park of Beaver Falls, Pa.(aunt of Mrs. Marters) present forthe occasion.The congregation extends its verybest wishes to Mr. John E. Donaldson,Jr. and Miss Pearl Palicia, who weremarried on Saturday, August 26. Pearlwas graduated from Geneva in Juneand John was graduated from Rutger'sUniversity. They will make their homein North Plainfield, N. J.The congregation has welcomedmany visitors, more than sixty duringthe three summer months, and this istoo many to name in the Witnesscolumns. It is encouraging to have somany at our worship services.Paul Stephen, infant son of Mr.and Mrs. Leroy Blauvelt, was baptizedon Sabbath, August 13, by the Rev.Wayne R. Spear. Baby Paul has asister, Diane, and a brother, Douglas.THE PASSING SCENEEARLY BEGINNINGS OF THEANTI-CIGARETTE CAMPAIGNA. Harry Chapman M. D.As the anti-cigarette campaignmoves into high gear, it may be ofinterest to trace the early beginningsof this movement. Actually, warningsagainst the ill effects of tobacco beganabout the same time in the late 1500'swhen it was introduced into Franceby Jean Nicot, the French ambassadorto Portugal; he got some tobacco fromPortuguese explorers in Americamore than 100 pounds of tobacco inone year.The rulers of other nations at thistime took even more vigorous antitobaccomeasures than King James.The Russian government met theproblem in its customary manner: itdecreed that anyone caught smokingwas to be punished by having his nosecut off. The methodical, austere Swissgovernment set up a special court(Tribunal du Tabac) to p A osecute andpass judgment on people discoveredsmoking. The Turkish government decidedto make an example of oneinveterate smoker; he had his pipepierced through his nose and was ledthiough the streets of Constantinopleas a salutary warning to other Turkswho might be tempted to experimentwith the baneful weed.The campaign against tobacco inthe early 1600's was worldwide. InMassachusetts a law was passed thatanyone caught smoking within "20poles" of a private house was to befined. In the early 1600's tobacco apparentlywas, as now, a problem withadolescents. The president of Harvardstruggled with the problem amongthe adolescents in that institution, andfinally decreed that no student couldsmoke unless he met 3 conditions.They were: (1) he must have the permissionof the president of the university,(2) he must have the consentof his parents or guardians, and (3)he must have a doctor's recommendationthat he could smoke for medicalpurposes. Even with all this, the studentcould smoke only "in a sober andprivate manner."The medical profession was equallyactive. A leading medical spokesmanof the day, Dr. Venner of London,wrote in a book against tobacco in1638 that "... tobacco drieth the brain,dimmeth the sight" (optic neuritis, wepresume), "vitiateth the smell" (chronicrhinitis, apparently), "hurteth thestomach" (effect of nicotine on smoothmuscle), "destroyeth the concoction"(unexplained word, no references givenin the bibliography on this point),"disturbeth the humor and spirits,.exsiecateth the winde pipe and lungs"(first medical warning about tobacco'srelation to lung cancer and emphysemaappaiently) "...and scorcheth theheart" (the author apparently was referringto the increased incidence ofcorona; y occlusion, etc.)So as the prophet in Ecclesiasteswhere tobacco was first discovered.Mr. Nicot was rewarded by havinghis name immortalized in the wordnicotine.One of the first government officialsto wage war on tobacco wasJames I of England. Being deprivedof the opportunity to put warnings oncigarette packages (since they had notyet been invented), he wrote a bookagainst tobacco in the early 1600's.The name of the book was Counterblastto Tobacco, and King Jamescondemned tobacco on all possiblegrounds and warned his subjectsagainst "persevering in a custom loathsometo the eye, hateful to the nose"(first recorded statement by a governmentofficial about adverse effects oftobacco on the upper respiratory tract)"and baneful to the brain." Old KingJames also established the first governmentregulation on the commercialaspects of tobacco; he decreed that nothe evening of Christian fellowship planter in Virginia could cultivateSEPTEMBER 20, 1967 191

wrote, "That which hath been is thatwhich shall be, and there is no newthing under the sun..." The war a-gainst tobacco is still going on and thegeneral population is still puffingaway.Jackson County, Missouri MedicalSociety BulletinFRIENDSHIPOh, the comfort, the inexpressiblecomfort, of feeling safe with a person;having neither to weigh thoughts ormeasure words, but pouring them allright out, just as they are — chaffand grain together — certain that afaithful hand will take and sift them,keep what is worth keeping, and withthe breath of kindness blow the restaway.— George Eliot.GYPSY SMITH AND HIS UNCLEThe late "Gypsy" Smith used totell the story of his conversion as ayoungster, and of his consequent earnestdesire for the salvation of his uncleRodney. When Smith was a boy, it wasnot considered wholly proper for achild to address his elders unlessspoken to, and especially among thegypsies was it forbidden. This wouldbe doubly true in the case of a subjectso serious as an adult's duty orspiritual condition. So "Gypsy" simplyprayed about the matter and waitedfor God to give him the opportunitythat he so longed for.One day the lad's uncle took noteof "Gypsy's" worn trousers."Laddie," said Uncle Rodney, "howdo you account for the fact that theknees of your trousers have wornnearly through, while the rest of thesuit is almose like new?""I have worn the knees throughpraying for you, Uncle Rodney," theboy answered. And then he added,tearfully, "I want so much to haveGod make you a Christian."Uncle Rodney put his arm around"Gypsy" in fatherly embrace and, afew moments later, fell on his knees,confessing Christ as His Saviour.Opportunities will come to speak toothers about the Lord when we aresufficiently interested in their soulsto wear out our possessions and ourselvesin praying for them.— TriumphHEALTH OFFICER CALLS LIQUORMORE HARMFUL THAN DOPESpeaking at Stanford Universitythis week, Dr. Joel Fort said thosewho claim to be worried about LSDand marijuana would, if consistent, bemuch more concerned about the useof alcohol. He said alcohol is the mostwidely used mind-altering drug, and isresponsible for about half the highwayaccidents and half the crimes inthe United States every year.He estimated that eighty millionAmericans drink, and that about sixmillion of them are dependent onalcohol.The attention paid to LSD by thepress and politicians involves a searchfor scapegoats, is a form of anti-intellectualism,and amounts to laying asmokescreen to hide the really basicproblems of our society, Dr. Fort said."People in entrenched positionsdon't like to have their values and wayof life questioned," he said. "There'sno way to pass laws against youthfulactivities, and LSD is more easily condemnedthan alcohol because its use isconcentrated among young people."—Research ReportTHE GREATEST NEEDHubert H. HeathThe deepest need of the earthtoday is for an understanding of thePlan of Salvation. So very few troubleto make that way clear. We hearmuch about "accepting Christ" andso little about His accepting us. Theapostles accepted Him in good faithas the Son of the Living God, yet wefind Him saying to Peter, just beforegoing to the cross, "When thou artconverted, strengthen thy brethren."He stated the way of salvationexplicitly when He said, "Unless yerepent ye shall all likewise perish."Sincere repentance is, therefore, necessaryif we are to be accepted of Him.In Peter's sermon following the healingof the lame man at the Beautifulgate, he declared: "Repent ye therefore,and be converted, that your sinsmay be blotted out, when the timesof refreshing shall come from thepresence of the Lord."The next step that is required is toconfess our sins to God and to askforgiveness and cleansing in Christ'sname. It is all as simple as that; yetit is so rarely stated. "He that coverethhis sins shall not prosper: but whosoconfesseth and forsaketh them shallhave mercy" (Proverbs 28:13). "If weconfess our sins, He is faithful andjust to forgive us our sins, and tocleanse us from all unrigheousness"(I John 1:9). Could any requirementbe more logical or reasonable in soimportant a matter?So, I say despite all the world'swoes and the crime increase of ourtime that the greatest need of theworld today is to know the Plan ofSalvation: repentance, confession, forgivenessasked in the name of Christ.If these steps are made, then thewitness of the Spirit is promised,the greatest witness of all. What agracious promise!Order is a universal law. Withoutorder the planets would spin crazily,the seasons would be jumbled, ourwhole world would seem strange andupset. Order is an essential factor insatisfying living, and it can be asource of spiritual contact with God.— James A. Decker.PEPITA, THE GYPSY GIRLFrom page 186words, "All this I did for thee."Two years passed. One wintrynight the artist was summoned by astranger to accompany him on anurgent errand. "One who is dyingwishes to see you," he said. He followedhis guide through the streetsand into the country. At last theycame to a little cluster of tents. "Goin there," the man directed. There,on a mass of dried leaves, her facepinched by hunger, was the form ofa young woman."Pepita!"At the sound of the artist's voiceher eyes opened. "Yes," she said, "Hehas come for me. He holds out Hishands. He said to me, 'For thee. AUthis I did for thee.' " With these wordsshe bade the artist farewell.Stenburg's painting has long sinceperished but the story of redemptionwhich it told lives on, ever pointingmen to the Christ of whom Paul said,"He loved me and gave himself forme."Can you say, "And for me!"?192 COVENANTER WITNESS

Covenanter WitnessTo The TruthJESUS CHRIST AS SAVIOUR, LORD, HEAD OF MEN, THE CHURCH AND NATIONS.VOLUME LXXIX NO. 13 SEPTEMBER 27, 1967 STERLING, KANSASBIBLE LESSONS FOR THE WEEK OF OCTOBER 22, 1967

THE COVENANTER WITNESSOffieial organ of the ReformedPresbyterian Church of N. A.. CVJUMCUCAL I • AMOCIATMNEditor: Rev. M. W. Dougherty, DJ>.125 N. 4th StreetSterling, Kansas 67579Phone 316 — Br. 8 • S472Printed each Wednesday under the supervision of theBoard of Publication by The Patterson Press, Winchester,Kansas 66097.Contributing Editors: Department Editors:Rev. Kenneth Smith Rev. John TweedDr. G. M. RobbMrs. Robert B. MaineRev. John McMillan Mrs. Willis EdgarRev. C. E. Caskey Rev. John K. GaultOpinions expressed in our columns are those of theindividual writer, not necessarily the views of the ReformedPresbyterian Church or the editor.All material to appear in The Covenanter Witnessshould be typewritten, double-spaced, and should be inSterling, Kansas two weeks before it is to be printed.The cost of all pictures is 30 cents per square inch.Obituaries — All words in excess of one hundred fifty,one cent per word. Money should accompany such notices.SUBSCRIPTION RATESIndividual (1 year): U.S. and Canada, $4.00, BritishIsles 35/-, all other places, $5.00;Individual (2 year): U.S. and Canada, $7.00, BritishIsles 63/-, all other places, $9.00;Group: U.S. and Canada, $3.00, British Isles 28/-, allother places, $4.00.9-month student subscription — $1.50; 5-month introductoryoffer —$1.00; 2 gift subscriptions to persons outsideof the R. P. Church — $2.00 each. Single copies, 10c.Subscription Agent for U.S. and Canada: Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Subscription Agent for the British Isles: Rev. HughWright, B.A., 12, Knutsford Drive, Belfast 14, NorthernIreland.All checks should be made payable to The CovenanterWitness in U. S. currency.Give one month's notice of a change of address. Sendboth the new and the old address to Mrs. M.W. Dougherty.Postmaster: Please send Form 3579 to Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Second class postage paid at Winchester, Kansas 66097WEHOLD THE FOLLOWING TO BE TRUTHS OF SCRIPTURE:The Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the only infalliblerule of faith and conductThe Trinitarian conception of the Godhead.Faith in Jesus Christ as the only way of salvation.SalvaUon by Grace.Assurance of salvation as a possible Christian experience.The Gospel Call and Election.The Holy Spirit as the Author of regeneration.Sanctification through the cooperating agency of the Holy Spirit.The fact of death and hell as the destiny of the lost and heavenas the destiny of the saved.That the Church of Jesus Christ consists of aU those who believein Him together with their children.The Divine Right of the Presbyterian form ot Chureh Government.The Lord Jesus Christ as the only King and Heed of His Chureh.That terms of membership or communiwi are MMntial te thewelfare erf the Church.Quote -NEW YORK — Since the first Bible came offJohann Gutenberg's crude press more than 500years ago, at least one book of the Bible has beenpublished in 1,280 languages and dialects. During1966 alone the United Bible Societies distributedmore than 93 milhon Scriptures. Churches andindividuals supporting the American Bible Society,the largest of the 35 national Bible Societies comprisingthe UBS, made possible the distribution ofalmost 62 million of these Scriptures.This Week's WitnessA Peculiar People 195Glimpses of The Rehgious World 196The Subjects of Baptism 197Alert Page 200The Magic Kit 202Lesson Helps 203Scribe With A Hard Pencil 205Church News 206The duty which rests upon effieers to maintain discipline udpreserve the purity of the Church.Spiritual worship as a divine requirement mediated through theLord Jesus Christ.The exclusive use of the Psalms in the worship of the Church.The Protestant interpretation of the Sacraments.The divine right of the institution of Marriage and that it is notto be dissolved except by adultery or "irremediable" desertion.The Sabbath as a day sacred to rest and worship.The duty of nations and their civil rulers to honor Christ asKing of Kings and Lord of Lords.That Christian citizens are under obligation to obey lawful authority.The right and duty of the Christian citizen to dissent from allgovernmental and national disobedience to the Law of God.That the Covenants of the past are still binding.From "The Communicant's Class" by J. B. Tweed194 COVENANTER WITNESS

EditorialComment cLA PECULIAR PEOPLEFThis term is apphed to God's people by bothPeter and Paul. Peter says, "But ye are a chosengeneration, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiarpeople." Paul refers to the "glorious appearingof the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; whogave himself for us, that he might redeem us fromall iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiarpeople, zealous of good works."Perhaps most of us do not Hke to be calledpeculiar. We want to be hke other people. Yet inreality, this is an expression of honor when we understandit aright. The word is translated in anotherversion, "a people for his own possession."God's people are separated people, an appropriatedpeople. God has chosen them for Himself, as Hispeculiar or special possession. If they are odd, it isbecause they have special characteristics, and standout from the people of the world.They are peculiar and special because theyhave been redeemed from all iniquity. Our SaviourJesus Christ gave Himself for this purpose. Weneeded to be redeemed from sin. He by His deathdelivered us from the penalty and bondage of sin,and translated us from the kingdom of darkness intothe Kingdom of God. Having enabled us to becounted as just in the sight of God, He proceeds topurify us through a process of sanctification, enablingus to daily become less active in regard to sin,and to become united to righteousness. His purposeaccording to Paul, is that we should be zealousof good works. Good works are the proof of salvationand the fruit of the Spirit.Let us notice the description of this peculiarpeople as given by Peter. He calls them a chosengeneration. God chose us to be His people beforethe foundation of the world. We may not understandelection, but it is clearly taught in the Scriptures.God is sovereign and it is His right to choosethose who are to be saved. The term, royal priesthood,joins the kingly and priestly functions. Everybeliever is a priest, now permitted to approach Godthrough Jesus, the High Priest. We who are faithfulwill sit with Christ on His throne, even as Hesits with the Father on His throne. We are a holynation, a part of the Kingdom of God, loyal to ourKing Jesus. We are set apart to do His will, and inthis sense holy. We are separated to Him.Peter says that the purpose of the peculiar peopleis to show forth the praises of Him who hascalled them out of darkness into His marvelloushght. Because He has done that for us, we shouldever praise Him. We should offer this praise now,and then continue it to all eternity.Associate Reformed PresbyterianGLIMPSES OF THE RELIGIOUS WORLDFrom page 196INDIA TO CURB COW BIRTHS(EP) An effective intrauterine contraceptivedevice, or loop, has been developed for cows to curbthe number of calves born in this land of bovineworship. Each farmer in five states where the planhas been adopted will receive 20 rupees, or $2.65,for each cow treated.The contraceptives are introduced as the administrationis under pressure to enact a nationwideban on cow slaughter. There are thought to benearly 200 million cattle in India — more thanone-fourth of the world's total.The Hindu reveres the cow as a symbol ofabundance.BELIEVING IS SEEINGby Miss Rose A. HustonA Chinese young man said, "If I could see Jesus,I would beheve Him.""But you have an idea that seeing is believing.""Certainly. Everybody knows that.""Do you beheve in 'kwai' (devils)"?"Of course, I do. Everyone knows there aredevils.""Have you ever seen one?"He was startled, thought a while, then said, "No,but my parents have.""There you are! You have never seen a devil, yetyou believe in them. If you beheve in Jesus you willsee Him."A few days later he came in from a meetingwith his face shining. "I have seen Jesus and I beheveHim."The day came when he was to be baptized. Hestepped forward with his face alight with full dedicationto the Master, whom he saw with the eyes ofhis soul, and beheved and loved.SEPTEMBER 27, 1967 195

Glimpses of the Religious WorldTHE REV. JOHN McMILLANR. D. 1, Box 337WALDEN, NEW YORKFUNDS SECURED FOR 200 CHURCHES INSOUTH INDIABishop V. J. Stephen, who has toured the UnitedStates this summer under the auspices of the InternationalCouncil of Christian Churches, has nowreturned to India to begin a great program of simultaneouschurch erection. Bishop Stephen representssome 80,000 people, mostly from the "low-caste,"who have withdrawn from the Church of SouthIndia. The separating churches have been forced togive up their churches, schools, and cemeteries.Many of these church buildings now stand closedand locked, while their congregations worship underthe palm trees or in small coconut arbors whichthey have erected.Sufficient funds have now been given or pledgedto erect 205 churches. Three hundred dollars willbuild a small church, $500, a medium-size church,and $1000, a large church. The money will purchasethe necessary limestone and the cement, with thechurches being built by the people themselves.$5000 has also been contributed for the printing ofthe Malayalam Bible.The Church of South India, from which thesecongregations have separated, was formed in 1947by a union of the Methodists, Congregationalists,Presbyterians, and Anglicans."GOD IS NONSENSE" ATTITUDE SEEN ASTHREAT(EP) The biggest threat to face today is thefact that "God is strictly nonsense in the popularmind today," the Rev. Eugene Carson Blake toldecumenical leaders at Heraklion, on the island ofCrete.The words of the general secretary of the WorldCouncil of Churches were immediately challengedby Nathan M. Pusey, president of Harvard University.The active Episcopalian layman said he was"upset" by the suggestion and wondered if it were"really true."The exchange took place on the second day ofa meeting of the 100-member central committee ofthe world body.Blake insisted that the traditional behef in a"transcendent" God — a God beyond human experiencewho reveals himself to man — has littleappeal to modern men. He said that the councilmust nevertheless maintain its commitment toorthodox trinitarian behefs."If this is conservatism and is thought by progressivesto be obscurantism, so be it," he stated."The ecumenical movement depends today as it hasfrom its beginning on the transcendent God madeknown in His son Jesus Christ."THE QUESTION OF LIFE OR DEATH(EP) A biophysics professor, speaking to Protestantand Catholic clergy and laymen at a seminar inTraverse City, Michigan, warned that churchmenwithin a decade must prepare to make moral decisionsgoverning life and death.Professor Leroy Angenstein, chairman of theDepartment of Biophysics at Michigan State University,said his field is rapidly approaching the dayitcan predict positively the presence of idiocy or othermalformations in the unborn fetus.Clergy and lay leaders, he said, may have to"play God" by advising parents on whether such anunborn child shall hve or die.The Interfaith Seminar on Rehgion and ContemporaryMan was sponsored jointly by the GrandTraverse Council of Churches and the CatholicDiocese of Grand Rapids.BRAILLE GETS SCRIPTURE PRESS MATERIAL(EP) Christian Braille Ambassadors has securedfrom Scripture Press 39 lessons (for three quarters)for junior high young people.Themes of the student manuals are "SpotlightingChrist's Ministry," "God's Early Church Workers,"and "Great Missionary Hero" (Paul).The lessons, according to Scripture Press FoundationExecutive Director Roy B. Zuck, are amongthe first (Sabbath) School lessons ever to be publishedin Braille.See page 195196 COVENANTER WITNESS

The Subjects Of BaptismBy J. G. VosShorter Catechism, Q. 95, "To whom is baptismto be administered?"A. "Baptism is not to be administered to any thatare out of the Visible Church, till they profess theirfaith in Christ, and obedience to him; but the infantsof such as are members of the visible Church are tobe baptized."Westminster Confession of Faith, XXV.2, "Thevisible Church . . . consists of all those throughoutthe world that profess the true religion, and oftheir children."Larger Catechism, Q. 62, "What is the visibleChurch?"A. "The visible Church is a society made up ofall such as in all ages and places of the world doprofess the true rehgion, and of their children."The subjects of baptism are the members of theVisible Church. The members of the Visible Churchare those who profess the true rehgion, and theirchildren. This has always been the answer of themajority of Christians to the question "Who shouldbe baptized?", throughout the history of the Churchfrom the earliest post-apostolic times to the presentday. So far as data exist on which to base a judgment,pedobaptism has always been the standardChristian practice recognized by the main body ofChristians, while anti-pedobaptism has always beena sectarian and minority view.Warfield in Studies in Theology, page 402, statesthat infant baptism "is possibly hinted at in JustinMartyr, assumed apparently in Irenaeus, and openlyproclaimed as apostolical by Origen and Cyprianwhile it was vainly opposed by Tertullian." He addsthat it is certain from their writings that Origen andCyprian were baptized in their infancy, which showsthat infant baptism was practiced in the age ofIrenaeus.Tertullian opposed infant baptism, thereby affordingevidence that it was an existing practice inhis day. The approximate dates of the "churchfathers" which have been mentioned are as follows:Justin Martyr, A.D. 100-167Irenaeus, A.D. 130-200Origen, A.D. 200-257Cyprian, A.D. 200-257Tertulhan, A.D. 160-220The scanty data we have on Polycarp, Ignatiusand Papias, the very earhest of the fathers, gives noevidence either for or against infant baptism. Thefirst evidence of anti-pedobaptism in the earlyChurch is found in the writings of Tertullian, aboutA.D. 200. Tertulhan opposed infant baptism,though not for the same reasons that it is opposedtoday. He advocated postponement of baptism becauseof his behef that post-baptismal sins areharder to get forgiven than sins committed beforeone's baptism. This of course is an unscripturalreason. But Tertulhan's very opposition to infantbaptism proves the existence and the prevalence ofthe practice in his day.Thus the earhest post-apostohc Christian writingsthat deal with the issue of pedobaptism at allshow it as an existing practice in their day. Fromtheir day to our own pedobaptism has been standardChristian practice, while anti-pedobaptism has beena dissenting minority view. Whether the answer ofthe New Testament to the queston "Who should bebaptized?" is the same as that of the majority ofChristians throughout the centuries of the Church'shistory, is the question at issue.The books written on this subject would almostfill a library. While much of the argument on bothsides of the question has been very keen, perhapsnot many have been convinced by the commonproof-text method of procedure.SEPTEMBER 27, 1967 197

We may admit at once that there is not in theNew Testament an explicit command to baptizeinfants, nor is there an explicit statement that aninfant was baptized. If the warrant for pedobaptismis in the Bible, it is implicit, not explicit. On thisthere need be no dispute.Anti-pedobaptists make a great point of this,even holding that it settles the whole controversy.There is no explicit command to baptize infants,and no explicit record of the baptism of infants.Therefore infant baptism is an unscriptural practiceand did not exist in the apostolic Church.This is a most precarious argument, however.It rests upon the untenable assumption that onlydoctrines and practices explicitly stated in Scripturecan be regarded as true or vahd. This assumptioncannot be granted, for if granted it would prove fartoo much.There are several unquestionable doctrines andpractices of the Christian Faith which are not foundexphcitly stated in the Bible, but which neverthelessare implicitly present in the Bible and are derivedfrom the Bible by vahd logical inference.To take a very clear and elementary example,there is in the New Testament no explicit commandthat women are to partake of the Lord's Supper, noris there any explicit statement which proves thatany woman ever did partake of the Lord's Supper.As a matter of fact only men were present with theLord when He instituted the Supper. It might beargued, therefore, that for women to partake of theLord's Supper is unscriptural. No one actually doeshold this position, but we should reahze that theparticipation of women in the Lord's Supper is basedon inference, not on explicit statements or commandsof Scripture. In other words it is imphcit butnot exphcit in the Bible.Again, it is generally recognized that the doctrineof the Trinity is basic to Christianity — that the oneGod exists eternally in three Persons, the Father,the Son and the Holy Spirit, who are the same insubstance, equal in power and glory. Without thisdoctrine there can be no Christianity. To deny thisputs one outside of Christianity among Jews, Mohammedansand Unitarians.Yet the doctrine of the Trinity is nowhere exphcitlystated in the Bible. There is no verse orpassage of Scripture which actually teaches it. Theelements of the doctrine are found scattered throughthe Bible, but the formulation of these elementsinto the doctrine of the Trinity rests upon inference,not upon explicit statements. The Bible teaches thatthere is one God — that is exphcit. It speaks of theFather and calls Him God — that is exphcit. Itspeaks of the Son and calls Him God — that is explicit.It speaks of the Holy Spirit and calls Him God— that too is exphcit. But that the Father, the Sonand the Holy Spirit are distinct persons, equal inpower and glory, yet one in substance, is nowhereexplicitly stated in the Bible. As Trinitarians, wehold that this is indeed imphcit in the Bible, andthat it is necessarily derived from the Bible by validlogical inference. But we should realize that theBible does not exphcitly teach it.When the anti-pedobaptist demands exphcitScriptural warrant for infant baptism, he is makingan improper demand. He is making a demandwhich we cannot and should not grant. If explicitwarrant must be produced for pedobaptism, thenexphcit warrant must be produced for every Christiandoctrine and practice all along the line. Wecannot have a special kind of logic for dealing withthe issue of pedobaptism. We must have the samekind of logic for the whole field of doctrine andpractice.The Westminster Confession of Faith, 1.6, rightlystates that "The whole counsel of God concerningaU things necessary for His own glory, man'ssalvation, faith, and hfe, is either expressly set downin Scripture, or by good and necessary consequencemay be deducted from Scripture . . ." The ReformedPresbyterian Testimony, in hne with the WestminsterConfession, speaks as follows:"The exercise of Reason, with respect to Revelation,is lawful and necessary. God addresses man inthe Scriptures as a rational creature: the faculty ofreasoning is the gift of God: and men are bound toexercise it in searching the Scriptures, in ascertainingall the ideas which the Word of God conveys toman, and drawing inferences for the direction offaith and manners from Scripture doctrines; andthese inferences, as well as the express words ofRevelation, are the Divine authority. God hathspoken nothing the full force of which he did notcomprehend" (IV. 1).To let the anti-pedobaptist's demand for explicitScripture warrant pass unchallenged, and to proceedto debate with him about the meaning andrelevance of particular alleged "proof-texts", is notthe right pathway by which to arrive at a solid convictionof truth in this matter.198 COVENANTER WITNESS

Many of the commonly cited proof-texts mayseem to create a presumption one way or the other,but they do not afford certainty. For instance, thereferences to the baptism of households may verywell suggest that infants were baptized, but they donot actually prove this. It is just possible that therewere no infants in any of these various households.Again, the instances of adult baptism upon personalprofession of faith, in the New Testament,may seem to the anti-pedobaptist to mean that onlyadults who could profess their faith personally werebaptized, but these instances do not actuaUy provethis. When Christianity was new it was to be expectedthat most baptisms would be those of adults.The same is true in any pioneer mission field today.Individual adults are won for Christ, often againstthe opposition of their famihes and relatives. Theseadults are baptized. But in the second and subsequentgenerations of Christians in the field, infantbaptisms will outnumber adult baptisms.To be continued next issueTEACH ME, O GODTeach me, O God to think straight. When issuesare confused, help me to see things as they are,not attempting to bend circumstances to my purpose.Let not my own desires so muddy the watersthat I cannot see clearly what course I should pursue.Let me understand how unsatisfactory is subterfuge,how short-sighted is all defeat of truth. Inclear, quiet moments I know that whatever is thusgained cannot be enjoyed. But when there is turmoilabout me and I must think quickly let me notfail.Teach me to be the kind of person whom otherpeople will trust instinctively. Let me not fall shortof the confidence that has been given me.Known to me, as it is, how easily one slips intounfairness and dishonesty, let me not judge harshlythe persons who fail in their trust. Let me notthink them different from myself nor beneath mein standards, for in their circumstances I mighthave been weaker than they. Let me forgive as Iam forgiven.Let me so do my work this day that I can faceeach person squarely and without fear. Let me notlook back upon this day through the long vista ofyears with regret.Let me keep myself free to think and to hve.— Selected.WHAT SALVATION DOES FOR MEby Warner B. KellerIt Changes MyA. Animosity to adoration;B. Betrayal to betrothal;C. Condemnation to confidence;D. Death to dehverance;E. Eternal death to life everlasting;F. Fear to faith;G. Grief to glory;H. Hell to heaven;I. Inner pride to inner peace;J. Judgment to justification;K. Kicking to kindness;L. Loathing to loving;M. Meanness to mercifulness;N. Nothingness to newness of life;O. Orneriness to oneness;P. Poverty to plenty;Q. Questioning to quiet trust;R. Rebelhon to reconcihation;S. Sinfulness to saintliness;T. Tragedy to triumph;U. Unfaithfulness to usefulness;V. Vice to valor;W. Won't to will;X. For unknown to 'xceeding joy;Y. Yoke for yielding;Z. Zero to Zeal.The Free MethodistTHE MAGIC KITFrom page 202The unhappy feeling that had nagged him earlisuddenly seemed unbearable. He wasn't even interestedin his magic kit. Then it was his turn to pray.He couldn't. The words just wouldn't come out.Tommy loved the Lord Jesus. He knew that theLord Jesus must be hurt to see him do wrong. Thenhe knew what he must do."Dear Jesus," prayed Tommy, "please forgiveme for lying to Mother about the Enghsh report.Help her to forgive me, too."Then he ran to his room and buried his face inhis hands.Tommy never did quite manage to do his trickswithout having the lights turned low. but when hewas tempted to be untruthful, he always rememberedthe lesson he learned the day the magic kitcame.The Sunday School TimesSEPTEMBER 27, 1967 199

*** 1968 InternatWILL YOU BE THERE?Plans for the 1968 International Convention in Edinburgh, Scotlandcontinue to progress. The convention will be held, August 3-10, 1968,and will be located in the University Halls of Residence in Edinburgh.Since our initial request in July for the names of those interested inattending the Convention in a delegation, response has come with thenames of over eighty individuals interested.At this writing (September 8, 1967) names are still coming in, so weknow there are others who are interested, but who have not yet informedus. For this reason, we are again asking that those who are definitelyinterested let us know, so that we can begin to determine if there willbe a sufficient delegation to warrant a charter flight for ReformedPresbyterians alone or whether other arrangements should be made.On the opposite page is a form to indicate your interest. This is still nota commitment. A commitment will involve a substantial downpaymenton your reservation. This should be interpreted only as another "feeler"to discover how many persons beheve they should be counted aspotential delegates. If you have already filled out the first form andsent it in, it is not necessary to do so again. If you have not filled outa form, please fiU this one out and return it as soon as you can. Weare starting to work on details now.Kenneth G. SmithDirector of Christian Education200 COVENANTER WITNESS

Convention ***1968 INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION INQUIRY*Please include me in your planning for August 3-10, 1968. I understandthis is not a commitment, but only an indication of my tentative plans.Please keep me informed.NameAddressNumber of persons traveling with me.Indicate below your choice of length of time for the trip abroad,assuming August 3-10 will be part of it:Zip— Two weeks long— Three weeks long— Four weeks long— Five weeks longIf you are interested, please fill out as completely as you can andreturn to the address below by October 1.*INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION7437 Penfield CourtPittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15208* If you have already sent in your name, it is not necessary to fill outthis form and send it in.SEPTEMBER 27, 1967 201

A PAGE FOR JUNIORSTHE MAGIC KITby Muriel C. BoutwellTommy burst in the door and called excitedly tohis mother, "Did it come?"He didn't have to tell her what he meant! Hehad greeted her this way every day for the pastweek when he came home from school. HuggingTommy, Mother laughed, 'Tes, yes! It's come atlast!"Sure enough. There it was. But such a smallparcel for such an important order! Tommy quicklytore off the paper, shouting with rehef as odd bitsof cloth and metal fell out of an interesting-lookingsheet of paper labeled "Directions." The Magic Kit!The television commercial said it would amaze anddelight your friends and you could earn moneygiving shows for your parents' friends. Tommy haddreamed so long about the magic kit, he hadalmost forgotten that it would take him quitea while till he could make things disappear andappear hke the man on TV did. Already he could seehimself holding everyone's attention as he wouldmake bouquets of flowers appear out of nowhere, ora rabbit pop out of a taU hat. He was so excited thatMother had to speak twice before he realized shehad asked him a question."Tom, did you turn in your book report that wasdue last week?"Tommy's heart sank. He had kept forgetting it.But he would do it rightafter he had looked at thekit. Mother would be unhappy if he told her thetruth, so he quickly said 'Tes." Feeling uncomfortablelying to her, he slipped away to take his coatoff.When Tom saw how easy the directions were fordoing magic tricks he soon forgot all about theunhappy feehng he had because he had lied. Hepracticed the pencil-disappearing act; then how tomake crumpled paper vanish from a handkerchief.It would never do to tell the secret, of course, butit really was quite simple. It just took lots of practice— and, of course, those all-important httle thingsthat had come in the kit.Mother was getting dinner when Tommy triedout his tricks on her. Usually she wasn't easilyfooled; and Tommy had an unhappy twinge aboutthe way he had tried to "fool" her about his bookreport."Oh, well," he told himself, "I'll just keep her inthe dark about that old Enghsh paper. Then shewon't be unhappy."Mother quickly caught onto the tricks. She andTom laughed about them, then she added, "ButTommy, if the hght hadn't been so good, I don'tbeheveI'd have guessed."Tom got an idea! When Daddy came home,Mother and Tommy were very mysterious about thesurprise. Just before dessert, Tommy very importantlydimmed the lights and announced he wasabout to perform some magic! Daddy certainly wassurprised; and when Tommy managed to makethe pencil disappear rightout of his hand, then amoment later grab it out of the air, he was evenmore surprised. The handkerchief trick with thecrumpled paper went off just as it should, andseveral other tricks that Tommy had practiced."Come, now," said Mother, beginning to clearthe table and turning up the hghts again, "let's havedessert."Daddy kept asking how he had done the tricks,but Tommy wouldn't tell."Do the pencil trick for me once more, won'tyou, Tommy? I've just got to know how you didit!"he teased. So Tommy did it again, but this time hehad forgotten to dim the hght, and Daddy had notrouble in guessing the secret. They all laughedtogether, Daddy promising not to breathe a wordto anyone."Time for family prayers," said Daddy.Tommy didn't feel like prayers tonight, but heknew Daddy would have them anyway. While Daddywas reading the Gospel of John, Tommy's mind wasbusy with his magic kit. Then Daddy read somethingthat made him stop and smile at Tommy. He readitagain as Tommy hstened."Anybody who does wrong hates the hght andkeeps away from it, for fear his deeds may be exposed."Mother smiled, too, for it had been the hght thathad "exposed" Tommy's trick. But it made Tommythink of something else. He was remembering howhe had decided to keep Mother in the dark abouthis book report and had hed to her. The hght ofGod's Word had made him see how wrong he hadbeen.See page 199202 COVENANTER WITNESS

!Lesson Helps for the Week of October 22,1967Sabbath SchoolLessonfor October 22, 1967.GOD DEMANDS RIGHTEOUSRELATIONSHIPS:Amos 3 to 6.Comments by John K. Gault.Amos continued to denounce Israelwith the strongest imprecations.Speaking for God, the prophet said,in 5:27, "Therefore will I cause you togo into captivity beyond Damascus,saith the Lord, whose name is The Godof hosts." In his denunciations Amosmade use of imagery drawn from hislong experience as an outdoor worker.He asked the rhetorical question, "Willa lion roar in the forest, when he hathno prey?" (3:4) No, he will not. Heroars as he springs upon the prey."Can a bird fall in a snare upon theearth, where no gin is for him?" (3:5)A snare is a trap deliberately set.Nature does not of itself lay traps forthe creatures. The providences of Godwill entrap guilty sinners, as Israelwas, and destruction is sure.1: Israel Had Instituted a CorruptWorship.Ever since the reign of JeroboamI who made two golden calves and setthe one up in Bethel and the other onein Dan, the rulers of Israel had departedfrom the true worship of God.During the reign of Jeroboam II idolworship had been established, also, inGilgal. They tried to imitate the worshipof Jerusalem by having their setfeasts with leavened bread. No doubtthe king and the priests decided thatthe leavened bread tasted better thanthe flat unleavened cakes which hadno rising.The disapproval of God, with thecorrupt worship of Israel was indicatedin what Amos said in 5:21-27, "I hate,I despise your feast days, and I willnot smell in your solemn assemblies.Though ye offer me burnt offeringsand your meat offerings, I will notaccept them: neither will I regard thepeace offerings of your fat beasts.Take thou away from me the noise ofSEPTEMBER 27, 1967thy songs; for I will not hear themelody of thy viols. But let judgmentrun down as waters, and righteousnessas a mighty stream. Have yeoffered unto me sacrifices and offeringsin the wilderness forty years, Ohouse of Israel? But ye have borne thetabernacle of your Moloch and Chiunyour images, the star of your god,which ye made to yourselves. ThereforeI will cause you to go into captivitybeyond Damascus, saith theLord, whose name is The God ofhosts." God had expressly forbiddentheir having any other gods beforeHim, and the making unto themselvesany graven images or any likeness ofany kind.2. Israel Was Guilty of GreatSocial Injustice.This was both an offense againstman and God. There was a duty toman as enjoined in the Ten Commandmentsgiven by God. Amos denouncedthe rich landowners of Israel because,as he said, "They sold the righteous forsilver, and the poor for a pair of shoes;that pant after the dust of the earthon the head of the poor, and turnaside the way of the meek" (2:6,7).Also in 5:11,12 the prophet said, "Forasmuchtherefore as your treading isupon the poor, and ye take from himburdens of wheat: ye have built housesof hewn stone but ye shall not dwell inthem; ye have planted vineyards, butye shall not drink wine of them. ForI know your manifold transgressionsand your mighty sins: they afflict thejust, they take a bribe, and they turnaside the poor in the gate from theirright."There will always be inequality inthe world because there is alwaysinequality in ability, but it is the dutyof government to make it possiblefor the under-privileged to receivetheir rights as citizens; that they haveopportunity to develop their capabilities,and that there be no corruptionof the courts of justice. Israel violatedall of these cardinal principles ofmorality and justice, and so Amosadvised them, "But let judgment rundown as waters, and righteousnessas a mighty stream" (5:24).iiii-43: Israel Did Not Respond to LesserPunishment.Amos reminded the nation that Godhad sent adversity upon them in differentways and times, but, as Amoscommented, "Yet have ye not returnedunto me, saith the Lord." In 4:6-11 theprophet described these adversities,"And I also have given you cleannessof teeth in all your cities, and want ofbread in all your places." They werein a famished condition and did nothave anything to eat; consequently,there was no residue of food left ontheir teeth. The prophet said, also,"And also I have withholden rain fromyou, when there were yet three monthsto the harvest: and I caused it to rainupon one city, and caused it not toiain upon another city: one piece wasrained upon, and the piece whereuponit rained not withered. I have smittenyou with blasting and mildew. — Ihave sent among you the pestilenceafter the manner of Egypt: youryoung men have I slain with the sword,and have taken away your horses; andI have made the stink of your campsto come up unto your nostrils: yethave ye not returned unto me, saiththe Lord. I have overthrown some ofyou, as God overthrew Sodom andGomorrah, and ye were as a firebrandplucked out of the burning: yet haveye not returned unto me, saith theLo-d."A great disaster such as a riot, afire, a flood, or a storm should beregarded by the people of a nation asa lesser judgment through which Godis calling for national repentance.America has experienced many ofthese lesser judgments. So far it can besaid to us here in the United States, asAmos said to sinful Israel, "Yet haveye not returned unto me, saith theLord."4: The Majesty of God EnforcedHis Demands Upon a Sinful Nation.In 4:13 Amos said, "For, lo, he thatformeth the mountains, and createththe wind, and declareth unto man whatis his thought, that maketh the morn-203

ing darkness, and treadeth upon thehigh places of the earth. The Lord,the God of hosts is his name." Amosmade it clear to the people that Godhad the power to enforce His demands.He created things visible, such as themountains, and things invisible suchas the wind. In the morning afterthe sun has arisen the Lord can overspreadthe sky with a blanket ofclouds, thus making the new day dark.A new day may seem to dawn formany, but God often sends an overcastof clouds and thus the sunlight isexceedingly dimmed. The great Godalso, "treadeth upon the high placesof the earth." The meaning is that Godtramps on those places of the earthwhich people regard as being great.The high place of Israel was the king'sdwelling, but God had the power totrample such a place out of existence.5: The Affluency of the Rich Becamea Curse to Them.In chapter 6 Amos said, "Woe tothem that are at ease in Zion, andtrust in the mountain of Samaria,which are named chief of the nations,to whom the house of Israel came! —That lie upon beds of ivory, and stretchthemselves upon their couches, andeat the lambs of the flock, and thecalves out of the midst of the stall,— That drink wine in bowls, andanoint themselves with the chief ointments,but they are not grieved forthe affliction of Joseph." This is apicture of a people lolling in wealth."Beds of Ivory" became a statussymbolof the rich. When a persondrives a Cadillac, that becomes a statussymbol of him, and one would neversuspect such a one to be in poverty.In Israel, "ivory beds" were a statussymbolof the rich. And, these richpeople were not concerned with thetroubles of the poor right aroundthem. "Therefore, said Amos, now shallthey go captive with the first that gocaptive, and the banquet of them thatstretched themselves shall be removed.— I abhor the excellency of Jacob,and hate his palaces: therefore willI deliver up the city with all that istherein."Junior Topicfor October 22, 1967A DETECTIVE SEARCHING FORCHRIST IN THE OLD TESTAMENTMrs. R. H. McKelvyPreparation: Hand a copy of thefollowing assignment to each junior aweek before the meeting. His parentsmay help him find the references.Assignment: Please find the followingfacts concerning Jesus Christin the Old Testment: What were Hisrace, tribe, family, birthplace? Whendid He live? What kind of person wasHe? Name one event in His life.Worship Period: Sing Psalm 100:3.Prayer by the teacher for direction andblessing in this evening's Bible study.Introductory Thoughts. Tonight weare detectives searching for a Savior.Where, throughout the whole world,can we go to find facts concerningHim? The eighth verse of the fortiethPsalm tells us where to look. Let ussing it.Let us turn to "the volume of thebook." In what part of the Bible do wefirst hear of Christ — in the NewTestament or the Old Testament? Inwhich book? (Gen. 3:15). Name severalOld Testament books which speak ofHim. Although the sixty-six books ofthe Bible were written by thirty-sixdifferent men over a period of 1,600years, yet from the beginning of Genesisto the close of Revelation, it isbound together by the scarlet threadof the blood of Jesus Christ shed forus for the remission of sins. God, theone Author, planned the whole Bibleto direct us to our Savior. This factHow did these prophets of old know somuch about Jesus before He was evenborn on earth? (2 Peter 1:21) Do yousuppose that the Holy Spirit told themeven the time that He should live?(Dan. 9:25) This sounds like a riddle.Can the detectives here solve it? Ascore is 20. How many weeks, then,does Daniel mention? (With the children'shelp, work this out on theboard.) A week means "seven." Howmany years, then, would sixty-nine"sevens" be? So Daniel said that Jesuswould live just 483 years after the Jewswere commanded to rebuild Jerusalem.(Note: This prophecy gives thetime from Cyrus' command to Jesus'baptismal anointing by the Spirit-Mauro)Can we find Jesus' name in the OldTestament? (Isa. 9:6) Are these thenames by which we know Him today?What name do we usually call ourSavior? Who gave Him that name?(Luke 1:31) Do you know what Jesusmeans? (Savior) In Isaiah 63:8, He iscalled by a Hebrew word which isnearly the same as Jesus and there itis not written Jesus but Savior.Two more things which we mustsearch out are the kind of personJesus was to be and any event of Hislife. What king of a person was ourSavior to be? Let us sing three verseswhich describe Him and then you mayname the characteristics which theygive. (Sing Ps. 45:2-4, p. 116)We are now ready to look for eventsin Jesus' life foretold in the Old Testament.(List chronologically on theboard as the children name the onesthey have found.) Triumphal Entry —Zech. 9:9; Betrayal — Zech. 11:12,13;Trial _ is. 53:7; Death — Ps. 22:18;makes us even more eager in oursearch for this Savior.Is. 53:5; Burial — Is. 53:9; ResurrectionAmong what race of men shall we — Hos. 6:2. Choose one of theselook for Him? Among the Chinese? prophecies and show how it was literallyfulfilled.)the Africans? To what race did Jesusbelong? (Num. 24: 17) We have discoveiedthat He was an Israelite, but detective search for our Savior. WeWe have come to the end of ourthere were twelve tribes of Israel. In have discovered His race, tribe, family,birthplace, time, and name. Wewhich tribe shall we look? (Gen. 49:10)We are narrowing it down now. It found what He was like and manyshould not be long before we find Him. events in His life. In the Old Testamentwe have found Christ!Does the Old Testament tell the familyin the tribe of Judah to which A Jewish girl once found Jesus as"Lesson based on International SundaySchool Lessons: the International Bible Lessonsfor Christian Teaching, copyrighted 1963 which son of Jesse? (Jer. 23:5) Does it from reading just one Old TestamentChrist belonged? (Isa. 11:1). And her Savior and became a Christianby the Division of Christian Education, NationalCouncil of Churches of Christ in thenarrow it still further? (Haggai 2:23. chapter. We shall close our detectiveCompare Matt. 1:12)search with that chapter. Isaiah 53.USA."We are getting close. We know His Sing Ps. 98:1-3, p. 235; Ps. 118:18-20,race, tribe, and family. Do we have a p. 285.clue to His birthplace? (Micah 5:2) Close with prayers, thanking Goo204 COVENANTER WITNESS

for our dear Savior, and then withpraise prayers to the chiefest amongten thousand, the One who is altogetherlovely.Prayer MeetingTopicfor October 25, 1967"PRAYERS OFFEREDBY OUR LORD"by Rev. Robert McMillanScripture: Hebrews 5:7; Luke 22:32;Matthew 26:36-44.The miracles of Jesus Christ wereamazing. His speeches were astonishing."Never man spake like this man."But I wonder if people weren't awedmost of all by his prayers. Jesus cameto earth in a day of prayerlessness.Oh, prayers were said in the synagoguesand in the temple, and on streetcorners. Some were very long prayers.But they were dry and pedantic andspiritless. When Jesus prayed, it wasnever a formality. It was a vital experience.It was fellowship with HisFather. It was as natural as breathing.There is still today, after these prayershave gone through translation,something awful and mysterious aboutthem. Why did Jesus pray? If He wasno less than God, how could God prayto God?Of course, all prayer doesn't proceedfrom a sense of need. Prayer atits best may be adoration, thanksgiving,and fellowship. But many ofChrist's prayers do express need.(Hebrews 5:7) Jesus was truly human.He prayed because He was a man.He was a sinless man, but He experiencedtemptation, hunger, weariness,desertion by His friends, attacks byHis enemies. If a sinless man needsto pray, how much more we need topray!THE PRAYER HABITS OF JESUSCHRIST1. He liked to leave house and villageand go away into the solitudesof natu:e. Mark 1:35; Matthew 14:23.2. He prayed early in the morning,and sometimes all night long.Mark 1:35; Luke 6:12,13; Matthew14:23-25.3. Jesus didn't sit down to pray; Heknelt, or fell on His face, or stood.Luke 22:41; Matthew 26:39; John11:41.(We have no record that He closedHis eyes to pray.)4. He prayed in company as well asin solitude. Luke 9:28,29; Luke9:18.5. When Jesus prayed, He began Hisprayer with the word, "Father."Sometimes, it was "O Father,""Holy Father," "Our Father."John 14:16; Matthew 26:39; John 11:41; Mark 14:36 (one notable exception:Mark 15:34)6. The private prayers of Jesus werelong; His public prayers wereshort.a. In private: Luke 6:12,13; Matthew14:23-25.b. In public: as far as the gospelrecord goes, we don't read of anypublic prayer of Jesus that waslong, with the possible exceptionof John 17:1-26. This chapter canbe read with out hurrying in lessthan five minutes.7. Jesus prayed before He took importantsteps in His life. Luke 23:46; Luke 6:12,13; Luke 3:21,22;Matthew 26:36-44; Luke 9:28,29.8. Jesus always gave thanks beforeSee page 207Scribe With A Hard Pencilof The A V Astonisher — well, possibly that wasn't the exact name of the littleComing through the checkout stand at the store, we spied the latest copiesmagazine, but it may have been something on that order. It would please thewife if we took one home. We did.As we got out of the family chariot, she got in. She had shopping to do ina far off distant town in another county.Came noon. We sat in the big chair in the living room and began to peruseThe A V Astonisher which we had purchased to please the wife. The wife drovehome from her shopping. From the depths of her shopping bag she producedsomething. "Here's something to read," quoth she, and tossed into our lap acopy of The A V Astonisher. She had purchased one in the hopes that itwould please the man of the house.Our intentions were probably above reproach. Each had purchased a copyof The A V Astonisher, thinking to please the other. Our intentions may havedeserved a B plus. Our communications on the subject could only rate an Fminus. Because neither had said a word to the other about it, the family hadtwo copies ol The A V Astonisher, where one would have been quite sufficient.It sometimes transpires that in our church activities wc find unnecessaryduplication of effort — not because of poor intentions, but because of poorcommunication. There were the two visitation teams that spent a hot afternoon,calling on the same side of the street and in the same homes. There was thepotluck supper to honor the Church School Superintendent's fortieth year ofservice: the three Jones families all brought wonderful fresh roasting ears; andthe four Smith families out south, wanting to do their share, all broughtwonderful fresh roasting ears. Then there was the church of which we heardrecently, in which the church office was furnished with two splendid brandnew electric typewriters in the same week — all because the Church FurnishingsCommittee and the Public Relations Committee hadn't been in communicationwith each other.There is one area in which we need not fear duplication and overlapping:that is in the area of the prayers we send to the Throne of Grace. The Jones'sand the Smiths, and the Van Schickelbergers and the McGillicuddys, can allpray for the same thing; and it is not wasted effort.For our Lord has assured us, in Matthew 18:19, "If two of you shall agree onearth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of myFather which is in heaven." This is an area in which a little duplication can bean excellent idea.SEPTEMBER 27, 1967 205

GREELEY, COLORADOFarewell to the JosephsA farewell reception was held inhonor of the Rev. and Mrs. R. P.Joseph and family, Wednesday, August23, in the chujrch basement. Mrs.Gilford Alexander presided. Little MissRuth Kennedy welcomed more than100 guests. Mr. Edwin Keys, clerk ofthe Session, spoke of the many finepastors that Greeley has had andexpressed appreciation of the servicesrendered by Mr. and Mrs. Joseph.Mrs. Joseph was precentor of the con­up their new work.Leonard WillcoxThe sympathy of the congregationis extended to Mrs. Freda Willcox andson, Glen of the home, on the recentand unexpected death of the husbandand father, Joseph Leonard Willcox.Other sons who survive are Ralph E.Willcox, Los Angeles, California andRay D. Willcox, Yuma, Arizona; andthe daughters: Mrs. L. W. Murphy,They have three children. Bruce,their oldest son, is in the army. Heand his wife Lois are stationed atFort Devins, Massachusetts. Theirdaughter Sharon is teaching in highschool at Buffalo, Wyoming. Theiryoungest son, Jim, is a junior in C. S.C. this year.We wish the Alexanders muchsuccess and another celebration intwenty-five years.REMINISCENCES OFWHITE LAKE CAMPDear White Lakers,Greetings! Congratulations andBest Wishes on the 50th Anniversaryof White Lake Camp!The Chairman of the program Committeefor this celebration, Mrs.Rosanna McElwee, asked me to senda message for the occasion, which Iam delighted to do.Our family attended White LakeRoswell, New Mexico; Mrs. HomerPhillips, Phoenix, Arizona; Mrs. R.B. McEwen, Ontario, California.gregation. The Twenty-third Psalm Leonard Willcox was a member ofwas sung as a duet by Miss Sharon the Greeley congregation and a regularattendant at Sabbath School andAlexander and Lambert Shu YamCheng. Mrs. Alvin Evans paid tribute church services.Camp 25 years of the 50 years of itsto the fine work of Mrs. Joseph as He was born at Blanchard, Page existence. We greatly enjoyed eachpresident of the Evening Missionary County, Iowa. At the age of twelve year's encampment.Society. Mr. and Mrs. Joseph each years, he with his family moved to It was an ideal camp site: twelvetaught classes in the Junior Sabbath Superior, Nebraska. In later years he acres of grounds on a hilltop surroundedby beautiful trees and a beautifulSchool. Expressing friendship and was married to Freda Gilchrist andgratitude from the Greeley MinisterialAssociation, the Rev. Bert Gilbert He was an employee of the Great indeed, "beautiful for situation."they moved to Greeley, Colorado. lake at the foot of the hill! It wasof the Bethel Baptist Church spoke Western Sugar Company for a number Dr. John Pritchard was the mainbriefly and wished the Josephs well of years, but had retired.person in organizing the Camp andin their new venture. The JuniorV. B. S.in planning for the necessary equipment,etc. He purchased ten largeChoir, ages 5 to 12, sponsored by Mrs. The Vacation Bible School, heldJoseph, sang several Psalms in twoandthree-part harmony. Mardelle had an average attendance of 60. We a double top flap. These tents werefrom 7:00 to 8:30 p. m. for two weeks, army tents (about 16 ft. by 10 ft.) withSiebring presented a gift from the were thankful for two S. T. P. members,Kathy Copeland and John Edgar, $100.00 apiece. Each tent had at leastbought at army surplus stores forJuniors to Mrs. Joseph. Active membersof the Session were then introduced:Messers. Edwin Keys, Robert church was filled the last night for the Wooden floors were made in twowho helped with the teaching. The ten cots made of "2 by 4's" and canvas.Speer, Roy Carson, and Wylie Kennedy.Charles Peterson, sponsor of the dren was on display in the basement. fortable and complete. These woodenfine program. Handwork of the chil­sections which made the tents com­evening youth group, expressed his The children gave $39.37 in their floors were stacked away after eachappreciation of Mr. Joseph's work in nightly offerings for the new church in camp and laid again a week beforethe church and in Greeley. A bulging Lawrence, Kansas.camp time the next year.purse was then presented to the Gilford Alexanders Celebrate Camping in tents was lots of funJosephs by the chairman. After singing The Greeley congregation was invitedto an Open House in celebration lasted ten years and were torn to— rough but enjoyable. The tentsthe fifty-first Psalm, Mr. Roy Carsondismissed the group with prayer. Refreshmentswere served by the social sary of the Gilford Alexanders of storm. Who can ever forget that stormyof the twenty-fifth wedding anniver­pieces by a violent thunder and raincommittee of the E. M. S. and the Cheyenne, Wyoming, the evening of night! We all fled to the PritchardW. M. S.August 29. Guests were shown over House through a foot of waterallThe Josephs felt the call of the their recently built new home. Gilford over the front lawn. The PritchardLord very definitely to this new work has a rock collection that is worth House resembled a "refugee camp" •—of evangelism and the establishment going hundreds of miles to see. as we slept on the floor, our wetof a new congregation in West Lafayette,Indiana, the home of Purdue the Cheyenne schools. Although they Then followed the building of theBoth Mildred and Gilford teach in clothes hanging everywhere.University. The blessing of God and live in Wyoming they seldom ever cabins. But the biggest project wasthe best wishes of the congregation miss coming to church in Greeley. the tearing down of the old Lynngo with Rev. Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Gilford is a deacon in the congregation.Mr. Lynn generously gave the CamPHotel on the White Lake shore front.and their four children as they take206 COVENANTER WITNESS

the hotel building for removing it fromthe beach. Thus, out of this buildingwas built the Dining Hall and LectureRoom on the Camp site. All were calledupon to lend a hand. The responsewas great! ! They came from far andnear — White Lake, Newburgh, NewYork, Coldenham, Montclair, Cambridge,Syracuse, and Philadelphia.The Lynn Hotel was made of wellcuredlumber and even the largewooden girders that rested on therocks on the ground were perfectlypreserved. Thus the Dining Hall wasbuilt.Then the drilling of a deep wellfor more water was begun. Runningwater in the wash-rooms of the cabinswas then possible. Thus the Campwas developed.I was Camp Manager of the Campfor 11 years and was happy to havea part in the building project. Timewould fail to tell of the many, manyfaithful ones, whose names are toonumerous to mention, who gave oftheir time and energy to work inevery way for the success of the Camp.However, we would like to mentionDr. Wyley Cakey, who worked "likea beaver" to prepare and maintain thegrounds of our camp; also, our faithfuland efficient cooks, Victor and FlorenceLynn and Lou Norris, who preparedsuch wholesome and satisfyingmeals; and Mr. Millen who gave awhole calf to the camp, when meatwas rationed during the war years.Who can forget the abundance ofmilk — so that all who wanted milkcould drink, and drink all that theywanted!Our two weeks of camp made itpossible to have the mornings devotedto Bible study and challenges to Christianservice and usefulness; the afternoonsfor recreation; and the eveningsopen for missionary programs, contestsand home talent entertainments, etc.MMBWK MU KHMWBHU WEEK toTfMMftGIWffiGOOD NEWSIP MODERN•UTKNULtauwcyi,;Have you heard any goodnews lately? Man has an insatiablethirst for news—news—news, but especially goodnews.Startling headlines catch oureye. Commentators capture ourattention. Letters excite our curiosity.The Bible is good news,news that concerns us.Take your Bible and read it.It's still front page copy. It'sGod's yoice speaking to ournew age. It's God's love letteraddressed to youl Reading itcan mean a new life for you.You don't know how to begin?Begin with forty listed below.PRAYER MEETING TOPICFrom page 205eating. Luke 9:16; John 6:23; Luke24:30.9. He prayed specifically for littlechildren. Matthew 19:13-15.10. In praying, Jesus always made Hispetitions subject to the will of the11.Father. Matthew 26:39,42.Jesus prayed for the sick. Mark 7:between the physical and the spirit 1uai? (Does it help to close youreyes, lift your hands, kneel, lie onyour face, stand, close the door.climb a mountain?)4. If a comparison of your prayeihabits with those of Christ is humiliating,how do you think youcould improve?For Prayer: form groups of not morethan five.P^alm Suggestions: Ps. 119 (19), vv.14, p. 308; Ps. 34, w. 1,2,5,6, p. 79;Ps. 86, vv. 1,6-8, p. 210.GOOD NEWS FOR MODERN MANNATIONAL EIBIE WEEKDeu. 6 Oct. 15Psalms 8 Oct. 16Psalms 19 Oct. 17Proverb* 3 Oct. 18Isaiah 40 Oct. 19Isaiah 55 Oct. 20Jeremiah 3T Oct. 21Micah 6 Oct. 22O C T O B E RMatthew 3Mark 4Luke *John 15Roman* 121 Cor. 13Ephejians A1 John 323 Genesis 124 Exodus 2025 P«a!m 126 Psalms 2327 Psalms 2728 Psalms 4629 Psalms . , 9130 Psalm , 12131 Isaiah 35NOVEMBER1 Isaiah. 532 Malachi 33 Matthew AWhite Lake Camp was to us a 34.place of delightful fellowship in the 12. On one occasion, Jesus ChristLord, a place of lasting friendships,and often a place of wonderful courtships.Our son Bruce met his "lovelywife to be," Roselyn, at White LakeCamp!prayed as our sin-bearer. Mark 15:34.FOR DISCUSSION:1. We conclude from John 16:23,24that our prayers should be in theWill you make Bible readinga daily practice? Ask your ministerfor lists; write your churchheadquarters; or request a freeMy wife, Hattie, joins me in rejoicingname of Jesus Christ. What does "Daily Bible Reading 1968"with you on this memorable it mean to pray in His name?from the:occasion.2. What would you think if a person AMERICAN BIBLE SOCIETYhabitually prayed long prayers inYours in the service of Christ,1865 Broadwaypublic but short prayers in private?Dr. Frank L. Stewart.New York, N. Y. 100233. In prayer, what is the relationSEPTEMBER 27, 1967 20745678910111213141516.Matthew 7.Matthew 25Luk 2Luke 10Luke 15Mark 15luk 24John 1John 3John 14John 17Acts 2Romans 817 1 Corinthians 318 Philippians 419 Hebrews 1120 James 121 1 John 422 Revelation 2123 Psalms 103

90th ANNIVERSARY PACIFIC GARDEN MISSIONTom Skinner, 25-year-old Negro whom the Lordis using in a remarkable way to reach his ownpeople with the Gospel, will speak at the 90th AnniversaryRally of Pacific Garden Mission. Therally will be held on (Sabbath), November 5, at 2:30p. m. in the Conrad Hilton Hotel's Internationalballroom (the hotel is two blocks east of the Missionon Michigan Avenue).Saved in his teens when he was leading a NewYork gang, Skinner has in recent years conductedmass rallies in many sections of the U. S. He isalso on about a dozen radio stations. He believes theGlorious Gospel of the Grace of God is the onlysolution to the racial problems of our day.In addition, several men and women will givecapsule stories of how they have found a new, satisfyinglife through the message of the Mission.The musical highlights of the rally will be the80-voice West Suburban Hospital Student NursesChoir and Bill Pearce, nationally known, bass soloist.They will present a concert from 2 to 2:30, and willalso sing later during the afternoon program.The mission's 90th year, according to SuperintendentHarry G. Saulnier, saw an enlarged ministry,especially among servicemen, 10,676 beingserved by the mission's ever-open Servicemen'sCenter. A tc'al of 3,875 were overnight guests."With the build-up of our armed forces, we haveunusual opportunities to minister to young men inuniform, giving them spiritual counsel before theygo to Viet Nam in many instances," Saulnier says."Chicago is the crossroads of America and dailyGIs come our way looking for refreshments andoften a place to sleep overnight. Ours is the onlycenter in Chicago offering sleeping accommodations."In addition to the active program involving servicemen,the mission continues to major in its outreachto Skid Row men and women, supplyingmeals, overnight accommodations, clothing andmedical and dental services. In its 90th year the missionserved 173,545 meals and had 46,672 overnightguests, including homeless women and childrentaken in to the Women's and Children's Division.The mission was opened September 15, 1877, byColonel and Mrs. George Clarke, and notable convertsinclude evangehsts Billy Sunday and MelTrotter. Pacific Garden Mission is the nation'ssecond oldest rescue unit, the first being Jerry Mc-Auley's Water Street Mission, New York.208MUSHROOMS AND BRAINS MOSTLY15^08WATERCan water think? For a few days the writer hadwater on the brain. Let me explain. I had beenthinking what truly remarkable stuff water is. Verycommon, of course. Not only is your lemonade andpineapple jelly mostly water, even biscuits and bonescontain it as well. As for Prof. Binks' brains, theyare mostly water. All that is solid in a brain wouldfill a large spoon, if the wind was not blowing! Brainis the most unreliable stuff in existence. A nest ofants, with hardly any brains, make far fewer mistakes,than man does. A good bump on the head, afew degrees of fever, some extremely small doses ofcertain drugs, not to mention alcohol, and that marvellousorgan is out of order. Angels have no brains,but are of far greater power and intelligence thanwe. I think with my brain—and it's mostly water!I was allowing my fancy to wander, I am afraid,but I was thinking what might have happened ifCreation had been left to an angel to devise. Tocombine an explosive gas, hydrogen, with an agentthat helps things burn, oxygen, in such a way as tomake a fire extinguisher, water, was quite surprising.What we want, however, is to lift some millionsof tons of this odd stuff out of the sea each day,transport it thousands of miles, and spray it on thegardens of the world.One idea might be very large pumps leading thewater to the tops of high mountains. From thereoverhead pipes with holes punched here and therecould lead all over the world. Volcanoes might do thework of lifting the water, but the noise and shakingwould be terrific, and the rushing in the pipes overour heads all night would drive us mad. The waterwould wash out gullies under the perforations andnone of it would get on the gardens at all. No, Goddid not leave Creation to even unfallen angels toinvent. He did it Himself, and He pronouncedit"very good!"NEW YORK — A display of Martin LutherBibles, medallions and other Reformation artifactsis being shown at the American Bible Societythrough the end of October in observance of the450th anniverary of the Reformation. The exhibitis open to the pubhc from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mondaythrough Friday at Bible House, ABS headquartersat 1865 Broadway.COVENANTER WITNESS

THE.Covenanter WitnessTo The TruthJESUS CHRIST AS SAVIOUR, LORD, HEAD OF MEN, THE CHURCH AND NATIONS.VOLUME LXXDC NO. 14 OCTOBER 4, 1967 STERLING, KANSAS 67579BIBLE LESSONS FOR THE WEEK OF OCTOBER 29, 1967AMartyr's ChallengeMY CHOICEI want my breakfast served at "eight,""Birds of the air have made their nest,With ham and eggs upon the plate;And foxes in their holes find rest;A well-broiled steak I'll eat at "one,"And dine again when day is done.But I can offer you no bed;No place have I to lay My head."I want an ultramodern home,And in each room a telephone;Soft carpets, too, upon the floors,And pretty drapes to grace the doors.A cosy place of lovely things,Like easy chairs with innersprings,And then 111 get a small TV —Of course, "I'm careful what I see."I want my wardrobe, too, to beOf neatest, finest quality,With latest style in suit and vest,Why shouldn't Christians have the best?In shame I hung my head and cried.How could I spurn the Crucified?Could I forget the way He went,The sleepless nights in prayer He spent?For forty days without a bite,Alone He fasted day and night;Despised, rejected — on He went,And did not stoptill veil He rent!A Man of sorrows and of grief,No earthly friend to bring rehef —"Smitten of God," the prophet said —Mocked, beaten, bruised, His blood ran red.But then the Master I can hear,In no uncertain voice, so clear,'1 bid you come and follow Me,The lonely Man of Galilee.If He be God and died for me,No sacrifice too great can beFor me, a mortal man, to make;I'll do it all for Jesus' sake!Yes, I will tread the path He trod,No other way will please my God;So, henceforth, this my choice shall be,My choice for all eternity!— Bill McChesneyNote: Bill McChesney, a W.E.C. missionary, was martyred in the Congo.

THE COVENANTER WITNESSOfficial organ of the ReformedPresbyterian Church of N. A.• CVANMUOU.I> AtMCIATWNEditor: Rev. RT. W. Dougherty, D.D.125 N. 4th StreetSterling, Kansas 67579Phone 316 — Br. 8 - 3472Printed each Wednesday under the supervision of theBoard ot Publication by The Patterson Press, Winchester,Kansas 66097.Contributing Editors: Department Editors:Rev. Kenneth Smith Rev. John TweedDr. G. M. RobbMrs. Robert B. MaineRev. John McMillan Mrs. Willis EdgarRev. C. E. Caskey Rev. John K. GaultOpinions expressed in our columns are those of theindividual writer, not necessarily the views of the ReformedPresbyterian Church or the editor.All material to appear in The Covenanter Witnessshould be typewritten, double-spaced, and should be inSterling, Kansas two weeks before it is to be printed.The cost of all pictures is 30 cents per square inch.Obituaries — All words in excess of one hundred fifty,one cent per word. Money should accompany such notices.SUBSCRIPTION RATESIndividual (1 year): U.S. and Canada, $4.00, BritishIsles 35/-, all other places, $5.00;Individual (2 year): U.S. and Canada, $7.00, BritishIsles 63/-, all other places, $9.00;Group: U.S. and Canada, $3.00, British Isles 28/-, allother places, $4.00.9-month student subscription — $1.50; 5-month introductoryoffer —$1.00; 2 gift subscriptions to persons outsideof the R. P. Church — $2.00 each. Single copies, 10c.Subscription Agent for U.S. and Canada: Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Subscription Agent for the British Isles: Rev. HughWright, B.A., 12, Knutsford Drive, Belfast 14, NorthernIreland.All checks should be made payable to The CovenanterWitness in U. S. currency.Give one month's notice of a change of address. Sendboth the new and the old address to Mrs. M.W. Dougherty.Postmaster: Please send Form 3579 to Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Second class postage paid at Winchester, Kansas 66097WE HOLD THE FOLLOWING TO BE TRUTHS OF SCRIPTURE:The Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the only infalliblerule of faith and conduct.The Trinitarian conception of the Godhead.Faith in Jesus Christ as the only way of salvation.Salvation by Grace.Assurance of salvation as a possible Christian experience.The Gospel Call and Election.The Holy Spirit as the Author of regeneration.Sanctification through the cooperating agency of the Holy Spirit.The fact of death and hell as the destiny of the lost and heavenas the destiny of the saved.That the Church of Jesus Christ consists of all those who believein Him together with their children.The Divine Right of the Presbyterian form of Church Government.The Lord Jesus Christ as the only King and He«d of His Church.That terms of membership or communion are essential to thewelfare »f the Chureh.Quote -NEW YORK — Singers, dancers, combos, batontwirlers, bands and the world's largest handwrittenBible were displayed at the World Teen-Age showheld at Chicago's Navy pier recently. The ChicagoBible Society arranged the Bible display and distributedcopies of the American Bible Society's selection,"The Way He Taught" from Luke 4. Copies werealso available of the American Bible Society's bestselhng paperback, "Good News for Modern Man,"the New Testament in Today's Enghsh Version,which is currently going at about 30,000 copies aday.This Week's WitnessRevival Needed 211Glimpses of the Religious World . 212News from Mission Field: Cyprus . 213Mrs. Marjorie A. SandersonMiss Blanche McCraeJapan: Mrs. Ruth Spear ... 215This and That in W.M.S. . . 217Why I Want To Become A Missionary . . 218Lesson Helps . . . 219Scribe Wih A Hard Pencil ... 221Church News . 2 2 2The duty which rests upon officers to maintain discipline andpreserve the purity of the Church.Spiritual worship as a divine requirement mediated through theLord Jesus Christ.The exclusive use of the Psalms in the worship of the Church.The Protestant interpretation of the Sacraments.The divine right of the institution of Marriage and that it is notto be dissolved except by adultery or "irremediable" desertion.The Sabbath as a day sacred to rest and worship.The duty of nations and their civil rulers to honor Christ asKing of Kings and Lord of Lords.That Christian citizens are under obligation to obey lawful authority.The right and duty of the Christian citizen to dissent from allgovernmental and national disobedience to the Law of God.That the Covenants of the past are still binding.From "The Communicant's Class" by J. B. Tweed210 COVENANTER WITNESS

EditorialCommentREVIVAL NEEDEDEnergy, life, excitement, and tragedy are someof the finger-prints of our current times that arewell known by everyone. Energy spent in layingwaste minds, property, and hfe; excitement in thingsthat are destructive; life dedicated to the accomplishmentof selfish ends. This is part of the picturewhich the world presents to mankind. There is amoral and spiritual virus that has invaded everysphere of life and will prove fatal if it is unchecked.Things on a spiritual level have been caught inthe whirlpool of tendencies, and a marked deteriorationcan be observed in the ethical and moral hfeof our country. There is no doubt that a deepspiritual revival is a great need in our day.In the spiritual realm, the church is that greatagency of contact through which the Holy Spiritworks upon the world. It is here then that we firstlook for some action that will eventually correctand prevent this down-stream drift; this must bedone if righteousness is to prevail and the life ofour nation prolonged. The church must again realizethat she is the executive committee of theKingdom of God.Reviving simply means restoring to life thatwhich at one time existed, but has become inertand in the state of decay. Where once the churchstood in witnessing defense for her Lord, she nowremains quiet and in some cases approves of wrongdoing.The march of ecumenism has, like a vulture,stripped bare the bones of the body of Christ, tobe further bleached in the unrelenting, scorchingrays of Neo-orthodoxy. The question rises in ourminds, "Can these bones hve?" and like the prophetof old we humbly say, "Lord, Thou knowest."The tendency has been to attempt to suit the"situation to the sitter," in times past, making thecarnal desire of man permissible. When a law isno longer respected, the way of escape from embarrassmenthas been to modify or rescind the lawor find new ways of respectfully disobeying it. Anexcellent illustration of this is found in the socialworld. Venereal disease has long been the scourgeof the human race. In the fight against it, it wasdiscovered that penicillin could counteract it. Thenthe public adopted the idea that since it could becured so easily, it need not be avoided. Today wehave an alarming increase of it. even among teenagers.In the church, the prayer meeting, which is thepulse of the church, has dechned in attendance andin some cases has disappeared entirely. The suggestionhas been made that perhaps it is time toput something in its place. Together with this therehas been a tendency to forget that public worship isan obligation or duty, and to feel that the individualshould decide whether or not to attend it. Tocounteract this, some have thought that if one shortenedthe time spent in solemn communion with Godpeople would feel more comfortable. Seeing that thiswas not the solution, some have substituted whatamounts to "grass-skirt" and "high fly hop" performances,hoping by this means to draw a crowd andkeep them awake while there.Fulfillment of the Great Commission has resolveditself, so far as some groups are concerned,to proclamation of the social gospel. This is simplyman's attempt to "bring Christ down" until He canbe reached by anybody.Remedying this situation is not automatic. Itis not a "do-it-yourself" project. The time has comewhen the members of the church must beheve thatthere is sore need for revival. We must realize thatthe laws of God are not amendable, and that theplan of an unchanging God is just as unchangeable.The Kingdom of God must run according to God'splan and not man's.The Psalmist prayed, "Wilt Thou not revive usagain, that Thy people may rejoice in Thee?" (Psalm85:6) God only can revive the needy church, butHe does it when His people long after it and prayperseveringly for it. The most important feature ofthe Revival of 1859 (the last nation-wide revivalthat America has had) was the sweep of prayermeetings across our land. When such a spirit ofprayer possesses God's people the revival will havecome.Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I amthe hght of the world: he that followeth me shallnot walk in darkness, but shall have the hght oflife. John 8:12.October 4, 1967 211

Glimpses of the Religious WorldPRESBYTERIAN CONGREGATION ENDSDENOMINATIONAL TIES(EP) The first church in Seattle, Washington,to renounce its ties to Presbyterian denominationalismin objection to the Confession of 1967 is the800-member Hillcrest Presbyterian Church.Unanimously the congregation voted to retainthe Westminster Confession as the sole confessionof the members of the church. The move rejects theConfession of 1967, first credal revision of Presbyterianismin three centuries.A statement issued to the Seattle Times bySteward G. Hibbs, clerk of the session, declares:"The congregation further unanimously renouncedany jurisdiction of Presbytery laws and hereby requeststhe name of Hillcrest Presbyterian Church beremoved from the rolls of your organization."The announcement was mailed to all Presbyterianorganizations in Seattle.THE PUSH TO LEGALIZE MARIJUANADr. Clyde W. Taylor, writing in Action (theSeptember issue), comments on the fact that therespected Washington Star has joined other voicesin an appeal to legalize smoking marijuana. TheBeatles used a full-page advertisement in the Timesof London to demand that the legal ban be liftedfrom the narcotic.Dr. Taylor says, "The strongest argument wehave seen in favor of this is that the harmful effectsare no worse than alcoholic beverages. These arereflected in the contrast between the day of prohibitionand now."He then points out that the present annual expenditurefor liquor in America is S13 billion, morethan half a million people become alcoholics everyyear, and the bill for treating alcoholics is $20billion per year.While the argument from legal alcohol to legalmarijuana might seem logical (assuming that theone is no worse than the other) we obviously wantno duphcation of this sad record.THE REV. JOHN McMILLANR. D. 1, Box 337WALDEN, NEW YORKAN EVANGELICAL WITNESS IN THE NEWARKRIOT AREAThe Rev. William T. Iverson has a ministry oflunch-room evangehsm to teen-agers in the neighborhoodwhere the Newark, New Jersey, riots tookplace in mid-July. Although the store next door tothe luncheonette was completely wrecked by therioters, the luncheonette itself was protected bypeople from the neighborhood so that it sufferedalmost no damage. Mr. Iverson stayed in the luncheonetteall during the riots, keeping it open forthree days and three nights. More than 3,000 cupsof coffee were served to National Guardsmen as wellas to people from the neighborhood.According to a report in the Church Herald, itwas Mr. Iverson's observation that many of the Negroyouth involved in the rioting were fifteen-year-olds.They seemed to be in greater numbers than olderhigh-school youth. Rioters of this age when arrestedwere taken to Youth House where Mr. Iverson servesas chaplain. Six of these young persons were releasedin his custody.As soon as the rioting subsided, Mr. Iversonbegan to organize clean-up squads of neighborhoodyoung people. The program began when he and awhite youth began cleaning up one of the destroyedstores in the neighborhood and were voluntarilyjoined by a Negro couple. He hoped to continuethis work throughout the summer by organizinggroups of about ten neighborhood youth togetherwith two white college students in work programsin the neighborhood which will also involve thetherapy of talking out neighborhood problems andfrustrations.MORATORIUM URGED ON BUILDING OF"COUNTRY CLUB" CHURCHES(EP) The President of the American Institute ofArchitects called for a "moratorium on the buildingof cathedrals and suburban 'country-club' churches"at an interreligious and inter-disciplinary meetingin New York City.Robert L. Durham F. A. I. A. of Seattle, Washington,told representatives to the first InternationalCongress on Religion, Architecture, and the VisualArts that "we must humanize the structures whichhouse the religious life of our city centers."Mr. Durham charged that for 100 years architectshave returned from Europe with sketch padsand "proceeded to build httle cathedrals unrelatedto the real hfe of the people."212COVENANTER WITNESS

NewsFrom Our Mission Field*c?Troodos, CyprusAugust 21, 1967Dear "Witness" Friends,All of us know the feeling that comes whensomething for which you've worked hard is satisfactorilycompleted. Seeing prayers answered andyoung hves maturing in the Christian faith adds toyour joy. Those of us who helped with the conferencesfor teen-aged boys and girls here on Troodosexperienced this recently.The Boys' Conference was from August 3-8 andthe Girls' Conference was from the 10th to the 15th.Now we're catching our breath, relaxing and realizingwe're tired, as well as catching up on otherjobs that had to be postponed temporarily. Althoughwe're still on the mountain top literally we're gladto return to less strenous days and nights. We're alsothankful not to be in either Nicosia or Larnacawhere the temperature hovers around 100 by day.The 18th of July, Rev. T. M. Hutcheson, Ken,the Larnaca school cock, his wife and son, and acrew of workers (mainly boys) came up here viaa truck, the mission car, and a bus to set up ourtent camp. The truck was loaded with everythingfrom blankets, mattresses, canned meat, oatmealto Psalm books, as well as countless other items.After three days of hard work they had the majorityof the tents set up and the temporary kitchen; theyhad acquired quite a few skinned knuckles andblisters plus a lot of dirty clothes.We feel quite like pioneers up here in one wayas we stumble through the darkness to our tentsand feel around for a box of matches to light agood old-fashined lamp. And it isn't for decorationeither, but utility. Our neighboring missionarycamps of Free Methodists and United Presbyteriansfrom Egypt look quite plutocratic with their electriclight shining out of the windows at night. OurScotch Covenanter blood hasn't allowed us tosplurge and install electricity although the electriclight poles and wires run through our camp. Wekeep hoping — maybe next year. It keeps lifelively during the evening meetings as the ministerreaches a fiery point in his sermon and suddenlyflames shoot up from a pressure lamp whose pressurehas gotten too low. Everything comes to atemporary halt as someone rushes to grab it andcarry it outside the meeting tent. Meanwhile thelisteners thoughts have strayed along with the errantlamp.At one time or another all the missionarieshave been here, but just now Mr. Edgar has returnedto Larnaca and school duties and Winnie Wilsonand Alan Nelson are vacationing in Europe. Wewill all be back in either Nicosia or Larnaca inSeptember getting ready for the opening of schoolin mid-September. Enrollment in both schools hasbeen heavy and many have had to be turned away.Pray for us that we may not neglect the spiritual emphasisin the midst of educational duties. We have afine nucleus of born-again Christian voung peoplein both schools but they need counsel and guidancein outreach to their unsaved classmates. Pray toothat we may be led to know with whom to conductBible studies and that from these adults or youngpeople God may call out church members.Rev. Mr. Christou and his daughter, Niki, havegone for a 15-day Mediterranean Cruise on a Greekpassenger vessel. It calls at a number of ports andallows time for sightseeing excursions ashore. Wehope it may give him a good rest and change whichhe needs.I mentioned our neighboring missionary camps.They proved quite a haven of refuge this summeras the Egyptian missionaries had to leave Egypthurriedly in late May or early June. They couldn'tgo to any neighboring Arab country, so came here toawait developments. For a time there were overfifty (adults and children) in the two camps. Thelast of the United Presbyterians left today, but threeof the Free Methodists remain as yet. Dr. Black,the L T . P. Board Secretary, visited on Troodos forabout four or five days in early August and finaldecisions as to the place the various workers shouldgo were made then. Some are being sent home forstudv, and others to Beirut, some to Iran, oneto Pakistan, etc. One family of fraternal workerswho were Japanese returned to Egypt to see if theywould be able to continue work. One minister who isDutch and has been teaching in the U. P Seminaryin Cairo has made two trips to Egypt since mid-July.Thev likened him to Noah's dove, for he was toOctober 4, 1967213

ing back news about the situation there and thepossibilities for return. He felt it was unwise forthem to return this year, but holds out hopes fornext year, maybe. It has been a long, weary, anxioustime for many of these missionaries and they arerelieved to know where to go, even though theirassignments are only for a year.We used a number of them as speakers duringour conferences. The wife of the chaplain of theschool for missionaries' children in Alexandria wasborn of missionary parents in Japan and later wentback for a short-term. She related many interestingincidents from both periods of her life at the Boys'Conference. Our speakers at the morning serviceseach Sabbath a. m. were minister missionaries fromAssiut, Egypt.An unexpected privilege during the Boys' Conferencewas to have a one-day visit from Rev. SpirosZodhiates and he spoke at the evening meeting. TheGreek government has placed very severe restrictionson the pubhcation of his Christian newspaperarticles and sale of so-called Protestant books, whichinclude those Spiros or Argos write. He felt hegained considerable headway while in Greece recently,however, in getting them either to reducethese restrictions or promise they soon would be.This is Spiros' second visit here this year.Many of you will remember Miss Asniv Salakianwho was the Cyprus representative at CarletonConference last year. She gave valuable help both inplanning and as a counselor during the conference.She hopes to attend the Edinburgh Conference nextyear.The Bible study for the Boys' Conference wasled by Al Nelson on the book of Ecclesiastes and thatfor the girls by Miss Hilda Miles on I John. Someof her inspiration came from literature on I Johngiven out to the young people at Carleton last summer.Miss Miles is a Child Evangelism worker inCyprus and comes from Wilmington, Delaware.Both were well prepared and brought us manyhelpful thoughts to ponder.Chloe Barnabas, the daughter of the local BibleSociety representative served as a counselor thisyear for the first time. She has attended many timesbefore but was too young to be a counselor. I haveasked her to add her impressions of the Girls'Conference."Some thirty high school girls and alumni attendedthis year's summer conference on Troodos.For a few it was their first time to sleep in a tentor be away from home. They all did quite well,however, putting into practice the words of St. Paul,'I know both how to be abased, and I know how toabound; everywhere and in all things I am instructedboth to be full and to be hungry, both to aboundand to suffer need' (Phil. 4:12)."The Conference theme was taken from I John4:10,11 and the four main addresses were on thetopics, "First Love," "Lost Love," "Best Love," and"Dedicated Love." The need was stressed that wecome to know the Lord, keep our ears tuned to Hisvoice, give our best love to Him, and continue havingHim as the center of our lives so that this love ofours toward Him will be fruitful and victorious."The Bible study on I John was always precededby personal reading and meditation on the portionto be studied. Our conference Psalm was Psalm116, verses 1,6,8,9 which we succeeded in learningby heart so that by the end of the conference wecould sing it with our Psalm books closed."Some other parts of our program which thegirls seemed to have enjoyed very much were theBible Quiz we had one night, a panel discussion onChristian Careers. Each of the following spoke aboutthe way she could show Christ: an office worker,a student, a teacher, and a nurse." Chloe spokeabout the testings that come to a Chrstian studentand did very well. She is a sophomore the comingyear in Pierce College in Athens."The hour for creative activities was interesting.The girls were divided into three groups and workedon picture framing, crocheting or making articlesfrom felt. Each one took home one or more thingswhich she had made.The missionary hour on Sabbath evening wasalso helpful during which we had the opportunityto hear from two missionaries about their work,problems and blessings which they met with inJapan and Egypt."Especially exciting was the breakfast hikewe had one morning when we walked between sixand seven miles and then returned for Bible studyduring the last part of the morning. Everyone wastoo tired to play games that afternoon. We alsoenjoyed the campfires each evening and the gameswe had there as well as the hour of talents andstunts. There we encountered ghosts, watched operations,listened to jokes and stories and joined inlaughing and singing."Very serious and touching was the sharingtime we had around the campfire the last evening.Several girls gave their testimony concerning havingreceived Christ as their Saviour, and others sharedsome of their experiences and blessing with whichthe Lord had blessed them. The conference came214 COVENANTER WITNESS

to an end all too soon with many expressing a desireto stay on and not go on the bus when it came onTuesday a. m."We hope and pray that God will bless everymessage that was brought to us from His Wordduring these days, so that we may hve and growin Him, through His grace and for His glory."— Chloe BarnabasWe have been praying for the various conferencesmeeting in the U. S. and fondly dream thatwe may (?) see some of you next year in Edinburgh.IF we could have our conference late in August nextyear perhaps we could have the help and livelyspirits of our new short-termers to inspire and aid.Thanks to our many prayer partners who helpedto make this years' conferences so worthwhile.Your sincere friend,Marjorie A. SandersonSeptember 15, 1967I would like for all my friends of the CovenanterChurch and others as well to know that I havereturned to the U. S. A. to make my home.I left Cyprus on the 29th of July, 1967, andarrived in New York on the 29th of August. I flewfrom Cyprus to Athens where I spent the week endwith Aphrodite Trombetta Kioupouroglou, her husband,and two httle girls. She is the same friendly,Christian person as she was when some of you knewher in Geneva as a student. She has a fine Christianhusband and her children are being brought up toknow the Lord.From Athens I flew to London for three weeksof visiting with friends from Cyprus: former teachers,graduates, ex-students, and church friends.Every one is working, enjoying England, but strug-gling against distances from work, separation fromfriends, expenses of hving. etc. All seemed happyin their environment and were trying to keep uptheir Christian homes and church life.From England, I sailed from Southampton onthe Rotterdam, (Holland-American Line) for NewYork on the 23rd of August. I really did enjoy thosedays sailing across the Atlantic and recommend thisLine of travel.I was grateful to find friends to greet me onmy arrival in New York and wish to express mydeep appreciation to them. Among them were thePaul Wilsons, the J. R. Pattersons, the N. Y. Weirs,Al Smith, and the David Carsons from Beaver Falls.It would take too long to enumerate all I've donein the short period since my arrival, but my mainpurpose after the message of thanks is to let youknow that I am located at 112 West Adams Street,Sterling, Kansas. 67579, with a telephone numberof BR 8 — 2429.The Lord has truly been gracious to me duringall the years I spent in Cyprus. Life was not alwayseasy, but it was rewarding. I'm sure any youngperson going out today would say the same thing,after a life time spent there. He is still gracious tome as I witness the warmth of welcome here inSterling during these first three days.Before closing I wish to thank the Women'sSynodical for their lovely gift of "Welcome." May weall be encouraged as we strive together to serve ourSaviour."Oh that men would praise the Lord for Hisgoodness, and for His wonderful works to the childrenof men!"Yours in Christ,Blanche McCreaKobe, JapanSeptember 12, 1967Dear Friends in the Faith:We thank God often for giving us friends whoare regular in prayer and are working faithfully inthe tasks He has given you.Along with our continual desire for more help,we are finding that God is faithful to give strengthand grace for the needs of each day. We beg youto continue to pray that God will "thrust forthlaborers into the harvest." There are young menin our midst whom we desire for the ministry. AndNews From Japanalso as we teach little ones in Sabbath School wewonder, "Will God be gracious to train this littleone to become a leader for Him?"In August two successful Bible schools wereheld — an average of fifty at East Suma where theMasunagas are, and here at our house KeiyakuChurch had an average of twenty-two. Many membersworked together cheerfully preparing materialsand teaching. The children learned a lot about"Our Bible" and its message. The upper grade classesmade bookcases with a matchbox for each book ofthe New Testament. The children showed ingenuityOctober 4, 1967 215

in finding appropriate boxes for bookcases andtrimming them in attractive ways. They surprisedus with their speed in learning the books of theNew Testament.A refreshing young people's conference for twodays in August was attended by twenty-eight whomet for worship at the Tarumi Church and thenwent across to the island of Awaji. They thoughtseriously about "Heaven and our Hope."At the end of August the Kobayashis were blessedwith a covenant baby boy.September 5 saw Carol, Bruce, Mary Jane, andJoyce trooping down the road to get the train toCanadian Academy to begin another school year.We thank you for praying especially about the Bibleteacher. The same one is teaching some classes butours are blessed with a Southern Presbyterian missionaryand a Mennonite missionary who is actingprincipal of the school for one year.We plan to have a church-wide fall conferenceOctober 10 (sports day). We hope it will be a timeof renewing our spirits and enlarging our vision.Please continue to pray for the Holy Spirit'sworking in and through the Masunagas, Miss Lynn,Miss Faris, Miss Everett, and us. We ask the sameblessing for you.Mrs. Gene SpearPreparingMost of the days of our years are pleasant days.The sun shines, or we have gentle rains. Extremelyhot days or extremely cold days are comparativelyfew. The vast majority of them are pleasant orbearable. For these we can be extremely grateful.But we have to build our houses for those extremedays and prepare to meet the difficulties which willbe faced. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus toldof the man who built his house upon a rock. Onthis house, as on the other, the rains came, and thewinds blew and beat upon that house. It had to bebuilt for the few stormy days to withstand the tempestsor it could not have stood.So most of our spiritual hves are hved as moderateexperiences. There are ups and downs, warmtimes and cold times, to be sure. But we feel generallythat we can meet these in a normal way. We prayfor patience to bear the sufferings, the strength toendure, the grace to look for the good in the adverseexperiences and we enjoy the pleasant ones. Perhapsif some experiences were not more difficult wewould be weak Christians.But we must prepare for the crises that are sureto come. God does permit these in order that we maybe strong Christians, ready for anything which wemay have to face. Trouble, great sorrow, disappointments,the death of a loved one, extended sicknessor disability, loss of one's job, or even death itself,are possibilities which must be faced. If we waituntil these things strike, we shall most likely not beable to stand. But we need to prepare beforehandfor them.First of all, we must have a Saviour who isstronger than all these things. Jesus Christ is that216For CrisisSaviour. We must have a trust in Him that behevesthat He does all things well. We must beheve thatHe loves us with an everlasting love, a love thatpasses all understanding, a love that upholds us inour troubles, and will bring us through them. Wemust have the willingness to do His will rather thanour own.Study of the Word of God and prayer will help todevelop this faith and love. This means that in thegood times we must be diligent to build the dikesagainst the time of flood. When the sun shines wemust put on the roof. We must gather spiritualstrength in the warm season. Reading the Word ofGod after the crisis comes and going to God in prayerin the time of distress is good, but it is far moreeffective if we have already estabhshed our confidencein God, if we have prepared for the crisis.We may be sure that there will be more than onecrisis in our lives. They may come gradually or suddenly.It is wise that we should be fully prepared tomeet them. With the best preparation they will bedifficult to meet.Associate Reformed PresbyterianFor God so loved the world, that he gave hisonly begotten Son, that whosoever beheveth in himshould not perish, but have everlasting hfe.John 3:16.And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread oflife: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; andhe that beheveth on me shall never thirst.John 6:35.COVENANTER WITNESS

Some This and ThatinPRESIDENTS ADDRESS TOOHIO-ILLINOIS PRESBYTERIALMrs. James Dixon, Bloomington, IndianaLook Out Mountain, Tennessee — August 14, 1967In the past few months I have come to have adeeper appreciation of our Reformed faith. Therehave been times when I have felt apologetic forsome of the behef s to which we hold as a denomination,but as I observe how they are grounded in God'sWord, I see them in a different hght. In these dayswhen there is great apostasy, when many denominationsand seminaries are turning from a clear-cuttestimony to the truth, we should be vitally concerned.As individuals and as a denomination wehave a responsibility to bear witness to the truthby our confession and by our conduct.In our confession we have the responsibihty topoint people to Jesus Christ. We hold forth to theworld the glory of Christ in His incarnation, in Hishumiliation, in His crucifixion, in His resurrection,in His exaltation. We confess a living, ruling Lord.We honor the Kingship of Christ. All behevers areunder a covenant order of hfe, so we beheve inpubhc covenanting. Because we beheve that Christhas been exalted as King over all spheres of hfe,we give Christ our supreme allegiance. Our denominationinsists on a divine warrant for everythingthat is done. We sing the Psalms because Godcommands it. We preach the Word because Godordained it. We baptize infant children of behevers,because God never repealed the warrant for includingchildren. We confess that the Bible is theinfallible Word of God. We beheve in the true Godas He is revealed in Jesus Christ. We beheve in thePresbyterian form of church government, becausewe believe it is taught in the Word of God. Webeheve in the New Testament pattern of worship —without instrumants and exclusive use of thePsalms. Our worship must please God and not us.The Lord has given us a principle to regulate Hisworship in Deuteronomy 12:32, "What thing soeverI command you, observe to do it; thou shalt notadd thereto, nor diminish from it." There must bea Biblical warrant for whatever we offer to God inworship. Does not God as Sovereign have a rightto say how He will be worshiped? How can we thinkwe can tell God how we will worship Him? "So letus hold fast the profession of our faith withoutwavering."TVttlSAs to our witness to the truth by our conduct.no doubt you are familiar with the carnal Christianteaching that is so widespread today. People arebeing deluded into thinking that the spiritual walkis preferable for a Christian, but that the carnalwalk is possible. There are those who insist thatthey are Christians, when there are glaring indicationsthat they are not. They say there are threeclasses of men — the natural man, the carnal man.and the spiritual man. This is false teaching. Wemust not water down God's standards of discipleship.God's Word teaches two principles of walk:the Spirit principle and the flesh principle. Thesetwo types of walk are in opposite directions. Thesame faith that justifies us in God's sight alsobegins the work of sanctification. "How shall wethat are dead to sin live any longer therein?" Paulasks in Romans. The same faith that freed usfrom the guilt of sin also freed us from the powerand tyranny of sin. Now it is true that although sinis not on the throne in our lives, it has not left; it isstill there. But we cannot now be comfortable withour sin, or excuse it, or condone it. We hear oipeaceful co-existence these days. But there can b*'no such thing between the flesh and the spirit inthe lives of behevers. There is constant warfareand struggle within, and this is one of the sign:of true discipleship. As the struggle continues, wehave increasing victory. "We are enabled more andmore to die unto sin and live unto righteousness."Conduct is just as important as confession. Thisis a great privilege we have of holding forth God'struth. He could have sent angels to do the job. . Solet us be faithful Covenanters. There is a war to b€waged against Satan, and it involves sacrifice andlabor and commitment. Let us proclaim the Gospelproudly and unashamedly. Let us not doctor it tomake it more palatable and attractive. Let us lookupon every circumstance in our lives as being ;imeans of presenting the Gospel. Our love for Chrisiand His gospel a~,d our love for others should maV

A winning essay whenPatti was a Ninth-grade student in Sheboygan Christian SchoolWhy I Want ToA STORY FOR JUNIOR HIGHSFrom young childhood on, the idea of being amissionary has fascinated me. It stimulates myimagination, luring me with its promise of highadventure and daring bravery. I see steamingjungles, dangerous animals, dark-skinned natives,and murderous witch doctors. My tricky imaginationplaces me in the midst of all this excitement — acalm, collected heroine, the missionary, vahantlybattling savagery in all its native element.Upon my bounce back to reality, I reahze thatno one dedicates herself to missionary work simplyfor the excitement. Too often, the experiences thatkindle the imagination prove to be nothing but extremehardship. The heroic battle with the elementsso fanciful to the childhke mind, actually calls forsupreme self-sacrifice. The calm, collected heroineis really only an ordinary mortal, sometimes frightened,often bone-weary, occasionally discouraged,and at times dreadfully lonely. Only one thingsustains her and that is the promise: "Lo, I amwith you always."Despite its de-glamorization, I still would liketo be a missionary. My reasons are based upon certainfindings in the Word of God.First, there is a need. Second, there is a command.Third, there is a reward.When Jesus was here upon the earth, He wentabout all the cities and villages teaching in theirsynagogues, and preaching the Gospel of the Kingdom.He healed every sickness and disease amongthe people. He worked hard every day and seldomrested at night. He worked to assuage their spiritualand physical distress. The terrible need all aboutHim stirred His loving heart. In Matthew 9:36-38we read: "But when he saw the multitudes, He wasmoved with compassion on them, because they faintedand were scattered abroad, as sheep having noshepherd. Then saith he unto his disciples, the harvesttruly is plenteous, but the laborers are few.Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that hewill send forth laborers into his harvest."Today, almost two thousand years later, thereare "fields white unto the harvest," and alas, thelaborers are all too few. Our hearts should be movedto compassion. Our wills jolted into action by thegreat spiritual need of people who are living inignorance and superstitous fear. It should be ourdesire to bring them to "the perfect love that castethout fear."Be A MissionaryBy Patti Joy ExooWhen I think of all the people in the world whohave never had the gospel explained to them, Ishudder. I shudder because I know something ofwhich they are dangerously unaware. They do notknow that eternal condemnation awaits all who dieunsaved. This eternal punishment is so terrible thatan Enghsh skeptic once said: "If I beheved in eternalperdition, such as the followers of Jesus profess,I would crawl through the streets of London onmy hands and knees, imploring loudly to all mento accept the Gospel of salvation." If we really thinkseriously about the terror that awaits those who diewithout Christ as their Saviour, we will be compelledto consider equally seriously a career as amissionary.Before Jesus left the earth to return to Hisheavenly home, He gave His disciples a command:"Go ye into all the world and preach the gospel."He commissioned His disciples to continue His work.Jesus never said we could postpone the work. Rather,He emphasized that it had to be done immediately.In John 4:35 the Lord said: "Say not ye, Thereare yet four months, and then cometh the harvest?behold I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and lookon the fields; for they are white already to harvest."The time for us to obey Christ's command is now!The people of this generation can only be reachedby Christ's followers of this generation. That is thereason I want to be a missionary.My final reason for wanting to be a missionaryis a very human one. There is a glorious rewardfor this service. This reward does not consist ofanything material. It is purely spiritual, but it willbring me much more satisfaction than any physicalcomfort that money could buy. It will be infinitelyrewarding to know that anyone saved through myinstrumentality will never experience the fearfulpunishment but will rather experience great glory,eternally. It will be pure delight to see the look ofhappiness on another person's face, when he realizesthat he no longer needs to be afraid to die.I also beheve that there is eternal reward forconsecrated missionaries. In John 4:36 Jesus saysto His disciples: "And he that reapeth receivethwages, and gathereth fruit unto life eternal." Andin Daniel 12:3 we are told that "they that be wiseshall shine as the brightness of the firmament;and they that turn many to righteousness as thestars forever and ever." Christian Home and School218 COVENANTER WITNESS

iiLesson Helps for the Week of October 29,1967Sabbath SchoolLessonfor October 29, 1967.TRUE WORSHIP VERSUSFALSE WORSHIP:Amos 4:4-5; 5:21-24; 8-9.Comments by John K. Gault.One of the great problems ofhuman life is to distinguish betweenthe false and the true. People exertthemselves in all their business affairsto guard against being fooled or swindled.The government established anelaborate system of safeguards so thatpeople will be protected from unscrupulousdealers. Food must be foodwithout any contamination. Patentmedicine must conform to the formulaprinted on the label. But the mostfertile field for misrepresentation liesin the moral or religious realms ofhuman behavior. People are alwaystempted to make themselves to appearbetter than they really are. Jesus hadmore conflicts with the religious pretendersof His day than with anyother class of people. With scathingterms He denounced the "scribes,Pharisees and hypocrites," whom Hemet, because they were so particularto perform their religious ritualswhile they utterly neglected"weighter matters of the law suchas love and mercy." Pretense in religiousmatters is by no means anoutmoded practice in this our modernsociety. The late Dr. Eldersveld ofthe "Back to God Hour" once madethe statement, "There are more churchmembers in the world today butthere is less Christianity." Amos, inIsrael, met with the same situation.There were many religionists butfew sincere lovers of God. The prophetfound that the popular religionwas not the true religion. He, there­2fore, denounced those who had theGod Hates False Worship andform of religion but in whom thespirit was entirely lacking.1: Amos Denounced Israel WithBiting Irony.He said to the false worshipers,"Come to Bethel, and transgress; atGilgal multiply transgression; andOCTOBER 4, 1967bring your sacrifices every morning,and your tithes after three years:and offer a sacrifice of thanksgivingwith leaven, and proclaim and publishthe free offerings: for this liketh you,O ye children of Israel, saith the LordGod" (4:4,5).Bethel and Gilgal were two of themost important cities of Israel. Theseplaces figured largely in activities ofthe patriarchs, and Joshua, Elijah,Elisha. After the division of the KingdomJeroboam I established the goldencalves in Bethel and in Dan saying,"These be thy gods, O Israel." Hedid this in order to prevent the peopleLorn, going up to Jerusalem for theirreligious festivals, lest their loyaltybe turned toward the southern kingdom.Jeroboam II enlarged idolatryin Israel by establishing golden calvesin Gilgal as had been done in Bethel.In his denunciation of Israel, Amosinvited the people to go to theseplaces and "offer sacrifices withleaven." Their sacrifices would not beacceptable to God for at such timesthey had been commanded to eat onlyunleavened bread. Why did Amosinvite the people to "come — andtransgress"? He said, "for this likethyou," meaning, "for this is what youwant to do." In describing the apostasyof many in Israel before the division,the Psalmist said in 81:11,12, "But mypeople would not hearken to my voice;and Israel would none of me. So Igave them up unto their own hearts'lust:" By this ironic invitation God,through the voice of Amos, was doingthis to Israel, — "giving them up totheir own hearts' lust." When peoplecontinue to worship the gods of thisworld He will finally say, "Come toLos Angeles and transgress — for thisliketh you." "Come to New York, oranywhere, and transgress, — for thisliketh you."Worshipers.In 5:21-23 this fact is brought toour attention. Amos said, as he spokefor God, "I hate, I despise your feastdays, and I will not smell in yoursolemn assemblies. Though ye offerme burnt offerings and your meatofferings, I will not accept them:IIijneither will I regard the peace offer,ings of your fat beasts. Take thouaway from me the noise of thy songs;for I will not hear the melody of thyviols." God despises the form of religionif it does not represent sincerityand pureness of heart. Jesus said ivthe pretenders of His day, "Woe untryou, scribes, and Pharisees, hypocrites!for ye devour widows house:e,and for a pretense make long prayers •therefore ye shall receive the greaterdamnation. Woe unto you, scribe*and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye compasssea and land to make one puselyte, and when he is made, ye makrhim twofold more the child of heilthan yourselves." But Jesus said tthe sinful woman, who made no pretenseto being any better than sh*was, "Neither do I condemn thee; £«•and sin no more."3: True Worship Must be Accompaniedby Proper Sabbath ObservancrMany may go to church on Sabbattimorning and then in the afternoonthey go away to the ball game. Goilgave to Moses the Fourth Commandment as well as the others. It i'therefore, just as important to observethe Sabbath properly as it is to obeythe other commandments. How manypeople, today, are ready to acceptthat statement? The people to whomAmos spoke were in the habit o)saying, "When will the new moon b+gone, that we may sell corn? and thtSabbath, that we may set forth wheat,r.i :king the ephah small, and th*shekel great, and falsifying the balancesby deceit." Evidently the liciifarmers of Israel spend their time onthe Sabbath in planning their worldlyactivities for the following days. Theiractivities we.e largely dishonest, alsi ,as indicated in the prophet's word'That we may buy the poor for silverand the needy for a pair of shoes; ye.i,and sell the refuse of the whe;,.(8:5,6). The poor of the land had Irstll themselves to the rich in orderto get a little money to live on, orperhaps to get a pair of sandals. "I!there was any grain of poor qualit- .it would be sold to the poor. SuchSabbath desecration and dishone, ipractices rendered the worship «>!2-0

fsrael altogether unacceptable to God.What do people in the United Statesdo on the Sabbath? In the Los Angelesarea the ball games, race tracks, andocean beaches attract the Sabbathcrowds by the hundreds of thousands.Perhaps the warning of Amos might beapplicable to our modern society, ashe said, "The Lord hath sworn bythe excellency of Jacob, surely I willnever forget any of their works. Shallnot the land tremble for this, andevery one mourn that dwelleth therein.— I will turn your feasts into mourning,and all your songs into lamentation"(8:7-11). We learn, therefore,that worship to be acceptable to Godmust be accompanied by proper Sabbathobservance and the administrationof justice to all persons, even tothe extent of generosity.4: The Practice of Israel Was VeryDifferent from the Law as Given inLeviticus.In Leviticus 19 it is said, "TheLord spake unto Moses, saying, Andwhen ye reap the harvest of yourland, thou shalt not wholly reap thecorners of thy field, neither shaltIhou gather the gleanings of thy harvest.And thou shalt not glean thyvineyard, neither shalt thou gatherevery grape of thy vineyard; thoushalt leave them for the poor andstranger: I am the Lord your God.Ye shall not steal, neither deal falsely,neither lie one to another. And yeshall not swear by my name falsely,neither shalt thou profane the name ofthy God: I am the Lord. Thou shaltnot defraud thy neighbor, neither robhim: the wages of him that is hiredshall not abide with thee all night untilthe morning." — "I am the Lord. Yeshall keep my statutes." In Psalm 66:18 the singer said, "If I regard iniquityin my heart, the Lord will not hearme." People speak to God throughworship. Many words are addressed toGod, which He does not hear: there istoo much worldly interference."Lesson based on International SundaySchool Lessons: the International Bible Lessonsfor Christian Teaching, copyrighted 1963/by the Division of Christian Education, NationalCouncil of Churches of Christ in theUSA.."Junior Topicfor October 29, 1967."HERE AM I"by Mrs. R. H. McKelvyWorship Period: Sing Ps. 62:4. PrayPs. 19:14. Repeat the memory verse,Matthew 28:20 (last part). Sing Ps 91:1-5, p. 224.This lesson is to help juniors dependon and work for Jesus throughoutthe school year.When the first day of school wasover, you came running home and thecall was, "Mother! Oh, Mother! Whereare you?" There were so many thingsto tell her. And as soon as you hadcalled the answer came, "Here I am."And there was your own dear motherready to listen to you. Juniors, thatis just like you and your heavenlyFather. When you have something totell Him, He is right there saying,"Here I am, waiting to hear you, wantingto help you."And He is always there. Some evening,your call to mother might notbe answered and you would look allthrough the house and not find her.How lonesome you would be as yousat out on the step and waited for her.But you never have to wait for yourheavenly Father. He is not away offin some desert nor across an oceanthat you must search for Him. He isnear you all the time. For, lo, He iswith you alway.How safe that makes us feel! Iknew a little girl who was alwayslonesome when she went up to bedin the dark until she found out thatshe was not alone: Jesus was withher. After that, she felt safe and happyto know that He was always there.Whenever God's children need Himand call to Him, He is there to help.Even when Shadrach, Meshach, andAbednego were thrown into the fieryfurnace, God did not leave them.There walked with them One likeunto the Son of God.The disciples in the storm-tossedboat thought that the sleeping Masterhad forgotten them and that all wouldbe lost. They need not have feared,for Jesus was with them and theywere safe. Not one of God's childrenneed worry for lo, Jesus is with youalway to keep you safe.I remember one Sabbath eveningin Pittsburgh. It had been my customto walk home with Frieda after church,for she lived on a dark street wherethere were many rough people. Butthis evening, Mr. and Mrs. Gilmoresaid that they would take her home.They took her to within a block ofher home and then watched until shewould turn in at her door. As she wenton alone, a big, white dog came trottingbeside her. Suddenly, the dogstopped and started barking furiously.Mr. Gilmore ran forward just in timeto see a man disappear down the alleytoward the river. Then Mr. Gilmoretook Frieda all the way home. Do yousee how God was caring for the littlegirl? First, he had Mr. and Mrs.Gilmore go home with her, and whenthey did not go all the way, He sentthe friendly dog to protect her. Noneof us ever saw the dog before or afterward.God had sent it along that streetjust that time.Let us read Is. 58:9; Acts 18:9,10;Is. 41:10; 12:2. Sing the lovely 121stPsalm.But Jesus is not only near to helpus. He is also ready to let us help Him.When you call mother and her answercomes, then are you ready to say, "Areyou there, Mother? I'm home fromschool now. Is there anything that youwant me to do tonight?" Jesus will bewalking with you every step of theway in this school year. When He says,"Here am I, my child," are you readyto respond quickly, cheerfully, gladly,"And here I am, Lord Jesus. What wiltThou have me to do?" When Mosesanswered God's call, there was a lifelongwork waiting for him. Are youwilling to work for Jesus every daythis year? He has done so much forus, we should be glad to do what wecan for Him. Let us read Exodus 3:4and Isaiah 6:8. Sing Psalm 18:1,41.Then, too, we should be ready tosay, "Here am I" to other people whoneed our help. God says it to us andwe say it to God. Are we ready to sayit to others? Do you remember howthe little boy Samuel wanted to help?Three times he jumped out of bedand ran to Eli when he thought Elicalled him. Read I Samuel 3:4-10. WeJuniors should be just as eager tohelp others. Are you thoughtful ofyour teacher? Do you watch for waysto be kind on the playground? Do youremember to pray for your schoolmates?When you are at home, atchurch, in school, at a party — whereeveryou are — always be on the lookoutto help others. Be a "Here-am-I"junior when anyone needs you.Close with sentence prayers andthe twenty-third Psalm.COVENANTER WITNESS

Prayer MeetingTopicfor November 1, 1967.SEEKING OUT THE LOSTRev. Raymond Joseph(Luke 15:1-10)Read carefully the passage beginningwith Luke 14:25 through 15:32.In the verses leading up to thisparable of the lost sheep, the Lorddescribes three different kinds of menwho "cannot be my disciple."1. The man who is unwilling toleave his family to go seek outthe lost. (Luke 14:26)2. The man who is unwilling to livethe life Christ planned for him,troubles and all, in the samemanner that Christ lived Hislife. (Luke 14:27)3. The man who is unwilling to"forsake all that he hath." Thatis, the man who is unwilling toact on the fact that seeking thelost is more important than any"thing." (Luke 14:33)Doing these three things is not whatcauses Christ to save us, but they arethe inevitable result of our havingbeen saved. And Christ is merely askingus to check our own lives to seewhether or not we are in fact Hisdisciples. It is difficult to imagineheaven as having anyone except His"disciples" in it.In the verses following this parableChrist describes the search for 1 of10 precious coins (perhaps a weddingkeepsake), and the finding of 1 of 2sons. The order is one of ascendingimportance and compassion: 1 out of100 sheep, 1 out of 10 coins, and 1 outof 2 sons. He hunted the sheep. Shesought for the coin. And the fatherprayed and pleaded with his son, andwas not afraid to show his emotionsin the process.APPLICATIONSomeone may find, after askingChrist to show him the meaning ofthese words, that we should dismissthe prayer meeting at this point inorder to go out after the "lost sheep,"i. e. one very practical application ofthe parable would be to go out togetherfor an evening of evangelisticcalling. Christ apparently advocatedleaving the 99 (and He was surelyreferring to the people described inverses 1 and 2) to go after the one,actually condemned Moses for standingstill and praying when they shouldhave been moving.But the wider application has to bewith the amount of contact we nowhave with the non-Christian world;the number of non-Christian friendswe have, the number of non-Christianfriends we're praying for consistently,and the number of non-Christianfriends we are actually involved inreasoning or pleading or studyingBible with right now. Christ Himselfdid not remain in the fellowship ofheaven in order to carry out Hiswork of redemption, and while wecannot do WHAT He did (and don'tneed to because He perfectly completedthat work), we are to do whateverHe has asked us to do IN THESAME MANNER THAT He did Hiswork. As this involved His leaving thefellowship of heaven to come into thewo.M. so it must surely mean our.firs -.jut of the fellowship of churciiveetings. to take the Gospel messageirto tho world of non-Christians. "Asthe Father hath sent me, so send Iyou." Mow c.i! 1 we see souls savedunless we're willing to go where unsavedsouls are?' The first applicationlo this meeting would be to ask eachperson to answer the above questionschout personal contact with non-Christians.CAUTION: If a person's Christianfaith is so weak or confused or inc..he.ent that the influence will go fromth;- world to him instead of from himto the world, then he should avoidsuch "friendships" until he has hada year or perhaps two of personalBible study, good Sabbath SchoolSee page 223There was music in the air! It was coming from the piano. Thje youvojwoman whose fingers were flying up and down the keyboard knew what sh;was doing. She was handling a somewhat difficult composition with verve a-idfinesse. When she finished, her performance was greeted with much applause.Mrs. Triplechin leaned over to her daughter Trilby and remarked, "Trilby,I wish you could learn to play like that!" Trilby replied, "Oh, butit's easy forher!"We were watching a college football game on TV A lanky Sophomore raceddown the field, snagged a forward pass out of the air, side stepped two would-b«?tacklers, and raced across the goal line to make another six points for AlmaMater. A companion watching the game with us observed, "He makes it lookso easy!" One of the other TV spectators explaine

McMILLAN — VOSJames Melvin Vos and Rosalie JeanMcMillan were united in marriage onAugust 8. It was a lawn wedding inSeattle, Washington, at the home ofthe bride's parents. They are now athome at Laurel, Maryland, where Mr.Vos is stationed at Fort George Meade.CORRECTIONDue to an oversight in the Minutesof Synod for 1966, the Union ReformedPresbyterian Women's MissionarySociety gave nothing to the ThankofferingFund in 1965.Correction: The Union CongregationWomen's Missionary Society gave$118.00 to the Thankoffering Fund in1965.THANKSRev. Ray Joseph and family wishto thank the Greeley congregationand friends for the heartwarmingfarewell reception held in their behalfand for the very generous financialdonation received on that evening. Itwas a most encouraging send-off forthem as they traveled to the Lord'swork in West Lafayette, Indiana. Theycordially invite their Greeley friendsand others to visit them at 816 RobinsonSt., W. Lafayette, Indiana, 47906.LAKE RENO, GLENWOOD,MINNESOTARev. Marion McFarland assisted inour spring communion services. Wegreatly enjoyed his messages.Don McCrory and Ted Blair finishedtheir boot training in the NationalGuards. Don was at Fort LeonardWood, Missouri and Ted at Fort Ord,California.Mr. and Mrs. Chris Springman andEdward left for their home in SanDiego, California. Mrs. Springman andEdward spent the winter here whileMr. Springman was in service.Mrs. Paul McCrory and Miss WillaHogan visited relatives in Ontario,Canada and Milwaukee, Wisconsin.They enjoyed seeing Niagara Falls andalso visited in the home of Dr. andMrs. John Edgar on the way home.Miss Judy Blair and Lyman DeMaray were married, May 27, by Rev.Harold Harrington and they aremaking their home in Minneapolis.A baby girl, Gretchen Eleanor,came to make her home with Rev.and Mrs. Harold Harrington, June 13.We had 24 enrolled in our VacationBible School which was held the secondweek of June.Linda and Allen McCrory attendedcamp in Iowa.Mr. and Mrs. Roland McCrory visitedat the Jim McCrory home inDenison, Kansas. Mrs. McCrory remainedto take care of their newgranddaughter.Summer visitors at church wereMrs. Harry Mathews, Columbus, Illinois;Mr. and Mrs. Don Crozier, Mr.and Mrs. Al Sundy, Seattle, Washington;Mrs. and Mrs. S. J. Blair, SantaAna, California; Mr. and Mrs. RichardJames, Medelia, Minnesota; Mr. andMrs. Tom Dugdale, Marion, Indiana;Miss Jean Elsey, Rochester, Minnesota;Ken McCrory, Denison, Kansas; Mr.and Mrs. Ernest Ewing, Mr. and Mrs.Richard McCrory, Mr. and Mrs.Charles Peterman of Minneapolis,Minnesota; Dr. and Mrs. Weir Ewing,Thief River Falls, Minnesota; Mr. andMrs. Verne Peterson, Lima, Peru; JimElsey, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; MickeyElsey, Denver, Colorado; Rev. andMrs. Milton Harrington, Rose City,Michigan; Mr. and Mrs. Keith Lind,Manhattan, Kansas.While Rev. Mr. and Mrs. Harringtonare vacationing in Michigan and easternCanada, Rev. Mr. Skoog, a missionaryfrom Japan, is supplying thepulpit.Lynn Diane Nelson and John R.Blair were married, September 9, inCalvary Lutheran Church in Alexandria.COLDENHAM, NEW YORKSixty-seven members and friendsattended the annual Sabbath Schoolpicnic held on August 2 at the church.Games for the younger group wereunder the direction of Mrs. MarthaWilson and Wanda Randazzo. Baseballwas enjoyed by the teen agers andhorseshoes by the parents. We werehappy to have Mrs. Adams with us forthis event.About eight of the Junior CYPUmembers attended the White LakeCamp this past summer. There wereten from the Senior Group and severalof the adults attended part time orwere able to go for the day. Mrs. RuthShafer was in the kitchen preparingthe meals and among her staff wereDonald and Ruth Bosch of the Newburghcongregation.Several of our young people havegone back to school and away tovarious colleges. Wanda Randazzo isattending Plattsburg State College.Joanne Belknap and Martha McGinnisare at Geneva College. John Brown isat Renssalear Poli tech, and BruceNelson is at Orange County CommunityCollege.Carl Lundell (Butch) was home onleave and has now been assigned toduty in Vietnam.Janice Sheeley was graduated inSeptember from Vassar Brother Hospitalin Poughkeepsie, and is nowemployed at the Veterans Hospitalin Castle Point.We of the Coldenham congregationwere saddened by the death of Mrs.Evelyn Peoples, widow of Dr. SamPeoples, on August 8, 1967. She was aformer member of the Coldenhamcongregation but made her home inBloomsburg, Pennsylvania after hermarriage. She leaves three daughters,Linda, Lois and Leslie of Bloomsburg,and two sisters, Gladys Durland andViola Belknap of this area.The Coldenham WCTU was thehostess for the annual Orange CountyWCTU Convention on September 14,1967. A dessert luncheon was enjoyedby about 30 delegates.The WMS held its Septembermeeting at the home of Mrs. ViolaBelknap. Plans were discussed for thefall Thank Offering meeting to be heldthe early part of November with Mrs.Ruth Shafer and Mrs. Ann Robinsonin charge.CAMBRIDGEAt this time we should like toextend many sincere thanks to theDirector of our 1967 Vacation BibleSchool, Rev. J. Paul McCracken andthe teachers who spent much timeinstructing the children in the Word— Mrs. Gordon Atkinson and Mrs.Bruce Nickerson, Beginners Class; Mrs.Donald Willson and Miss Rosalie Piper222 COVENANTER WITNESS

(from S. T. P.), Primary Class; Mr.Bill Edgar (from S. T. P.) and Mrs.George Gibson, Junior Class; Mrs.Charles F. Millican and Miss WendySmyth, Junior High Class. We alsoappreciated the help of Miss JaniceStewart who came daily from Natickto help where needed and from allreports those in attendance especiallyenjoyed the delicious punch she madeeach day and the cookies provided bysome of the women of the church.In the absence of our pastor onAugust 6, Dr. S. Bruce Willson, Presidentof the Seminary, conducted boththe morning and evening worship services.During the Evening AdultPrayer Group time, Dr. Willson gavean informal talk, accompanied byslides on the work at the Seminary andalso answered questions from thegroup regarding the activities there.We also enjoyed having Mrs. Willsonwith us at this time.Miss Ruth McKeown was home fora brief vacation from her studies atKansas University. We were veryhappy to see her.The Cambridge congregation hasenjoyed the many visitors who haveworshiped with them during the monthof August. Rev. and Mrs. RonaldNickerson and daughters, Lydia andBethany, were with us on the 13th,with Mr. Nickerson bringing the eveningsermon at that time. Other visitorsinclude Rev. and Mrs. James Carsonand children, Doug, Kenny, Tom andRebecca; Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Cutterand children, Peter and Cynthia; MissJean Ulrich; Miss Carlene Hutcheson;Robert Hawthorne; Tom Hutchesonand Daniel Koger stationed at theNaval Station at Newport, RhodeIsland. To all we say thank you forjoining us and please do come again.White Lake Conferences 1967:Those from our congregation attendingthe various encampments full- time:Coleman Lowe, Roselyn Smyth, DonnaAtkinson, Wayne Lee, Cheryl Mc­Cracken, Wendy Smyth, Janice Stewart,Gregory Stewart, Mrs. WeldonHenderson (camp nurse and Arts andCrafts Instructor, Jr. Camp), NancyHenderson, Margaret Henderson, MaryHenderson, Mr. and Mrs. Donald Willsonand Judy; Rev. and Mrs. J. PaulMcCracken, with Herb and Jill. Mr.and Mrs. W. Watson Stewart withScott, Nancy and Linda were able toattend five days of the Adult Conference.OCTOBER 4, 1967U. S. PATENT ISSUED TOGENEVA COLLEGE CHEMISTout of 100 will become a prospect, 1out of 10 will be interested and 1 outA United States Patent has been of 2 will receive Christ. Regardless ofissued covering a number of compoundsthe figures involved, we need to b'-invented by Dr. Roy M. Adams,Chairman of Geneva's Department ofcorcerned about improving the contactsif we're going to implement theChemistry, and Mervin D. Marshall,Fombell, Pa., a research chemist atattitude Christ had when He said.Callery Chemical Company.They also have a communicationwhich will appear in the June issueof The Journal of the AmericanChemical Society reporting for thefirst time "The Opening of the B/10H/10 Cage." This discovery makespossible the production of certainboron - containing high - temperaturestable polymers by a lower cost routethan was previously available.The Patent number 3,320,310 assignedto Callery was issued in May.It covers previously unknown typesof compounds with boron and nitrogenin ring structures.Mr. Marshall, a 1950 graduate ofGeneva and former student of Dr.Adams, did four years of graduatestudy at Pennsylvania State Universitywhere he completed the academicrequirements for his doctorate.His name has been listed on severalpatents, and he has had articles publishedin various scientific journals.Dr. Adams has worked closely witharea industry serving as a consultantto Callery Chemical Company since1952. During 1952, he took a leave ofabsence from Geneva to serve as headof the Theoretical Section and headof Callery's Chemistry Division asResearch Coordinator. He also formerlyserved as a consultant to the MidwestResearch Institute, Kansas City,]yr 0About GenevaPRAYER MEETING TOPICFrom page 221teaching, and good Bible-centered sermons.The second application for thisparable is to ask how we, as individuals,can develop a more effectivecontact with the non-Christian world.Christ's own attitude was that this wasnot an optional matter. In John 10:16He said, "Other sheep I have which arenot of this fold, them also I MUSTbring." Good salesmen know how manycalls must be made before a prospectis located, and how many more beforea sale is completed. Someone has suggestedthat Christ is indicating that 1"Them also I MUST bring." This i*the attitude Andrew showed when, asthe Bible says it, "He brought him(Peter) to Jesus" (John 1:42). Discus?^among yourselves where your best opportunitieshave been in the past andask each person to say where his be.*:'opportunity for the future is to befound. If there are no such contactavailable in your community, then, inthe light of Luke 14:33 perhaps everyonein the church should move toanother community — for Christ':sake. But perhaps there are opportunitieswhich we're not seeking, or nottaking. Be sure to pray for one anotheiin this matter.The third application for this parablewould be to discuss these samepoints in the light of your congreg?tional witness. (1) How much contactdoes our congregational program makuwith non-Christians? How many nou-Christians are in our church services?Sabbath School? Dinners or othersocial programs? Do those who comefeel welcome? Have you heard themspeaking of how God has used you,congregational fellowship to drawthem to Himself in salvation? (2) Wha

L JhsfHelpfulBiblePyMstied57 FEATURES ... 8 GREAT DEPARTMENTS MAKE—THE NEW CHAIN-REFERENCE BIBLEFOURTH IMPROVED EDITIONTruly a Bible PLUS a Biblical Library in ONE VolumeEDITED BY REV. F. C. THOMPSON, D.D., Ph.D.READ WHAT OTHERS SAY:Justice Glenn Terrell, Former Chief Justice of theSupreme Court of Florida: "The inscription over theentrance to the Graduate School Bldg. of the FloridaState University in Tallahassee, Florida, is:'The Half of Knowledge Is to Know Where toFind Knowledge.'The New Chain Reference Bible is the 'Where' tofind the fullest spiritual truths and to gain the mostcomplete knowledge of the Bible in the easiest way.For the past two years I have used the New ChainReference Bible and I have found it the best of themall." Dr. V. K. Edman: "The New Chain ReferenceBible is a most valuable help to me in searching theScriptures as well as in devotional reading. Studytherein is most rewarding." Dr. Harold J. Ockenga:"The New Chain Reference Bible is splendid. 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Correlated Scripturesprinted out in full under 2467 topics and sub-topics.Three times as many as in any other Bible.32. Contrast Study of Great Truths of the Bible. Enablesyou to study the Constructive and DestructiveForces of Life with the Bihle verses printed out in full.'kltrldegreat assistance. It is truly a Bible that should bein every home." Dr. Duke K. McCall: "The New33. Life studies, such as Business Life, HomeLife, etc.34. Bible Stories for Children. A list of 56 stories tobe read from the Bible itself.35. Miracles of both the Old and New Testaments.36. Parables of the Old Testament. Parables of theNew Testament, each Gospel.37. Titles and names of Christ; of the Holy Spirit; ofGod the Father; and of Satan.38. General Bible Prophecies.39. A list of the Prophets of the Bible.40. List of the Judges of Israel and Judah.41. List of the Notable Women of the Bible.42. Mountains and Hills referred to in Bible.43. Dictionary Material.44. 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Covenanter WitnessTo The TruthJESUS CHRIST AS SAVIOUR, LORD, HEAD OF MEN, THE CHURCH AND NATIONS.VOLUMME LXXIX NO. 15 OCTOBER 11, 1967 STERLING, KANSAS 67579BIBLE LESSONS FOR THE WEEK OF NOVEMBER 5, 1967A MA TTER OF THE BEGINNINGTN THINKING of the progress of people in material and spiritualthings the place beginning of each generation must be considered.In the realm of transportation, in the early days of our country onewould be fortunate to have a horse to ride. People walked or went inboats. A little later those who could afford them had carriages, butroads were few and poor and travel was limited. New roads were openedand made passable, bridges or ferries were placed, and buggies andstage coaches multiplied. The automobile was rare fifty years ago,but soon there were many more cars. More and better cars have beendeveloped. The airplane was invented and now we have the fast jets.The point is that each year there has been great improvement inthe making of these things and in their use. Each model began withwhat was learned from the previous model and progress has beenrapid. The same thing can be shown to be true in the progress of science.Each group builds on what has been previously learned.When we think of spiritual progress, why is not this same thingtrue? I think it is because each person begins from the same startingpoint. One is born in sin. All are alike there. There are differences inthe environment into which a child comes and these have muchinfluence in his spiritual progress. The teaching of rehgious truths maybe by better methods, and some make faster progress than others. Onemay yield more readily to learning. This may make for more rapidprogress by one than by another. But the same law does not hold asin material things. One builds much less on the progress made by one'sforbears in spiritual things because he must start at the bottom. Likephysical birth, our spiritual birth begins with infancy and we mustpass through the same cycle of development as those who have^receded us. One is not born a man, to grow from there. One does notoegin with spiritual maturity to go far beyond, to transmit his experiencesto his children. All begin at the same place. There have beenspiritual giants in the past, and will be in the future, but they allbegan at the same place.Associate Reformed Presbyterian

THE COVENANTER WITNESSOfficial organ of the ReformedPresbyterian Church of N. A.— CVAIMfUCALI lAtMOATMNEditor: Rev. M. W. Dougherty, D.D.125 N. 4th StreetSterling, Kansas 67579Phone 316 — Br. 8 - 3472Printed each Wednesday under the supervision of theBoard of Publication by The Patterson Press, Winchester,Kansas 66097.Contributing Editors: Department Editors:Rev. Kenneth Smith Rev. John TweedDr. G. M. RobbMrs. Robert B. MaineRev. John McMillan Mrs. Willis EdgarRev. C. E. Caskey Rev. John K. GaultOpinions expressed in our columns are those of theindividual writer, not necessarily the views of the ReformedPresbyterian Church or the editor.All material to appear in The Covenanter Witnessshould be typewritten, double-spaced, and should be inSterling, Kansas two weeks before it is to be printed.The cost of all pictures is 30 cents per square inch.Obituaries — All words in excess of one hundred fifty,one cent per word. Money should accompany such notices.SUBSCRIPTION RATESIndividual (1 year): U.S. and Canada, $4.00, BritishIsles 35/-, all other places, $5.00;Individual (2 year): U.S. and Canada, $7.00, BritishIsles 63/-, all other places, $9.00;Group: U.S. and Canada, $3.00, British Isles 28/-, allother places, $4.00.9-month student subscription — $1.50; 5-month introductoryoffer —$1.00; 2 gift subscriptions to persons outsideof the R. P. Church — $2.00 each. Single copies, 10c.Subscription Agent for U.S. and Canada: Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Subscription Agent for the British Isles: Rev. HughWright, B.A., 12, Knutsford Drive, Belfast 14, NorthernIreland.All checks should be made payable to The CovenanterWitness in U. S. currency.Give one month's notice of a change of address. Sendboth the new and the old address to Mrs. M.W. Dougherty.Postmaster: Please send Form 3579 to Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Second class postage paid at Winchester, Kansas 66097WE HOLD THE FOLLOWING TO BE TRUTHS OF SCRIPTURE:The Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the only infalliblerule of faith and conduct.The Trinitarian conception of the Godhead.Faith in Jesus Christ as the only way of salvation.Salvation by Grace.Assurance of salvation as a possible Christian experience.The Gospel Call and Election.The Holy Spirit as the Author of regeneration.Sanctification through the cooperating agency of the Holy SpiritThe fact of death and hell as the destiny of the lost and heavenas the destiny of the saved.That the Church of Jesus Christ consists of all those who believein Him together with their children.The Divine Right of the Presbyterian form of Church Government.The Lord Jesus Christ as the only King and Head of His Church.That terms of membership or communion are essential to thewelfare of the Church.Quote -NEW YORK — Six leprosy patients were amongstudents in a recent Penzotti Institute — a Scripturedistribution training course — organized by theBible Society in Paraguay. Penzotti Institutes areheld throughout Latin America. Most courses areconducted in churches, but this one was carried outamong staff and patients at a hospital and a lepers'lazaretto with the patients later distributing Scripturesthroughout the colony.The American Bible Society is the largest of 35national Bible Societies devoted to translating, publishingand distributing Scriptures without note orcomment in 150 countries.This Week's WitnessThe Right Way . . .... 227Glimpses of The Rehgious World 228Baptism . 229Paul Revere Without a Horse 231Mother's Pearl Harbor Day Note 233One More Head Only 234Lesson Helps .... 235Ohio-Illinois Presbyterial 237Scribe With a Hard Pencil . 237Church News 238The duty which rests upon officers to maintain discipline andpreserve the purity of the Church.Spiritual worship as a divine requirement mediated through theLord Jesus Christ.The exclusive use of the Psalms in the worship of the Church.The Protestant interpretation of the Sacraments.The divine right of the institution of Marriage and that it is notto be dissolved except by adultery or "irremediable" desertion.The Sabbath as a day sacred to rest and worship.The duty of nations and their civil rulers to honor Christ asKing of Kings and Lord of Lords.That Christian citizens are under obligation to obey lawful authority.The right and duty of the Christian citizen to dissent from allgovernmental and national disobedience to the Law of God.That the Covenants of the past are still binding.From "The Communicant's Class" by J. B. Tweed226 COVENANTER WITNESS

EditorialComment &Fbut it brings one into a suffering for the consequencesin a physical way. The thief is always infear of getting caught, and often he does getcaught, is tried, convicted and sentenced to a prisonterm. The one who walks in the right way is freeof these things. One who becomes a drunkard learnsthat sin also degrades, brings its victim to do thingswhich he would not think of doing when sober. Onewho is guilty of impurity is also afraid. One whohves a hfe of righteousness avoids the fear and degradation.It is far better.THE RIGHT WAYChrist is our leader in our daily hfe. It pays toThe right way is the way in which God leads follow Him closely. Enoch walked with God and heus. In one place the Psalmist says, "He led themforth by the right way." As we are yet early in thisnew year we wish to be led of God in the right way.We want to yield ourselves to God's leading.The right way is not an easy way. Jesus toldthe disciples that they would suffer persecution,being dehvered up to the synagogues, into prisons,and also would be brought before kings and rulersfor the sake of Christ. It is thought that only oneof the apostles died a natural death. All of themsuffered persecution. As Paul sought to encouragethe new Christians who had believed as a result ofhis missionary efforts, he told them plainly, "Wemust through much tribulation enter into the Kingdomwas greatly blessed. Peter followed afar off andsoon got into trouble, denying his Lord. He got offthe way. When a train gets off the track it is in badshape. It accomplishes nothing constructive untilit is again placed on its track.The right way, the way of Christ, leads tothe heavenly home. That is where Christ went, andHe wants His people to be where He is. That wasthe purpose of His great sacrifice, to get His peopleon the right track, turned in the right direction. Hegoes before us as a shepherd before his sheep, leadingand guiding, protecting and providing. Let usfollow Him closely, lovingly, obediently.Associate Reformed Presbyterianof God." He himself suffered greatly, in beat­ings, imprisonments, stoning, shipwrecks, journeyings,perils of robbers, weariness, hunger andSENIOR HIGH STUDENTS NOTICEthirst, cold and nakedness.Senior high students are urged to look closely atNor should this be surprising. Think of whatthe back page of this issue. Synod's Committee isChrist suffered for our sakes, humiliation of becomingman, Hving in a sinful world, being mocked andgiving you an opportunity to learn more about someof the voluntary handicaps confronting many ofdishonored, beaten, and at last crucified, a mostyour age. It is an opportunity to pass this knowledgeshameful death, all for us. We need not expect theon to others. You may also earn some money thatright way to be an easy way.always comes in handy in your college days.This right way for most Christians is a longWrite to the committee to find what you areway, lasting as long as we live. We must ever beto do.— Editoralert for the attacks of Satan, for his temptationsto lead us astray. It may also be a lonely way.Christ was in the wilderness before and during Histemptation. There are many who enter into the GLIMPSES OF THE RELIGIOUSbroad way and the wide gate which lead to destruction,From page 228WORLDbut few they are who enter into thestrait gate and narrow way which leads to life.Each new arrival is a study in hopelessness.Homes are gone, along with all but the most meagerBut God's way is always the best way. It is possessions. Many famihes struggle through thethe way of Christ, who declared, "I am the way." Itis the wav of holiness of life. Sin ensnares. Itcauses suffering, not only a suffering of conscience,burning sun for days to reach the haven of therefugee camps. It is imperative that they findshelter and provision when they arrive.OCTOBER 11, 1967 227

Glimpses of the Religious WorldTHE REV. JOHN McMILLANR. D. 1, Box 337WALDEN, NEW YORKSENATOR KENNEDY ASSAILS THE CIGARETTEINDUSTRYSenator Robert F. Kennedy, speaking before theFirst World Conference on Smoking and Health,has charged the cigarette industry with peddling adeadly weapon, and dealing in people's hves forfinancial gain.The New York Times quoted the New Yorksenator as saying that each year ''cigarettes killfive times more Americans than do traffic accidents.Lung cancer alone kills as many as die on theroad." The senator even went so far as to suggestthat if it were not for the "tremendous economicpower of producers," the sale of cigarettes wouldhave been banned years ago. He accused the industryof demonstrating a "total inattention to publicresponsibility."The World Conference, which opened on September11 at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New YorkCity, heard Senator Kennedy outline the contentsof three bills which he was introducing in Congress.Two of the bills would extend the government'sregulation of cigarette advertising, and the thirdwould tax cigarettes according to their tar andnicotine content.We have heard that a senator from NorthCarolina has replied to the charges of the senatorfrom New York by challenging him to show thesame agitation over the lack of pubhc responsibihtyon the part of the hquor industry."CATHOLIC PROTESTANTS AND PROTESTANTCATHOLICS"(EP) A noted church historian told a group ofLutheran pastors in Portland, Oregon that "Protestantsare becoming Cathohc and Catholics are goingProtestant."Dr. Roland H. Bainton, a United Church ofChrist clergyman and retired professor from theYale University Divinity School, said, only partlyin jest, that "if both sides keep on going, they mayfind themselves as far apart as ever, but in oppositedirections."A swap in the characteristics of worship servicesis going on, the authority on the interpretation ofthe Reformation said, claiming that Cathohc ritesare becoming more hke Protestant services andProtestants imitating the Cathohc Mass."I've seen the trend at weddings as well asSunday services," he said. "We may have Presbyterianssaying Mass in Latin if we give them time tolearn Latin.""Congregations of the Calvinist tradition, whichformerly emphasized the sermon, in many caseshave divided chancels with emphasis on the cross.Many of the ministers turn their backs on theircongregations."NEW BIBLE IN NAMA COMPLETED(R. E. S. News-Exchange) On April 18 the firstcomplete Bible in the Nama language of South WestAfrica was presented in Capetown. This 241st completeBible translation has one of the longest translationhistories. Nama was the first language inSouthern Africa into which the four Gospels weretranslated. This occurred in 1826, but because ofinstability in the area then the first 300 copies werenot printed until 1831.The complete Bible has been translated by Mr.F. Ponninghaus of the Rhineland Mission Society.Success crowns his work 141 years after the firstportion appeared.CHURCHES RUSH RELIEF SHIPMENTS TO THEMIDDLE EASTAccording to an article appearing in the ChurchHerald, the recent war in the Middle East has addedan estimated 100,000 new refugees to the milhonalready in camps.Large shipments have been rushed to the MiddleEast by Church World Service, depleting the fundswhich have been earmarked for emergency. OnJune 23, 1,500 blankets, one ton of powdered milk,two million pills, and a supply of clothing wereflown from New York to Jordan. The followingweek, 62 tons of food and 11 tons of blankets andbedding were shipped from Greece. Increasing a-mounts of these bare necessities will be needed asrefugees continue to pour into the camps.See page 227228 COVENANTER WITNESS

The Subjects Of BaptismBy Rev. J. G. Vos, D. D.Continued From September 27, 1967Anti-pedobaptists interpret the silence of theNew Testament and of Polycarp, Ignatius andPapias on the question of infant baptism as evidencethat the practice did not exist in their day. But thesilence may equally well be interpreted as implyingthat infant baptism was prevalent and unchallengedby opposition or controversy in their day. People donot write in defence of doctrines or practices whichare generally accepted. Paul argued in favor of theresurrection in his First Epistle to the Corinthiansbecause a party in the Church of Corinth denied theresurrection. His lack of argument about the resurrectionin the Epistle to the Galatians does not indicatethat Paul thought the resurrection unimportant,far less that he doubted or denied it, but only thatthere was no occasion to argue with the Galatiansabout it, for they fully accepted it.Similarly, the lack of exphcit reference to pedobaptismin the New Testament does not necessarilyimply the absence of the doctrine or the practice. Itmay equally well imply the prevalence of the doctrineand the practice. The anti-pedobaptist, in otherwords, fails to take the occasional character of theNew Testament writings into account.While we are dealing with this matter of argumentfrom silence, we may note in passing aninteresting point brought out by Donald Baillie inThe Theology of the Sacraments (New York, 1957,p. 84) when he says:"It seems very unhkely that in New Testamenttimes adult baptism was ever administered to personswho had been born of Christian parents; eitherthey were baptized in infancy or it was consideredunnecessary for them to be baptized at all."When our Baptist brethren chaUenge us to pointout a clear case of infant baptism in the New Testament,we might reply by challenging them to pointout a single case of adult baptism being administeredOCTOBER 11, 1967to a person born of Christian parents. On the Baptistassumptions there must have been many hundredsof such cases before the end of the New Testament.Yet there is no instance of it, nor a word of instructionabout it in any part of the New Testament.Admittedly, silence proves nothing, but if we are todeal in arguments from silence, it would seem evenmore difficult to account for silence of the NewTestament about adult baptisms of second generationChristians, than it is to account for its silenceabout infant baptisms of the children of behevers.Ifit was the practice for the children of Christianparents to receive adult baptism on reaching maturityor adolescence, is it not passing strange that inthe Pastoral Epistles there is not a word of instructionas to the proper age and qualifications for theadministration of the ordinance?May I suggest that pedobaptists have in the pastoften greatly weakened their case by allowing theanti-pedobaptist to make the rules for the debate,and the anti-pedobaptist has made rules which areimproper because they are not applicable to thediscussion of Christian truth as a whole. The antipedobaptisthas made special rules of controversywhich give him an improper advantage. The demandthat everything be based solely upon explicit Scripturewarrant, and the consequent limiting of thedebate to an argument from alleged silence plus theconsideration of the relevance of ambiguous prooftexts,is an improper demand. The Christian Churchthroughout its history, in studying the Scripture anddefining doctrine after doctrine, has not operatedunder such rules as these. Nor does the anti-pedobaptisthimself operate under these rules, exceptin dealing with the subject of baptism.So much for the improper method insisted uponby anti-pedobaptists. Rejecting this wrong method,what is the right method for determining the issue— what are the real roots or bases of infant baptismin the Bible?229

Infant baptism, properly considered, is an implicationof two doc'rines of the Bible — the doctrineof the Visible Church, and the doctrine of theCovenant of Grace.It is not at all surprising that those sections ofthe historically Reformed denominations in whichthe Reformed doctrines of the Visible Church andthe Covenant of Grace are neglected or are notemphasized, are precisely the ones in which infantbaptism is at present widely suspect as unscriptural.Any church which is weak on the Bibhcal doctrineof the Visible Church and the doctrine of theCovenant of Grace is bound to become weak andunsure on the question of infant baptism. The sameis true of the individual Christian. Any Christianwho lacks intelligent conviction of the truth of theBiblical doctrine of the Visible Church and thedoctrine of the Covenant of Grace is bound to becomeweak, hesitating and unsure on the questionof infant baptism.For infant baptism is a coroUary of the twodoctrines mentioned. It is imphcit in them, and itis properly derived from them by inference. Nochurch and no Christian can be any stronger orsounder on infant baptism than he is on the Biblicaldoctrines of the Visible Church and the Covenantof Grace.This may suggest why there is so much weaknessand questioning about infant baptism today indenominations which formerly held it firmly. Itmay well be that in these denominations there hasbeen a gradual but nevertheless real shift from thehistoric Reformed and Biblical doctrines of theChurch and the Covenant, and that this has involved,as its inevitable consequence, a weakeningand in some cases almost a rejection of infantbaptism.It is no accident that in the Westminster Confessionof Faith and other historic Reformed creedsinfant baptism is coupled with a specifically Reformeddoctrine of the Church and the Covenant.And it is no mere coincidence that when the Reformeddoctrines of the Church and the Covenant arelost or obscured, infant baptism is lost or obscuredwith them. They are organically connected and theystand or fall together.In many churches which traditionaUy and officiallyhold the Reformed theology, this theologyhas been virtually replaced by a more inclusiveevangehcahsm which involves different assumptionsand has quite different affinities. In a good manycases the theology of the Westminster Confessionhas given way to the theology of the popular Bibleinstitutes, evangehcal press and mass evangehsm ofour day. While generalizations are perilous, it maybe safe to say that this change involves a shift fromemphasis on the Visible Church to emphasis on theInvisible Church, from the Reformed Theology toArminianism, and from the organic covenant conceptof the Bible to an unscriptural individualism.In some of the larger nominally Reformeddenominations, indeed, the shift has gone muchfarther — it has been a shift from Reformed viewsto hberal and neo-orthodox views in which religiousauthority is regarded as essentially subjective ratherthan objective. Where this has happened, debateabout the propriety of infant baptism has becomelargely irrelevant.We are concerned, however, with bodies inwhich the shift has been from a strictly Reformedview to a more general evangehcahsm. As alreadystated, this has inevitably weakened the church'sgrip on the doctrine and practice of infant baptism.The fact that this shift has occurred only very slowlymay explain why the change, though real, has beenimperceptible.The result of this shift has been that manypeople have come to doubt and question the proprietyof pedobaptism, some rejecting it altogetherand others retaining it as a mere matter of form orcustom while entertaining grave doubts as to itsScriptural character. It can hardly be questionedthat infant baptism is often practiced today on amerely traditional basis, without conviction of itsScriptural character and without attempt to defendit on a Biblical basis.The two largest sectors of American Protestantismare the Methodists and the Baptists. Thesehave been extremely influential, and there is scarcelya denomination of historically Reformed characterthat has not been strongly influenced by them. It hasbeen remarked that most American Presbyteriansthat are not liberals are either Methodists or Baptists.There is truth in this. In fact it could even be saidthat a good many people who are supposed to holdthe historic Reformed position are both Methodistsand Baptists — they have been strongly influencedby the experience-centered and decision-centeredtheology of the Methodists, and also by the individualistic,non-covenantal church-concept of the Baptists.230 COVENANTER WITNESS

Those who have been influenced in the waysjust described are unable to resist or answer theconfident polemic of anti-pedobaptists. Lacking aclear knowledge and strong conviction of the Reformedtheology, they are unable to defend infantbaptism in a sound manner by showing its organicconnection with the Reformed and Biblical view ofthe Church and the Covenant. Too often the resultis that they feel that the anti-pedobaptist positionis unanswerable; or else they make an ineffectualattempt to answer it by the faulty method of appealto proof-texts alone. The anti-pedobaptist seemsable to provide plausible answers to all argumentsbased on such proof-texts, with the result that theembattled pedo-baptist is left with the frustratedfeeling that infant baptism is something that he issupposed to adhere to, but cannot really defend asScriptural.To be continued next issue.Paul Revere Without A Horseby James L. JohnsonMr. Johnson is Executive Secretary ofEvangelical Literature Overseas.How far would the Revolutionary War havegone in America's favor if Paul Revere didn't havea horse?It was one thing to flash "one if by land, twoif by sea" from a church belfry. But that was hmitedcommunication. To get a countryside — even thenation — aroused to the Revolutionary hour meantgetting mobile. The hour called for speed, thethunder of excitement, the flying messenger offreedom whose raucous voice smashed open slumberingAmerica to its hour of destiny. But supposePaul had to walk it? It would have been a long anddisastrous day indeed — for time would have beenthe victor.So the church today cries, "What we need isanother good old Paul Revere!" Someone to championthe cause of Christ, ride the night winds acrossa darkened America and the world, shouting theGood News that freedom is already here in theperson of Jesus Christ.Well, Paul Revere is here — he's been here sincethe 15th Century. The trouble is, he's still walking— there's no horse under him. The church hasn'tyet put one under him.October is Protestant Press Month. On October15, thousands of churches will observe World LiteratureSunday. The Christian world will be confrontedwith their Paul Revere — yet on foot. That PaulRevere is the printing press. That noisy, flashing,banging thing most Christians have never seen —but which has done more to shape men's minds andOCTOBER 11, 1967alter geography than any other single invention ofman.It is no exaggeration, forinstance, that NapoleonBonaparte "feared one newspaper more than athousand bayonets." For he knew what that welltimed clarion of truth could do to undermine hisempire, even while his armies were victorious.Karl Marx never dreamed that what he wroteso furiously in an attic in the mid-nineteenth centurywould be snatched up and "galloped" across theworld on the back of the same, squeaky, grindingbundle of ink-splattered bailing-wire called the printingpress. And never did he dream that his CommunistManifesto would pass through so many hands,change so many lives and later so much territory.Hitler's dream of a new Germany was scribbledon some wrapping paper behind prison walls — itremained wrapping paper until it vaulted into thesaddle of moveable type. From that came the book,George Wish art's executioner asked forgiveness,to whom he replied, "Come hither to me"; andwhen he came, he kissed his cheek, and said, "Lo,here is a token that I forgive thee; do thine office."Some time in March 1546, George Wishart at theage of 33 received the martyr's crown. John Knoxwas one of his faithful followers. What an influenceWishart had on John Knox, the man who was to doso much for the cause of Christ in Scotland, andthroughout the world.231

"Mein Kampf," and the Third Reich was born —and the scars left from that horrible era are stillvisible on millions of people.And while the church sings "A Mighty Fortressis Our God" during October, the sound of that old,squeaky, tired thing called a printing press willprobably come through too. For the church has hadits chronicle written in ink as well.When Martin Luther became convinced that thechurch needed ventilating by the Word of God, hechose the written word to start the fires of spiritualrevolution.When Calvin reahzed that his principles ofDivine order should be paramount in society, hechose the written word to declare it — and onceagain the smell of ink filled the air, and out came"Calvin's Institutes."Take a roll call of the saints who ht their ownspiritual fires in the past, and you'll find themgrabbing the saddle horn of the press to get vaultedinto the main stream of society.Today the world is covered with the haze ofsmoke from a thousand revolutionary fires. Thesparks flying from those fires are pieces of paper onwhich are written the words that call the impoverished,the forsaken, the lonely, the frustrated, thedying to a new order. Those sparks are falling ondry tinder, and every day, every month and year,there is a new outbreak of human flame clawing itsway to some glimpse of promise.That's why in one West African city highschool, kids spend the nights downtown readingunder street lamps — they know that time is noton their side and it's "what you know that counts."That's why commuters on their way home inBuenos Aires, Argentina, are loaded down withmagazines and newspapers — they are not lookingto a night in front of the "telly;" to them, readingis life, and their whole future is tied to it.That's why The Reader's Digest boasts of fivemillion subscriptions in Brazil alone, a country thatsomeone once said does not take to subscriptionbuying.That's why Russia will spend 5.4 billion thisyear on literature, because the printed page is anambassador without portfolio, roaming at largeand hitting with terrific impact on the restive massescaught in the revolutionary steam roller of our times.That's why Hugh Hefner is a kind of king in hisown right, for he built an empire of sex withoutreally trying very hard; for he had the most naturalmedium in which to expose and exploit it, themagazine.And that's why the most populated place on aSaturday afternoon in any village or city in Americais the corner drug store — for there you can seethe future generation "thumbing their way throughcollege" at the magazine and book rack.So, is the church standing still? Not entirely.The Paul Revere, the Church press is doing its beston foot. But it's a man with ten fingers trying toplug fifty holes in the dyke or fighting a prairiefire with a one-man bucket brigade.The fact is, this Paul Revere has to have ahorse under him. This Paul Revere of the churchis tired of walking — he wants to gallop. And neverwas there the moment in church history when therevolutionary message of the new life in Christneeded a thundering prophet in the night as now.What will it demand? One, perhaps a changeof attitude. Are we of the church still pinching ournose at the smell of printing ink? Still coughingdelicately into cur handkershiefs over the smokefrom a hot linotype? Still backing off from thenoisy chatter of presses ripping off the page that gointo the spiritual revolutionary of today? Well,nobody ever went into battle and won by ignoringthe weapons of warfare or wincing at the smell ofcordite. Maybe, too, this Protestant Press Monthand World Literature Sunday will cause a changein activity with regard to this Paul Revere if weexpect to get this horse under him. It may be thatreading will take a new place in our hves and thatof our children; it may be that we will take a betterlook at the potential writers and editors among ourchildren and be less careless about stimulating theirgifts to become sharp for God.Most of all, maybe the church literaure we getso cheaply may become of more significance thanscrap pads, doodle boards and what we carelesslydump out of Gospel Blimps and sweep out of washrooms.No, to put this horse under the church's PaulRevere will take more than passive acceptance ofPaul himself; toleration of the press as a peripheralinstrument that comes second to the spoken wordis simply asking for second best in the winners hstof today's revolutionaries.It will demand of the entire church a new respectfor Habakkuk's categorical imperative when hesaid: "Write the vision and make it plain, that hemay run that readeth it" (2:2).The question is, then: Will our Paul Reverestay on foot or shall we put wings to his cause?232 COVENANTER WITNESS

Our YouthMother's Pearl Harbor Day NoteIs Still Timely for Viet ConflictAn updated version of "A Mother'sLetter on War," which appeared inTHE SUNDAY SCHOOL TIMES ofJanuary 24, 1942.The letter, later reprinted in tractform, was written by a North Carolinamother on the afternoon of December7, 1941 Pearl Harbor Day.As she heard the news from thePacific, she had an overwhelming urgeto write to each of her four children— a son in business, a daughter trainingto be a nurse (a military nurse,she suspected), a married daughter,and her youngest son, who was thenin the Army.With the war in Vietnam rapidlyescalating, we feel the letter has someprofitable present-day applications toChristians in and out of the service.Editors of Sunday Times"We Christians in America find ourselvessuddenly in the midst of war.The first thing for us to do is to settleour own hearts about it — to decideby God's Word and by His Holy Spiritwhat we are going to think and doabout it. For many will be watching us.Some — troubled, fearful, later bereaved,and not having our Anchorand Teacher — will be asking usquestions out of their ignorance andperplexity."As a mother who is not only aChristian, but a teacher of public Bibleclasses, I felt I should write to youchildren... what God through HisWord speaks to my heart about itall...."First, we must understand Godabout it. By that I mean we must seewhat His Word teaches. We learn fromit that God does not stir up wars;Satan does that (cf. Rev. 16:13-16). ButGod permits wars and uses them toOCTOBER 11, 1967punish idolatrous, God-hating nations."The United States is far — veryfar — from being a Christian nation.And we cannot claim God's protectionfor the nation as a whole, which sosorely needs tabulation to turn heartsback to God. But we can, I believe,ask Him not to let the anti-God nationsdefeat at this time nations ...which defend the Gospel and protectmissionary endeavor...."Second, we must trust God aboutthis war — trust Him that we need'not be afraid of evil tidings' if our'heart is fixed, trusting in the Lord.'How comforting it was to hear theother day that an editorial in one ofthe country s great dailies closed byquoting that very verse — Psalm 112:7!"We must trust Him that we need'not be afraid for the terror by night;nor for the arrow (bullet) that fliethby day; nor for the pestilence thatwalketh in darkness,' for ourselves orour loved ones — yes, even our lovedones in the danger zone."We must hear Him say to ourhearts, 'Why are ye fearful?' and 'Looknot around thee' — that is, look notat circumstances, but look up. We musttrust Him that there is no 'dangerzone' in the will of God, that our timesare in His hand; that, if it be His willto protect us from bodily harm, wehere and our loved ones yonder arejust as safe on or under a bomber asin bed at home."And that brings us to the nextpoint: We must believe God. For atonce comes the question, 'W T hat if it isnot His will to protect that seivicemanfrom sudden death?'"The answer is that we claim tobelieve our Bibles, and there we readthat to depart and be with Christ isfar better. Do we really believe that?Are we ready to say when casualtylists come out (and how the worlddodges the thought of death!), 'He isfar better off; I rejoice that he hasgone to be with the Lord'?"If we are not ready to say thisalas, how frail is our faith, how dimour vision of that region of glory,beauty, and safety above! Then let usschool our hearts to this thought,beginning on our knees today. But ifthe loved one is not saved, we mustmore earnestly pray to God and morelovingly beseech that one, that heturn to the Lord in repentance, faith,and confession of Him today 'whileit is called today.'"Lastly, what shall we do, in positiveaction, about this war? We shallseive and sacrifice tor our country.We Christians. . who in one sensehave our citizenship in heaven, rejoicewhile we live in the body that we alsoare citizens of no mean country."Yet we must be foremost in calmly,diligently doing all in our power tohelp win the war, to comfort andstrengthen the fearful and bereaved;to get the Gospels to the draftees incamps and to the men already at thefront; to pray for them; to pray forthose in authority; to show ourselvesgood soldiers of Christ Jesus; in short,by heavenly wisdom, by unfalteiingtrust, and by unfailing obedience, toseek more than ever to 'shine as lightsir. the world; holding forth the worldOi life.'"May the Lord be with you andbkis you each, in the shop, in thehospital, in the home, in the barracks.Pray for one another and yourparents.'MotherThe Sunday Times233

APage For Junior HighsOne More Head Onlyby Ian R. AndersonThe Story is told all over Taiwan(Formosa) of a hero named Wu Feng,who lived about a hundred years ago.He was sent by the Emperor to livehigh up in the mountains of Taiwan,where he was to subdue the wildtribesmen and keep them in order.Wu Feng was a strict ruler whopunished the tribesmen when theydid wrong, but he was also just andfair. Because he was kind to them,the tribespeople loved him and thoughthighly of him. They would do almostanything he asked them to do. Butthere was one thing they would notdo, even for Wu Feng.They had a very wicked custom.Once every year they would swoopdown from the mountains and cut offthe head of the first man they saw.Then they offered the head of thedead man as a sacrifice to their gods.Wu Feng tried to talk sense into them."You shouldn't kill people like that,"he said. "It is sinful and unreasonable."But they would not listen to him.Then he tried threats: "If you doit any more I shall punish you severely,"he said.But it didn't make any difference.They still carried on with their wickedcustom.One day Wu Feng received a letterfrom the Emperor. "Unless this headhuntingstops," the letter said, "youwill be brought back to the mainlandin disgrace."By this time Wu Feng was seventyoneyears old. Sadly and wearily hecalled the chiefs together for a meeting.He had a plan to discuss withthem, but he was not sure it wouldwork."Honourable chiefs," he began, "Itried to be a kind and just ruler, butyou still will not obey me, for you goon with your head-hunting. Now listen:this thing must stop! Do you understand?""But we have been doing this forhundreds of years," the chiefs argued,"and it is not easy to break off acustom as old and strong as this one.""I know you have been doing itfor a long time," Wu Feng agreed,"and that it is hard for you to stopit entirely. So I shall allow you onemore head — only one more; it is tobe the very last.""Explain what you mean," thechiefs demanded."Tomorrow night after sunset, andbefore the moon rises over Sun MoonMountain, you are to go to the crossroadsnear a village I shall name.Wait there and as the moon begins toshine, you will see a man dressed inwhite walking toward the crossroads.He will be your last victim. You maybehead him, but, after that, your oldcustom is to stop."The chiefs agreed to this and wenthome to get ready. A grand feast wasprepared to follow the ceremony,while they all put on their most gorgeouscostumes and went to hide inthe bamboo grove near the desertedcrossroads. There they waited untilthe sun set and darkness closed in onthem.A few moments later the first shaftsof moonlight shot over the shoulderwas to be placed on this pole whilethey feasted."Here's the head," shouted one ofthe tribesmen, handing it to the bigchief so he could carry it to beinspected in the light of the fire.But all at once the singing andshouting stopped, and there was agreat hush. It was so quiet you couldhave heard the rustle of a leaf. Alleyes were turned to the dead face ofthe man they had killed, and everyman was shocked by what he saw.Their victim was no other than theirgood, kind friend, Wu Feng. There wasa smile on his still lips, and he lookedcalm and peaceful, as if he had notbeen afraid to die.The tribesmen looked at one a-nother in dumb amazement. What hadthey done? Without knowing it, theyhad killed their best friend! All thethrill and excitement of head-huntinghad gone, and they could not makemerry any more that night. For thefirst time in their lives, they weresorry, they had taken a man's head.Now they could see how terribly wrongit was and they swore never to do itagain.When the Lord Jesus wanted toshow us how sinful we were, He laiddown His life for us. Men nailed Himto a cruel cross because they did notrecognise who He was. Not only thoseof Sun Moon Mountain, and in itsdim light they saw a figure in whitewalking slowly toward the cross-roads.It was very still and the tribesmen's who nailed Him to the cross were234hearts racing with excitement, soundedlike thunder in their ears. At a signalthey all rushed out, screaming andshouting as if charging into battle.There was the flash of moonlight onsteel as one of the chiefs raised hisaxe and cut off the head of the lonestranger.Still yelling and shouting their warcries, they ran up the narrow paths tothe shores of Sun Moon Lake, wherethe feast was spread, carrying theirgo:y trophy with them. A great bonfirewas already blazing to welcome themas they approached. Beside the feasttables a pole was set up in the ground,in front of their big chief. The headsinners. Every time you and I sin itis as if we put Him to death. That isGod's way of teaching us the awfulnessof sin. It cost the life of His dear Son.The death of Christ on the crossshows us, too, God's great love for us.It was not enough to tell us in words.He had to do something or we wouldnot have believed Him. Jesus Christdid not choose the easy way. He chosethe hardest way and shed His bloodto melt out cold, hard hearts. He diedto turn us away from our sin to God."God commendeth his love towardus, in that, while we were yet sinners,Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8).— The MillionsCOVENANTER WITNESS

j Lesson Helps for the Week of November 5,1967 Jl_ „___„. _____o__»_ *Sabbath SchoolLesson.for November 5, 1967GOD SPEAKS THROUGH TRAGEDY:Hosea 1-3; 8:1-3.Comments by John K. Gault,Hosea was the first of the socalled"minor prophets," but his prophecyfollowed that of Amos chronologically.The probable dates of Hosea'sprophetic ministry were from 743 to737 B. C. This prophet was the son ofBeeri, of whom nothing is known,and the rulers were "Uzziah, Jotham,Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judahand in the days of Jeroboam the sonof Joash, king of Israel." His ministry,therefore, was performed during thefinal years of the kingdom of Israel.1: The Relationship of God toIsrael was Symbolized by That ofHosea to Gomer.Hosea was commanded by God togo and "take a wife of whoredoms."There is the question whether thewoman was a harlot before Hosea marriedher or became one after theywere married. But it is evident thatGomer was like her own people whohad departed from their God.God chose Israel out of all thenations of the earth. He had establishedHis covenant with them, and thus,symbolically, Israel as a nation, wasmarried to God. This is the way itis with the spiritual Israel which hastaken the place of the physical Israel;she is married to Christ. (Read 2:18-20)Marriage has ever been a sign of a covenant.Jesus reemphasized what hadbeen said at the beginning, when Hesaid in Matthew 19:4-6, "For this causeshall a man leave his father and mother,and shall cleave to his wife: andthey twain shall be one flesh."2: The Love of God for Israel wasSymbolized by Hosea's Love forGomer.This is explained in 3:1-3, "Then theLord said unto me, Go yet, love awoman of her friend, yet an adulteress,OCTOBER 11, 1967according to the love of the Lordtoward the children of Israel, wholook to other gods, and love flagonsoi wine. So I bought her to me forfifteen pieces of silver, and for anhomer of barley, and a half homer ofbailey: And I said unto her, thou shaltabide for me many days: thou shalt notplay the harlot, and thou shalt notbe for another man: so will I alsobe for thee."God loved Israel, His people whomHe had chosen. Jeremiah said in 31:3,"The Lord hath appeared of old untome, saying, Yea, I have loved theewith an everlasting love: thereforewith lovingkindness have I drawnthee." The love of God for lost sinnersis the predominat theme of His Word.The prodigal son, about whom Jesustells, asked for his share of his father'sestate, ahead of time. Having receivedit he went into the "far country"where, according to what the olderbrother said, "he wasted his substancewith harlots." But the father neverceased to love his wayward son andhe received him with open arms when"he came to himself" and returned tothe father's house.3: The Apostasy of Israel WasSymbolized by Gomer's Departingf om Hosea to Become a Harlot.In 2:2,5 the prophet said, to hischildren, "Plead with your mother,plead: for she is not my wife, neitheram I her husband: let her thereforeput away her whoredoms out of hersight, — For their mother hath playedthe harlot: she that conceived themhath done shamefully: for she said,I will go after my lovers, that giveme my b.ead and my water, my wooland my flax, mine oil and my drink."Adultery was a common sin in Israel.It is a sign of unfaithfulness of eitherwife or husband. Jesus said that it wasunlawful for a man to put away hiswife, "except it be for fornication."Sin in general is likened to adulterybecause it indicates unfaithfulness toGod. Wickedness is indeed a spiritualprostitution, and Israel was guiltyof that very practice.God used the prostitution of Gomeras an object lesson in order to convinceHosea of the seriousness ofIsrael's situation. It was indeed a mostrevolting thought for a wife to leaveher husband and children and becomea common harlot of the street. So nowHosea saw Isreal in a most revoltinglight. The people whom God had chosenand delivered from the hard lifeof Egypt had rebelled against theirloving benefactor and had become idolworshipers. With this exceedingly painfulexperience with an unfaithful wifeGod prepared Hosea to go before Hispeople with the loud and forcefulwarning, as He said in 8:1, "Set thet umpet to thy mouth. He shall comeas an eagle against the house of theLord, because they have transgressedmy covenant, and trespassed againstmy law."This prophecy of Hosea can beapplied to all the nations of the worldtoday. In departing from God and living£OJ the world, the flesh and thedevil, they have committed the mostln.Ieous of all offenses. Destructionis sure to fall upon all nations whichforget God, and this message should besounded out in as loud and forcefula manner as possible."Lesson based on International SundaySchool Lessons: the International Bible Lessonsfor Christian Teaching, copyrighted 1963by the Division of Christian. Education, NationalCouncil of Churches of Christ in theU.S.A."Junior Topicfor November 5, 1967SHARINGProverbs 3:9,10; 11:24-26; 14:21; 19:17;22:19.No lesson material has arrived.Each sponsor will have to work outhis own meeting from the topic andreferences given.Verily, verily, I say unto you, H(that believeth on me, the works that Ido shall he do also; and greater worksthan these shall he do; because I gounto my Father. John 14:12.235

Prayer MeetingTopicfor November 8, 1967OPENING THE DOORRev. Robert McCrackenScripture: Revelation 3:7,8; Ephesians6:18-20Psalms: 67, w. 1-3, p. 161; 118, w. 13-15, p. 285; 66, w. 8, 12, 13, p. 158.We are to concentrate this meetingon the matter of the actual approachto the non-Christian with the gospel ofChrist. This seems to be where evangelismbreaks down. We discuss it inChristian meetings, and we pray aboutit in our private closet, but out in thework-a-day world, we are hesitant tomake an approach. So all the theorywe learn on the subject remains theory.To begin the meeting you mightask your group if any have had opportunityto share the "good news"during the past few weeks, and ifthey have, to explain how the approachwas made, or how the "opening" cameto them.There can be no question about thefact that God alone "opens the door"of the heart to the gospel. We read inRevelation 3:7, "He has the key ofDavid, He openeth and no man shutteth;and shutteth and no man openeth."Still the responsibility rests uponus to discover those "doors" that Godis opening. God told Paul at Corinth,"Be not afraid, but speak, and holdnot thy peace; for I am with thee,and no man shall set on thee to hurtB. Anytime a non-Christian asks a"religious" question.C. Times of crisis when you offerto help.D. Casual contacts when you havetime to visit, and talk, etc.Another question that might logicallyfollow is: "Should you ever tryto purposely "open the door" so youcan present the gospel? Assuming theanswer is yes, next discuss how thismight be done.Rev. C. S. Lovett suggests the useof three questions which will inevitablydirect the discussion to a presentationof the gospel. They are:1. Are you interested in spiritualthings?2. Have you ever thought about becominga real Christian?3. If someone were to ask you,"What is a real Christian?" howwould you answer?This use of questions to "open thedoor" to a discussion has Scripturalprecedent. It is precisely the wayPhilip began with the Ethiopianeunuch. (Acts 8:30) It might be wellto look at this passage together.Dr. Walter L. Wilson, M. D. hascompiled a list of some 26 questionsthat might be asked an unsaved personas a springboard to discussing thegospel. Some samples are as follows:Would God be just if He punishedyou?How good must one be to be saved?Is God satisfied with your religion?Why should God take you toheaven?The important thing in any approachof this kind, is to be natural. PaulLet us pray for and seek "opendoors," and then by the grace of Godopen our mouths and tell the goodnews of Christ.Just before your prayer time, haveeach one in your group suggest wherethey might find an "open door" beforethe coming Sabbath. (This could be amost refreshing part of your meeting).Then in your prayer time ask Godspecifically to help you enter intothese open doors.Prayer Suggestions:Pray that each one might find anopen door before Sabbath.Pray that God will "open YOURmouth boldly to make known themystery of the gospel."Pray that as efforts are made toaccept this challenge, God will givepositive results to His glory.OHIO-ILLINOIS PRESBYTERIALMEETS AT COVENANT COLLEGEThe second meeting of the jointmeeting Ohio-Illinois Women's Presbyterialwas held at the time of theCovfamikoi Conference at LookoutMountain, Tennessee on August 14-17.The meeting was held for one houron four consecutive days. The devotionaltheme each day related to thegeneral conference theme: "The JustShall Live by Faith."On Monday, August 14, the devotionalwas conducted by Miss EleanorWilson of Sparta. Her theme was"Faith in Jesus Christ," Romans 1:16-17.In the president's address, Mrs.James Dixon of Bloomington emphasizedOur Confession of Faith, callingattention to our order of worship —Deut. 12:32, and our witness to andthrough Jesus Christ.Greetings from the Women's Synodicalwere brought by the president,Mrs. John O. Edgar, who was presentfor the conference. She emphasizedSynodical's goals and projects as follows:1. The paying of expenses for singlemissionaries.2. Continuation of the projects forJapan and Cyprus.3. Prayer and letters for specialmissionaries.4. Contribution of articles to thepage for women in the Witness.Presbyterial members were askedto pray especially for Mrs. Pennington,Miss Lynn, and Miss Everett; also forRev. J. Paul McCracken who has beenthee; for I have much people in this Little of Inter-Varsity says, "We mustcity" (Acts 18:9,10). God told Paul learn to become aggressive withoutthere were people in that town whomHe was going to save, but He didn'tgive their addresses. God would openthe doors, but Paul would have to seekout those open doors.We can assume without doubt thatGod has "much people" in your townbeing obnoxious."In this matter of "opening thedoor," no doubt the first door thatneeds opening is the "door of ourown lips." Too many of us are spirituallytongue-tied. Satan applies all hismight to keep our mouths shut. Readalso that He is going to save, but you carefully the passage in Ephesians 6:too must seek them out. You too mustfind the open doors, and enter intothem.To stimulate some discussion onthis matter, ask: "What in your opinionconstitutes an open door?"Answers might include such thingsas:18-20. If the greatest missionary of alltime had to request prayer that Godwould "open his mouth," this shouldbe a regular part of your prayer, too.In the Psalms God challenges Hispeople: "Open thy mouth wide and Iwill fill it." Though He was speakingprimarily here of food, I believe weA. When a visitor comes to a can claim this same thought spiritually.236church service and you befriendhim.For assurance of this see Proverbs22:17-21 and Jeremiah 1:6-9.COVENANTER WITNESS

asked to go to Japan.The number of delegates and officersanswering roll call were:Belle Center 5, Old Bethel 2, Bethelat Sparta 2, Bloomington 3, Chicago5, Hetherton 1, Indianapolis 2,Oakdale 9, Selma 1, Southfield 3.Reports were given from the treasurerand the auditor.On Tuesday the devotional was conductedby Mrs. Charles Sterrett ofOakdale, using the theme: "Faithfulnessof God," I John 5:4.Officers and superintendents madereports.Dr. John O. Edgar gave highlightsfrom the Reformed PresbyterianHome, based on Acts 6:1 and James1:27. In the Home are 48 residents —44 women and four men. Ministryconsists of: Bible class every Sabbathmorning, preaching every two weeks,Wednesday evening prayer service,and counseling.Residents participate in — care ofthe mail, care of library, Psalm leading,reading to others, getting medicinefrom the drugstore, taking wheel chairpatients to and from meals, sewing,locking doors, gardening, wateringplants, games, and crafts.Churches at large may help throughcontinuous prayers, special treats onbirthdays, especially those from yourcongregation, money for new booksto Miss Lillian McCracken, napkins,towels, pillow cases.Wednesday morning's devotionalwas conducted by Mrs. Robert Millikenof Bloomington on the theme, "TheFaith of Abraham," Romans 4 andJames 2. From these references shepointed out Abraham's trials and renewingof faith.A motion was carried that membersfrom Indianapolis and placeswhere there are no organized WMSbe voting delegates.Another motion was carried thatmimeographed copies of the Constitutionbe made by Mrs. Rutherfordand Mrs. Preston and mailed to eachsociety to be studied and recommendationsfor changes be sent to thenext meeting which will be at CovenantCollege, July 27-August 2, 1968.A motion was also carried thatPresbyterial pay the expenses of suppliesfor Juniors and for two Juniorsuperintendents to Presbyterial nextyear.The president called attention tothe fact that senior society membersOCTOBER 11, 1967pay 55 cents per year and juniors pay15 cents per year for Synodical andPresbyterial dues. This is to be paidby spring each year. A specific datemay be recommended for Article 8 ofthe By-laws.The question on dues being raisedwas left to discussion and recommendationsby each society in connectionwith changes in the By-laws.During the discussion on a PresbyteiialYoung Women's Superintendent,it was decided that since nolocal society has an organization, asuperintendent would not be appointed.If any society has enough seniorhigh and college girls for an organization,you are urged to organizeand send information to Presbyterial.Prayer for foreign missions wasoffered by Mrs. Robb; and a beautifulmemorial service was conducted byMrs. Edward Forest of Orlando.On Thursday morning devotionswere conducted by Mrs. MildredHalliday of Chicago. She used as hertheme: "Not My Will But Thine BeDone." She reminded us of things likestubbornness and selfishness that keepus from doing God's will. Jonah andSolomon were used as examples.The Credentials Committee reported42 registered with 32 voting deligates.OFFICERS OF THE OHIO ILLINOISPRESBiTEKIAL for 1967 68.PresidentMrs. James Dixson, R. D. 10, BethelLane, Bloomington, Ind. 47403.Vice-PresidentMrs. Willard Finley, R. 5, Sparta,See page 239They were two small boys, sitting in the grass at the side of the road. Theirsomewhat dilapidated and unwashed attire gave evidence that the'r parentsdid not belong to the Upper Four Hundred.Still, the boys had their pride. Apparently they were trying to keep uptheir morale by the process of much boasting. Oddly enough, their conversationturned to razor blades.The one with the torn shirt averred, "My father is so rich he buys stainlesssteel blades; and he uses them just once, and throws them away!"Not to be out-done, the one with the gaping hole in the knee of hisoveralls, declared, "That's nothing! My father is so rich that he buys stainlesssteel blades; and he throws them away without using them at all!"It is quite possible that, in that exchange, the boys were revealing whytheir parents did not belong to the Upper Four Hundred. If there was anytruth in what the boys were telling each other, it would appear that theirfathers were highly un-skilled in the fine art of making the most of theirresources. Stainless steel razor blades are a trifle on the expensive side. Thefathers of most boys, including those whose parents belong to the Upper FourHundred, try to make a stainless steel blade make do for half a month orthereabouts. The man who wastes high priced blades is not the kind of manwho will build a fortune that will land him in the Upper Four Hundred.Who are we to hurl mud?In things vastly more important than razor blades, many of us make scantuse of the resources that are available to us. In the things of the spirit many ofus like the father of the boy with the hole in the knee of his overalls, tend tothrow away our resources without using them at all. To boycott the PrayerMeeting, to neglect the Church Services, to leave our Bible un-read and ourprayers un-said, is to throw away our most precious resources with a vengeance.To declare or even to think that we do not need these things, is empty boasting.The Bible says, in Jeremiah 5:4, "Surely these are poor; they are loolish;for they know not the way of the Lord, nor the judgment of their God."237

NOTICEThe 1967 Minutes of Synod will beready about October 15. The price,$1.50 per copy. Send all orders to:Chester R. Fox, Treasurer306 Empire BuildingPittsburgh, Pa. 15222SAN DIEGO, CALIFORIAGreetings from the San Diego congregation.We are happy to announcethe return of Mrs. Mabel Freeman andher daughters, Pam and Pat, to ourfellowship. Under the leadership ofRev. James Pennington we have hadmany enlightening studies, slides,films, and speakers concerning foreignmission work of our Church. In connectionwith these studies we joinedthe World Vision Project by gatheringmaterial for Viet-Kits.At our annual graduation dinnerwe honored one college graduate,Jackie Butler, and four high schoolgraduates, Chris Bailey, Ron Haase,Eva Nold, and Colleen Webb. As schoolstarts anew we have seven membersattending San Diego State Collegeand three attending junior colleges.August 2, a farewell dinner washeld for Mr. and Mrs. Marshall W.Smith and family. We wish them allGod's blessings as they take up residencewith the Broomall congregation.The "CE." team headed by Rev.Ken Smith spent August 3-5 with us.This was a rare opportunity of learningand fellowship.Henry and Ruth Dickerson becamethe proud parents of a baby girl,Barbra Lynn, who made her appearance,Wednesday evening, August 9.The West Coast Conference, held atCamp Good News, was a time ofspiritual growth for all who attended.Our congregation made a unanimouscall to Rev. James C. Penningtonto fill our pulpit permanently. Wecovet your prayers for Mrs. Pennington,who has been ill for some time.We pray without ceasing for God'sleading in these matters which are ofthe deepest concern to our congregation.NOTICEOn Friday, November 3, 1967, theGeneva congregation of Beaver Falls,Pennsylvania, will observe its 75thAnniversary by holding a commemorativeprogram in the church at 7:30P. M. Members living out of bounds,as well as former members and friends,are cordially invited to attend or tosend greetings if unable to be present.MRS. SAMUEL PEOPLESMrs. Samuel Peoples (Evelyn Fond)died on August 8 in the Bloomsburg,Pa. Hospital after a four-month hospitalization,less than two years afterthe death of her husband.Evelyn was a member of our Coldenhamcongregation, graduated fromGeneva in 1941 and taught in Liberty,N. Y., before her marriage. Duringthe first years of their marriage thecouple lived in Philadelphia, where Dr.Peoples was on the staff of TempleUniversity Hospital. They were activemembers of the Second Philadelphiacongregation; their first daughter,Linda, was born during this time.For the past twenty years thefamily has lived in Bloomsburg, whereEvelyn was a civic leader in manyfields, especially in the Girl Scoutorganization.Our sympathy and prayers go totheir three daughters: Linda, graduatedthis year from Bucknell University;Lois, a junior at Bucknell; and Leslie,a senior in high school; and to Evelyn'ssisters, Mrs. Charles Belknap, Newburgh,N. Y.; and Mrs. Albert Durland,Campbell Hall, N. Y.THANKSNow when we are back home inIreland we want to express our warmthanks to the very many who helpedto give us such a wonderful year withthe American Church. Naturally ourthoughts turn first to the Genevacongregation who gave us so richlyand generously of their friendship andco-operation in our Lord's service. Wethank God upon every remembrance ofthem, and words cannot express ourgratitude towards them. But also, wewere received so warmly and treatedso well by everyone in the BeaverFalls-Pittsburgh area — we shall neverforget our fellowship with the college,for instance — that we must thankthem also. Everywhere we wentthoughout the length and breadth ofthe church (and we travelled widely)kindness was showered upon us — wegive thanks to God for such people,and pray that His blessing may restupon them. Our thanks must go toDr. and Mrs. H. A. Hays for making theexchange with us and for ministeringso efficiently in the Dromara congregation.We feel that the bonds betweenthe two branches of the Church havebeen immeasureably strengthened.Rev. Mr. and Mrs. J. Renwick WrightKANSAS CITYWe have had a busy, profitablesummer. A congregational dinner washeld the latter part of May in honorof our graduates. Miss Lorraine Ulrichwas our only high school graduate andrecognition was given to others whohad achieved another step-up on theeducational ladder.Eight men of the congregationattended the Men's Rally held atHebron on May 20. They reported aninteresting and enjoyable day.Our Missionettes baked twentyfourdozen cookies and donated themto the Del Haven Camp, a summerChristian camp for under-privilegedand delinquent boys and girls.We were privileged to have membersof the Seminary Team with us ontwo occasions. We enjoyed their fellowshipand messages. A home-madeice cream and cake social was held atthe home of Dr. and Mrs. Wright towelcome them and the students returninghome from school. We werealso happy to have Mrs. Ken Smith,Kenny, Greg, and Peter with us afew days.Mr. and Mrs. Tom Joseph, Billyand Mary Alice have moved fromKansas City to Marion, Iowa. A farewellsupper was given in their honor.They are greatly missed here and wewish them happiness and success intheir new home.We are pleased to report that ourYoung People's Society was represented100 per cent at the ForestPark Conference, all members beingpresent, most of them for the entireconference. They gave reports andtheir impressions at the Sabbath even-238 COVENANTER WITNESS

ing service following the conference.As a last "summer fling" before ourstudents returned to school anotherhome-made ice cream and cake socialwas held at the home of Mr. and Mrs.Jacob Fisher. We are also very happyto welcome Dr. and Mrs. Fred Martinand Little Benjamin to our city andcongregation. Dr. Martin is taking hisInterneship at St. Luke's Hospital.We miss our young people:William Ward has returned toCovenant College; Sharon Faris, ElizabethHutcheson (whom we have consideredone of our girls this past year),Paul Weimer and Nancy Wright toGeneva; Bob Ulrich entered his secondyear at Kansas City Junior College;Roger Kraft to Kansas University; andJim Wright to the Seminary.Miss Ruth McKeowen is completingher work on her Master's Degree inSpeech Therapy at the Kansas UniversityMedical Center.Miss Nancy Ray has returned toher teaching position in Indianapolis,Indiana.OLATHE, KANSASThe Olathe congregation feels veryhappy as Dr. and Mrs. C. E. Caskeysettle in at 711 Mahaffie, Olathe. It issuch a pleasure to know we have apastor. Now if any Covenanter islooking for a new location Olathedefinitely has possibilities -— schoolsare good, the city is a nice size tolive in, (about 12,000 and growing)and being near Kansas City there isa variety of jobs.Elder and Mrs. Harvey McGeeattended Synod in June. They droveand did some visiting along the way.They spent a Sabbath Day in Indianapolisworshiping at the new R. P.Church there.In May, Mrs. Ada Hutchesonattended the reunion of the Genevaclass of 1917, the 50th anniversary. Shewas guest in the home of Misses Helenand Florence Fattal while on CollegeHill. She also visited her sisters, Mrs.Atwell in Beaver Falls and Mrs. Drakein Mercer, Pa.A congregational picnic planned bythe W. M. S. was held on the churchlawn early in August. A good turnoutenjoyed games, lots of good food andChristian fellowship. Mrs. Anna HutchesonDuncan, Tripp and Jennifer, herefrom Florida for a visit, attended thepicnic; also the Norman Hutchesonsfiom Kansas City, Kansas.OCTOBER 11, 1967Mrs Margaret Redpath and Mrs.Lillie Balph of Beaver Falls, Pa. havebeen spending a week in Olathe withMrs. Maggie Rogers and other relativesand friends.Though it happened some monthsago we want to mention a very prettyweddin g which took place in ourchurch. Miss Eileen Kaye Wallace,daughter of Mr. and Mrs. BennieWallace, became the bride of PhilipMerle Perkins son of Mr. and Mrs.Arthur Luck. Rev. Warren Lamons,uncle of the bride of Lone Grove,Oklahoma, was the officiating minister.Many from our congregation hadthe pleasure of hearing Dr. BillyGraham during the Heart of AmericaCrusade. How thrilling to see the hugecrowds pouring into the stadium, notfor a ball game, but to hear a messagefrom God's Word! One of our numberhas had a part in counseling and now isinvolved in follow up work.OHIO-ILLINOISFrom page 237PRESBYTERIAL111. 62286.Second Vice-PresidentMrs. Kenneth Frieman, 600 So.Buhrman, Nashville, 111. 62263.Recording SecretaryMrs. Claude Brown, 625 Jeff DavisAve., Selma, Alabama.Corresponding SecretaryMrs. Cameron M. Patterson P. O.Box 3011, Orlando, Florida. 32802.TreasurerMiss Roberta Rambo, Box 282,Belle Center, Ohio. 43310.SUPERINTENDENTSForeign MissionsMrs. William Dill, 81 Interlaken,Orlando, Fla., 32804.Home MissionsMrs. Edward Forest, 719 MaxwellAve., Orlando, Fla., 32804.Literature and Mission StudyMiss Claudine Coulter, Oakdale,111. 62268.TemperanceMrs. Alleyne Baumgartner, 25391Ivanhoe, Detroit, Mich., 48239.ThankofferingMrs. Ralph Joseph, 411 No. VineSparta, 111., 62286.JuniorMrs Howard Keys, R.D. 2, BelleCenter, Ohio, 43310.Mrs. J. Melville Rutherford, R. D.2, Belle Center, Ohio, 43310.LibrarianMrs. Ralph Mathews, R. D. ],Baldwin, 111., 62217The officers were elected and presentedand the installation prayer wasoffered by Mrs. Donald Weilersbacherof Southfield."Woman to Woman Evangelism"was beautifully discussed by Mrs. RoyBlackwood. Points of interest were:Christ first and foremost in woman'slife. Woman's first responsibility toher home then to the outer circle.A woman's day should begin by planningwith God in the morning — Whatwould God have me to do? We werechallenged to read The Gracious Woman.Mrs. Greeta Mitchell, chairman ofResolutions Committee, read the followingresolutions:Be it Resolved:1. That we will make an earnesteffort to study the Bible in amore meaningful way that itmay mean more to us in ourChristian lives.2. That we will use the UniformProgram to acquaint ourselveswith our missionaries and theplaces they serve.3. That we will pray definitely foreach missionary and his or herspecific needs, remembering especiallyMrs. Gloria Penningtonthat God may bless the meansnow being used for her healing.4. That we will pray daily for theyouth of our church that theymay be supported and deliveredin time of temptation andbrought into a closer walk withthe Lord Jesus Christ.5. That as we continue to grow in,our Christian faith, we will bemore diligent in witnessing toothers.6. That we will remember in pi ayerour Theological Seminary, thatthe work of this coming schoolyear may be blessed to the faculty,the students and the missionarycandidates.7. That we will not forget ourChristian outreach as a church,praying for the new congregationsand mission stations, rememberingespecially Rev. andMrs. Ray Joseph in bringing theWord of God to a new groupat Lafayette, Indiana.Mrs. Claude BrownSecretary 239

BEER — WINETOBACCOLIQUORS FNTFR CIGARETSNATIONAL ESSAY CONTESTTake subjects related to PROBLEMS FROM USING NARCOTICSsuch as alcoholic beverages, cigarets, marijuana, heroin, LSDELIGIBILITY: All Senior High School Students(Grades 10, 11, 12.)First enter your Presbyterial Contest.Send your entry to the clerk of your Presbytery.TIME LIMIT-January 15, 1968PRIZES TO FINALISTS: First Place $100Second Place 75Third Place 50Write for contest rules and sources of study materialsto Alvin W. Smith, 313 Garfield Ave., Mars, Pa. 16046.Weappeal to parents, teachers, pastors, superintendents, andCYPU staff to promote this project endorsed by Synod.High School students, be informed and speak out!START EARLYWinning essays from Presbyteries will be judged bySYNOD'S TEMPERANCE COMMITTEE:R. Paul Wright, M. D., Rev. J. E. McElroy, Stewart M. Lee, Ph. D.,Rev. J. O. Edgar, D. D., Mrs. R. H. McKelvy, J. L. Coon, DDS.Rev. A. W. Smith, D. D., ChairmanHEROIN L s DMARIJUANApEp piLLS240 COVENANTER WITNESS

THECovenanter WitnessTo The TruthJESUS CHRIST AS SAVIOUR, LORD, HEAD OF MEN, THE CHURCH AND NATIONS.VOLUME LXXIX NO. 16 OCTOBER 18, 1967 STERLING, KANSAS 67579BIBLE LESSONS FOR THE WEEK OF NOVEMB/.I? 12, 1967Along Bright Angel trail in the inner canyon, a muleback party wendsits way to the Colorado River, a vertical mile below the south rim of theGrand Canyon of Arizona but over nine miles by trail. (Santa Fe Railroad)

THE COVENANTERWITNESSOfficial organ of the ReformedPresbyterian Church of N. A.; tVAN.C1.lCAL **«•• ASVOOATWNEditor: Rev. M. W. Dougherty, D.D.125 N. 4th StreetSterling, Kansas 67579Phone 316 — Br. 8 • 3472Printed each Wednesday under the supervision of theBoard of Publication by The Patterson Press, Winchester,Kansas 66097.Contributing Editors: Department Editors:Rev. Kenneth Smith Rev. John TweedDr. G. M. RobbMrs. Robert B. MaineRev. John McMillan Mrs. Willis EdgarRev. C. E. Caskey Rev. John K. GaultOpinions expressed in our columns are those of theindividual writer, not necessarily the views of the ReformedPresbyterian Church or the editor.All material to appear in The Covenanter Witnessshould be typewritten, double-spaced, and should be inSterling, Kansas two weeks before it is to be printed.The cost of all pictures is 30 cents per square inch.Obituaries — All words in excess of one hundred fifty,one cent per word. Money should accompany such notices.SUBSCRIPTION RATESIndividual (1 year): U.S. and Canada, $4.00, BritishIsles 35/-, all other places, $5.00;Individual (2 year): U.S. and Canada, $7.00, BritishIsles 63/-, all other places, $9.00;Group: U.S. and Canada, $3.00, British Isles 28/-, allother places, $4.00.9-month student subscription — $1.50; 5-month introductoryoffer —$1.00; 2 gift subscriptions to persons outsideof the R. P. Church — $2.00 each. Single copies, 10c.Subscription Agent for U.S. and Canada: Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Subscription Agent for the British Isles: Rev. HughWright, B.A., 12, Knutsford Drive, Belfast 14, NorthernIreland.All checks should be made payable to The CovenanterWitness in U. S. currency.Give one month's notice of a change of address. Sendboth the new and the old address to Mrs. M.W. Dougherty.Postmaster: Please send Form 3579 to Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Second class postage paid at Winchester, Kansas 66097WE HOLD THE FOLLOWING TO BE TRUTHS OF SCRIPTURE:The Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the only infalliblerule of faith and conduct.The Trinitarian conception of the Godhead.Faith in Jesus Christ as the only way of salvation.Salvation by Grace.Assurance of salvation as a possible Christian experience.The Gospel Call and Election.The Holy Spirit as the Author of regeneration.Sanctification through the cooperating agency of the Holy Spirit.The fact of death and hell as the destiny of the lost and heavenas the destiny of the saved.That the Church of Jesus Christ consists of all these who believein Him together with their children.The Divine Right of the Presbyterian form of Church Government.The Lord Jesus Christ as the only King and Head of His Church.That terms of membership or communion are essential to thewelfare of the Church.GENUINE HOLINESS1. Not inability to sin, but abihty not to sin.2. Not freedom from temptation, but power toovercome temptation.3. Not infallible judgment, but earnest andhonest endeavor to follow the higher wisdom.4. Not deliverance from infirmities of the flesh,but triumph over all bodily affliction.5. Not exemption from conflict, but victorythrough conflict.6. Not freedom from liability and falling, butgracious abihty to prevent falling.7. Not the end of progress, but dehverancefrom standing still.What real Christians would not desire the beautyand blessedness of such a life?— G. Campbell MorganThis Week's WitnessSatan 243Contest Results . .... 243Glimpses of the Rehgious World . 244The Subjects of Baptism 245HeUo, Tomorrow! . 247Geneva's Christian Standards Attract Co-Ed 249Judy Is a Good Neighbor . 250Lesson Helps . 251Scribe With a Hard Pencil 253Church News . . . 2 5 4The duty which rests upon officers to maintain discipline andpreserve the purity of the Church.Spiritual worship as a divine requirement mediated through theLord Jesus Christ.The exclusive use of the Psalms in the worship of the Church.The Protestant interpretation of the Sacraments.The divine right of the institution of Marriage and that it is notto be dissolved except by adultery or "irremediable" desertion.The Sabbath as a day sacred to rest and worship.The duty of nations and their civil rulers to honor Christ asKing of Kings and Lord of Lords.That Christian citizens are under obligation to obey lawful authority.The right and duty of the Christian citizen to dissent from allgovernmental and national disobedience to the Law of God.That the Covenants of the past are still binding.From "The Communicant's Class" by J. B. Tweed242 COVENANTER WITNESS

EditorialCommentSATANThat we may resist Satan we need to know thekind of person he is. He is the enemy of God and ofJesus Christ, and the enemy of mankind. Eventhose under his control among men are being led todestruction and eternal suffering, which does notdisturb Satan.Satan has great power. We read, "Put on thewhole armour of God, that ye may be able to standagainst the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle notagainst flesh and blood, but against principalities,against powers, against the rulers of the darknessof this world, against spiritual wickedness in highplaces."Some of the other names by which Satan isknown are the prince of this world, the deceiver,the father of hes, the destroyer, a murderer, theprince of darkness, the prince of the power of theair, the god of this world.His allies are the demons, spirits who are depraved,fallen angels. On earth his allies are wickedpersons, committed to the side of evil, possessinghis spirit. He rules over these as part of his kingdom.He roams the world, going up and down init, seeking as a roaring lion whom he may devour.In every nation he has his people who represent him.In the temptation of Jesus he claimed the sovereigntyover all the nations of the earth, saying that theywere given to him. This was only partly true. Godhas given to men to rule the various nations, andholds them responsible for their actions. Some ofthem have turned over their kingdoms to Satan, butGod is sovereign over them. Satan is a usurper.Where Satan reigns there is ignorance of God,superstition, the worship of idols, magnifying ofself, pride, and from this, envy, jealousy, strife,hatred, greed, and hunderds of other evils. Satandirectly and indirectly is responsible for the miseryand suffering of the millions of the world.Satan is powerful but not all powerful. He isa coward. We are told, "Resist the devil and he willflee from you." Jesus is able to triumph over him,and has many times triumphed. He triumphed overSatan in the temptations. We are told that the princeof this world will be cast out. Satan managedthrough men to falsely condemn Jesus to death.Satan might have claimed the victory. But Christ'sCONTEST RESULTS!Looking for new ideas for your Thankofferingmeeting? Here they are! Three splendid prizewinningCovenanter plays "just off the press."I. Chang Chia Sheng, A Ten-Year-Old Missionary,by Rose Huston. True story about the way oneof Jeanette Li's Manchurian Juniors brought hiswhole family to the Lord. Five scenes. Two Women,one man, group of school children including tenyear-oldboy and his httle sister.II. Jamie Douglas, by Sarah Jane Crawford.Historical 3-act play. Two dragoons. Conventiclecongregation includes 3 men, 3 women, 2 boys, ascout.Each play: 20 min., easy costumes and settings,youth-appeal, Dramatic!III. Shine as the Stars, by Martha (Hutcheson) Wilson.True story of Grandmother Hutcheson whosesons, Chester and Tom, have served our Churchmany years in Syria and Cyprus. Settings: farmhomes and WMS meeting where story is told.Informative! Inspiring!Miss Huston and Sarah Jane who tied for firstplace will each receive the $15 First Prize. Mrs.Wilson receives the $10 Second Prize. Congratulationsto each!Check with your minister or the Christian EducationOffice for copies of Miss Huston's play. Theother two plays are being sent to your ThankofferingSuperintendent.There was one entry in the Flashcard Contest:John G. Paton, by Marilois George who receives the$15 First Prize. Congratulations!This missionary flash has 16 pictures mountedon construction paper with accompanying story.It has been effectively used in the Lochiel VBS.Good for S. S., Jr. Band, etc. Secure from SynodicalFlannelgraph Librarian.We wish to thank all who entered these contestsand we especially appreciate the cooperation ofour busy judges, Mrs. Sam Boyle and Mrs. DavidCarson. May the Lord speak through these playsand flash story as they are used throughout theChurch to His glory.death was in order that behevers might be broughtback from Satan's kingdom to the Kingdom ofChrist. That was destructive of Satan's rule overthem. Also Christ broke the bonds of death, whichwas His great victory over Satan.Associate Reformed PresbyterianOCTOBER 18, 1967 243

Glimpses of the Religious WorldCHRISTIAN SCHOOLS IN SYRIA FACE NEWCRISISFifteen Christian clergymen in Syria have informedthe government in Damascus that theschools operated by their organizations will notopen this fall unless a new decree, which gives fullcontrol of all private schools to the Syrian Ministryof Education, is repealed.The New York Times reports that this protestwas made in a letter to the President of Syria andto leaders of the ruling Baath party. Among thesigners of the letter were Cardinal PatriarchMaximos IV of the Greek Catholic Communion,three archbishops of the Syrian Cathohc Communion;the Armenian Cathohc Archbishop of Damascusand Aleppo; the Maronite Archbishop of Aleppoand leading pastors of the Syrian Evangehcal Communityand Armenian Protestant community.The decree, which was pubhshed on September9, annulled all contracts between proprietors ofprivate schools and their teachers and administrativepersonnel. It also transferred the managementof private schools from owners to the EducationMinistry.The clergymen contend that they were left withresponsibihty for the schools but with no authorityto run them properly. There needs to be muchprayer that this freedom and authority to operateChristian schools in Syria will be restored.PITCAIRN: "NO TAXES, CRIME OR ALCOHOL"(EP) A great-great-great grandson of FletcherChristian, one of the nine British mutineers fromthe Bounty who founded the community of PitcairnIsland 178 years ago, said during a visit to NewYork from Pitcairn Island that his homeland has"no alcohol, no dancing or gambling. We don't haveany crime at all," he added. "We're all Seventh-dayAdventists."Thomas C. Christian, in New York studyingbroadcasting techniques to run a better radio stationback home, admitted that "a lot of our young peoplefeel too isolated on Pitcairn, and they leave. However,I think the emigration has tapered off and wewon't be losing any more of our people."The island, founded in 1790, has about 90THE REV. JOHN McMILLANR. D. 1, Box 337WALDEN, NEW YORKpeople. It is Britian's smallest colony but is administeredby Fiji.CHRISTIAN REFORMED SYNOD ADMONISHESPROFESSORThe Synod of 1967 of the Christian ReformedChurch reconvened on August 29 after a historymakingrecess, and decided to admonish ProfessorHarold Dekker of Calvin Seminary for his writingson the love of God and the atonement.The following grounds were given for the Synod'saction: 1. "His writings have resulted in considerablemisunderstanding and confusion within thechurches concerning the doctrine of the atonement.2. "His presentation of his views has resulted inwidespread uncertainty concerning his adherenceto the creeds."The Synod also voted not to approve the appointmentof Dr. Henry Pietersma, of Toronto, Ontario,as an associate professor of philosophy at CalvinCollege. Objection had been raised to Dr. Pietersma'sappointment on the ground of what he has writtenin The Reformed Journal and elsewhere on Predestination.BAPTIST LAYMEN REPAIR ALASKA CHURCHESAfter the rampaging waters of the Chena Riverflooded Fairbanks, Alaska, on August 14, theBaptists in that state appealed for volunteers fromthroughout the "lower 48" states to help them pumpthe water out of homes and churches, repair furnacesand plumbing equipment, and rewire electricalequipment. As the result of this appeal ninety-threeSouthern Baptist laymen — electricians, carpenters,plumbers, furnace workers, masons, and others —responded and were flown to Fairbanks free ofcharge by the Airlines.This operation has been a race against time,since they have only until about October 1 before thelong winter freeze sets in. The first plane-loads ofmen began arriving in Fairbanks on Labor Dayweekend, and two furnace workers stayed up allnight on Saturday in order to have the furnace inthe First Baptist Church of Fairbanks operating onSabbath morning. According to the Baptist Press,eight Alaskan churches were being renovated by thevolunteers.244 COVENANTER WITNESS

The Subjects Of BaptismBy Rev. J. G. Vos, D. D.Continued From Last IssueNow let us consider the Reformed doctrines ofthe Church and the Covenant. Of these two, thedoctrine of the Covenant of Grace is the more inclusiveand basic. In a sense the doctrine of theVisible Church is an implication of the doctrine ofthe Covenant of Grace. So we will take up the doctrineof the Covenant first, but note as we proceedhow the doctrine of the Visible Church is tied inwith it.In the Reformed theology the Covenant of Graceis God's appointed way of implementing the eternalCovenant of Redemption made between God theFather and God the Son. The Covenant of Gracewas first announced to men, in a somewhat veiledand mysterious manner, by the prediction of Genesis3:15 that the Seed of the woman would eventuallydestroy the serpent. This is perhaps the most importantsingle verse in the Old Testament, and itcontains all the rest of the Bible in germ form. Therest of the Bible is God's process of making exphcitwhat was implicit in Genesis 3:15.During the period from Adam to Abraham nogreat advances were made in the implementation ofthe Covenant. There was, however, a definite bodyof people on earth who were embraced within thegracious provisions of the Covenant, and this covenantrelationship was continued in a specific familyline, from father to son, through Seth, throughthe antediluvian patriarchs, through Noah andShem, to Abraham. The corporate, pubhc worship ofGod began at the time of the birth of Seth's son Enos.During this long period the descendants of Adamand Eve through Seth down to Abraham formed thecontinuous embodiment of the Covenant of Graceamong men.With Abraham a big forward step was taken. Hewas separated by God from his natural and culturalbackground, and singled out as the progenitor ofthe nation of Israel — the covenant nation that wasOCTOBER 18, 1967to form the stock from which the human nature ofthe Christ would come, and the human environmentin which the Christ would perform His redemptivework. The Covenant was formally established withAbraham, as recorded in Genesis chapter 17. Itshould be noted that the Covenant was made withAbraham and with his seed; that it concerned avisible body of people — the clan or tribe of Abraham(Gen. 17:23); and that the covenant standingof this body of people was marked by the rite orsacrament of circumcision. At this stage the clanof Abraham was the visible Church of God on earth,and every male claiming membership in it was requiredto have the outward token of the Covenant,namely circumcision (Gen. 17:12-14).Throughout the patriarchal period the covenantpeople constituted a tribe or clan. Then in the timeof Moses the Covenant was confirmed to Israel on anational basis (Ex. 24:3-8). From the time of Mosesto the time of Christ, the Covenant was embodied inthe nation of Israel. We should realize the fact ofthe continuity of the Covenant all through Old Testamenthistory. There is a bond of organic continuitybetween Israel at Mount Sinai and that small companythat began to call upon the name of the Lordwhen Seth's first son was born. When the majoritybecame apostate, as in the time of Jeremiah, thecontinuity was not broken; rather, the reality andlife of the Covenant was continued in the faithfulminority called "the remnant."On the Day of Pentecost a few weeks after thecrucifixion and resurrection of Christ, there wasanother major advance. The body of Christiandisciples together with the Jews who became Christiansconstituted the Christian Church, and this wasthe true continuation of the Covenant people of Godwhich had existed on earth since the time of Adamand Eve. The Christian Church was new and yet itwas not new. In one sense it was new, in anothersense it was as old as the human race. The New245

Testament Church was new in form, but old inessence.The New Testament clearly teaches that theChristian Church is not something different fromthe Old Testament Israel; on the other hand, it isessentially the same as the real Israel of the OldTestament, and it is the real continuation of thetrue Israel of Old Testament times. This is shown,for example, by Paul's figure of the olive tree andthe branches (Romans 11:16-24). We should notethat the apostle speaks of a single olive tree. Thistree had Jewish branches, many of which werebroken off, while Gentile branches were grafted in;yet it remained the same olive tree throughout —the body of God's covenant people on earth.The same truth is taught by Paul in the Epistleto the Ephesians (2:11-13), where he explains thatthe Gentile Christians, who once were ''strangersfrom the covenants of promise", have now been incorporatedinto "the commonwealth of Israel." Thuswhen a Gentile becomes a Christian he becomes anIsraelite in the true sense of the term.Thus Scripture teaches the unity and continuityof the New Testament Church with the Old TestamentIsrael. The form has changed, but the essenceremains the same. The olive tree lives on; thecommonwealth of Israel continues. This essentialunity and continuity of the Christian Church withthe Old Testament Israel is basic to the Reformedtheology, but it is denied by many Baptists. (A contributingfactor has no doubt been the increasinginfluence of Darby-Scofield Dispensationalism,which posits a radical discontinuity between Israeland the Church).The truth of the unity and continuity of theChristian Church with the Old Testament Israel,the Old Testament Covenant people of God, hasimportant implications concerning the question ofthe propriety of infant baptism. We may mentionthese implications as follows:(1) The Covenant is not a purely spiritual concept,but involves a visible body of people with anexternal organization and membership, includingan external sign or token of membership in thebody. As Israel constituted a visible body, so theChristian Church constitutes a visible body withorganization and membership. The Visible Churchis not a mere human convenience, nor a mere meansto an end, but is of divine appointment and is anend in itself. Just as Israel of old was a true embodimentof the Covenant of Grace, so the VisibleChurch today is a true embodiment of the Covenantof Grace. Therefore the common present-day tendencyto minimize the importance of the VisibleChurch is not Bibhcal.(2) The Covenant is confirmed to believers antheir children after them. Now, as then, God's ordinaryway of maintaining and increasing the body ofHis covenant people on earth is through the birthof children into covenant homes or famihes. Thechild born to an Israehte home had a covenantstanding from birth. This could be despised andforfeited in later life, to be sure, but he had it frombirth. If there is organic unity and continuity betweenIsrael and the Church, then it is true thatchildren born to Christian parents have a covenantstanding from birth.According to the sociology of the Bible, bothOld Testament and New, the family, not the individual,is the basic social unit. Children are borninto a social environment which involves a covenantstanding and covenant obligations. Parents exercisefaith and take vows for their children in a representativecapacity.(3) As infants of believers were to receive theexternal sign of membership in the body of theCovenant people of Israel, so infants of beheversought to receive the external sign of membership inthe Christian Church, which is the continuation ofthe Old Testament Israel. The sign itself is different,but the meaning is basically the same. If we admitthat the infants of behevers received the externalsign in the one case, we should also admit that theyought to receive it in the other case, the two casesbeing truly parallel. The sign of membership shouldaccompany the fact of membership, in the one caseas in the other. Baptism is the privilege of membersof the Visible Church. If the infants of behevers aremembers of the Visible Church, then baptism istheir rightful privilege.To be continuedCHARACTERA good character is the best tombstone. Thosewho loved you and were helped by you will rememberyou when for-get-me-nots are withered. Carveyour name on hearts and not on marble.—Charles H. Spurgeon246COVENANTER WITNESS

HELLO, TOMORROW!was born. He daily uses tools of transportation,communication and commerce that were not availablewhen he was a boy. And yet on (Sabbath)morning the only difference he might find in hisby Ed Daytonboyhood church sanctuary is the microphone on thePossibly the most powerful weapon ever fashionedis the alphabet, but the church has yet to The church hterature Jim and his children readpulpit and the clothes worn by the congregation.seize its full potential in a world whose population is equally antiquated. Oh, the pictures look modernwill double in 32 years, double again in 17, then ine'ght, four, two. . .Jim Coles is not a world traveler. He makes onlyan occasional trip to another city. But when he does,he confidently dials his favorite airline with everyexpectancy that in a matter of two minutes he willbe told what fhghts are available and that hisreservation is confirmed. Jim may not fully understandthe $2,000,000 computer that keeps trackof all the flights, seats, and passengers of the airline,but he has come to expect such performanceas routine.Two nights a month Jim attends committeemeetings at his local church. He usually chairs onemeeting, the one concerned with trying to involvemore of the church members in the programs ofthe church. It's a frustrating time. Although thechurch has 706 members on the roll, it is a continualstruggle to fill the 115 offices in the church and(Sabbath) school programs. No one seems to knowwho the non-workers are, what they are doing orwhere they are hiding. Without thinking too muchabout it, Jim has also come to expect this level ofperformance for this situation.Jim Coles is hving in two worlds. He is demonstratingthe human being's amazing ability to playthe role expected of him. The "world" is somethingthat is moving, dynamic, changing, adventuresome.The "church" is something that is standing still,static, unchanging and conservative. Jim is livingin a generation that has produced so many newjobs that 40 per cent of them didn't exist when heREADERS-PLEADERSbut the message seems strangely like the antiquecars Jim loves to work on. It may look new, but it'snot part of this age!Like many men, Jim not only accepts this dichotomy,he welcomes it. The very unchangingnessof the church has become a sense of security tohim. He may have little inclination toward thingsliturgical but the furniture in the sanctuary, the11:00 a.m. worship service, the (Sabbath) schoolprogram, the Wednesday evening prayer meetinghave all become symbols for which he searches inevaluating what a church should be. They continuallyserve to reinforce his conscious or sub-consciousunderstanding that the "world" and the"church" are two different places. And though thechurch is "in the world," its walls are high and themoat is deep. The drawbridge must be regularlylowered to permit access and quickly lifted oncethe guest is inside.Jim is sometimes bothered by the fact that thebig action is taking place in the world and not in thechurch. The issues of crime prevention, contaminationof air and water, and school bonds seem muchcloser at hand than the questions of man's spiritualcondition. But again he accepts this as the waythings are.This is not a new situation. Since Jesus Christleft His Church in the world as His witness, wehave time and time again attempted to abandonthat responsibihty by fleeing from the world tosome form cf monasticism. The frightening thingis the rate at which it is happening today. Man'sknowledge is expanding at a rate of five to tentimes faster than the population explosion and thepopulation is expanding at a rate that is exponential.This means that if it follows present trends, populationwill double in 32 years, then double again inOCTOBER IS PROTEST AN I PRESS MGVTHOCTOBER 18, 1967Mr. Dayton is director of the Missions AdvancedResearch and Communication Center, a divisionof World Vision International serving in cooperatixcith the School of World Mission, Fuller TlieologicSeminary, Pasadena, Calif. His article is furnishby the Evangelical Press Association in observanceof Protestant Press Month.247

17, then double again in eight, four, two.. . .Assuming that man controls the world populationwithou f resorting to the mass destruction of athermo-nuclear war, it is not a question of whethersociety will change at a rate inconceivable twentyyears ago. The question is how will the Body ofChrist respond to this change?It is an accepted fact that today's technologistmust be continually building his education. Hethinks nothing of spending 100 hours a year inthe classroom. But how many Christians spendtwenty classroom hours a year relating the Bibleand the world in which they hve?Society demands maximum utilization of everyfoot of floor space it builds. How many hours persquare foot do we get from our North Americanchurch buildings which are going up at the rate of$1,000,000,000 per year?In fifteen to twenty years our television setswiU be converted to programmed teaching stationsand push-button information centers connected tothe major libraries of the country. Will we stiU behmited to one half hour a week of flannelgraph,flash cards, or slides?The number of new books multiplying space atthe paperback stores, airhne terminals and newscounters reaches new heights in sales and new lowsin breadth of content. What teenager knows thename of a novehst who is successfuUy interpretingthe message of Christ?We are told that the high school graduate of1990 will be a genius by today's measurement. Willhe find any link to reahty as we try to tell him ofGod's love for him in Jesus Christ? In a society inwhich the potential for Big Brother to watch everyoneelectronically will reduce our privacy to nearzero, will he find his security in Jesus Christ?Will the church as we know it today survive thisComputer Age? Hopefully not. Of all men the Christianshould be most open to change. The world hasbeen in the process of change since the day Godtold Adam to subdue the earth and fill it with hisoffspring. The Christian should be a man ready toseize every tool that comes to hand and to use itfor the glory of God.There is hope that the church can adapt itsinstitutional structure to meet the great challengebefore it. For one of the tools we are developing isat once the most important and the most usableby the church. We become so dazzled by the newproducts of the age that few see their developmentand application as useful in helping man increasehis ability and in managing himself and his problems.He is making the transition between thesystems engineering approach to technical problemsto the broader concepts of management systems.He is learning to look at a problem in its entirety —as a system. He looks past the problem of morefreeways for more trucks to see that what he isreally dealing with is the system problem of feedinga city. He places the problem of cleaning up ourcontaminated water supply as part of the over-allneed to eliminate contaminates. He learns to balancethe cost of crime control over and against the costof crime prevention.The technologist is just beginning to apply hissystem know-how to social problems. But NewHaven, Connecticut's computer location of itspeople .. . San Bernardino, California's contractwith TRW to make a system analysis of its welfareprogram, and Litton Industries' contract with thegovernment of Greece to manage tourism are indicationsof what lies ahead.If there is any hope of the organized church'sadapting to the needs of an expanding society itlies here.We must first understand from a systems viewwhat we are attempting. We are charged withmaking disciples of all nations. George Sweazey inhis book Effective Evangelism has pointed out tous the steps of the system: contact, cultivation(communication), commitment and consecration(as operating members of the system). StephenRose's book The Grass Roots Church makes somepractical estimates of what this might mean.The tools of communication he everywhere beforeus: computers, information systems, understandingof people. In the area of literature we havelibraries full of secular books that demonstrate howa meaningful message is transmitted.One thing is certain. A conservatism that seeksto make the church meaningful to the world willfail. What is needed is not more of the church inthe world, but more of the tools of the world in thechurch. The things of the world are not sinful. Theyare neutral. Man's body and mind are not sinful. Itis man's nature that is sinful.The question is not whether the church willsurvive, but how? There never was a greater opportunityfor a viable and dynamic church. Thereshaping of the church will be the result of a newbody of Christians working out their hves as partof this expanding world or the result of men of thecurrently organized church adapting the tools ofits generation to have a meaningful witness to thisgeneration.248 COVENANTER WITNESS

Our YouthGENEVA'S CHRISTIAN STANDARDSATTRACT CO-EDby Marge KellerYesterday was a big day in the hves of the S. A.Sidat Singh family of Yonkers, New York. It wasthe first break in their togetherness, for 18-year-oldShiva was ready for college.Geneva was selected first because it is a PresbyterianSchool, and the Singhs are Presbyterians;second it is a small college and a girl away fromhome for the first time is not so apt to becomehomesick. They learned about Geneva in the ReadersDigest where it was listed with a number of colleges,many of them Presbyterian.Shiva made the final decision. She will majorin psychology, and expects to teach. The familylawyer gave her a recommendation, and she didn'tuse her father's position to get her "in."Dr. Singh and his wife are Hindus from EastIndia. She was educated in England, he at Harvardwhere he studied medicine. He stayed on to practicein the United States and is now head cardiologistat New York Hospital, in Harlem. She came to theUnited States twenty years ago, and her Britishbackground has given her a beautiful command ofthe Enghsh language.Dr. Singh was so modest and reserved, andShiva so shy, that my information came from Mrs.Singh, woman-to-woman and mother-to-mother.Atman, Shiva's fifteen-year old brother, went quitelyabout his business of loading the car, 17-year oldSatya hung close to her sister for the last few hours,and the little ones, Deva (3), and Geta (6) (a littleswinger in her fashionable net stockings) wereFIVE IMPORTANT MINUTESWhen I was a child we had a "five minute rule"in our house. What it meant was that we were all tobe ready for school five minutes before we actuallyhad to leave.We were a large family and that extra fiveminutes was prayer time for Mother and us children.The place was wherever Mother happened tobe when we were all ready to leave. Sometimes itwas in the kitchen, other times the hving room orbedroom, or even out on the porch. But we allkneeled while Mother asked a blessing on each ofhaving a ball. Geta would hke her hair teased, butmother says "no."One could see that this is a close-knit family,and the mother devotes her hfe to her family. Hertheory is that the family that prays together staystogether, and though the children were born andhave grown up near cosmopolitan New York, theyhave been sheltered and Shiva has never "dated."These parents put God first. The 3 M's so importantto college-bound — Money, Morals andManners, she deplores for the latter two so oftenare lacking.Mrs. Singh paid Beaver Falls the greatest complimentpossible when she said her "heart felt filled,"she felt "lifted." The kindness of Bob Brown, hotelmanager who was wearing his Geneva ring whichshe admired; Isabel Bonar, who made their stay otthe hotel so pleasant; the other personnel at thehotel who took a personal interest in them: Dr.Carson, pastor of Trinity United PresbyterianChurch, just around the corner from the hotel; themembers of the church who made them most welcome(Sabbath), all gave the family a warm feelingfor this town. And she was amazed when she wastold she need not worry about anyone breakinginto their station wagon parked in a lot behind thehotel.This mother, who still clings to the high standardsof her Indian background, feels that she isleaving her child in good hands. Geneva shouldfeel proud to be chosen. There is no doubt that thestudents, as well as College Hill residents she meets,will make Shiva's college days memorable ones,Beaver Falls News-Tribuneus individually and thanked the Lord for His previsionfor us. Often all of our names were spokenand some special blessing asked for each.If a neighborhood child dropped in to walk toschool with us (and neighbors often did), they wereincluded in our prayer circle, too.When the prayer was finished, there came akiss for each, and we were off.Those were Five Important Minutes to each < •'•us.— Adelaide BlantonOCTOBER 18, 1967 249

A PAGE FOR JUNIORSJudy Is A Good Neighborby Elinor F. Neal"Judy," her mother said, "we've some new neighborsdown the street. Would you like to go with meto welcome them? I think they have a httle girlabout your size.""Oh, yes," Judy said, eager to go. "Let's do."When the new neighbor answered their knock,Judy's mother said, "I am Mrs. Smith and this is ourdaughter Judy. We've come to welcome you to theneighborhood.""How nice," said the new neighbor. "Do come in.We're in a mess," she laughed. "Some of our goodshaven't come yet but we manage very well. Ourname is Green. We've just come from Korea, wherewe have been working for several years.""Kimi," Mrs. Green called. "Come in, dear. Somefriends have come to see us."When Kimi came in, Mrs. Green, putting herarms around the httle girl, said, "Kimi is going tobe our little girl now. We brought her with us fromKorea. She doesn't quite know what to do withherself. Her few toys are with the goods that haven'tcome. They'll be here soon, won't they, dear?" Mrs.Green was smiling at her new httle daughter, hereyes full of love."Yes'm," Kimi said.On the way home, Judy said, "Kimi doesn't havea picture book." She was feeling sorry for a littlegirl in a new country.'Their goods wiU come soon, I feel sure," hermother said. "Then Kimi will be happier when shehas something to play with."As soon as they got home, Judy got out her boxof crayons, her blunt-nosed scissors, a bottle ofpaste. She had an idea. In the kitchen she got one ofthe big paper bags her mother used to bringgroceries home from the store. From it she cut along strip about six inches wide. On each end she250pasted a narrow strip of cardboard.Judy had learned some Bible verses in (Sabbath)School and she didn't know which ones to put onthe paper until she remembered that Mrs. Greenhad said she was a friend. Then she knew. Verycarefully with a black crayon she printed:"A friend loveth at all times.""Love thy neighbor as thyself."On the paper she pasted a picture of Jesus. Sheadded other pictures of children playing happilytogether. When she was all through she showed thepaper to her mother. "It's a picture-book for Kimi.It's a scroll." She rolled the two ends to the middleof the paper to show her mother how it works. "Our(Sabbath) School teacher showed us a picture of one.She said this is the way they made books a longtime ago. Jesus said some Bible verses from a scrollin the church in Nazareth where He hved," Judyexplained."You are a very sweet, thoughtful little girl,"her mother said. "I'm very proud of you. Wouldn'tyou like to take your gift to Kimi?""Oh, yes," and eight-year-old Judy eager to seeher new friend, hurried out of the door.BIBLE QUIZMatch names and phrases.1. Eunice A. Cousin of Mordecai2. Phoebe B. Woman who sewed3. Dinah C. Daughter of Jacob4. Eve D. Grandmother of Timothy5. Mary E. Wife of Abraham6. Lois F. Daughter of Herod Agrippa7. Drusilla G. Deaconess of Church of Cenchreae8. Ruth H. Wife of Adam9. Dorcas I. Sister of Lazarus10. Leah J. Mother of Timothy11. Esther K. Wife of Jacob12. Martha L. Wife of Jacob13. Rachel M. Wife of Isaac14. Rebekah N. Wife of Boaz15. Sarah O. Mother of JesusAnswers:3SI mti yMT£i izi vuX^70f 36 N8 dL Q9 OS KV OS DZ flCOVENANTER WITNESS

Lesson Helps for the Week of November 12,1967Sabbath SchoolLessonfor November 12, 1967THE LURE OF OTHER GODS:Hosea 4 and 8 to 10.Comments by John K. Gault.Through the object lesson of hismarriage to a woman who became aharlot, Hosea learned of the awfulnessof departing from the true God asIsrael had done. The prophet, therefore,continued his indictment of thesinful nation. He spoke for God ashe thundered with all the vehemenceof his nature, saying, "Hear the wordof the Lord, ye children of Israel: forthe Lord hath a controversy with theinhabitants of the land." Controversymeans contention or strife. Whenpeople depart from God, He has acontention with them; a strugglewhich inevitably results in defeat andpunishments for people. It is the blessingof the Lord which makes a people"rich and he addeth no sorrow with it."Sin deprives people of happiness andpeace. The divine court, therefore,was called in session and the indictmentagainst Israel was announced.1: The Grounds of God's ContentionAgainst Israel.These grounds, or evidences, arelisted in 4:2 as the prophet said, "Byswearing, and lying, and killing, andstealing, and committing adultery,they break out, and blood touchethblood." There was no longer any integrityin their oath-taking to administerjustice but they were guilty ofperjury. An oath is a religious act.When, therefore, the oath is basedupon falsehood, it becomes profanity.The third commandment as given toIsrael from Mount Sinai was, and is,"Thou shalt not take the name of theLord thy God in vain; for the Lordwill not hold him guiltless that takethhis name in vain."Another offense of the people ofIsrael was "lying." The economy ofa country can be ruined through falsehood.Israel had been making a practiceof this sin; consequently, therewas misrepresentation in buying andselling. In writing to the EphesiansPaul said in 4:25, "Wherefore puttingaway lying, speak every man truthwith his neighbor: for we are membersone of another." Lying is a violationof the ninth commandment which says,"Thou shalt not bear false witnessagainst thy neighbor."Another wicked practice in Israelwas "stealing," as the prophet continedto say. The eighth commandmentforbade people from doing this. Likethe other sins this was an offenseagainst their fellowmen but it wasprimarily an offense against God whogave the commandments in the fiistplace. To sin against man is to sinagainst God as David said, "Againstthee only have I sinned and done thisevil in thy sight."But, of all the violations of thesecond table of the law it would seemthat adultery was the most common.The prophet's object lesson of this sinright in his own marriage would seemto indicate this. Chapters 4 and 5mention adultery and whoredom asthe common sins of Israel. In 5:4 itis said, "They will not frame theirdoings to turn unto their God: forthe sphit of whoredoms is in themidst of them and they have notknown the Lord." And, the people'sapostasy from God is compared towhoredom, one of the most revoltingof all sins.2: The Basis of Israel's ApostasyWas Idolatry.The prophet said in 4:12,13, "Mypeople ask counsel at their stocks,and their staff declareth unto them,—• They sacrifice upon the tops ofthe mountains, and burn incense uponthe hills, under oaks and poplars andelms, because the shadow thereof isgood." In 4:17 it is said, also, "Ephraimis joined to idols: let him alone." Thelure of other gods was strong uponIsrael because of the influence ofother nations. In two of the commandmentsIs:ael had been enjoined fromhaving any other gods in the place ofthe true God; and also from makinggraven images or bowing down beforethem. But, notwithstanding the divineprohibition, idolatry became the besettingsin of Israel, and associatedwith it were the sins of prostitutionand murder.3: People Are Responsible for TheirLack of Knowledge.Israel had come to the place inher history when the people did notknow how to be good. In 4:6 Hoseasaid, "My people are destroyed for lackof knowledge: because thou hast rejectedknowledge, I will also rejectthee, that thou shalt be no priest tome: seeing thou hast forgotten the lawof thy God, I will also forget thychildren." Generations of people hadarisen, who had not been taught concerningGod and His commandments.Evidently the priest and the prophetswere at fault for Hosea said in 4:8,9,"They eat up the sin of my peopk.and they set their heart on theiriniquity. And there shall be, like people,like piiest: and I will punish themfor their ways, and reward them theirdoings." The spiritual leaders of theland had not done their duty. They,evidently, were reluctant to oppose thewill of the people lest their livelihoodbe cut off. Is not that a picture of ourmodern conditions in which many religiousleaders are reluctant to opposethe will of the people; consequently,sins and vices are tolerated and nothingis said against them? The statementof Hosea "like people, like priest"is very applicable in these moderntimes. And a generation of people hasarisen in America which does not knowhow to be good. They are perishingfo. the lack of knowledge; but theycould have knowledge if they wouldstudy. Knowledge makes a great differencein any realm of life. Millionsof people have died in the world becausephysicians and others did notknow of the effective cure which laterbecame available. Millions of peoplehave died, unsaved, for the lack ofknowledge of Christ and the way ofsalvation.4: The Ret-ibutive Effect of Sin.It pays back with interest. Hoseasaid in 4:16, "For Israel slideth backlike a backsliding heifer: now theLord will feed them as a lamb in alarge place." A "backsliding heifer'OCTOBER 18, 1967 251

was one which was stubborn and intractableto a yoke or halter. A "lambin a large place" was one separatedfrom the confines of the stable whereits mother was. Such a lamb woulddie of starvation. This was a pictureof the moral condition of Israel. Thepeople had become intractable to thelaws of God, which would have enabledthem to have peace and comfort; consequently,God permitted them to havethe liberty which they wanted andwhich, eventually, led them into thetarge land of captivity. Their moralliberty paid them back. Paul said inRomans 6:23, "For the wages of sinis death."5: Israel Chose the Wrong Kind ofRulers.The prophet said in 8:4, "They haveset up kings, but not by me: they havemade princes, and I knew it not: oftheir silver and their gold have theymade them idols, that they may be cutoff." A ruler was supposed to be a"minister of God," but they chose'Jeroboam the son of Nebat, who madeIsrael to sin." This was the first kingof the northern kingdom, and he hadnot been long in office until he had setup idol worship in Bethel and Gilgal.All of the other kings of Israel followedthe example of Jeroboam I.The lure of other gods enticed thepeople to choose kings who wouldpermit such immoral conditions toexist and even aid in promoting suchconditions.6: The Lure of Other Gods isStrong in America.People are still being enticed awayfrom the one and only true God.Their condition is described in Romans1:28,29, "And even as they did not liketo retain God in their knowledge, Godgave them over to a reprobate mind,to do those things which are not fitting;being filled with all unrighteousness..." Hosea listed the other godsof Israel. Other gods of America mightbe listed also. They are money, sex,sports, gambling, and other thingswhich come between people and God.Paul said to the Colossians, "that inall things He might have the preeminence."Jesus Christ is to be giventhe priority over every other objector interest of life."Lesson based on International SundaySchool Lessons: the International Bible Lessonsfor Christian Teaching, copyrighted 1963by the Division of Christian. Education, NationalCouncil of Churches of Christ in theU5A."Junior Topicfor November 12, 1967TEMPERANCE:Proverbs 20:1; 21:17; 23:20,21,29-35;31:4,5.No lesson material has arrived.Each sponsor will have to work outhis own meeting from the topic andreferences given.Prayer MeetingTopicfor November 15, 1967FOLLOW-UPColossians 1:27, 28; Ephesians 4:11-16by Rev. Robert McMillanReferences: Acts 15:36; I Cor. 4:15;I Thess. 1:5-10; Luke 1:3,4; II Peter 1:12,13; II Peter 3:1,2; I Peter 2:2;Proverbs 22:20,21.someone's doorstep? or in a trash can?Psalms: Ps. 37: w. 3-6, p. 91; Ps.51: vv. 7-12, p. 131; Ps. 119: part 8,p. 293.This fall, my wife and I havereached a mile-stone in our marriage.The last child has left the home nestand gone off to college. Not that ourresponsibilities are over — far fromit! But for the first time since 1944we are alone together in the house,and we're enjoying it. In accordanceto our obedience to certain physicallaws, God gave us five children. Theywere not abandoned at birth. That wasonly the beginning. They needed to befed, protected, and trained. No twowere alike. They needed a great dealof individual attention.In our prayer meeting tonight,we are going to consider, and prayabout, our responsibility for feedingand protecting and training theinfants, meaning those immature inthe Christian faith. This is calledfollow-up. Follow-up is spiritual pediatrics.It is giving spiritual care tospiritual babes.The Apostle Paul gave a greatdeal of attention to follow-up. In fact,his epistles are follow-up letters tothe early church Christians. If hecouldn't visit the church in person,then he would write a letter. Thesefollow-up letters constitute a greatpart of our New Testament.The Scripture passages assigned fortonight are samples of Paul's follow-upministry. In Colossians 1:27,28 Paulenvisions the task of the minister asnot only preaching the Gospel, butbringing people to spiritual maturity."He it is whom we proclaim. Weadmonish everyone without distinction.We instruct everyone in all the waysof wisdom, so as to present each oneof you as a mature member of Christ'sbody" (Col. 1:28 NEB).This ministry is not the sole responsibilityof the minster! "And thesewere his gifts: some to be apostles,some prophets, some evangelists, somepastors and teachers, to equip God'speople for work in his service, to thebuilding up of the body of Christ"(Eph. 4:11, 12 NEB).A new baby in the home is a sourceof much joy. It also requires a lot ofcare. The same is true in the spiritualrealm. How long has it been since youhad the joy of witnessing to someone,and then hearing him declare hisfaith in Jesus Christ? What happenedto the spiritual baby? Was he left onOr did you offer some help withintwenty-four hours? Did you encourageyour friend when his first doubt appeared?Did you teach him how to feedon the Word of God? All of thesethings are necessary in follow-up. Thensome day the child will become aman, and he will come to tell youabout the spiritual baby he is tryingto help!If we are normal Christians, thearrival of spiritual children, and spiritualgrandchildren should be a commonexperience.(For additional help, the leadermay read The Art of Personal Witnessing,by Lome Sanny, Chapters XIIand XIII.)Prayer Suggestions:Pray for children and youth inyour Sabbath School who appear to beunconverted. Pray for the evangelisticoutreach of your church. Pray for"orphans" —• those who have alreadybeen led to Christ, but who wereabandoned.For Discussion:1. How would you help a new Christianwho lacks assurance?2. What place does prayer havein follow-up?3. What can a new Christian begiven to do that will strengthen him?Note: The principles of follow-up assummarized by the Navigators: (1)Get him started, (2) keep him going,(3) tell him why, (4) show him how,(5) reproduce.252 COVENANTER WITNESS

W.M.S. TOPICFor Novemberby Mrs. Philip KennedyAs we ringer and learn in theCorrespondence Room (The Epistles)of the Palace of the King.There are twenty-one epistles orletters in our study for today. Theyare the New Testament books Romansthrough Jude. Although these letterswere written by the first apostles orpreachers for instruction, guidance,rebuke, and encouragement to those towhom they were addressed, yet thereis much all Christians and churchescan learn from these letters. It wasthe most natural course the apostlescould pursue, after preaching thegospel in any town or district, andestablishing a church, that they should,in their absence, address them byletter, to remind them of the doctrinesand injunctions they had received,and to illustrate more fully the dutiesand obligations of disciples. The epistlesmay be regarded as illustrating,applying, and enforcing the truthswhich are taught in the parables andconversations, but especially in thelife and death of the divine Redeemer;and they present to us a beautiful andharmonious system of Christian preceptand doctrine.Although we are living some nineteenhundred years since most of thesebooks were written, we can learn fromthem concerning the love of ourAs we see these letters or epistlesmen wrote to encourage new followersof Christ, let us take thought as tohow we can help, too, as His children.Our ministers, missionaries, S. S.teachers and workers are in constantneed of prayer. The WMS remembersour missionaries with Christmas greetings;perhaps, we could encouragethem with letters occasionally throughthe yea:. This could mean too, a kindword, a smile, or a word of encouragementto those about us whom we seeevery day. "Beloved, let us love oneanother, for love is of God; and everycne that loveth is born of God, andknoweth God" (I John 4:7).Through faith we understand thatthe worlds were framed by the wordof God, so that things which are seenwere not made of things which doappear. Hebrews 11:3.Scribe With A Hard PencilUncle Horace was one of the few remaining survivors of that vanishingrace of men who had been brought up on the Scriptu al injunction, "Owe noman any thing, but to love one another." All of his life, Uncle Horace hadpaid cash.His neighbors were not so. Many of them bought, on the installment plan,such wanted items as electric hedge-trimmers, color TV, radium water forliver complaint, and radiant heat kitchen ranges that would cook up a sizzlingsteak that would remain stone cold. Uncle Horace would have none of thesethings unless he could pay cash for them. And who has enough cash on handsto pay for a gallon of radium water for liver complaint? Uncle Horace becameknown in the community as a man who paid cash. He did r.ot intend to become"installment poor."Then he and Aunt Matilda decided to take a trip west. He applied to an OilCompany for a credit card which — according to their colorful advertising —would enable him to charge his gas, and oil, and meals, and motel rooms. Thatway, he wouldn't have to drive across the country with his pockets bulgingHeavenly Father. We never outgrowwith twenty dollar bills.the need of the love of God, ourThe Oil Company wanted to know Uncle Horace's age, weight, and the sizeHeavenly Father. Just as children areof his hat band, also his grandmother's maiden name. They also asked: "Withgiven parents during their years ofwhat companies are you now doing installment buying; what are you buying;growth, we as children of God areand how much do you owe each company?"ever in need of the constant care andUncle Horace had never bought so much as a box of tooth picks on thelove of our Father in Heaven. Christinstallment plan. On that entire section of the application blank, he wrote ais our constant companion and is alwayswilling to help us. As earthlyhuge "None!""None!" That was exactly the number of credit cards the Oil Company sentparents are willing to sacrifice soto Uncle Horace. In-as-much as he had done no credit buying, they consideredmuch for their children because ofhim as a poor risk. Since he did not conform to their notions of the way to dolove, even greater was the sacrificebusiness, they didn't want to do business with Uncle Horace.our Heavenly Father made by givingUncle Horace and Aunt Matilda took their trip. Uncle Horace took alongHis Son to die on the cross that we,quite a pocket full of twenty dollar bills. He had plenty to take along. Andeach one, may have everlasting life.the Oil Company missed out on Uncle Horace's business.After Christ's resurrection the HolyAs a former pastor of mine used to say, "So it is in the Christian life!" OftenSpirit came and dwelt among men.the world snubs the conscientious Christian because he fails to conform toDo we really desire to have our livestheir standards. He doesn't play their "sweepstakes", he doesn't get diunk onreflect that faith we profess? ChristSaturday nights, he doesn't elope with the butcher's wife: and so the worldmust come first in our daily lives,legards him as being of little account.through spending time in prayer andBut the man with Christian convictions manages to get along without them:reading God's Word, and in gettingand the world about him is the poorer, from not having him and his idealmixedin with their notions of life.to know Him so we will know whatHe wants us to do.OCTOBER 18, 1967 253

CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE BUDGET OF THEREFORMED PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF NORTH AMERICAJuly 1, 1967 — October 1, 1967Amount of Budget $160,000.00Raised to October 1, .... 82,211.90or Approximately 51%Departments GrantedForeign MissionsHome MissionsSouthern MissionIndian MissionWomen's AssociationTheological SeminaryStudents AidMinisterial ReliefWidows and Orphans . . .Geneva CollegeCovenanter WitnessWitness CommitteeBoard of Christian EducationBoard of EvangelismBoard of Church Erection .Miscellaneous FundPastors Refresher Course .National Assoc. EvangelicalsNOTICEPlease send orders for the 1968W. M. S. Uniform Program bookletsto:Mrs. Charles SterrettOakdale, 111. 62268Cost this year is 40 cents perbooklet. Have your orders in byNovember, so the booklets may bemailed as soon as possible andavoid the Christmas rush.SUBSCRIPTION NOTICESubscriptions are due from thesecongregations, November 1, 1967:Bear Run — Mahoning, Coldenham,College Hill, Newburgh, North Hills,Seattle.NEW ADDRESSRev. Young J. Son225 E. Durham StreetPhiladelphia, Pa. 19119.Received43,000.0016,200.002,410.00. 4,500.00. 2,000.0018,500.0010.0010.00. 6,500.0019,000.0014,000.006,500.0018,500.00. 2,370.00. 2,000.00. 3,500.00750.00250.00160,000.00to October 1, 196721,500.008,100.002,499.002,250.001,000.009,250.0010.0010.003,250.00. 9,500.00. 7,000.00. 3,250.00. 9,250.00. 1,185.00. 1,000.00. 1,750.00375.00125.00Respectfully Submitted,Chester R. Fox, Treasurer81,304.00HUGH FRANCIS MC CRUMOnce again within a period of sixmonths death has come to a member ofthe Santa Ana Session. Mr. Hugh F.McCrum was taken to his heavenlyhome on September 16, 1967. Mr.McCrum was born in WestmorelandCounty, Pennsylvania on September29, 1884. When he was a very smallboy, his family moved to Kansas andsettled near Sterling.On October 13, 1909, Mr. McCrumand Cora Effie McElhinney of Bostwick,Nebraska were married andsettled on a farm near the Beulahchuich. They later moved to Superior.In 1937, the McCrums came toCaifornia and united with the LosAngeles congregation. After six yearshere, they moved to Santa Ana andon October 2, 1943 they united withthe Santa Ana congregation.Mr. McCrum had been a memberof the Reformed Presbyterian Churchsince early boyhood, first in Sterling,Kansas then in Beulah and Superior,Nebraska, in Los Angeles, and in SantaAna. After having been an elder inthe Los Angeles congregation, he waselected to the eldership in Santa Anaon April 6, 1949.As long as his health permittedMr. McCrum was a faithful attendantat church and a most helpful memberof the Session.The Lord has taken him home andthus has ended a long and useful lifein the service of his Master.The Santa Ana Session as well asmany friends throughout the churchwill miss him.Mr. McCrum is survived by hiswife, but she is a helpless invalid.The Santa Ana SessionBLOOMINGTON, INDIANASaturday, August 19, at 3 p. m.Steve Phillips and Marilyn Landgrebewere united in marriage with the Rev.Robert Milliken officiating. The servicewas in the sanctury of the churchand a reception followed in the basement.Steve is a senior in IndianaUniversity and Marilyn is a teacherin the Smithville High School. Bothattend our church and Sabbath Schoolregularly.On August 26 at 7:30 p. m. the Rev.Robert Milliken performed the marriageceremony for Donald Moore andEllen Lamb. Following the service inthe sanctuary many friends and relativesattended the reception. Donald isan enlisted member of the NationalGuard Reserves and presently is employedby the Monon Railroad. Ellenis employed as a secretary. The goodwishes of the Bloomington congregationare extended to both these youngcouples.MARIAN L. GILMORE TO SERVE ASGENEVA'S DEAN OF WOMENDr. Edwin C. Clarke, President ofGeneva College, has announced theappointment of Miss Marian L.Gilmore, Associate Professor of Speechat the College, as Dean of Women.Due to unforeseen cirumstancesMiss Joanne Hedenstrom who,it recentlywas announced, had acceptedthe position is unable to fulfill hercommitment.Commenting on Miss Gilmore's appointmentDr. Clarke stated, "We areextremely pleased that Miss Gilmore234 COVENANTER WITNESS

has agreed to serve as Dean of Womenduring the present College year."Miss Gilmore, who has served inthe College's Speech Department since1961, was in September 1932 appointedto also serve as Dean of Women. Sheserved in this capacity until September1965 when, at her request, shewas relieved of these duties in orderthat she could devote full time to theteaching of speech pathology and tothe expansion of Geneva's clinicalspeech program.In addition to her responsibilitiesas Dean of Women Miss Gilmore willretain her position in her chosen fieldas Associate Professor in the Departmentof Speech, teaching a limitedschedule. Her position as Dean ofWomen in Geneva's student affairsarea is under the direction of Dr.Harold A. Bruce, Dean of Students.Vi®&&&&&®&&&&:^-^1-^-^^ >\v, ^sNOTICEThe 1967 Minutes of Synod will beready about October 15. The price,$1.50 per copy. Send all orders to:Chester R. Fox, Treasurer306 Empire BuildingPittsburgh, Pa. 15222QUINTER, KANSASThe Quinter congregation rings outa loud toll before each worship service.The church bell has been repairedand has been in operation since April.Our pastor, Rev. Robert McFarlandcontinues his turn conducting servicesin the Gove County Home. The SummerTraining Program team assisted inthis service in July. Miss Mary Harshof Morning Sun, Iowa and Miss BethHemphill of Syracuse, New York composedthe team. We appreciated theeffort and work done by these girls inV. B. S., young people's gatheringsand other areas of work in the QuinterChurch. We trust their stay with uswas rewarding spiritually and we expressour thanks for all they did.One young person of our group isseiving in Viet Nam. Pvt. JosephWayne Copeland, son of Mr. and Mrs.Joe Copeland of Hays, Kansas. Wayne'saddress is:S P Joseph W. CopelandRA 16957003DaNang Signal Bn (Stratcom)Prov, APO S. F. 96337Forest Park was attended full timeby Paul Copeland and Ronnie Graham.These fellows completed memory workOCTOBER 18, 1967from the book of John and were offereda good share of their camp expensesfor doing so.Daryl Nuss was graduated fromhigh school as Valedictorian and alsoreceived the "Outstanding Boy" award.Paul Copeland, a high school senior,was elected president of the StudentCouncil of Hays High School.We have six young people in collegethis fall. Sharon Graham andJudy Denny are attending Fort HaysState College. Deanna Mann andDenny McWilliams are at Kansas StateUniversity: Tom Forman is at Genevaand John Forman is attending KansasUniversity Medical School.We had the pleasure of holdingthree weddings in our church thissummer: Mr. and Mrs. Scott Boylenee- Mary Jane McBurney, now livingin Norfolk, Virginia; Mr. and Mrs.Ronald Homa nee- Carolyn Chestnut,now living in Pittsburgh where Ronis attending the seminary; and Mr.and Mrs. Geny Coufal nee- ShirleyGraham now living in Edwards AirForce Base, California where Gerry isteaching.One of the Quinter missionarysocieties changed the name of theirgroup from the Hope Society to theSylvia Society. This is in honor ofMrs. Sylvia McFarland, a formerpastor's wife and mother of the presentpastor.Something for the men is becomingpopular. It is the men's prayer breakfast.This gathering is every Mondaymorning at 6:30 open to Christians ofthe community.The Rev. Mr. and Mrs. Paul Whitehave returned to the Indian Mission,September 13, to continue their laborof love.The pulpit was filled in the pastfew months by the following people:Rev. Paul Hindman, representativesfrom the Rural Bible Crusade, Rev.Ray Joseph, Dr. Samuel Boyle, Dr.Norman Carson, and Dr. Roy Blackwood.Our pastor took part in the CovenantHeights and the Forest ParkConferences. At the Colorado conferencehe preached the consec.ationservice and at Forest Park he gavethe Sabbath morning message.We greatly appreciate the effortsof Rev. Mr. and Mrs. McFarland andwe pray that as a congregation we willcontinue to support them in the churchprogram.BROOMALLThe address of John Ramsey, newclerk of the Broomall session, is 135Sugartown Road, Stafford-Wayne, Pa.19087.In July, Broomall congregation heldwhat we hope was the last for a longtime of our succession of farewellparties. This one was a supper in thechurch to bid Godspeed to Mr. andMrs. Edward Robson, David and Peter,before they set out for Oakdale, when.they expect to live while Mr. Robsonattends Concordia Seminary in St.Louis. We greatly appreciate havinghad their fellowship, and have profitedfrom Mr. Robson's preaching.We welcome back to PhiladelphiaMarshall and Jean Smith and are lookingio.ward to getting to know David,Mark, and Kathy in the months ahead.We are happy to have the Smithsliving in the parsonage for the present.Not long after John Oswald hadreturned home from a stay in thehospital, Mrs. Oswald fell, breakingher hip and injuring her shouldei.The fine lecovery she has made sofar, especially her ease in walking,is a clear answer to prayer. Mrs.James Finley was also in the hospitalthis summer, and is now recoveringat home, though not yet able to takethe drive to church.Miss Alice Thompson, now livingin our Home in Pittsburgh, visitedher nieces, Miss Jean and Miss AlicemaeScalley, for six weeks early in thesummer. We enjoyed having her worshipwith us again.Also worshiping with us while ona visit back home was Mrs. OscarSalcedo (Carol Ann Howell), now livingin Maracaibo, Venezela, and her smallsun, Christopher.A good number of us were able toattend White Lake Camp this yea)— five campers and three counselorsat Junior Camp, eighteen full or parttimeat Senior Camp, three of themofficers.NOTICEOn Friday, November 3, 1967, theGeneva congregation of Beaver Falls,Pennsylvania, will observe its 75thAnniversary by holding a commemorativeprogram in the church at 7:30P. M. Members living out of bounds,as well as former members and friends,are cordially invited to attend or tosend greetings if unable to be present.255

How Shall They Hear Without A Preacher?n'jr-j})}}l^n: : Time To Enter An Open |A#" XL\D °° r '" J Q P an - |• ry- ^L.,v,J3Xj "Behold, now is the accepted time; J. / now is the day of salvation." ?\\rt\i Uj \\ „_. ,_ / God's Spirit is working in Japan to bring men to\^ ^U/ Christ. jI)I//Hi. ">x/*•Yf-//©*\>/TT;\wlli'•-..IKVT „.^-^V"Here am I, send me."! A / rE \Time To Pray!7J x Time To Go!"Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvestto send forth reapers."Every one of us needs to uphold our brethren inJapan as they call upon us to share our heritagein the Gospel by sending laborers into their portof Christ's vineyard.I —" - ! —j' In behalf of the Covenanter Christians in Japan,• d/l JT/7 the Foreign Mission Board again issues an urgent) •. / appeal for an ordained minister to prepare formissionary service in Japan.I(\) Apphcants should write to the Rev. Robert Henning, 502 2nd Ave.,) Eastvale, Beaver Falls, Pa. 15010, before December 12, at which) time the Board will be considering how to meet this pressing need. \i. . , , 4256 COVENANTER WITNESS

THECovenanter WitnessTo The TruthJESUS CHRIST AS SAVIOUR, LORD, HEAD OF MEN, THE CHURCH AND NATIONS.VOLUME LXXIX NO. 17 OCTOBER 25, 1967 STERLING, KANSAS 67579BIBLE LESSONS FOR THE WEEK OF NOVEMBER 19, 1967DR. A. T. PIERSON'S RULES FOR READING1. Never lose a valuable fact or a good thought.Make a note of it, preserve it, and put it into shapefor future use.2. Never read a vile, coarse, worthless book.Time is too short; character too priceless.3. Never pass by a word, a reference to historicalor scientific fact, or anything else worth knowing,until it is understood.4. Mark your books. In margins by single,double, or triple lines according to importance.Underline phrases or sentences. On fly leaves, makea brief index of valuable parts.5. Read some books that tax all your power; andsome unattractive ones to call forth concentration ofmental powers.6. Let reading be varied. Turn from philosophyto romance or biography. This gives rest to themental powers.7. Buy only those books which you wish to keepas a permanent possession. — The Church Herald

THE COVENANTER WITNESSOfficial organ of the ReformedPresbyterian Church of N. A.. CVANSCUCW. mam ASMCIATMNEditor: Rev. M. W. Dougherty, D.D.125 N. 4th StreetSterling, Kansas 67579Phone 316 — Br. 8-3472Printed each Wednesday under the supervision of theBoard of Publication by The Patterson Press, Winchester,Kansas 66097.Contributing Editors: Department Editors:Rev. Kenneth .Smith Rev. John TweedDr. G. M. RobbMrs. Robert B. MaineRev. John McMillan Mrs. Willis EdgarRev. C. E. Caskey Rev. John K. GaultOpinions expressed in our columns are those of theindividual writer, not necessarily the views of the ReformedPresbyterian Church or the editor.All material to appear in The Covenanter Witnessshould be typewritten, double-spaced, and should be inSterling, Kansas two weeks before it is to be printed.The cost of all pictures is 30 cents per square inch.Obituaries — All words in excess of one hundred fifty,one cent per word. Money should accompany such notices.SUBSCRIPTION RATESIndividual (1 year): U.S. and Canada, $4.00, BritishIsles 35/-, all other places, $5.00;Individual (2 year): U.S. and Canada, $7.00, BritishIsles 63/-, all other places, $9.00;Group: U.S. and Canada, $3.00, British Isles 28/-, allother places, $4.00.9-month student subscription — $1.50; 5-month introductoryoffer —$1.00; 2 gift subscriptions to persons outsideof the R. P. Church — $2.00 each. Single copies, 10c.Subscription Agent for U.S. and Canada: Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Subscription Agent for the British Isles: Rev. HughWright, B.A., 12, Knutsford Drive, Belfast 14, NorthernIreland.All checks should be made payable to The CovenanterWitness in U. S. currency.Give one month's notice of a change of address. Sendboth the new and the old address to Mrs. M.W. Dougherty.Postmaster: Please send Form 3579 to Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Second class postage paid at Winchester, Kansas 66097WE HOLD THE FOLLOWING TO BE TRUTHS OF SCRIPTURE:The Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the only infalliblerule of faith and conduct.The Trinitarian conception of the Godhead.Faith in Jesus Christ as the only way of salvation.Salvation by Grace.Assurance of salvation as a possible Christian experience.The Gospel Call and Election.The Holy Spirit as the Author of regeneration.Sanctification through the cooperating agency of the Holy Spirit.The fact of death and hell as the destiny of the lost and heavenas the destiny of the saved.That the Church of Jesus Christ consists of all these who believein Him together with their children.The Divine Right of the Presbyterian ferm of Church Government.The Lord Jesus Christ as the only King and Head of His Church.That terms of membership or communien are essential to thewelfare of the Church.Quote -SAVED BY A SPIDER WEBWhen Felix of Uola and his followers werefleeing from their pursuers they took refuge in acave. Just after they entered a spider spun a webacross the opening. The pursuers coming alongglanced toward the cave, but noticing the spider'sweb across the opening decided that no one hadentered there, so marched on. After they had passedon Felix and his men came out. When he saw thespider's web he said: "With God a spider's web is asan army. Without God an army is but as a spider'sweb."— Dr. Frank E. Allen inTHE ACTS OF THE APOSTLESSTATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP, MANAGEMENTAND CIRCULATION(Act of October 23, 1962, Section 4369, Title 39, U.S. Code)1. Date of filing - October 27, 19672. Title of Publication The Covenanter Witness3. Frequency of issue Weekly4. Location of known office of publication PattersonPress, Winchester, Jefferson County, Kansas 660975. Location of the headquarters or general offices ofthe publishers 125 N. 4th.,- Sterling, Kansas 67579.6. Publisher Reformed Presbyterian Board of Publication,125 N. 4th, Sterling, Kansas 67579. Editor, M.W.Dougherty, D.D., Address the same.7. Owner The Reformed Presbyterian Church of NorthAmerica, Empire Bldg. Liberty St., Pittsburgh, Pa. 15222.8. Known Bondholders, etc. None.Extent and Nature of Circulationaverage in last 12 months last issuea. Total no. copies printed 2500 2500b. Paid circulation by mail 2287 2287c. Free distribution by mail, etc. 53 54d. Total distribution 2340 2341e. Office use, left-over, spoiled after printing 160 159f. Total 2500 2500Signed, M.W. Dougherty, editorThe duty which rests upon officers to maintain discipline andpreserve the purity of the Church.Spiritual worship as a divine requirement mediated through theLord Jesus Christ.The exclusive use of the Psalms in the worship of the Church.The Protestant interpretation of the Sacraments.The divine right of the institution of Marriage and that it is notto be dissolved except by adultery or "irremediable" desertion.The Sabbath as a day sacred to rest and worship.The duty of nations and their civil rulers to honor Christ asKing of Kings and Lord of Lords.That Christian citizens are under obligation to obey lawful authority.The right and duty of the Christian citizen to dissent from allgovernmental and national disobedience to the Law of God.That the Covenants of the past are still binding.From "The Communicant's Class" by J. B. Tweed258 COVENANTER WITNESS

EditorialComment &%REFORMATION DAYrr\CTOBER 31 is known as Reformation Day. It^ is in commemoration of the nailing of theNinety- five Theses on the Whittenburg Church doorby Martin Luther on October 31, 1517. This was inreahty a challenge to some teachings of the RomanCathohc Church, of which he was a priest. Fromthis incident, the Protestant Reformation is usuallydated, though some of the Protestant ideas hadbeen expressed before this. We beheve that Godraised up this brilliant theologian and teacher at theparticular time for the purpose of emphasizing somegreat truths which had been neglected or perverted.Luther was especiaUy distressed by the sale of indulgences,by which for money the sins of peoplewithout confession, repentance, or absolution of thepriest were forgiven. He held that no indulgence bythe Pope can help anyone without true repentancetoward God. He also attacked the authority of thePope and the priesthood.The Reformation doctrines were widespread. Ina meeting in which Lutheran and Roman Catholicrepresentatives were gathered, a rule was adoptedby the Roman Cathohc majority that where theCatholics were in a majority Lutheran teaching wasforbidden, while in states where Lutherans were ina majority the Roman Catholics were free to teach.The Lutheran princes made a formal protest againstthis unfair rule, and from this the reformed group,the group not Roman Catholic, were called Protestants.A Protestant is also a witness for something. AProtestant is one who stands for certain great idealsor principles, who hves on the basis of certain highprinciples, whose faith is expressed in certain teachings.One of these is called the doctrine of justificationby faith alone. Another is the emphasis onGod's sovereignty, out of which other prominentdoctrines come.Luther translated the Scriptures into the popularGerman language. The Roman Catholic Churchdid not permit the laity to have the Scriptures, andthey eagerly read the new translation. This enabledthem to see the errors of Roman Catholic Churchand greatly helped the cause of the Protestants.Luther was severely persecuted and the RomanCatholics sought his death.There were others who aided in the Reformationmovement. In Switzerland, Zwingli became aleader, revolting from the papacy, and acknowledgingthe Scriptures as the only source of authorityin rehgion. Calvin became a great leader inGeneva, which wicked city was reformed largelythrough his influence. He wrote his Institutes ofthe Christian Religion, which one writer terms thegreatest work on Systematic Theology that was everwritten. Based on Bible authority his svstem oftheology holds to the absolute sovereignty of Godand the absolute dependence of His creatures, the divinedecrees, foreordination, predestination, election,reprobation, total depravity, irresistible grace, andthe perseverance of the saints. These terms needto be defined in order to be rightly understood. Allthese doctrines are interwoven and must not beseparated. For instance, total depravity means thatthe sinner has no ability in himself to do anythingfor his own salvation. He must rely completely onChris". Man was created in holiness but by his fallinto sin is now unable to merit salvation in any way.Sometimes the term is wrongly understood to meanthat one is as bad he can get to be. It means rathertotal inability. So all the other terms must be rightlyinterpreted and understood.In the true reformed teaching, one is not savedby his works, but by the grace of God. He deservednothing good. He could not do anything to meritsalvation. God in His great love and mercy sent HisSon to take man's place to live a righteous hfe inman's place, to die for his sins. By faith, which isworked in the heart of God's people bv the HolySpirit, a person is enabled and persuaded to acceptJesus Christ as offered in the Gospel. So man isjustified by faith in Jesus Christ, accepting whatChrist has done for him.Another distinct teaching of the Reformation iscalled the priesthood of all believers. Through JesusChrist any believer can come directly into God'spresence with his confession and prayers. He doesnot have to approach Him through a human priest.Under the Roman Catholic system only through thepriest could one expect to have forgiveness. Onemust confess to the priest. We do have a great HighPriest, Jesus Christ. We must confess our sins toHim. He has the power to forgive sins. In Him aloneis salvation.See page 262OCTOBER 25, 1967 259

Glimpses of the Religious WorldKANSAS VERSUS GARBERAfter the Kansas Legislature enacted a new lawraising the compulsory school attendance age tosixteen, Leroy Garber, a forty-one-year-old Amishmanfrom Hutchinson, Kansas, was arrested becausehis daughter was not enrolled in the publichigh school or any other approved school of thedistrict."I'm not against education," Garber explained,"But I'm against the environment of the pubhc highschool and some of the things that are going on there... I don't think I ought to be forced to do somethingthat I don't believe is right."The Kansas Supreme Court has affirmedGarber's conviction, and this test case for the Amishis now on its way to the United States SupremeCourt.William C. Lindholm, writing in the September-October issue of Liberty, asserts that the basicquestion in Kansas is whether education belongs toparents or to the State, "whether it is to be controlledexclusively by secular political agencies increasinglydedicated to the production of materialgoods and technical pursuits, or preserved as a disciplinesubject to parental rehgious conscience."Lindholm, who is Chairman of the National Committeefor Amish Religious Freedom, says that theAmish are asking if an agency of the State is soinfallible that it can select the educational programto be imposed on all children alike.MICHIGAN CITY PONDERS FATE OF "TENCOMMANDMENTS"Also from Liberty comes the following item:"A 2,500-pound tablet inscribed with the TenCommandments sits in a warehouse ... (in Flint,Michigan), the subject of much controversy.The commissioners accepted the tablet althoughit had been rejected by the parks and beautificationboards. The American Civil Liberties Union, notingthat the 'Protestant version' of the Commandmentshad been inscribed on the giant slab, charged violationof church-state separation principles."Flint's commissioners met to reconsider theirdecision and then voted 5-3 to uphold the originalruling and accept the tablet. Shortly thereafter theTHE REV. JOHN McMILLANR. D. 1, Box 337WALDEN, NEW YORKcity attorney recommended that the commission'regretfully rescind' its acceptance."Flint's city commission accepted the six-bythree foot granite tablet from the Fraternal Orderof Eagles and planned to place it on the lawn ofthe City Hall. A public debate followed."Commented the Detroit Free Press: Thou shaltnot erect the Ten Commandments on the City Halllawn. Or shalt thou?'"REPORTER TELLS TWIN GODS OF HIPPIES(EP) While jarring music with drug-orientedlyrics clawed at his nerves, Seattle Times reporterDon Duncan wended his way through the Hippiehaunts of his city for research which developed intoa perceptive series of articles.In them he tells of placid, apolitical types ofconfused youth, and reports that the scramble fordrugs and hallucinogenic smokes is escalating inalarming proportions."The twin gods of hippieism as explained by theyoung people," writes Duncan, "are marijuana('make it legal') and 'doing your own thing.' Love,peace, and brotherhood are somehow mixed in withthis, but the pattern is confused."He said most of the hippies were surprisinglynaive politically. "Activism is not for them," he said.They speak vaguely of hypocrisy in straight society.Life "out there" seems to overwhelm them, Duncansaid.The reporter said that their pleas were simply:"Legalize marijuana and let us alone."ELEVEN BILLION MORE CIGARETTESThe United Press International quotes the AgricultureDepartment as estimating that Americanswill smoke 551 billion cigarettes this year — or about215 packs for every person of 18 years or older.This average of smokes per person is obviouslyaffected by the untold number of young Americansunder 18 who are already addicted smokers.Total cigarette consumption will be about 11billion more than last year, a tobacco situationreport said, and per capita consumption will besecond only to 1963.What about cigars? The report indicated thatfewer are being smoked this year than last year.260 COVENANTER WITNESS

The Subjects Of BaptismBy Rev. J. G. Vos, D. D.Continued From Last IssueTo these implications of the doctrine of theCovenant of Grace, we may add one or two implicationsof the Reformed doctrine of the Visible Churchwhich are relevant to the question of infant baptism.(1) The Visible Church, according to the Reformedview, is the body of those who profess thetrue rehgion, together with their children. It is notnecessarily composed exclusively of regenerate persons.Membership in it is based on presumption,not on proof of regeneration. Thus the Anti-pedobaptistcontention that infant baptism is wrongbecause there can be no certainty that the infantsare regenerate, is quite without weight. If we aregoing to look for certainty of regeneration, there canbe no certainty of that even in the case of adults.Simon the Sorcerer was baptized in adult hfe uponhis personal profession of faith, yet he turned outto be unregenerate, for Peter said to him 'Thouhast neither part nor lot in this matter; for thy heartis not right in the sight of God .... I perceive thatthou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bondof iniquity" (Acts 8:18-24). It has often been claimed,but never proved, that the anti-pedobaptistchurches are purer or contain less hypocrites, thanthose that practice infant baptism.(2) The Visible Church, according to the Reformedview, includes the children or infants ofbehevers. The infant children of behevers are membersof the Church whether they are baptized ornot, according to Reformed thought. This is a generallyrecognized and accepted view in the eminentReformed thologians. It imphes that infants arebaptized, not to make them church members, butbecause they are already church members.We have gotten almost entirely away from thisviewpoint today, and even where infant baptism ispracticed and regarded as important, the baptizedchildren are regarded as non-members for severalyears, until in their early 'teens they make a pubhcprofession of faith and are said to "join the Church".This manner of speaking is all but universal. It isused by elders, deacons, Sabbath school teachers,ministers — almost everyone. The few who dechneto use it are considered rather pecuhar.The use of this phase, "joining the Church,"when speaking of those baptized in infancy, betraysan erroneous or defective view of the significance ofand reason for infant baptism. If we could rememberthat infants are baptized because they are alreadymembers of the Visible Church, we would see theimpropriety of speaking of their "joining the church"several years later. Our common use of this terminologybetrays the fact that we do not regard thechurch membership of children as real or important.I have endeavored to vindicate the proprietyof infant baptism as a Scriptural practice rootedin the Reformed doctrines of the Covenant of Graceand the Visible Church. I must now add some remarksconcerning abuses of infant baptism thatshould by all means be avoided. These abuses areextremely common in denominations which adhereto infant baptism by tradition rather than by intelligentconviction. And occasionally one of theseabuses comes to our own parsonage or church doorsin the form of a temptation to compromise witherror. I shall mention three abuses of infant baptismwhich have given a good deal of ammunition toanti-pedobaptists, and which we should guardagainst with great care.(1) Promiscuous infant baptism is an unwarrantedpractice and cannot be justified as Scriptural.It divorces infant baptism from the Covenant ofGrace. The practice of baptizing the infants of anyand all parents who request the rite, regardless oftheir reasons and regardless of whether the parentsthemselves are professing Christians and membersof the Church is becoming increasingly common insome circles. This is "open baptism" and is analogousto "open communion." Pastors are occasionally re-OCTOBER 25, 1967 261

quested to baptize an infant of non-church parentsbecause it is beheved that the infant is near death.It is hard to refuse such a request, yet it must berefused if we are to be true to our vows and to theWord of God. Of course such anguished parentsshould be dealt with as sympathetically as possibleand should be invited and encouraged to becomeChristians themselves.(2) Baptism of infants where the parents,though church members, are not hving orderly isimproper. How can parents take solemn vows fortheir child when they are living, and intending tocontinue to live, in flagrant and open violation ofthe same vows themselves? Parents who practicallynever attend church except for the Sabbath morningservice at the communion season, have no right tobaptism for their children. Those who are flagrantlyand deliberately violating the Sabbath, or otherwiseopenly hving in sin, have no right to baptism fortheir children. The session should take the initiativein dealing with such covenant-breaking members,so that the entire odium of refusing baptism for thechild will not crash upon the head of the pastor.The session should maintain and insist uponScriptural standards and should back the pastor upin administering these standards. Where this isneglected, infant baptism becomes too cheap. It isa scandal that cries to heaven when parents canstand up in the congregation for the baptism of theirchildren, vow solemnly to God that they will attendthe ordinances of divine worship faithfully, go homeat the end of the service, fail to come back for theevening service, and not enter the church buildingagain for six solid months, or perhaps a whole year.I am not speaking of those hving hundreds of milesout of bounds, but of those hving easy driving distanceof the place of worship.(3) Infant baptism is meaningless apart froma serious program of Christian instruction on thepart of both the parents and the church. If we expectGod to be a covenant-keeping God, then wemust be covenant-keeping people. The parents promiseto instruct their children in the things of God.The church also, of course, has a solemn obhgationto instruct its own children in Christian truth andduty. Where these responsibilities are not takenseriously, infant baptism tends to become a merematter of form or ritual. We are not to expect thatinfant baptism will function automatically, or exopere operato, as the Church of Rome wronglyteaches. It will not be without its proper fruit ifitis accompanied by the true faith and obedience tothe obhgations incurred in our vows to the Lord.REFORMATION DAYFrom page 259As priests we are also privileged to make intercessionfor others. That should be a large part ofour prayers. Our prayers should be direct to Godthrough and in the name of Jesus Christ alone.Prayers to Mary the mother of Jesus, or to saints orothers are forbidden. Worship of God only is permitted,and not the relics or Pope or others.Another behef of Calvinistic Protestants isknown as the perseverance of the saints. Jesus saidthat no one is able to snatch His sheep out of Hishand. He gives to them eternal life and they shallnever perish. The Father is greater than all. Noone is able to pluck them out of the Father's hand.There is no condemnation to those who are in ChristJesus. A behever may wander out of the way, butJesus seeks the wandering lost one and brings himback rejoicing. No saved person gets beyond thereach of the Holy Spirit. Christ does not die in vainfor those whom God has chosen for salvation.Protestants beheve that the Word of God is theonly infallible rule of faith and practice. Jesus is thehving Word and the Bible is the written Word. Eventhe best human teachers and leaders make mistakes,for they are sinners. Man is expected to use hisreason, but this is fallible. The Church is made up ofhuman beings. Church councils make mistakes. Wecan depend on the Word of God.— Associate Reformed PresbyteriTHE SPIRIT OF TRUTH AND ERRORFrom page 263social gospel came to have no message for theindividual enslaved in sin.You will have noted the emphasis that Dr. Weirhas given in the National Reform Association to thereformation of the individual — to personal redemptionin Jesus Christ. Ultimately, true reformation ofour land and society can come only through thesum total of the effect of personal redemption.We have now considered three movements,different, but similar in approach.(To Be Continued)262 COVENANTER WITNESS

The Spirit of Truth and ErrorIn our study of the letter to the Galatians inFebruary, we noted especially Paul's message inchapter 1, where he said, "But though we or anangel from heaven preach any other message untoyou than that which we have preached, let himbe accursed." We saw there the principle that Paullays down to Christians that it is the message thata man preaches that authenticates him; it is notthe man who vahdates the message. Therefore Paulurges us to a consideration of the content of themessage which men proclaim.And this becomes our duty even in this day — toevaluate the religious thought which is being propagatedand to hold it under the searchlight of theWord of God.This morning I want to mention some of thedirections in which Protestant rehgious thought hasgone and is going, and then to give some directionas to how we go about evaluating these, or whatconclusions we can draw from them.In the last 100 years of Protestant theology,there have been a series of rehgious movementseach in turn claiming for itself the new andultimate standard of faith and action. And eachin turn has been superseded by another and somewhatdifferent method of approach and content oftheology. We are sometimes given the impressionthat the hberal element in the church has a commonthought and mind and that, to use a familiarquotation, "all scholars are agreed." But, as a matterof fact, we shall find quite a spectrum of thought.HIGHER CRITICISMLet us begin by mentioning the area of Bibhcalcriticism known as "higher criticism." There is alegitimate form of Bibhcal criticism when we usethat term to mean the study of the book. The properarea of Bibhcal criticism concerns the accuracy oforiginal manuscripts, the proper translation ofterms, the study and evaluation of Bibhcal wordsand concepts in their original setting, the concernfor the study of the canon. But higher criticism isdistinguished from this by its starting point of unbelief.So the higher critical scholars, in general,have denied the miraculous, they have denied thepossibility of divine revelation. This movement hada very devastating effect upon Protestantism.Rev. James D. Carson, Pastor ofNorth Hills R. P. Church, Pittsburgh, PennsylvaniaI think it is fair to indicate two outgrowths ofthis theological outlook, which are contained herein germ, but which were really developed separately.LIBERALISMOne of them is generally known as hberahsm,or modernism. Of all the terms that we shall usetoday, perhaps this covers more ground, and istherefore harder to define in fairness to its adherents.Bernard Ramm, in seeking to identify thesemovements, has said this in part about hberahsm:"The general result of this is to elevate experiencesabove theology: to reduce revelation from a divineself-disclosure to rehgious experience; and to maketheology practical, and post-reflective of religiousexperience." Handbook of Contemporary Theologyp. 81.Now it may be difficult in one reading to getthis — but the foundation stone of liberalism inmy estimation is the exaltation of reason as thefinal arbiter in every situation. What we can understandand what seems reasonable to us is true; whatcannot be understood and what is not reasonable isnot true. You can see therefore what this does toBiblical content. The miracles do not seem reasonable;therefore are discarded as being untrue andmeaningless.SOCIAL GOSPELAnother outgrowth of this higher critical mind ofthe 19th century is what has been called the "socialgospel." Rauschenbusch is perhaps the best knownmolder of this thought. This avenue of approachcarried truth with it, as nearly every heresy containsan element of truth. It emphasized the need forthe church to be concerned for the society of man;for the social conditions of life as well as for thesoul of the individual. The high point of thistheological outlook came about the beginning ofthe 20th century, and there was no question thenof the need for some social action and activity. Butit stressed one aspect of the Christian Gospel to thepoint where it lost sight of the fundamental Christianmessage, which is one of redemption. It beganto see the coming of the Kingdom of God in termsof better and equitable social conditions — not inthe reformation of the human heart. So that theSee page 262OCTOBER 25, 1967 263

Now Available:THE JUNIOHIGH COURSE264

o1967-1968 Fall Quarter How To Live As A Christian—studies in the poetical booksWinter Quarter Jesus, the Christian's Priest—a study in the gospel of LukeSpring Quarter God Makes A Covenant—from the creation to the giving of the lawSummer Quarter God Builds His Covenant Nation—from Sinai to conquest of Canaan1968-1969 Fall Quarter The Covenant People Seek a King—from the judges to SolomonWinter Quarter The King of Kings Is Promised—from Solomon to MalachiSpring Quarter God Sends His Covenant King—the gospel of MatthewSummer Quarter God Extends His Rule—the early church in the book of Acts1969-1970 Fall Quarter Principles of Christ's Kingdom—studies in the EpistlesWinter Quarter Jesus Christ, the Man of the Covenant—the gospel of MarkSpring Quarter My Place in God's Covenant—a survey of God's covenant purposeSummer Quarter The Book God Wrote—a study of the Bible as the believer's rule of faith and practice)&*>\eS*>6&s\o

A PAGE FOR JUNIORSWHY THEY ATE THE BABY'S DOLLDr. Dray was an English doctor who joined themission church in Mersine. Later he hved in Brummana.A woman with six children and a worthlesshusband were starving. She was told there was aplace for them in Dr. Dray's Hospice at Brummana.They ate the last food in the house one day. Nextday they were going to walk six miles to Brummana.They had no food for breakfast before they took thatlong walk. One httle boy said, "We still have the dollthe missionary gave us. It is stuffed with bran." Sothey took the stuffing out of the doll, mixed it witha httle water and salt, and baked httle pancakesof it on a sheet of iron with a fire made of sticks.Then they were ready for the long walk!Rose A. HustonHalloween Treat Changes a LifeTrick or treat time came as usual for excited childrenin Noron, California, October 31, 1964. Fouryear-oldJohn H. Frcse, junior, his mission completed,took his bag of goodies to his home, Httlesuspecting that one of his treats would completelychange the hfe of his father.Mixed in with bubble gum, miniature candybars, and assorted edibles, the tiny lad found alittle red booklet. He asked his father to read it tohim. One look at the title — Personal Bible (versesof Comfort, Assurance, Salvation) — convinced thefather the book was not for him. But the lad persisted.Finally, in desperation, the father took thesmall booklet and placed it in a drawer out of hischild's reach.The inrL however, found several other httle redBibles and kept after his father to read them to him.In mid-November, John senior became iU with theflu and had to spend several days at home. To quiethis son, he finally agreed one day to read the bookletaloud. Such strange words: "Man shall not hve bybread alone, but by every word that proceedeth outof the mouth of God" (Matthew 4:4).Satisfied that his request had been met, the ladleft the room and returned to his normal activities.But his father suddenly had been pierced by thesharp, two-edged sword of the Word of God. He readthe little Bible through, until he had a great desire tofind God's truth. Remembering that his eldest daughteronce had a Bible he searched until he found it.Then he began to read right at the beghming untilhe had finished Genesis. Turning to the New Testament,he read until the Word of God had done itsconvicting work. Repentance and confession followed,and another man had been born again —thanks to the power of a real "treat."— Little Bible Ministry,Sanatoga, Pennsylvaniaby Elinor F. NealA WHOQUIZZ1. Helped her daughter-in-law to win a wealthy ki(Ruth 3:1)2. Possessed a coat of many colors? (Genesis 37:3)3. Said to a king, "Thou art the man"? (II Samuel 12:7)4. Ordered a king to put the power of Baal to a test?(I Kings 18:19)5. Viewed the Promised Land from Mt. Nebo?(Deuteronomy 34:1-3)6. Prayed for a son to be dedicated to God?(I Samuel 1:9-11)7. Refused tos>:ll his vineyard to a king? (I Kings 21:3)8. When in the wilderness used a pillow of stones?(Genesis 28:11)9. Prayed for forgiveness for his sin? (Psalm 51)10. Prayed for those who were ready to kill him?(Acts 7:59, 60)11. Prayed for power to restore the life of the widow'sson? (I Kings 17: 20)12. Refused to bow down to Haman? (Esther 3:2)13. Is represented as having planted the first vineyard?(Genesis 9:20)14. Prayed for his sister to be restored to health?(Numbers 12:10, 13)15. Denied his Lord three times? (Matthew 26:69-75)16. First spoke the words known as the Mizpah Benediction?(Genesis 31:48,49)17. Was a seller of purple? (Acts 16:14)18. Witnessed and agreed to the stoning of Stephen?(Acts 8: la)19. Was the first to see Peter after his miraculous escapefrom prison? (Acts 12:13-16)20. Because of his faith was able to bring water out of arock for the thirsty Israelites? (Exodus 17:6)Answers:•sasoH 02 epoqH '61 snsjej, jo im?s '81 ^V^l ilueqeq -g\ Ja;ad gx saso]/\[ ^x H«M £1 TeoapaoiAE 'Zqefna xi uaqdajs 01 VX^d '6 qoaep g iftoq B N ' LUBUUBH 9 saso]A[ S M^Cna f ueqiB^ g qdasof z X^xio^H I266 COVENANTER WITNESS

\Lesson Helps for the Week of November 19,1967Sabbath SchoolLessonfor November 19, 1967.GOD YEARNS FOR HISWAYWARD PEOPLE:Hosea 11 and 14.Comments by John K. Gault.Amid the violent imprecations ofdivine displeasure with Israel on accountof her sins, God, through Hisprophet Hosea, interspersed His harshnesswith a message of tender love.Nowhere else in the Old Testamentcan we find a more endearing passagethan that which is found at the beginningof this lesson. Speaking for God,the prophet said, "When Israel was achild, then I loved him, and calledmy son out of Egypt." Israel, the sonof Isaac, inherited the promise and hisnumerous descendants were known asGod's chosen people. After their enslavementin Egypt God led them asHe would a son. As Hosea expressedthe tenderness of God's dealing withHis people, he said, "I taught Ephraimalso to go, taking them by their arms;but they knew not that I healed them.I drew them with cords of a man,with bands of love: and I was to themas they that take off the yoke on theirjaws, and I laid meat before them."1: God Yearned for His WaywardPeople Because He Loved Them.The nature of God consists of love,as the Apostle John said in I John 4:16, "God is love; and he that dwellethin love dwelleth in God, and God inhim." Jeremiah said in 31: 3, "TheLord hath appeared of old unto me,saying, yea, I have loved thee withan everlasting love: therefore withlovingkindness have I drawn thee."God chose Israel to be His peculiarpeople in order that He might havepeople whom He could love. The planof atonement as accomplished byChrist was an outgrowth of the infinitelove of God. This we learn from John3:16 which says, "For God so lovedthe world, that he gave his only begottenSon, that whosoever believethin him should not perish but haveeverlasting life." God's power to de-OCTOBER 25, 1967stroy was often restrained by Hiswonderful love. The psalmist tells usin 18: 35, "Thy gentleness hath mademe great." It has been the wonderfullove of God which has held in checkHis destructive power in order thatpeople might have more time to repentof thei. sins and turn unto Him. Godis love and apart from Him there is nolove for either God or man.2: People Are Unworthy of God'sExpressions of Love.Israel had become a thoroughlywayward people. They started in thewrong direction at the start of theirkingdom when they chose Jeroboam,the son of Nebat, to be their king. Heimmediately instituted idol worship inthe land and did his best to turn theloyalty of his subjects from Jerusalem,where was the seat of worship of thetrue God, to Bethel and Gilgal wherehe had established the worship ofidols. They went from bad to worseand their apostasy is here likened tothe prostitution which the prophet'swife Gomer resorted to. Hosea desc.ibedtheir moral condition in thewords of 7: 13-16, "Woe unto them!for they have fled from me: destructionunto them! because they have transgressedagainst me: though I haveredeemed them, yet they have spokenlies against me. And they have notcried unto me with their heart, whenthey howled upon their beds: theyassemble themselves for corn and wine,and they rebel against me. Though Ihave bound and strengthened theirarms, yet do they imagine mischiefagainst me. They return, but not tothe most High: they are like a deceitfulbow: their princes shall fall bythe sword for the rage of their tongue:this shall be their derision in the landof Egypt." The people of Israel had farless excuse for their apostasy than hadother nations. Israel had been therecipient of divine largess as no othernation had been, yet they turned awayfrom God and sought after the lifelessreplicas of the heathen. And, such isthe history of humanity; it is a historyof human unworthiness and of themunificence of heavenly favor.3: God Expressed His Yearning inMany Ways,i— *In 11:4 Hosea in speaking for Godsaid, "How shall I give thee up.Ephraim? how shall I deliver thee.Israel? how shall I make thee asAdmah? how shall I set thee as Zeboim?mine heart is turned within me,my repentings (compassion) are kindledtogether. I will not execute thefierceness of mine anger, I will notreturn to destroy Ephraim: for I amGod and not man; the Holy One inthe midst cf thee: and I will not enterinto the city." God was so leluctantto give up Israel to the consequencesof their transgessions. He felt thatHe could not do such a thing. "Admah"and "Zeboim" were two small citieswhich were destroyed along withSodom and Gomorrah. His compassionfo. Israel was so strong that it wasonly after great reluctance that Heallowed them to experience the outpouringof His wrath. The psalmistsaid in 44:3, "They gained not theland by the edge of the sword; Theirown arm to them could no safetyafford; But thy right hand saved, andthe light of thy face, Because of thyfavor, thy wonderful grace." God di -livered Israel from the slavery ofEgypt and from the army of PharaohWater and iood were provided in a milaculousmanner as they wandered forforty years in the wilderness. Theirexperiences of the pasu had been repletewith various manifestations ofGod's tender care, yet they forsookHim who had been their great benefactorand attached themselves to thegods of the heathen nations aroundthem.4: It Was, and Is, Time to Respondto God's Yearning.In 10:12 Hosea said, "Sow to yourselvesin .ighteousness, reap in mercy;break up your fallow ground: for itis time to seek the Lord, till he comeand rain righteousness upon you. Yehave plowed wickedness, ye havereaped iniquity; ye have eaten thef.uit of lies: because thou didst trus.ir. thy way, in the multitude of thymighty men. Therefore shall a tumultarise among thy people, and all thyfortresses shall be spoiled." Israel hadgone far in the downward way. It wastime fo. her to return. God controlsour time. His clock keeps ticking away.267

"The night is far spent; the day is athand; Let us therefore cast off theworks of darkness and put on thearmor of light" (Rom. 13:12). Isaiahsaid to Judah, "Seek ye the Lord whilehe may be found, call ye upon himwhile he is near." It is the implicationthat time is running out for seeking theLord. God's time occurs with everyopportunity which He gives to manto repent and turn to Him. When Felixsaid to Paul, "When I have a moreconvenient season I will call for thee,"it was then the time for him to repentand embrace salvation. Instead, however,he permitted the time to pass.Many put off the day of salvation andfinally their time expires. Jeremiahsaid in 8:20, "The harvest is past, thesummer is ended, and we are notsaved." That is the saddest thingabout many lives. The day of opportunityhas passed and people die in theirsins.5: God Expressed His Yearning ina Final Plea for Repentance.This is found in the last chapterof Hosea. The prophet said, "O Israel,return unto the Lord thy God: for thouhast fallen by thine iniquity. Takewith you words, and turn to the Lord:say unto him, take away all inquity,and receive us graciously: so we willrender the calves of our lips." "Calvesof our lips" is a figurative expressionindicating that as they had offeredcalves in their sacrifices, so they wereto make confession of sin with theirlips and offer that confession unto theLord.6: The Greatest Expression of God'sYearning Was in the Salvation Accomplishedby Christ.This is not expressly taught inthe prophecy of Hosea but it was takenfor granted. It was the hope andbelief among Jews that the Messiahwould come. "God so loved the worldthat he gave his son."30:33.No lesson material has arrived.Each sponsor will have to work outhis own meeting from the topic andreferences given.Prayer MeetingTopicfor November 22, 1967WELCOMING THE VISITORby Paul E. FarisIsaiah 56:3-7.Psalm suggestions: Ps. 98:1-3, 7,p. 235; Ps. 81:1,2,4,5, p. 200; Ps. 146:1-7, p. 353; Ps. 84:3, 5, 6, p. 205.Other references: Matt. 25:35-44;Deut. 10:19; 23:7; Eph. 2:11-13, 19-22;Hebrews 13:2.Our passage of Scripture speaksof people who felt that they would notbe treated equally with the rest ofthe people of God. However, they weretold that if they joined themselves tothe Lord, abandoned all their falsegods to serve Jehovah and keep Hiscommandments and do His will, tolove the name of the Lord and takehold of His covenant, — on theseconditions, they, the sons of the foreigneror stranger, would be admittedto all the privileges of the children ofGod. The same terms of salvation wereapplicable to all; the same offers andprivileges were to be extended to all.Let them not esteem themselves tobe outcasts or cut off from the privilegesof the people of God.Matthew Henry suggests that theprophet is here, in God's name, encouragingthose that were hearty injoining themselves to God, and yetlabored under great discouragements.Some were discouraged because theywere not of the seed of Abraham.They had joined themselves to theCovenanter Pastor has a chapter on"Pastor and Stranger" in section fiveof which he lists under "ReceivingStrangers at the Church" these points:1. Have genial, warm-hearted ushers,men of standing and judgment.2. Provide Psalm-books and Biblesfor the use of strangers.3. Strangers should be invited to remainto be introduced after theservice.4. The elders should be especiallyimpressed with their duty in thisregard.5. Strangers should be remembered inthe prayers.Under this fifth point he statesamong other things — "The strangermay feel that he has received nothingfrom your sermon, and that he mustgo away hungry, as he came; but,when your prayer reveals that he hasa place in your heart, he will not doubtthat he has a place in the heart ofyour Master."Another point made by Prof.George is in the story of a little boy,who being asked what he intended tobe when he became a man answered:"I intend to be a stranger." He hadobserved that strangers in his father'shouse had the best of everything...and the child decided that the bestposition open to men was to be astranger. It would not be well thatmen should come to feel that to bea stranger is better than to be adweller in God's House, but that whensuch favor is shown to the stranger itmust be delightful to be a Son." Youmay find profit in discussing thischapter's suggestions.Other suggestions for reading andreports might include the bookletentitled, "Church Ushering" by PaulH. D. Lang, published by ConcordiaPublishing House (turn to index andlook up all references to visitor).Another, to stimulate backgroundthought on the subject might be chap­Lord, but they questioned whetherGod would accept them, because they"Lesson based on International SundaySchool. Lessons: the International Bible Lessonsfor Christian Teaching, copyrighted 1963 were told that when they came, they Introversion" (especially the sectionwere of the sons of the stranger. They ter three — "The Tendency Towardfey the Division of Christian. Education, NattonalCouncil of Churches of Christ in the the Jews.tality') in the book, "Advancing thewere incorporated into one body with at close of chapter — 'Spiritual Hospi­U.SA."God kept reminding His people to Smaller Local Church", by Dr. W.treat others with the fact fresh in Curry Mavis, Light and Life Press,Junior Topictheir memories that they had been Winona Lake, Ind.strangers in the land of Egypt. Why Suggestions for prayer:for November 19, 1967.is it that the people who have been That God might impress us as HeSELF-CONTROLaway from home and in other churches did the faithful of old (Heb. 13:2) "thatProverbs 14:17, 29; 15:18; 16:32; 3: are the first to show friendliness to they were strangers and pilgrims on30; 17:14; 18:19; 20:3; 22:10; 25:8; the visitor?the earth."R. J. George in his book, The That we "be not forgetful to en-268 COVENANTER WITNESS

tertain strangers" (Heb. 13:2) whenthey come to the house of God.That we remember the young menin the service especially as they haveopportunity to worship with us.That we remember the opportunityto minister to foreign students whomay be in schools near our churches,especially during vacation periods ofthe year.That we be given a vision of waysof improving our congregation's ministryto the stranger.NATIONAL BIBLE WEEKWORLDWIDE BD3LE READINGNEW YORK — More than 40 millionpeople all over the world areexpected to participate in a new worldwideinterfaith program combining theAmerican Bible Society's WorldwideBible Reading and National BibleWeek of the Laymen's National Committeefor the first time this year. Thepreviously separate programs, whichboth began during World War II, arebeing combined this year in an all-outeffort to reach the greatest numberof people. Worldwide Bible Readingand National Bible Week will runconcurrently from October 15 throughOctober 22. The American Bible Society'sWBR program will then continuethrough Thanksgiving for a totalof 40 days.The ABS provides WBR Scriptureselections free on request in the formof a bookmark. Since the WBR programbegan, over 300 million suchbookmarks, which are widely printedaround the world by both the secularand religious press, have been distributedby the ABS. For example,one denominational publication alonepublishes the WBR Bible readings in28 foreign language editions in additionto its state side issues.Now in its 23rd year, WBR resultedfrom a lonely Marine on Guadalcanalasking his parents to join him in readingthe same pre-selected Scripturepassage each day. And the concern ofbusinessmen during the same darkdays of World War II gave birth toNational Bible Week. With thousandsof servicemen in Vietnam and othertrouble spots as well as in trainingcamps expected to take part as didtheir counterparts during World WarII and the Korean conflict, the programtakes on special significanceduring 1967.OCTOBER 25, 1967This year also marks he 150th anniversaryof ABS service to the military.Since 65 Bibles were given tothe crew of the USS John Adams inNovember, 1917, the ABS has beensupplying Scriptures to military personnelwithout charge. The 750 millionthvolume of Scripture distributedby the Society was presented to theCommander in Chief, President LyndonB. Johnson, in January, 1966, andlast year alone more than half a millionScriptures were provided free tothe Armed Forces with 100,000 of thesegoing to servicemen in Vietnam.Scripture distribution to civilians inVietnam is also larger than ever before,and, in a reversal of roles, thecost of producing the Koho New Testament fo the Vietnamese was largelyunderw itten by a donation from the23th Irfar.try Division, US Army.Participation is expected to be evenwide.- this year in the combined programunde. the chairmanship of Vice-Admiral William F. Raborn, Jr., USNavy (retired) Vice-President of AerojetGeneial Corporation. "The themefor IP67 'The Eible: Good News forModern Man' seems to be particularlysignificant because of the difficultand deeply troublesome responsibilitieswhich our county is facing inits support of man's basic freedoms.Certainly the teachings of tbe BibltSee page 272No doubt about it, there is real glamour in the thought of formal tie andtails. Some women confess to a certain feeling of status when they can walkinto a gathering of the elite on the arm of a man attired in full evening dresKOn the other hand, there is also something to be said for a faded blue denimjacket and a pair of well worn khaki trousers. These things may lack thesartorial elegance of full dress attire. No maestro would appear before atelevision camera to lead a symphony orchestra, clad in blue denim jacketand khaki trousers. But then, quite a number of us haven't much intention ofappearing before a television camera to lead a symphony orchestra - nomatter what raiment might be called for!Ordinarily, we find blue jeans and khaki trouseis in far greater demand thanformal tie and tails.For one thing, we can wear them with comfort. They are more familiar te.most of us. If we should get them wrinkled, it would not precipitate a crisis.For another thing, we can get more work done in blue denim jacket ar.rlkhaki trousers. There are lots of men in the world who have never blossomedout in formal tie and tails. But who among us would ever confess that he hasnever engaged in the type of he-man work that calls for faded blue denimjacket and well worn khaki trousers — or their equivalent?This is not to scorn the splendid occasion that calls for full evening dress.But let us not belittle the more frequent occasions that call for the workinpman's cloths. With most of us, these are daily occurrences.Naturally, the great occasions are the ones we remember: like the timeUncle Horace was voted "farme. of the year" of Wheatland County; or whenPop was chosen to deliver the oration at the dedication of the new Chamber ofCommerce building. But isn't it true that some of the most wonderful happeningsin life are daily happenings? What can be more cherished than the dailyexpressions of love and affection in family life: or the evidences of loyalty,the triumphs and victories, and the splendid right choices, that are found t

OCTOBER SUBSCRIPTIONHONOR ROLLBelle Center, Bloomington, Orlando,WinchesterDAVID C. MEARNSThe morning of August 24, aftermany months of illness and suffering,David C. Mearns passed away at theGood Samaritan Home in Nelson,Nebraska. Mr. Mearns was the sonof Mr. and Mrs. John Mearns, one ofthe early pioneer Covenanter familieswho settled at Beulah. He was a lifelongmember of the Reformed PresbyterianChurch and held importantoffices in that church. He took greatinterest in the farm youth of thearea and was one of the originalsponsors of the 4-H. Leaders recognitionBanquet held annually in theCounty. He was the owner and operatorof the Mearns Implement Company.His honest and fair dealingswon for him scores of business acquaintances.He is survived by hiswife; his daughter, Maxine Borrowiczand family; many other relatives andfriends. Services were held Saturday,August 26, at the Megrue FuneralHome. Rev. Wyley Caskey officiatedwith burial in Evergreen Cemetery atSuperior.MRS. JOHN L. MORTON HONOREDThe women of the Almonte WMSpresented their treasurer, Mrs. JohnL. Morton, with a Presbyterial LifeChurch Newsclose. Mother Nature is now puttingon her usual show to signal the changeof the seasons.Nina Schott, who spent the pastyear in Northern Ireland, is now atthe home of her parents.Rev. and Mrs. R. W. Caskey, Ninaand Carolyn Schott attended the Conferenceat Covenant Heights, Colorado.On the return trip home, the Caskeysspent a few days sight seeing in theBlack Hills.Our church was also representedat the Conference at Forest Park.Representative Marr from GrandIsland, Nebraska had charge of aGideon service in the church, August13.The fall Communion service willbe held, October 15. Rev. J. E.McElroy, a former pastor, assisting.In the absence of Mr. Caskey, whowas on vacation, Rev. Ross Karnes ofPennsylvania occupied the pulpit, July30.While the Karnes were here, Mrs.Karnes' parents, Mr. and Mrs. HaroldMartin, celebrated their 40th weddingAnniversary with a family dinner. OnSabbath Day all the members of theMartin family and Mr. Martin's motherand sisters attended the church service.Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Shaw leftNelson, September 12, and Mr. Shawis now in Washington D. C. taking afew weeks of orientation. Followingthis they will leave for Bellary Stateof Mysore, India where he will servetwo years as an agronomist on anirrigation development project.Before leaving they were honoredwith a church dinner. A program followedwhich consisted of a devotionalperiod conducted by Rev. R. W.Caskey. Nina Schott showed pictureswhich she had collected during herstay in Northern Ireland. The bestwishes of the congregation go withMr. and Mrs. Shaw. They will begreatly missed for they have alwaystaken an active part in all phases ofchurch work.On August 24, Mr. and Mrs. WilliamShaw observed their Golden Weddingwith "Open House" at the church.During the evening many friends andacquaintances were present to offercongratulations. Their two children,son Dale and daughter Veva, withtheir families were present to enjoythe happy occasion with them.The past months have broughtmany visitors into our midst. RecentlyMr. and Mrs. James Mitchell ofSlippery Rock, Pennsylvania, spent afew days here.NOTICEThe 1967 Minutes of Synod will beready about October 15. The price,$1.50 per copy. Send all orders to:Chester R. Fox, Treasurer306 Empire BuildingPittsburgh, Pa. 152221967 -1968STUDENTS R. P. SEMINARYMissionary CandidatesSponsored byBoard of Foreign MissionsRichard B. AyresTopeka, KansasDaniel CopelandWilkinsburg, Pa.B. Kathryn ElliottTopeka, KansasMary MattesonSyracuse, New YorkWilliam SterrettCollege Hill, Pa.SeniorsDonald CrawfordNew Castle, Pa.Evangelical United BrethrenEdward DonnallyBelfast, North IrelandEastern Presbytery, ReformedPresbyterianC. Knox HyndmanMembership in recognition of herBelfast, North Irelandthirty-five years of service. A paperweightwith the new CanadianEastern Presbytery, ReformedPresbyterianCentennial coins embedded in itDean R. Smithwas also given as a token reminderNorth Hills, Pittsburghto Mrs. Morton.Pittsburgh Presbytery, ReformedMRS. JAMES HATFIELD ELECTEDPresbyterianMrs. James Hatfield of the HebronMiddlerscongregation, rca** Idana, Kansas, wasBiuce Hemphillelected as Promotion Secretary of theSyracuse, New YorkKansas W. C. T. U. at the state conventionheld in McPherson, October 2-4.Reformed PresbyterianSt. Lawrence Presbytery,She has been serving as a districtPaul Martinpresident.Santa Ana, CaliforniaPacific Coast Presbytery,SUPERIOR — BEULAHReformed PresbyterianSeptember is rapidly drawing to aJames WrightKansas City, Kansas270 COVENANTER WITNESS

Midwest Presbytery, ReformedPresbyterianJuniorsLee P. Bittner IIICollege Hill, Pa.Pittsburgh Presbytery, ReformedPresbyterianWayne A. DuffieldNew Alexandria, Pa.Pittsburgh Presbytery, ReformedPresbyterianCharles W. MarvinDuquesne, Pa.Assemblies of GodRonald N. HomaIndianapolis, IndianaOhio-Illinois Presbytery, ReformedPresbyterianDavid L. WilcoxEastvale, Pa.Pittsburgh Presbytery, ReformedPresbyterianDan J. WolfSharon, Pa.Christian Missionary AllianceSpecial StudentsEdward D. JacksonBovard, Pa.American BaptistRobert S. WidenorCecil, Pa.Christian Missionary AllianceRalph K. WhiteDuquesne, Pa.Disciples of ChristNOTICEPlease send orders for the 1968W. M. S. Uniform Program bookletsto:Mrs. Charles SterrettOakdale, 111. 62268Cost this year is 40 cents perbooklet. Have your orders in byNovember, so the booklets may bemailed as soon as possible andavoid the Christmas rush.President Lyndon B. Johnson gave ashort talk and later mingled informallywith the guests.The President stated that he hadrecommended to the 90th Congresstwelve actions he feels are essentialto help the consumer."Included," he said, "are the Truth-In-Lending Bill-legislation to assurethat a consumer shopping for creditknows exactly what he pays in interestcosts, and amendments to the FlammableFabrics Act, legislation to preventaccidents and to make clothingand household items safer."He further said, "I can testify toyou that our legislative package coverseve.ything from making meat morewholesome to the safe movement ofnatural gas by pipeline. We are doingeverything we can to make sure theconsumer is fully protected."He urged the delegates to keep inclose touch with Miss Betty Furnessconcerning grievances. "Your organizationscover almost every conceivablearea of American life," he said,"and her office exists to help thepeople. I hope you will make use ofit."Miss Furness, recently appointedSpecial Assistant to the President forConsumer Affairs called the one-dayworking conference and presented thekeynote address.Delegates from 37 national organizationswere designated to attend theconsultation.Dr. Lee, who is Chairman of theDepartment of Economics and BusinessAdministration at Geneva College,and editor of the National Council onConsumer Information's (CCI) Newsletter,attended the meeting as a delagateof CCI.REFORMED PRESBYTERIANSNAME NEW PASTORRev. Cloyd E. Caskey, D. D. occupiedthe pulpit of the Olathe ReformedPresbyterian Church, September 24,as the new pastor of the congregation.Mr. Caskey served some years asa minister at Nicosia, Cyprus; and hasheld a number of pastorates in theUnited States, most recently at Wilkinsburg,Pa.He has served on the Board ofCorporators of Geneva College; Boardof Home Missions and Church Extension,Committee on Interchurch Correspondenceand Study, the executivecommittee of the Christian AmendmentMovement, and instructor inGreek reading at the Seminary ir.Pittsburgh. In 1963, he was electedmoderator of the Synod of the Church.An installation and reception forRev. Mr. and M.S. Caskey has been setfor October 4 at 7:30 p. m.The Daily News, September 23, 1967Olathe and Shawnee Mission, KansasBROOMALLMr. and Mrs. James A. Carson celebratedtheir 45th wedding anniversarySeptember 16, 1967. The family of 25persons greeted them at a surprisedinne.' in the home of uit-ir son John.Their sons John A. and James A. hadplanned the surprise.Broomall congregation owes muchto the many ministers who havepreached for us month by month,especially to the men in Geneva Collegeand our Seminary, who cheerfullymake the trip from Beaver Falls orPittsburgh to minister to us.LOS ANGELESOur pastor, the Rev. Bruce C.Stewart, and family were on vacationthree weeks in July. The pulpit wasoccupied on July 9 by the Rev. Charlr.'.-Chao; on July 16, the service was underthe direction of the session. ElderSamuel Marshall presided, Elder DonaldDodds read the Scripture and ElderDean Hinton had the morning prayer.The theme for the service was "Laymen'sOpportunities for Seivice in TheChurch." The following speakers tookpart, bringing helpful and inspiringmessages: As A Deacon: DeaconKenneth Caskey; As an Elder: ElderPhilip Gross; As a Teacher: ElderJames R. Honeyman; As a Member:rMer J. D. Birdsall.On Sabbath, July 23, Mr. JonathanChao, who recently received his Th. M.Degree from Westminster Seminary,DR. LEE AMONG CONFERENCEpreached for us. He has been acceptedas a doctoral candidate at the Universaryof Pennsylvania. We shall prayer­DELEGATES RECEIVING SURPRISEINVITATION TO MEET WITH LBJfully follow his preparation for theDr. Stewart M. Lee, Beaver Falls,ministry.experienced a pleasant, unexpectedWe greatly enjoyed and appreciatedsurprise while attending a conferencethe fellowship and inspiring help Rivenof representatives of national organizationsheld in The Indian Treatyto the congregation by the STP team:Lee Bittner, College Hill congregation;Paul Martin, Santa Ana; JimRoom in the Executive Office Building,Washington, D. C.Wright, Kansas City; (seminary students)and Dr. Dick Woods of NorthShortly after the meeting had convened,a special message arrived invitingthe delegates to go to theHills Chuich. The Rev. Ken Smithaccompanied the team and directedWhite House Rose Garden. Therea youth and adult Bible class threeOCTOBER 25, 1967 271

evenings one week, assisted by theSTP team. This proved very helpfuland interesting. The team also playedan important part in the CYPU BoosterBanquet, July 28. Cakes were madeby the CYPU members and wereauctioned off by Lee Bittner, whosuccessfully and with much talking andsweat, piled up a tidy sum of $154 forthe CYPU members' camp fund. Mr.Howard Huizing showed his beautifulcolored slides taken at the World'sExposition in Canada. The STP teamalso gave their testimonies for Christ.Musical numbers and camp skits wereenjoyed. Later the cakes were eaten tothe accompaniment of homemade icecream.Our congregation was saddened bythe death of Mrs. Floyd Walker, (Josephine)who passed away, August 16.Our sympathy goes out to her son,Donald, and his family and to otherrelatives. Josie was a life long memberof the Cover anter Church andwill be greatly missed from this congregation.She was always a loyal andwillir.„ worker in her church.Approximately 45 members of ourchurch and vicinity attended thesummer co" f eience at Camp GoodNews, r-ai Prescott, Arizona. A goodtim.. of soiritual refreshment andChristian fellowship was reported bythose who at^'ued.Dr. n.u Mrs. J. Ren Patterson,("^nier paster here) and their daughters,Cheryl and Marilyn, of NewYork City, were welcome visitors here.Dr. Patterson preached for us onAugust 13.On Friday evening, September 22,we enjoyed a family dinner at thechu.ch followed by a program honor­given by the family of Mr. and Mrs.Richard R. Hinton, in loving recognitionof their 66th wedding anniversaryand Mr. Hinton's 88th birthday. Congratulations,Mr. and Mis. Hinton!GOOD NEWS FOR MODERN MANNEW YORK — The five millionthcopy of a surprise best seller publishedless than a year ago was presented tothe American Bible Society's presidentEdmund F. Wagner, of Scarsdale, N.Y., September 7.A special edition of "Good Newsfor Modern Man," the New Testamentin Today's English Version, was givenhim by the Rev. Dr. Howard MoodyMorgan, pastor of the Chambers-WylieMemorial United Presbyterian Church,Philadelphia, Pa. Dr. Morgan is alsochairman of the Society's nationaldistribution committee. This copy, oneof 25 such special editions issued tocommemorate the unprecedented distributionof the TEV, will be placedin the Society's library at Bible House,61st Street and Broadway.In a second presentation, the Rev.Dr. James Z. Nettinga, of Haworth,N. J., ABS national distribution secretary,gave the Rev. David J. Williams,ABS Eastern regional representative,the five millionth and first copy. Bothpresentations were made at a specialceremony held during the regularmonthly board of managers meeting.At the United Bible Societies conferencein Geneva, Switzerland, onSeptember 10, the Rev. Dr. Laton E.Holmgren, ABS general secretary,presented another of the commemorativeeditions to Dr. Olivier Beguin,UBS general secretary for the historicalarchives.15203for the popular paperback since itspublication last September, a total of21 printings of the first edition haveproduced over 6,500,000 copies. Inaddition, the first printing of thefirst revision is now on the press.Dr. Robert G. Bratcher, of Setauket,L. I., headed the TEV translation committeeand contemporary line drawingswere provided by Swiss artist AnnieVallotton.The TEV is available from thenonprofit American Bible Society at25 cents a copy and can be purchasedsingly or in quantity from Bible House,ABS headquarters, 1865 Broadway, N.Y., 10023. The TEV can also be obtainedthrough any of the Society'sregional offices or associated BibleSocieties.The ABS is the largest of 35 nationalBible Societies devoted solely tothe translation, publication and distributionof the Scriptures withoutnote or comment.WORLDWIDE BIBLE READINGFrom page 269are doubly applicable and bring inspiration,strength and understandingto the people of the world and theirleaders representing the Protestant,Catholic, and Jewish faiths, who, withothers, are opposing the resurgence ofthe forces of evil," Admiral Rabornsaid.The 1967 selections suggested bythe ABS and the LNC begin withJeremiah 23:18-32 and conclude withMatthew 11:20-30. They are availablewithout charge through the ABS, P. O.Box 4084, New York, N. Y. 10017.Millions of them are distributed bychurches, chaplains, bookstores, libraries,hotels, banks and similar organizations.The nonprofit ABS which fillsthe Scripture needs for more than 65ing Mr. and Mrs. Lauren Wolcott.Mr. Howard Huizing was Master of Later in September similar presentationswere made in Chicago toCeremonies for the program whichwas a take-off of the Newly Wed Game the Rev. Dr. Melvin E. Soltau, ABSon TV. The couples participating were central region secretary and in LosMr. and Mrs. Wolcott, Mr. and Mrs. Angeles to the Rev. Dr. Dean S.Ray Forman, and Mr. and Mrs. Alan Collins, ABS Western and PacificHemphill. The couple receiving the regional secretary. The following fivehighest point score, the Wolcotts, national Bible Societies will be similarlyhonored with special editions of denominations is devoted to trans­received many beautiful wedding giftsas well as a gift of money. We wish this the TEV: the Canadian, Nigerian, lating, publishing, distributing andfine couple much happiness and are Australian, New Zealand and Ghana encouraging the use of the Scriptures.glad to have Sandra's fellowship. Bible Societies. Each of these Societieshas ordered over 20,000 copies. Blessed is the man that endurethLauren and Sandra were married,August 18, in the Beaver Falls Church. Prepared originally for new readers temptation: for when he is tried, heSandra is the d; ighter of Mr. and and those who speak English as a shall receive the crown of life, whichMrs. Robert Hemphill.second language, only 150,000 copies the Lord hath promised to them thatA beautiful floral piece adorned of the TEV were produced by the first love him. James 1:12.the 272 rostrum on Sabbath, October 1, press run. To meet increasing demandsCOVENANTER WITNESS

THECovenanter WitnessTo The TruthJESUS CHRIST AS SAVIOUR, LORD, HEAD OF MEN, THE CHURCH AND NATIONSVOLUME LXXIX NO. 18 NOVEMBER 1, 1967 STERLING, KANSAS 67579BIBLE LESSONS FOR THE WEEK OF NOVEMBER 26, 1967•'!'-:, ||,!!v||l 1;|HeJ..:!ie'i:S!.|;!J !e.'i,i :r|:!:^1,l. .leMiss Blanche McCrea retires after 42 years of successful Missionary Service.(This picture was taken, July 4, 1967, at a farewell dinner at Nicosia, Cyprus.)MISSIONARYNUMBER

THE COVENANTER WITNESSOfficial organ of the ReformedPresbyterian Church of N. A.• tvAN«cucAi m m*SMCUTMNEditor: Rev. M. W. Dougherty, D.D.125 N. 4th StreetSterling, Kansas 67579Phone 316 — Br. 8 - 3472Printed each Wednesday under the supervision of theBoard of Publication by The Patterson Press, Winchester,Kansas 66097.Contributing Editors: Department Editors:Rev. Kenneth Smith Rev. John TweedDr. G. M. RobbMrs. Robert B. MaineRev. John McMillan Mrs. Willis EdgarRev. C. E. Caskey Rev. John K. GaultOpinions expressed in our columns are those of theindividual writer, not necessarily the views of the ReformedPresbyterian Church or the editor.All material to appear in The Covenanter Witnessshould be typewritten, double-spaced, and should be inSterling, Kansas two weeks before it is to be printed.The cost of all pictures is 30 cents per square inch.Obituaries — All words in excess of one hundred fifty,one cent per word. Money should accompany such notices.SUBSCRIPTION RATESIndividual (1 year): U.S. and Canada, $4.00, BritishIsles 35/-, all other places, $5.00;Individual (2 year): U.S. and Canada, $7.00, BritishIsles 63/-, all other places, $9.00;Group: U.S. and Canada, $3.00, British Isles 28/-, allother places, $4.00.9-month student subscription — $1.50; 5-month introductoryoffer —$1.00; 2 gift subscriptions to persons outsideof the R. P. Church — $2.00 each. Single copies, 10c.Subscription Agent for U.S. and Canada: Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Subscription Agent for the British Isles: Rev. HughWright, B.A., 12, Knutsford Drive, Belfast 14, NorthernIreland.All checks should be made payable to The CovenanterWitness in U. S. currency.Give one month's notice of a change of address. Sendboth the new and the old address to Mrs. M.W. Dougherty.Postmaster: Please send Form 3579 to Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Second class postage paid at Winchester, Kansas 66097WEHOLD THE FOLLOWING TO BE TRUTHS OF SCRIPTURE:The Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the only infalliblerule of faith and conduct.The Trinitarian conception of the Godhead.Faith in Jesus Christ as the only way of salvation.Salvation by Grace.Assurance of salvation as a possible Christian experience.The Gospel Call and Election.The Holy Spirit as the Author of regeneration.Sanctification through the cooperating agency of the Holy Spirit.The fact of death and hell as the destiny of the lost and heavenas the destiny of the saved.That the Church of Jesus Christ consists of all those who believein Him together with their children.The Divine Right of the Presbyterian form of Church Government.The Lord Jesus Christ as the only King and Head of His Church.That terms of membership or communien are essential to thewelfare of the Church.«piiK!*^|^||sS(i|Girls leaving for home after their Christianference, on Troodos, in Cyprus, August 10-15,19This Week's WitnessThe Board of Foreign Missions 275Glimpses of the Rehgious World 276C.C. Christou Tours Mediterranean 277Situation in Greece 280A Pair of Patent Leather Shoes 282Lesson Helps 283Scribe With a Hard Pencil 285Church News 286This and That in W.M.S 288The duty which rests upon officers to maintain discipline andpreserve the purity of the Church.Spiritual worship as a divine requirement mediated through theLord Jesus Christ.The exclusive use of the Psalms in the worship of the Church.The Protestant interpretation of the Sacraments.The divine right of the institution of Marriage and that it is notto be dissolved except by adultery or "irremediable" desertion.The Sabbath as a day sacred to rest and worship.The duty of nations and their civil rulers to honor Christ asKing of Kings and Lord of Lords.That Christian citizens are under obligation to obey lawful authority.The right and duty of the Christian citizen to dissent from allgovernmental and national disobedience to the Law of God.That the Covenants of the past are still binding.From "The Communicant's Class" by J. B. Tweed274 COVENANTER WITNESS

THE BOARD OF FOREIGN MISSIONSThe Board of Foreign Missions met at the Mc­Burney Y. M. C. A. in New York City on September12, 1967 at 9:30 a. m. The President, J. P. Wilson,called the meeting to order and led in prayer. Seventeenmembers were present, including two newmembers: Mrs. Bertha Nirnick and Mr. GeorgeJackson, who were extended greetings by the President.Three committees of the Board had spent theprevious evening in business meetings at the NewYork City Church.The devotional services conducted at each meetingof the Board are always beneficial and challenging.They help to prepare us for the business ofthe day. Those conducted by Mrs. C. F. Millican atthis meeting were especiaUy helpful as she remindedus of some of the things in the Bible whichwere broken and seemed useless, but when committedto the Lord they were used mightily in Hisservice. This is the kind of commitment we shouldmake to the Lord today. Prayer was offered forall of our mission work and for each missionary,and especiaUy for the Penningtons.The Corresponding Secretary, R. A. Henning,reported on his correspondence to and from thefields. He shared with us the most recent informationconcerning Mrs. James Pennington who isnow in a hospital. Miss Blanche McCrea arrived inNew York on August 29, and was met by a numberof members of the Board and friends. She was ableto spend some time at White Lake Camp beforegoing on to Sterling, Kansas, where she wiU makeher home. She is retiring after many wonderful yearsof faithful missionary service for her Lord atNicosia, Cyprus. We hope to have her present atour next meeting in December. Mr. Henning wasappointed to attend the Mission Executive Conferenceto be held at Winona Lake, Indiana, October2-6. It is hoped that another member of the Boardcan attend this also.Arrangements are being made for a conferencein December between four members of our Boardand four members of the Committee of ForeignMissions of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church dealingwith matters of common interest and concernon foreign mission fields.NOVEMBER 1, 1967September MeetingDuring the Synod meeting in June our Boardmade a specific appeal to J. P. McCracken to go asa missionary to Japan and to A. W. Smith, Jr. togo as a missionary to Cyprus. Mr. McCracken hasdeclined and Mr. Smith has expressed his willingnessto go to Cyprus. A conference was held in theafternoon with Mr. and Mrs. Smith and their applicationsare being processed and details concerningtheir appointment are being worked out by a committee.There are five young people in the MissionaryTraining Program at the Seminary makingpreparation to go out under the Christian Corpsfor Cyprus next year. There is still the urgent needfor a minister and his wife to go as missionaries toJapan. Pray earnestly for all of these people.The Treasurer reported an overdraft in thecurrent account on August 31, of $16,924.05. God'speople need to be reminded again of their responsibilityas stewards and of the importance not onlyof prayer but also of material support for our faithfulmissionaries.The Board adopted the following policy statementon AID TO OVERSEAS CHURCHES ANDNATIONAL CHURCH WORK:"The official procedure for aiding overseasprojects in which national Christians maintain orshare the administration is to channel all giftsthrough the Foreign Mission Board. When specialgifts are made for specific cases, even these giftsshould be handled with the approval of the Boardand administered through the Commission on thefield."Commissions shall see that the following requirementsare met by those requesting or receivingaid:A. That money be requested for, or granted to,responsible church organizations with rehableofficers able to administer funds wisely.B. That such grants be made only where there is aregular consistent giving pattern by nationalChristians in the church.C. That grants be made only where the creed orcovenant is in substantial agreement with thatof the Reformed Presbyterian Church of NorthSee page 279275

miGlimpses of the Religious WorldNATION-WIDE CAMPAIGN PLANNED FOR 1973At a three-day meeting which was held recentlyin the Marriott Key Bridge Hotel at Arlington,Virginia, about 40 evangehcal leaders laid thegroundwork for a major evangelistic thrust throughoutAmerica in 1973. According to the New YorkTimes, those who attended the meeting agreed thatthe present "cultural climate" was ripe for a concertedevangehstic drive.Dr. Carl F. H. Henry, editor of ChristianityToday, and Dr. Billy Graham were the spearheadsof the Key Bridge meeting. The 1973 campaignwas regarded as a logical next step from the WorldCongress on Evangehsm, which was held last fall inBerlin.ALBANY CHURCH MARKS 325TH ANNIVERSARY(R. E. S. News Exchange) The First ReformedChurch of Albany, New York, marked its 325th anniversaryat a service on August 13. Dr. NormanE. Thomas, pastor, preached on the same text andfrom the same pulpit that was used by DominieJohannes Megapolensis when he preached his firstsermon in the church on August 17, 1642.INDIA MISSIONARY SITUATION UNCERTAINThe August expulsion of two missionary couplesfrom a border region of India has created widerangingdiscussions in the Indian press and a senseof insecurity among missionary personnel. A thirdcouple just leaving for furlough was told thatre-entry would not be permitted.Press reports announcing the expulsion of themissionaries in some cases implied that all missionariesfaced the same fate. Hindu extremists havetaken advantage of the discussions to advocate theexpulsion of aU foreign missionaries."Missionary News Service" quotes Indian governmentofficials in New Delhi as asserting that nobasic change in policy has taken place. It wasadmitted, however, that a more severe apphcation ofthe government's "Indianization" policy would beapphed in the case of missionaries, possibly reducingthe number that would be granted visas. Moreemphasis wUl be placed on "experts," especiallyTHE REV. JOHN McMILLANR. D. 1, Box 337WALDEN, NEW YORKthose who will involve themselves in training Indiannationals for leadership.It appears that only time and experience willclarify the exact approach of the Indian governmentto the matter.OPENNESS IN COLUMBIA(Missionary News Service) Oddities never seemto cease in fast-changing Latin America today.In Medellin, Colombia, a city which has beenextremely hostile to evangelicals through the years,a leading textile factory called "Coltejer" recentlysurprised the local evangehcal bookstore by sendinga driver to purchase 600 Bibles. The Bibles wereto be distributed among the employees of the factory.The Rev Burton Biddulph, Field Director of theInter-American Mission, also gave a progress reporton the construction of a church at Colorado, Bolivar,Columbia. For the fourth time the church is endeavoringto put up its building.The three previous attempts were halted whentowns-people attacked the behevers and destroyedthe partially completed church buUding. The firstattempt was made in 1953. Intemiinable htigationhas been carried on in an effort to secure governmentprotection for the building without effectiveresults.Biddulph said that in spite of the government'sinaction the perseverance of the behevers is nowbeing rewarded as the general attitude of the populaceis changing. He predicted that this time, after14 years effort, the church will be completed.LIFTING OF LUTHER'S EXCOMMUNICATION ISREQUESTED(EP) Dr. Theodor Schaller, president (bishop)of the Evangelical Church of the Palatinate in WestGermany, has asked the Roman Cathohc Churchto lift the decree of excommunication imposed onMartin Luther by a papal bull in 1520.Such a gesture, particularly in the year whichmarks the 450th anniversary of the Reformation,would give tremendous impetus to ecumenicaldialogue, he said.See page 281276 COVENANTER WITNESS

C. C. CHRISTOU TOURS MEDITERRANEANNicosia - Cyprus,October 4, 1967Dear Friends of the Covenanter Church in Cyprus:Greetings in the name of our Lord and SaviourJesus Christ. Such days, as I have passed, duringthe latter part of the month of August 1967, in afifteen-day cruise to Israel, Crete, Corfu, Dubrovnik,Venice, Athens, Patmos, Ephesus, and Rhodes, are awonderful prelude and dispose me to the pleasanttask of writing this letter to you. Although I feel alittle weak, bodily, after a short, acute illness, yetwith a pen in my hand I find relief, by the grace ofGod, and I am especiaUy pleased for the opportunityof conversing with you, though it be upon paper.Things do not seem to me to be as they were.After seeing Galilee, Jerusalem, and other Bibhcalplaces, a few weeks after the June 1967, IsraeliArab conflict, my Bible reading and study begin tobe more interesting and challenging for practicalChristian living and insight into God's plan for theunfolding of prophetic truth. And I can see whythe following statement — on the subject of theJews and Palestine — made long ago by the Germanscholar, J. H. Kurtz, quoted in a recent book, is sopenetrating and valuable: "As the body is adaptedand destined for the soul, and the soul for the body;so is Israel for that country and that country forIsrael. Without Israel, the land is hke a body fromwhich the soul has fled; banished from its country,Israel is hke a ghost which cannot find rest."Now I would like to teU you something about theplaces that I have seen.1. Knossos — in Crete, a few mUes outside Herakleion.Here is the wonderful palace dating from thebrightest period of Minoan civilisation. Knossos wasthe most prominent city of Minoan Crete, the mostancient in Europe, and enjoyed a long period ofpreeminence and prosperity. The place, as it appearstoday gives a good idea of the words of the Preacher,the son of David, King in Jerusalem, "Vanity ofvanities; all is vanity."2. Corfu. It is very beautiful. Its narrow streets andits stately old houses give it a Venetian air. Here is"MON REPOS" an imposing villa used as a summerresidence by the King of Greece. The AchiUeanPalace, surrounded by beautiful gardens, is fuU ofstatues and busts. The interior contains statues andpictures of ancient phhosophers and many reliesof Elizabeth's life. This palace which once shelteredthe arrogant dreams of Kaiser Wilhelm II, nowhouses the weU known Corfu Casino. What achange!3. Olympia — a place of unique beauty, "the fairestspot in Greece," as the ancients called it. Olympiawas never a town but a Panhellenic sanctuary.Here the Olympic games were held every fourthyear. We are told that before the games, the Olympicheralds used to go round the Greek cities announcingthe sacred truce, the ceasing of aU inimical actsand summoning the people, the most renownedmen of Greece, as well as the common people,to come on a given date to Olympia to watch thegames. Olvmpia, as in the days of old, still todayhas a message for the world. It is the message ofunderstanding and peace.4. Epidaurus — This is a "romantic and peacefulspot." It lies in a valley ringed by mountains. In thisquiet place, thousands of pilgrims and sick peoplefrom all over the Hellenic world converged, inancient days, in search of healing and for rest ofmind and body. Cures were not effected by medicinesor herbs but by the divine powers of thedoctor-god Asclepius. The patient submitted to variousreligious ceremonies, bathed in the sacredAbaton — we would call it a hospital today —where Asclepius would appear to him in a dreamand make him well. Naturally the god did not healpeople for nothing. The sick paid, and highly too.The sanctuary of Asclepius was functioning from600 B.C. to A.D. 400. Later on, this trust began tobo undermined, but in the meanwhile the priestshad taken over and passed it to their successorswho are continuing it, in a modified way, but onthe same basis. The Epidaurus theatre, built in thefourth century, B. C, is the best preserved monumentand the best worth seeing. It holds 14-17,000persons. The remarkable feature of this theatre isits strange acoustic quality. A whisper may be heardin anv part of it. During summer the NationalTheatre of Athens gives annual performances ofclassic drama. On the date of my visit a churchgroup from Oregon (Presbyterians) sang two songsin order to test the strange acoustic quality of thisNOVEMBER 1, 1967 277

theatre. The peaceful place sounded with melodiousmusic. The group received the applause of the manytourists who stopped to hsten. At the end I heard thepastor in charge of the group say: "It would havebeen bet er if we had sung 1 or 2 hymns. We hada very good opportunity."5. Corinth. The town is quite new with modernstreet planning and houses to resist the earthquakes.A frightful earthquake in 1928 destroyedthe older town. Ancient Corinth is four miles beyondthe modern town. Homer describes old Corinth asmost wealthy and one of the most beautiful andimportant cities of ancient Greece. It was famedfor its luxury; and it was notorious for licentiousness.To the Christians, however, the greatest interestof the city is its connection with St. Paul whopreached in this town the word of God for a yearand six months. There is no doubt that the Churchin Corinth, which Paul estabhshed, was composedmore than ordinarily of heterogeneous population;but the majority of the converts were probablyGreeks. In all ages the Greeks were distinguished bytheir fondness for speculation, their love of pleasure,and their party spirit. "A church composed of peopleof these characteristics, with a large infusion ofJewish converts, educated in the midst of refinedheathenism," phed on every side by philosophersand false teachers, might be expected to exhibit thevery characteristics brought so clearly into viewby St. Paul, in his Epistles to the Corinthians whichare so important and in some respects pecuhar.6. Patmos. This island has a unique Bibhcal featureaU of its own. The soil is rocky and barren, thoughthe scenery is calm and extremely picturesque. Theair of Patmos is pure and wholesome. Its glorybegins in the first century A. D. when the ApostleJohn, was exiled here, in the reign of Domitian,"for adhering to God's word and the testimony ofJesus." Here St. John stayed for 16 months in exile,saw the wonderful vision on the Lord's Day, andwrote, probably later in Ephesus, the divinely inspiredbook, "The Revelation" for the edification ofthe Church in all ages. The traditional cave of theRevelation is the island's most important sanctuary.The Monastery of St. John the Theologian, built inA.D. 1088, by the monk Christodulos, can be comparedto a Byzantine fortress with its rampartsfor protection against pirate raids. Here rehgiousand artistic objects of the greatest value have beenkept for centuries. They include episcopal mitres,one weighing three kilograms of gold, vestmentsembroidered with pearls, pastoral staves, one ofwhich is of gold and enamel with 62 diamonds,crucifixes and many other treasures. The MonasticLibrary is also of great interest. It contains 800manuscripts of different periods and of great historicvalue. In one of the chapels there is a silver coffincontaining the relics of Osios Christodulos, founderof the Monastery, with the body wrapped in clothof gold. The Patmos people today cannot say whatPeter and John said to the man at the gate of thetemple: "Silver and gold have I none; but such asI have give I thee; In the name of Jesus Christ ofNazareth arise and walk." It is noteworthy thatthe Turks have never visited Patmos; none dwell inthe island, and consequently no mosque has everbeen erected on the spot rendered sacred by thevision of the Apocalypse.7. Ephesus. Here the chief things that engaged myattention were: First. The frankness of the Turkishguide, who, though a Mohammedan, spoke admirablyof the influence Christianity had in old Ephesus,giving emphasis to the work of St. Paul. He oftenreferred to the Acts by chapter and verse, Second:The high respect the Turks show to St. John theEvangelist. The traditional site where St. John wasburied is well preserved. There is nearby a mosque.Of Ephesus it may emphaticaUy be said that "thecandlestick has been removed from its place." Thesplendor of Ephesus has been completely extinguished.No traces of the great temple of Dianaexist, except a hole in the ground; but there is inthe world today Paul's Epistle to the Ephesians, inmany languages, which sets forth aU the greatdoctrines of the Christian faith. The pomp of theworld passes away but the word of God remainsalways.8. Rhodes "The Isle of Roses — Bride of the Sun."The city is colourful and very clean. The rose is theemblem of the island and flourishes to perfection.There are in Rhodes many fine buddings of thedays of the knights and of the days of Moussolini.Ancient monuments to be visited, LINDOS is a"must." It has a citadel overlooking the sea on oneside from a precipitous cliff. On the other it overlooksa long stretch of sandy beach. The ancientAcropohs of Lindos, has many columns standingfrom its ancient temples surrounded by mediaevalramparts of Gothic construction. Rhodes is mentionedincidentaUy once, in Acts 21:1, in the courseof St. Paul's third missionary journey to Jerusalem.He passed it but he did not apparently land on it.9. Athens. The historic and illustrious city. Likemany men of today on holiday, Paul had gone to seethe sights of Athens. Though it was no longer inits golden age, the spendor of that age was still in278 COVENANTER WITNESS

evidence. The beautiful setting of the city in themidst of hiUs on a great bay of the Aegean, is eventoday quite as stirring as ever. The magnificentParthenon on the Acropolis adds lustre to themunificence of nature. Here Paul was struck by thefact that Athens was "fuU of idols." The zeal ofthe Lord was eating up His servant Paul, and hewas constrained to preach the Gospel to the Atheniansin spite of his original intention to keep silentin order to secure a brief period of rehef from thetensions attendant upon his apostohc mission.Athens today, like any other large city in the world,is "full of idols." They aU stand in need of theGospel.10. Dubrovnik. The drive through the OmblaValley to the springs and then to Zarcoica HiU isdelightful. From the top of the hiU you get a wonderfulview of the fortified city, islands and countryside.No wheeled traffic is aUowed within the ancientcity itself.11. Venice. Situated on many islands at the headof the Adriatic. It is very attractive. Canals andmany beautiful and famous buildings attract largetourist trade.And now some home news: I missed the bracingair of Troodos this year, but I have been rewardedotherwise as you can see from the above. I resumedmy work in the Book Room. The work connectedwith the Book Room is steadily slowing down. Thecontacts are scanty and sales negligible. I feel thatmy work in this area has ended. I participate in thepreaching program of the church and continue thepubhcation of The Banner of Truth. The 34thnumber has just come out of the press and wdl becirculated soon. I am fuUy persuaded that this isan excellent way of disseminating the Truth andexposing the errors. The Board of Trustees of thePeponiades Truth had its first meeting last Mondaynight at Nicosia. We ask your prayers for thetrustees that their stewardship may be such aswiU glorify God. We have been faced with a problemfrom the very first step. We trust that God wdl soonshow us what His wiU is. We are still without ameeting place which we can say it is our ownwhere we can invite people to attend our services.The prospective seller of the house we have agreedto purchase is stiU hving in it. There is, however,an uncertainty about this matter, in view of thefact that certain improvements are being carriedout in the area where the house hes, which mightenhance the value of the property. And that is whatthe prospective seller has apparently in mind.The registration in both schools has been finishedwith satisfactory result. The Nicosia Academyhas more boarders this year than in the previous2-3 years.Kattou, our prospective candidate for Christianservice in Cyprus, turned down Commission's planfor him and he is foUowing instead his plan whichsuits that of his father-in-law. In the country wherehe has chosen to go, there are handicaps and it isonly the grace of God that can keep him from failingaway from the WAY.We are glad that the Smiths are returning toCyprus as missionaries to fiU the vacancv. Thereis still a great need for a GREEK WORKER.We have rented a house at Ormidhia, andpropose, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, tostart meetings there, on an experimental basis,commencing with next Sabbath. Mr. Constantinou,a member of our church, who hves in this vUlage,expressed his willingness to help in this project.We are especiaUy glad that young people are beingtrained for the Cyprus Field. Some of them areclose to us for they lived in Cyprus. We tell themcome. We like to have you.The hot weather is dying out. We are expectingthe autumn rains to wash the dust off the leaves ofthe trees.You can be sure that we long to help in theoverthrowing of the power of evil, and as we growolder, we pray that the beauty of the Lord our Godmay be upon us, and may we feel that He has givenpermanence to the work of our hands.Last of all my dear friends, good-bye! I sendmy warm greetings and love to all Christian householdswho received me into their home and didso much for me during my short stay in the U. S. A.a year ago.Very sincerely,yours in His Service,C. C. ChristouGLIMPSES OF THE RELIGIOUS WORLDFrom page 276SHARP INCREASE IN DEMAND FORSCRIPTURES IN PERUThe Peruvian Office of the Bible Society reportsthat their sale of New Testaments has soared from39,000 in 1966 to 100,181 in the first eight monthsof 1967. The sales increase reflects the demand forthe newly released popular translation "Dies Llegaal Hombre" (Spanish translation simhar to "GoodNews for Modern Man.") The Roman CathohcChurch purchased 31,000 of these.NOVEMBER 1, 1967 279

SITUATIONRev. SpirosRidgefield, N. J. Oct. 11, 1967 — Since thermlitary take-over in Greece last April, there havebeen printed in the rehgious press, including evangehcalmagazines, a number of confusing and inaccuratestatements about the situation in thatcountry. Since American Mission to Greeks is thelargest independent organization conducting rehgiousand relief work in the land of Greece and isalso the leading evangehcal publisher there, wefeel that it is our responsibihty to make known thefollowing facts:1. The military government of Greece deposedthe 86-year-old Primate of Greece, Archbishop Chrysostomos,and appointed an extraordinary HolySynod from among the best of the Orthodox Metropolitansto select a new archbishop. The one chosenwas Archbishop Ieronimos Kotsonis, who for anumber of years was Professor of Canonical Law atthe University of Thessalonica and is reputed to beone of the most ethical, upright and learned of theOrthodox clergy. He is a man of hope, insofar asthe much-needed spiritual uplift within the OrthodoxChurch of Greece is concerned. He has alreadyfilled the positions of many border village churcheswith priests. He is well-beloved in Greece, and hiselection as the new archbishop speUs the desire ofthe new regime for a spiritual awakening in the land.As far as the religious minorities in Greece areconcerned, we wish to make clear that the evangelicalchurches and other churches of minoritieshave been functioning without any restriction whatsoever.Even in the heart of Athens, there is apreaching center where hundreds gather togetherevery Saturday to hear a spiritual lecture. The militarygovernment has in no way hindered this norother similar meetings. In fact, it encourages them.2. Camps run by evangehcals, including adultBible conferences, operated this summer all overGreece with absolute freedom and with the protectionof the Greek National Government. I spokein one of them to hundreds of people. At the sametime, a whole famUy from England's London BibleCoUege was there to minister at Leptokaria.3. The evangehcal orphanage in Katerini, fullysupported by American Mission to Greeks, has notbeen interfered with at all. And we are allowed tocarry on our help to some fifteen other orphanagesand hundreds of homes in private home-supportcases.4. We have experienced no interference at allIN GREECEZodhiateswith the custom-duty-free dispatch of tons of food,clothing and drugs for use all over the land.5. There was some confusion at the beginningof the revolution insofar as pubhcations were concerned.The military government did not order thestopping of any evangelical literature, however.In Greece there has been a 31-year-old law thatreguires every non-Greek Orthodox pubhcation tobear on the front page the designation, "Of EvangehcalPrinciples." At the beginning of the newmilitary government, there was added to this theforeign and more offensive word, "Protestant." (Theword "evangehcal" is perfectly acceptable to theProtestants of Greece.) We are happy to reporthowever, that after the necessary representation andexplanation to the top leaders of the Ministry ofthe Press, this requirement has been corrected andnow our evangehcal books, magazines and otherhterature do not need to state the word "Protestant."For nine years we have pubhshed as paid advertisingin almost the entire Greek press of theworld (approximately 150 secular newpapers andmagazines) a Gospel message every week. Thisdemonstrates that in Greece there has been realfreedom of the press. The only newspapers in Athenswhich refused to carry our Gospel messages werethose of Helen Vlahos, who has also refused topublish her newspapers since the take-over of April21. Yet she refused to grant the freedom to us thatshe now seeks for herself.There has really never been a complete cessationof the publication of these messages in the Greekpress. A number of newspapers carried them rightalong because of the approval of the local authorities.When the military authorities realized thatthese meesages had stopped as a result of theconfused situation, they ordered their resumptionin the entire Greek press. They are not edited inany way, which proves that censorship in Greecetoday really concerns attempts to disturb the peaceand engage in subversion. It is significant to notethat the Greek government never forced us to addthe word Protestant next to our name. The messagesin the press have appeared as written by "Rev.Spiros Zodhiates, the evangelical preacher." In viewof the fact that only 1/7 of 1 per cent of the Greeksare evangehcals, such freedom should be noted asproof of the democratic spirit that always has existedin Greece.6. American Mission to Greeks maintains one280 COVENANTER WITNESS

of the largest printing establishments in Greece.There has been no interference at aU with the workdone here, nor has the Greek government dictatedto us what we should and should not pubhsh.7. Our evangelical bookstores in Athens andThessalonica have enjoyed uninterrupted freedomand all our books are being sold freely.8. Our colporteurs all throughout the countrytravel with official permits issued by the governmentand are finding everywhere unprecedenteddesire on the part of the people to obtain Christianliterature.9. In many respects there is more freedomtoday and more understanding by the governmentthan there ever was, as indicated by the followingtwo cases:A. The Greek Evangelical Church of Thessalonicafor four years sought from the previousgovernments of Greece permission to rebuild their100-year-old edifice. They were refused. The newmilitary government promptly granted them the permitwhen this matter was brought to their attention.B. The Rev. Argos Zodhiates who for 17 yearswas pastor of Greece's largest evangehcal communityof 600 famihes in Katerini was declared personanon grata by a previous government in 1963, notbecause of any court conviction but simply becauseof false accusations against him from some fanaticalelements. The new military government has hftedthis ban in its desire to deal justly toward all people.Rev. Argos Zodhiates is currently Missionary Secretarywith American Mission to Greeks, and is thebrother of Rev. Spiros Zodhiates, president of theorganization.10. Since the military take-over in Greece,American Mission to Greeks has initiated daUy GreekGospel broadcasts from Trans-World Radio in MonteCarlo, Monaco, with the Zodhiates brothers as speakers.The government has not tried in any way tohinder this evangehstic effort, and we are free toadvertise the broadcasts in any way we wish.11. It is absolutely false to say that evangelicalmaterials are not permitted to be mailed withinthe country and outside the country. We have beendoing this right along with many thousands ofpieces.12. In September, American Mission to Greeksand its subsidiary, O. Logos Publishers, had a boothat the International Fair in Thessalonica, as a longstandingtradition. All the literature we had fordistribution was eagerly received by its one millionvisitors without any interference whatsoever.13. One of the first things the new NationalGovernment of Greece did was to initiate broadcastingparts of the book, Science and the Bible,written by an evangelical leader who holds the rankof Supreme Justice. This book is one of our pubhcations!14. Last but not least, at no time has the newgovernment forced either the Bible society or AmericanMission to Greeks, publishers of Scriptures, tomark New Testaments or Bibles as "Protestant"publications.This sounds as if the Gospel has plenty offreedom in Greece today. We know because we areexperiencing it.THE BOARD OF FOREIGN MISSIONSFrom page 275America.D. That all such grants be for a particular need,given in relatively small amounts, on a plan ofyearly reduction where possible to stimulateself-support.E. That where larger amounts are needed, andlocal borrowing is not wise or possible, commissionsappeal to the Board for the allotment ofadditional funds on a loan basis, these loans tobe made to the commission.F. That national churches are to be reminded ofthe policy of the Synod of the Reformed PresbyterianChurch that all special appeals for aidnot included in the Budget of the Synod mustbe approved by Synod."The Board took action to defer the request fortwo additional classrooms in the Nicosia Schooluntil further information is received on schoolpolicies and plans.The officers of the Board for the year are asfollows:J. P. Wilson, PresidentJ. R. Patterson, First Vice PresidentE. R. Hemphill, Second Vice PresidentJ. M. McMillan, Recording SecretaryC. R. Fox, TreasurerR. A. Henning, Corresponding Secretary.We ask for the continued prayers of the membersof the Church upon behalf of our missionaries andespecially that God will lead another minister tohear the call to missionary service in Japan.E. Raymond Hemphill, for tiiePublicity Committee of the Board.NOVEMBER 1, 1967 281

A PAGE FOR JUNIORSIf your shoes could talk,What would they say?A PAIR OFPATENT LEATHERSHOESby Mildred Sawyer, NetherlandsI am a pair of girls' patent leathershoes... size 4.I sat on a shelf in a big store formany months waiting for a little girlto choose me. When I was alone atnight I kept thinking, "I hope someonetries me on and buys me tomorrow,because that's what I'm made for."But one sad day passed after another,and all the time I was waitingfor someone to try me on. I was onlya size 4 shoe, so the girl who couldwear me would be about 8 to 10 yearsold. I wondered what she would belike."Will she be tall or short?" I askedmyself. "Will she be a rich little girlwith perhaps dozens of shoes at home?I wouldn't like that. I'd so like to becomethe only "Sunday" shoes belongingto some poor little girl. I'd like tobelong to somebody all by myself. Iwonder what her name will be. Willit be Linda, Mary, Joanne, Carol, Jean,Norma, or Shirley? Oh, I wish I knew!"But most of all I'd like to belongto a little girl who goes to (Sabbath)school every (Sabbath). That's where alot of my other patent leather friends282go, and they just love it. And I hopethe little girl who wears me will likeme better than any other shoes in thewhole store."One Saturday evening, the big clockon the store wall was pointing to sixo'clock. It was almost closing timewhen in walked a little girl in her barefeet, carrying an old pair of boys'ugly, dirty sneakers, about 4 sizes toolarge for her. With her was a big man.I thought he must be her father.The little girl looked so happy whenshe told the clerk she wanted a pair ofblack patent leather shoes to wear to(Sabbath) school the next day. Myheart skipped a beat.Perhaps this was the big day I waswaiting for, the day when I was goingto be owned by a little girl.The clerk walked over to me.. andall of a sudden I shook in my box.Then I was still again, and sad. He tookout the pair of shoes right next to me.The little girl tried them on, but theywere too tight. Then again the clerkwalked over to me. Before I knew it,I was on the little girl's feet, and Ijust fit!Then the little girl said to herfather, "Oh, Daddy, now I have a newpair of shoes and I can go to (Sabbath)school." So I was wrapped up andtaken home. The little girl who ownedme was called Margaret. When wearrived at her home, I couldn't helphearing Margaret and her mothertalking.I learned that Margaret had notbeen to (Sabbath) school for four(Sabbaths) — because she had noshoes. She could have gone withoutshoes, but her parents wanted her towait until they could get some for her.She had worn those big, ugly sneakersto school every day. So now Margaretwas going to (Sabbath) school the nextday, and I was going with her. I wasso happy from my sole to my patentleather pointed toe!The next morning was (Sabbath).Margaret was up bright and early.Right after breakfast I took her overto the teacher's house. The big (Sabbath)school car was standing in front.I took Margaret up the stairs, and weknocked at the door and went insidethe house. The teacher was so happyto see Margaret and her new patentleather shoes. I was so bursting withpride I could hardly stand still.Soon other shoes came along...big ones ... little ones... belongingto both boys and girls, and we allclimbed into the big (Sabbath) schoolcar. It was fun being with so manyother (Sabbath) school shoes.When we arrived at the big (Sabbath)school, I recognized a lot of othershoes that had lived with me in thebig store before we had been boughtby boys and girls. The children hadsuch a happy time singing about theLord Jesus and learning stories fromthe Bible. And deep down inside Iwas glad that I had a part in takingone little girl to (Sabbath) school.The (Sabbath) school where Margaretgoes is on an island called Aruba. Itis near South America, in a placewhere the weather is always warm.For hundreds of years, there wereno (Sabbath) schools in Aruba. Then themissionaries came, and they told theboys and girls and their parents aboutthe Bible and about God's love forthem. Now some of the children go to(Sabbath) school, but there are manyboys and girls who still don't knowabout Jesus. I am always glad whenone of them goes to the church withMargaret.You know, you can make your shoesjust as happy as I am.We shoes love to become missionaries!We just love to take one boy orgirl to invite another boy or girl to(Sabbath) school. Next (Sabbath), maybeyou could invite someone whodoesn't go to (Sabbath) school to gowith you. I'm sure that would makeyour shoes very happy. And, most ofall, the Lord Jesus will be glad whenHe sees many boys and girls in (Sabbath)school.— The Missionary BroadcasterCOVENANTER WITNESS

Lesson Helps for the Week of November 26,1967Sabbath SchoolLessonfor November 26, 1967.GOD'S PURPOSE IN DISCIPLINE:Hosea 2 and 3.Comments by John K. Gault.Discipline is from the same rootas disciple which means learner. Inthe modern use of the word, however,the meaning has come to includetraining, or punishment. The universe,which includes the world, operatesunder a system of laws. There isnatural law and there is moral law;the violation of each results in punishmentinvolving suffering. God presidesover and controls both of theseforms of laws. When people do rightand seek to conform their lives tothe moral law of God, the naturallaw, which is His law also, will fallinto place.One cannot read the book of Hoseaor of Amos without learning that Godrules supreme over all things bothanimate and inanimate. Also, "Thechief end," or objective, "of man isto glorify God and enjoy Him forever,"as is stated in the first question ofour Catechism. Jesus said, "But seekye first the kingdom of God, and Hisrighteousness; and all these thingsshall be added unto you." People ofthe earth have failed, woefully, toseek first the kingdom of God. Thehuman race has brought down uponitself untold suffering, as punishment,for the infraction of God's laws.1: God's Discipline is AdministeredBecause of Sin.Israel, as pictured by Hosea, haddeparted from God. Idol worship hadbeen established. The prophet describedthe sinful condition of the land in7:1, 3, 4a as he said, "When I wouldhave healed Israel, then the iniquity ofEphraim was discovered, and thewickedness of Samaria: for they commitfalsehood; and the thief comethin, and the troop of robbers spoilethwithout. — They make the king gladwith their wickedness, and the princeswith their lies. They are all adulterers."NOVEMBER 1, 1967The prophet, using his wife as anobject lesson, spoke of Israel's conditionas "whoredom," a most revoltingsin in Israel. Because of the sinfulcondition of the nation God sent agreat punishment upon them. Thiswas their discipline. In 2:11-12 Godspoke through the mouth of Hoseain the words, "I will also cause all hermirth to cease, her feast days, her newmoons, and her Sabbaths, and all hersolemn feasts. I will destroy her vinesand her fig trees, whereof she hathsaid, these are my rewards that myloveis have given me: and I will makethem a forest, and the beasts of thefield shall eat them." Also in 3:4 theprophet said, "For the children ofIsrael shall abide many days without aking, and without a prince, and withouta sacrifice, and without an image,and without an ephod, and withoutteraphim:" This Scripture is evidentlya figurative picture of the period ofcaptivity in Assyria when Israel wouldbe without a government, withoutworship, without a temple, and withouta high priest. The national life ofthe people, both politically and religiously,would be completely disorganized.They had made a misuseof all these assets of their lives;consequently, God punished them byremoving these privileges from them.2: God Administered His Disciplinein Love.As recounted in chapter 3 Godtold Hosea, "Go yet, love a womanbeloved of her friend, yet anadulteress, according to the love ofthe Lord toward the children of Israel,who look to other gods, and loveflagons of wine. So I bought her to mefor fifteen pieces of silver, and for anhomer of barley, and an half homer ofbarley: and I said unto her, Thoushalt abide for me many days; thoushalt not play the harlot, and thoushalt not be for another man: so willI also be for thee." Israel's relation toGod is here compared to that of Hoseato his wife Gomer. He was instructedto love her even though she had lefthim to go after other lovers. God lovedIsrael and would have taken themjiback had they repented. He did takea remnant of them back when theyreturned after the exile.3: It Was God's Purpose to RestoreIsrael Through Discipline.In 2:14-17 the prophet said, "Therefore,behold I will allure her, and bringher into the wilderness and speakcomfortably to her. And I will give herher vineyards from thence, and thevalley of Achor for a door of hope:and she shall sing there as in the daysof her youth, and as in the day whenshe came up out of the land of Egypt.And it shall be at that day, saith theLord, that thou shalt call me Ishi; andshalt call me no more Baali. For Iwill take away the names of Baalimout of her mouth, and they shall nomore be remembered by their name."When Israel would be restored to Godshe would no longer call Him Baali,meaning master, but she would callHim Ishi meaning husband. A newcovenant would be established whereinIsrael would be married to God. InHebrews 12:6-11 the purpose of disciplineupon the whole Israel of God ispresented in the words, "For whomthe Lord loveth He chasteneth, andscourgeth every son whom He receiveth.— Now no chastening for thepresent seemeth to be joyous butgrievous: nevertheless afterward ityieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousnessunto them which are exercisedthereby."4: God's Discipline Will Affect theWild Animals and the Spirit of Violencein the Earth.It is said in 2:18, 19, "And in thatday will I make a covenant for themwith the beasts of the field, and withthe fowls of heaven, and with thecreeping things of the ground; and Iwill break the bow and the sword andthe battle out of the earth, and willmake them to lie down safely. AndI will betroth thee unto me for ever,yea, I will betroth thee unto me inrighteousness, and in judgment, andin lovingkindness, and in mercies."Through discipline the whole earthwill be made over and all kinds of283

violence will disappear."Lesaon based on International SundaySchool Lessons: the International Bible Lessonsfor Christian Teaching, copyrighted 1963by the Division of Christian Education, NationalCouncil of Churches of Christ in theU.S.A."Junior Topicfor November 26, 1967.COMPANIONSHIPProverbs 1:16, 17; 13:20; 17:17; IS:24; 27:10; 27:17; 22:1.No lesson material has arrived.Each sponsor will have to work outhis own meeting from the topic andreferences given.Prayer MeetingTopicrather than repel.No church, however small, is toosmall to give thought to its publicrelations. We would do well to askourselves a few questions, and behonest in our answers.1. Good HousekeepingDoes our church building presenta neat appearance on the outside,with a proper amount of paint, all thewindow panes in, and with properlykept grounds around the building?Does it convey the impression thatthose who worship here, love theirchurch?Is our church neat and clean onthe inside? Do we provide the caretakerswith adequate tools? Do wekeep the building at the proper temperature,so that worshipers will notbe conscious that it is too hot or toocold? Do we change the air in thebuilding at least once a week — rememberingthat dead air requires farmore fuel to heat, than good fresh air?2. FriendlinessWhen a stranger appears, do wemake him welcome? or do we standoff by ourselves in little groups, andcause him to wish he had gone to someother church that might be a littlemore friendly? Do we have at leastsome system for greeting guests andmaking them feel welcome? Have wea guest book, or a guest card thatmight be filled out? Do we go out ofour way to make the visitor feel welcomeat our services?3. PublicityDo we keep our signs properlypainted? Where we have moveableletter bulletin boards, do we changefor November 29, 1967.THE CHURCH'SPUBLIC RELATIONSby G. M. Robb.Romans 15:2; Titus 2:8.Psalms: 146:1-2, 6-7, p. 353; 67:1-3,p. 161; 72:9-12, p. 175.Both of the Scripture passages usedin this study, indicate that the Churchhas a legitimate right to try to makea good impression. Surely it is not forour glory nor for the elevation of oursocial status (All of the Upper FourHundred in this city attend BrownStone Church). But it is that we mayplease our neighbors "for good toedification." It is that the communityaround us may not have adverse thingsto say concerning our church. Ultimatelyit is that we may not be puttingthe messages at appropriatestumbling-blocks in the way of thosewho are "seeking the Lord while hemay be found," nor of those who areseeking to know the truth as it is inChrist Jesus.During November our studies havehad to do with the Church's outreach.The Church's public relations have agreat deal to do with the success ofits attempted outreach. Each one ofour congregation must ask: "Whatkind of an impression is our congregationmaking, in the community aroundus?" Do people gather the impressionthat we are a going concern? that wetake our Christianity seriously? thatour church and its ordinances meanmuch to us? Surely we want to attract284times?Are the letters fresh looking, or arethey faded, rusty, and dog-eared?Do we have church bulletins andchurch stationery that will commandrespect? Is our mimeogtaphing of atleast decent quality? (A couple ofdecades ago a Covenanter ministersaid he could always spot mimeographedmaterial from other Covenanterministers: it was always the corniestlooking stuff in the mail. Perhaps wehave all improved since that time).Do we keep our church notices inthe newspapers up to date?When our church has newsworthyhappenings, do we take the troubleto write them up for the newspapers;or invite a reporter to be present?4. Community relationshipsWhere we can do so without compromisingtruth and principle, do west ive for good relationships withChristian brethren of other denominations?Would we loan them a projector,or do an emergency mimeographingjob for them if they were caughtshort?Do we permit and encourage ourpastors to take their places as presidentsand secretaries of the localministerial associations?Are we willing to carry our shareof the load in community canvassing,hospital visitation, and special servicesin county homes, jails, etc.?Do we support our pastor whenhe is called upon for such publicappearances as baccalaureate sermons,radio talks, and other general functions?Do we support our pastor andsession in those difficult times whenthey may have to stand out againstthe community on moral issues, or indefense of the truth when BiblebelievingChristianity is under attack?Prayer suggestions:That each of our congregations,whatever its size and wherever its location,may have its eyes opened thatitmay perceive its opportunities for amore effective outreach.For our own congregation's publicrelations: that we may have the courageand the vision to look at ourselveswith a critical eye, and be able to seeourselves as the community aroundsees us.That we may be faithful in oursupport of the denominational activitiesthat are financed through "Synod'sBudget."MODERNby Clark C. PollockEDUCATION"Therefore brethren stand fast andhold the traditions which ye have beentaught, whether by word or by ourepistle" (II Thess. 2:15)."Hold fast the iorm of sound words,which thou hast heard of me, in faithand love which is in Christ Jesus"(II Tim. 1:15).The writer, Paul the apostle says,"Woe unto me if I preach not thegospel" —the good news of salvationthrough Jesus Christ, Man's greatestneed is salvation from the "Slough ofDespond," from the falsehoods anddeceptions of an evil world.COVENANTERWITNESS

College training seems necessarytoday to enable us to gather in theshekels required to maintain whatAmerica boasts of as her "high standardof living." However, if one shouldlose faith in God in the process, thenas Jesus has said, "Better for that manhe had never been born."The youth of cur land need technicaltraining to be efficient in business,art, medicine, agriculture, preachingthe gospel, etc. But unless collegeyears are spent in a real Christiancollege, they will be exposed to germsof unbelief that very often destroytheir faith in the revealed AVord ofGod and all hope of heaven."College vs. Home" in The CovenanterWitness of August 30, whilepainting some of the contrasts betweencollege and the home, is also verymisleading. Quote, "Many carents havelong since arrived at a simple Christianfaith with no questions and nodoubts, but with only a few answers."But they had the one supreme blessing,a saving faith. While fashions change,modes of travel, communication, manythings are constantly changing yethuman nature is ever the same unlesslifted Godward by the redemptivework of Jesus Christ.The writer speaks disparagingly ofa "hand-me-down religion that doesnot fit the one who has to wear it."The only salvation for this formerlyfair land is a repenting and turningto the faith of our fathers.Those who founded this countrywrote into law, recognition of God,observance of the Sabbath, dependenceon the Ten Commandments as the ruleto establish justice in cur courts, inscribedon our coins, "In God we trust."And thus through the years we have,in many ways, expressed our dependenceon the Creator.Our great colleges were establishedto teach the truths of the Bible,along with the arts and sciences. KingsCollege in New York City, founded in1754 and later to become ColumbiaUniversity, had as one of its chiefpurposes, "to promote Ihe religion ofJesus Christ." Yet today it gives refugeto Communists and atheists.Quoting again, "The college studentfaces the responsibility to investigateon his own. Every professor, even inreligion, insists that he open everyavailable source."Every one will be judged by hisindividual choice and beliefs. But ifNOVEMBER 1, 1967the professor does not assist the studentto make the right choice, bypositive teaching as to the true andfalse, he is not worthy the name ofteacher. That is what instructors arefor, that is the purpose of education,to direct the thinking and research ofthe student. All manner of falsehoodin ethics, economics, religion, andpolitics is being dished up and set beforethe youth of the land in the nameof academic freedom. Although a broadeducation requires some knowledge ofthe false as contrasted with what isgenuine, yet a study as to the valueof Buddhism under a Buddhist priestor from Buddhist literature, wouldbe seeking for wheat among the chaff.Colleges and seminaries are openingwide their doors to Communistpromoters, although the Communistsopenly maintain that there is no truth.A parent that would permit a youngchild the choice of a bottle of milk ora lethal drug, could be guilty of homicide.Yet in so many cases, parents andinstructors, those whose duty is tcguide.have abdicated and offer nopositive di.ective to the youth of ourland.How much better that they heedthe words of the prophet: "They that.are wise shall shine as the brightnessof the firmament, and they that turnmany to righteousness as the stars foreverand ever" (Dan. 12:3).Pure religion and undefiled beforeGod and the Father is this, To visitthe fatherless and widows in theiraffliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world. James 1:27.My brethren, have not the faith ofour Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord otglory, with respect of persons.James 2:1.Our neighbors have three kittens. Two are white. One is yellow.Last Tuesday we found a mouse in the basement trap. We threw it out intothe back yard. The yellow kitten was there sunning himself. He seized themouse. Soon he was digesting it. We assumed that the episode was ended.Not so! The two white kittens came over, clamoring for mice. For the nexttwo days they parked at our back steps. Every time we opened the door, theyset up a huge fuss demanding mice or equality of opportunity or somethingthey were very certain they weren't getting.In time we reached the conclusion that, with all the mice there are in thefields around Garland, any kitten that really wants a mouse can have a mouseif he will stop lying in the shade and will really get out and hustle.Is not our human viewpoint at least somewhat parallel to the kittenviewpoint? Do we not wax clamorous when one of our fellow men receivessomething that we have not received? Let some one else get a hand-out fromthe government, or a five hundred dollar legacy from a maiden aunt, or acertain amount of recognition and honor that has not come to us: and ourreactions can sometimes be more than a little catty.But the fields are still full of mice. Do we want them badly enough togo out after them?Some folks have even been known to make snide remarks because someother church has taken in more members than their church. But, to use ourLord's figure of speech, the fields are still "white to the harvest."The Apostle Paul, in II Thessalonians 3:11, expresses disapproval of thosewho are "disorderly, working not at all." Right away we are willing to applythis to those who participate in noisy demonstrations for bigger and morefrequent welfare checks. We might better apply it to ourselves in those notinfrequent occasions when we become envious of our neighbor's good fortune.It just could be that he went a-mousing while we were lying in the shade.285

NOTICEThe 1967 Minutes of Synod will beready about October 15. The price,$1.50 per copy. Send all orders to:Chester R. Fox, Treasurer306 Empire BuildingPittsburgh, Pa. 15222*&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&

passage of Scripture to be used asthe Scripture lesson the followingSabbath morning. Thus there will bea time for personal Bible study, groupdiscussion, and the taking of notesduring the sermon.4. It means that you will have a timefor group prayer for those thingswhich God lays upon your hearts.5. It means that you will have an opportunity,because of these foregoingitems, of growing in grace and in theknowledge of our Saviour, JesusChrist.IllnessesA number of our members havebeen hospitalized in recent weeks. Atpresent Miss Mary McGaw (AlleghenyGeneral) and Mrs. George Jackson(Bellevue Suburban) are still hospitalized.Miss Mary Thompson, after herhospitalization, was moved to the Sky-Vue Nursing Home. Miss Jane Redpathhas returned to her home.Mrs. Lee Bittner has returned homeafter surgery last week at North HillsPassavant Hospital.Mrs. and Mrs. Richard Cunninghamhave been staying in Beaver Fallswhile Twila has been nursing hermother-in-law in her very serious illness.New PsaltersAbout 20 new Psalters have beenplaced in the sanctuary purchasedfrom gifts given in memory of Mr.Knox M. Young, senior elder of thecongregation who passed away in Mayof this year.Parsonage RepairsDuring the vacation of the pastorand his family, a new kitchen floorwas laid and some bathroom plastictile was replaced with ceramic tile.Just after returning home, a newunder-counter dishwasher was installed.We want to thank the Trustees (andthe congregation) for these improvements.Where they areMiss Carol Woolley has returnedto Geneva for her second year ofstudies. She took extra courses duringthe summer at the University of Pittsburgh.Miss Candy Cook is enrolled in theGraduate department in the Universityof Colorado at Boulder in the fieldof English.Mr. and Mrs. Robert Cook, Jr. arenow living in Seattle, Washington,where Bob has a job with Boeing AircraftCompany.NOVEMBER 1, 1967Mr. and Mrs. Edward Robson havemoved to Oakdale, Illinois, where theyexpect to live while Ed pursues hisdoctoral work at Concordia Seminaryin St. Louis.Miss Eiko Kitaguchi has returnedto her home in Kobe, Japan.Christian EducationA meeting of the Christian EducationStaff was held recently at thechurch. At this time the Teacher'sCovenant was reviewed and signedby those present. Mrs. Frank Waltonpresented information which could besent to Governor Shafer and our localsenators and representatives encouragingthem to take no action to furtherliberalize the existing Blue laws.New ArrivalWe are pleased with God's blessingin the Shaefer home in the arrivalof Paul Andrew on August 1.CommunionThe fall Communion will be observedon October 29. The Sessionplans to have preparatory services onthe preceding Thursday and Fridayevenings. The Rev. E. RaymondHemphill, presently of Syracuse, NewYork, will be the guest minister forthese services. Covenanter EchoesNOTICEPlease send orders for the 1968W. M. S. Uniform Program bookletsto:Mrs. Charles SterrettOakdale, 111. 62268Cost this year is 40 cents perbooklet. Have your orders in byNovember, so the booklets may bemailed as soon as possible andavoid the Christmas rush.CAMBRIDGE, MASSACHUSETTSSeptember brought summer vacationsand conferences to an end anda settling in for the fall and wintermonths with their many activities forour congregation.Many of our congregation enjoyedthe growth and fellowship at WhiteLake Adult, Senior, Prep, and JuniorCamps.The second Saturday of Septemberbrought the annual All-Church SabbathSchool picnic at a state forest nearby.About forty-five persons enjoyed theinformal games (horse shoes, badmintonand volleyball) as well as explo: ingthe area in the morning. After a deliciouspicnic lunch at noon, we wereled in devotionals with a song service.The afternoon was spent in relays.tug-o-war (until the rope broke, everyonelanding on the ground:),. .a rousingSoftball game and some cool swimming.This month also brought the berrinningof school for many of ouryoung people: Mary Henderson enteredNew England Baptist School ofNuising, William Pihl, Mass. StateCollege in Amherst, Mass. and BetsyMcKeown, night classes in The WoburnSchool of Business while continuingher work at American Mutual InsuranceCompany. Jeff Smyth has returnedto Mass. College of Art, Jan Stewartto Framingham State College, andBa'.bara Stewart to Geneva CollegeMay the Lord bless these as theyfurther their education.We are happy to have Dave Cummingsback in our midst. He has returnedfrom a three and a half monthcruise on the airplane carrier U. S. S.Essex. Dave was able to visit Dr. andMrs. Adam Loughridge and others ofthe church in Northern Ireland. Healso has many slides and interestingstories of his trip. He is presentlystationed at Quonsett Point, RhodeIsland. In December he will be eligiblefor discharge from the Navy after fouiyears service.BOOK REVIEWThe Protestant Revolt by JamesDeForest Murch. 326 pages, 15 chapters.Paperback. Price $3.95. CrestwoodBooks, Box 2096, Arlington, Virginia22202. 1967.This book is based on thoroughlesearch and it carries much helpfulinformation. It reveals the subtlework cairied on in and through theNational Council of Churches and theWorld Council of Churches. The latterpart of the book speaks of infiltrationinto various denominations and theirpresent stand. Its six appendices listthe denominations, related or unrelatedto these councils, with their memberships,their colleges, seminaries,and Bible schools. This book is a richmine of information and any Christianwould do well to include it in hislib ary.Dr. Murch is a former presidentof Evangelical Press Association andhe has authored more than twentybooks.M.W.D.287

Some This and ThatlnW7KSHEART OF AMERICAhis Creator. He said, "You can't comeBILLY GRAHAM CRUSADE — to God intellectually alone; you haveKANSAS CITY MUNICIPAL STADI­ to come HEART first. Salvation dependsUM, ALL SEATS FREE!September 8-17, 1967.Such were the signs that appearedon the billboards throughout KansasCity; "Billy Graham Crusade" stickerswere seen on car bumpers and rearwindows; churches participated in ahouse-to-house canvass of all the homesin their designated areas; neighborhoodprayer meetings were arrangedand prayer was offered daily in anticipationof the Crusade. Besides thework of the Association and the Teammanagement, which conducts the services100 per cent upon Christ." Dr.Walter Smyth, director of the Crusadeorganization and Team activities saidthat it takes five to ten years beforeit is known whether the seed plantedduring the crusade has taken root. Ittakes a certain amount of time for aChristian to mature and grow; thereare no short cuts.Testimonies as to their experiencesin the Christian life were given byseveral special guests of the Crusade:Ray Hildebrand, staff member ofthe Fellowship of Christian Athleteslike clock-work, a Graham cru­and former basketball player atsade staff and volunteer workers had Howard Payne College;been active here for months. The Peter Brewster, an assistant footballresults give evidence of the effectivenessof such preparation.The estimated figure for the totalattendance during the Crusade was364,000, with an average of 1,100 percoach of the Kansas City Chiefs;Miss Ethel Waters, Broadway stageand screen star and singer, who forthe past ten years has been with theCrusade Team;meeting responding to the call to come Mrs. John Cochran of Merriam,forward and make a public commitmentto Christ. But this is just thebeginning for the new convert. TheFollowup is conducted on four fronts:Kansas, the reigning "Mrs. Americaof 1967";It was indeed a thrilling sight tosee the multitudes thronging into thethe trained counselors, the churches, stadium by the thousands, quietlyBible study groups and correspondencefrom the Graham Association. So withinand orderly, some waiting as long astwo and three hours for the service toforty-eight hours, the counselors begin. The Scriptures were read,try to contact the person by phone, prayer offered, and the messagesletter or personal visit, to see if theycan be of any further assistance. Thename of every inquirer is sent to agiven in reverent silence, without asingle disturbance of any kind. Quitea contrast it was to the rioting, looting,church and the pastor encouraged to angry, hatred-filled mobs that havevisit him and report back to the been ravaging other cities.Graham organization. Finally, the It is felt that the Crusade andperson is invited to join a small Biblestudy group, perhaps in his church orplace of business. The Crusade is onlythe beginning. Unless the person istaken into fellowship with other Christiansmessages of Billy Graham have causeda renewed interest in the Christianfaith. Our prayer is that great goodmight come from all of this in theHeart of America!it would be difficult for the com­CHRIST AT Mrs. EXPO Paul '67 Wrightmitment to hold.by Anna P. McKelvyIn the last two decades, Protestant In the midst of Expo's beautifulChristianity has gone divergent ways. St. Lawrence setting and beyond theThe major Protestant denominations so-called "Christian" Pavilion (Rev. 13:have forsaken the Holy Scriptures for 11), stands the Christ-centered Sermons-from-SciencePavilion. Whena new "social gospel" which tries tochange men by altering their environment.Some Protestant theologians a truly Christian effort, they tried toExpo officials discovered it was to behave developed a new "hippie" theology:"God is dead," "situation ethics," has guarded and guided it from thebreak its contract but could not. God"free love," etc. Mr. Graham and first.his crusade efforts focus solely on283the individual and his relationship toEach 30-minute program alternatesMoody Science films with Dr. GeorgeSpeake's startling stage presentations.The auditorium and follow-up counselingroom are always crowded withhundreds turned away. The 600,000thvisitor entered the door on September7. Almost one third of these peoplehave stayed for the counseling filmand there have already been 3,530decisions for Christ.At present, the majority of thoseseeking the Lord are teenage FrenchCanadian men. This is the Lord's doingand it is marvelous in our eyes."Quebec will never be the same again,"says Rev. Sam Colpetiers, Quebecmissionary and French "Voice" translatingDr. Speake's daily messages.Let us pray and praise the LORD.Many think the best is yet to come.During my thrilling week of counselingin June, the Lord brought tome nuns, a seminarian from Montreal,a student from the W. Indies, anagnostic from Germany who said, "Ithink God brought me here to hearthis," a girl from India, a leadingRussian official, tourists from the U.S. (among the latter, an R. C. familyfrom Kansas City and a USAF officerfrom Stewart Field who knew Coldenham!)etc.Tellef Knefte, 19 year-old Norwegiansoldier and Oslo Universitystudent, was earnestly seeking thetrue religion. I gave him John 7:17,Jeremiah 29:13. Pray for Tellef.A man who was to enter hospitalthe next day for a second operationfor cancer of the throat came earnestlyseeking Christ. Another manreceived the Lord Jesus saying, "Thisis why God brought me to Canadafor Expo, though I didn't know it."He is Professor of Languages in aleading Belgian University. Last Saturday,a ten-year-old boy took $4.00 to alarge Montreal store saying, "I wentto Sermons-from-Science at Expo andfound Christ as my Savior. This is topay for what I stole from your store."It has been a summer of seedsowingin this Pavilion. And we knowGod purposeth a harvest. Now let Himwork."And blessed be His glorious name,Long as the ages shall endure.O'er all the earth extend His fame;Amen, COVENANTERamen, for evermore." WITNESS

G^evwmtei^iJfej^VOLUME LXXIX NO. 19 NOVEMBER 8, 1967 STERLING, KANSAS 67579BIBLE LESSONS FOR THE WEEK OF DECEMBER 3, 1967•b*-AWAKE, O WORLD!Edna Janes KayserIt seems our world is torn apartBy fear that nags at every heart,Of sorrow, wickedness, and woe —Of pain, no matter where I go!Dear Lord, my eyes are forced to seeThe children treated shamefully,Instead of being held most dear —They hve with cigarettes and beer . . .I do not overlook Your hillsYour sun like gold of daffodils,My heart is beauty loving too —I see the fairest rose, the dew —But Lord, I see the fields so white;Of sin, the dreadful, searing blight,The fall of womanhood at handCorruption creeps across the land!O let revival just returnThat tender hearts of men may burn,With holy fires of God once moreLike stirring times men knew before!For this old world gone mad with sinMay men let Christ the Lord within,To cleanse their hearts with His own bloodNow plunged beneath the crimson flood!i>

THE COVENANTER WITNESSOfficial organ of the ReformedPresbyterian Church of N. A.• tVAMMUCAl m mAtMCIATWNEditor: Rev. M W. Dougherty, D.D.125 N. 4th StreetSterling, Kansas 67579Phone 316 — Br. 8 • 3472Printed each Wednesday under the supervision of theBoard of Publication by The Patterson Press, Winchester,Kansas 66097.Contributing Editors: Department Editors:Rev. Kenneth Smith Rev. John TweedDr. G. M. RobbMrs. Robert B. MaineRev. John McMillan Mrs. Willis EdgarRev. C. E. Caskey Rev. John K. GaultOpinions expressed in our columns are those of theindividual writer, not necessarily the views of the ReformedPresbyterian Church or the editor.All material to appear in The Covenanter Witnessshould be typewritten, double-spaced, and should be inSterling, Kansas two weeks before it is to be printed.The cost of all pictures is 30 cents per square inch.Obituaries — All words in excess of one hundred fifty,one cent per word. Money should accompany such notices.SUBSCRIPTION RATESIndividual (1 year): U.S. and Canada, $4.00, BritishIsles 35/-, all other places, $5.00;Individual (2 year): U.S. and Canada, $7.00, BritishIsles 63/-, all other places, $9.00;Group: U.S. and Canada, $3.00, British Isles 28/-, allother places, $4.00.9-month student subscription — $1.50; 5-month introductoryoffer —$1.00; 2 gift subscriptions to persons outsideof the R. P. Church — $2.00 each. Single copies, 10c.Subscription Agent for U.S. and Canada: Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Subscription Agent for the British Isles: Rev. HughWright, B.A., 12, Knutsford Drive, Belfast 14, NorthernIreland.All checks should be made payable to The CovenanterWitness in U. S. currency.Give one month's notice of a change of address. Sendboth the new and the old address to Mrs. M.W. Dougherty.Postmaster: Please send Form 3579 to Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Second class postage paid at Winchester, Kansas 66097WE HOLD THE FOLLOWING TO BE TRUTHS OF SCRIPTURE:The Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the only infalliblerule of faith and conduct.The Trinitarian conception of the Godhead.Faith in Jesus Christ as the only way of salvation.Salvation by Grace.Assurance of salvation as a possible Christian experience.The Gospel Call and Election.The Holy Spirit as the Author of regeneration.Sanctification through the cooperating agency of the Holy Spirit.The fact of death and hell as the destiny of the lost and heavenas the destiny of the saved.That the Church of Jesus Christ consists of all those who believein Him together with their children.The Divine Right of the Presbyterian form of Church Government.The Lord Jesus Christ as the only King and Head of His Church.That terms of membership or communion are essential to thewelfare of the Church.PRAYER ALSO CHANGES PEOPLEA young preacher had just settled in his firstpastorate in Philadelphia, when he was visited oneevening by one of the laymen in his church.The man said bluntly to him, "You are not astrong preacher. In the usual order of things youwill fail here, but a little group of us have agreedto gather every (Sabbath) morning to pray for you.'The young man saw that group of people growto more than one thousand praying weekly for theirpastor.The minister was J. Wilbur Chapman who grewto become one of the greatest preachers Americahas ever known.This Week's WitnessSpeechGlimpses of the Rehgious WorldThe Mode of Baptism . . . .The Spirit of Truth and ErrorConsider The Postage StampTell-Tale Tracks .Lesson HelpsScribe With a Hard PencilChurch News291292.293295297298299301302The duty which rests upon officers to maintain discipline andpreserve the purity of the Church.Spiritual worship as a divine requirement mediated through theLord Jesus Christ.The exclusive use of the Psalms in the worship of the Church.The Protestant interpretation of the Sacraments.The divine right of the institution of Marriage and that it is notto be dissolved except by adultery or "irremediable" desertion.The Sabbath as a day sacred to rest and worship.The duty of nations and their civil rulers to honor Christ asKing of Kings and Lord of Lords.That Christian citizens are under obligation to obey lawful authority.The right and duty of the Christian citizen to dissent from allgovernmental and national disobedience to the Law of God.That the Covenants of the past are still binding.From "The Communicant's Class" by J. B. Tweed290 COVENANTER WITNESS

«&CommentSPEECH"Thy speech betrayeth thee" (Matthew 26:73).rp HE TONGUE is the most versatile member of thehuman body. Dentists say it will accommodateitself to new dentures in a very short time, so thatone is able to speak clearly even though he has anew plate in his mouth. James in his epistle tellsus in 3:5, "Even so, the tongue is a little member,and boasteth great things," and in verse 9, "But thetongue can no man tame."When Peter was before the fire of denial, one ofthe maids said that his speech betrayed him. Thiswas as true as it was that his speech betrayed hisLord. Sometimes the tongue, the great instrumentof speech, tells the hearer far more than we thinkit does.It not only tells from what country one hascome, but as in Peter's case, it tells from what partof the country he has come. There were the Ephraimiteswho could not pronounce shibboleth as theGileadites did. We can tell if one has come fromFrance, Germany, Scotland, or other land, verylikely. We find also that the tongue works differentlywith the New Englander, the Southerner, the Westerner.Their speech betrays them.The tongue also reveals something of the maturityof a person. The httle child uses the simplestof words and often can not speak them plainly. Ashe grows, he learns new words and improves in hispronunciation.Then the tongue tells something of the degree ofone's education. This is shown by his enlargedvocabulary, his choice of words, and the subjectsabout which he can converse. It is bounded hereby reading, thought, conversation, and travel.The tongue tells about one's business. It is thething that holds our interest. We know the mostabout it, and so we can talk more freely about it. Wewill, no doubt, turn the conversation in that direction.Then, the tongue will reveal something of theheart of an individual. I do not mean that greatorgan we call the heart, but the inner person, histhoughts, his emotions, and his will. The Bibletells us thatit is out of the heart that the mouthspeaks. One man may habitually exaggerate. Hecarries a "fisherman s ruler." He must add one to anactual four and pass it on as five. When one hearssomething hke this, he is inclined to question thetruthfulness of any statement that such a one maymake.With the tongue one expresses love or hate. Bothmay be spoken by inference, but they begin in theheart.Solomon says of the virtuous woman, "In hertongue is the law of kindness." In one's tongue maybe the opposite, malice. How much strength can begiven to another by a simple word of kindness orapproval, and so much harm can be done by anunkind or an untrue word. We need to rememberthat the spoken word can not be erased. The unkind,the untrue words about others are best rememberedand are most often repeated. Unkind, untrue wordscan destroy reputation and harm character. Todestroy reputation or harm character is a mostterrible crime. The common practice of gossip isa tongue-occupation that does untold harm. Withthe tongue one may commit murder.In Ti'us 2:7, 8 Paul says, "In all things showingthyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine showinguncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, sound speech, thatcannot be condemned." Paul exhorts the Colossiansin 4:6; "Let your speech be alway with grace,seasoned with salt." Barnes comments: "Our conversationshould be seasoned with piety or grace in away similar to that in which we employ salt inour food. It makes it wholesome and palatable. Sowith our conversation. Ifit be not imbued with thespirit of piety, it is flat, insipid, unprofitable,injurious. The spirit of piety will make it whatitshould be — useful, agreeable, beneficial to mankind."We are impressed by the fact that the wordtongue is listed 160 times in Young's AnalyticalConcordance The tongue which gives articulationto sound in cooperation with the lips is used toindicate one's speech.The Lord gives His people this command: "Letthe redeemed of the Lord say so." Hereby we testifyas to our inward spiritual condition. When you aretalking in a group, can thev tell by your speechthat you are a Christian? This is revealed not onlvby your not using words that do not become aChristian, which would be negative goodness, butSee back pageNOVEMBER 8, 1967 291

"THE ECUMENICAL GOSPEL"The most dubious bargain we have been offeredrecently in the field of rehgious hterature is a newedition of the Gospel of John for the price of $2.For that sum you do not even receive the wholegospel, since it has been carefully edited "in conformitywith the true ecumenical spirit of PopeJohn XXIII." What this is supposed to mean is thatthose verses which are felt to be "anti-Jewish" innature have been deleted.According to the brochure, John's Gospel isbeing offered here "without adulteration by hateand revulsion against the people of the Savior."The one specific example given involves the removalof John 8:44 — "Ye are of your father the devil,and the lusts of your father ye will do." The editor,Dr. Dagobert D. Runes of the University of Vienna,takes the position that he is not removing the wordsof Jesus, since in his opinion Jesus would never havesaid such a thing. The basis for this kind of "editing"is not textual evidence but simply the editor's personaljudgment as to what Jesus would or wouldnot have said.Dr. Runes has expressed his ardent wish to bringout in the near future a "cleansed" edition of thewhole New Testament. We renounce all such sinfultampering with the inspired Scriptures, but wecould wish that some others who handle the Bibleaccording to the same rationalistic principles wouldbe as bald and open about it.We must not treat lightly the sin of anti-Semitism. Wherever it exists in the minds of professingChristians it needs to be repented of. However,we cannot re-write the inspired record of thefundamental conflict between Jesus the Jew —Jesus the Messiah — and "His own" to whom hecame. (John 1:11)TELEVISION HELPS TRAIN PREACHERSBeginning with this fall semester, the Homileticsclass at William Carey College (in Mississippi)will use a video tape recorder in the sermon deliverylaboratory period. The young student preacher cannow watch himself in the actual delivery of hissermon, and evaluate his own voice, gestures, dress,and general appearance.of the Religious WorldTHE REV. JOHN McMILLANR. D. 1, Box 337WALDEN, NEW YORKIn private sessions, the instructor and otherexperienced ministers of the area will view thevideo tapes with the students and give them additionalprofessional counsel.The Baptist Record reports that the equipmentfor such a laboratory consists of a television camera,a video recorder, television monitors, and speciallighting. Its cost is about $2,200. One who remembershis own days as a student preacher cannot helpbut wonder if, in the face of all that equipment, a"teleprompter" would not also be necessary.SPANISH CHURCHES URGED NOT TO REGISTER(EP) Member churches of the Spanish BaptistUnion were advised not to register as Protestantbodies under the new rehgious liberty law adoptedby Spain.The biennial convention decreed that churchesand pastors should refrain from registering "untilsuch time as satisfactory and legal means are providedin conformity with the nature of (Baptist)churches."The 16th Congress, held at Albacete, Spain, wasattended by nearly 150 delegates and by 50 visitors.CHURCH THREATENS TO WITHDRAW$10 MILLION(EP) An investment portfolio worth $10 milhonwill be moved by the Methodist Board of Missionsfrom the First National Bank of New York, if thebank renews a credit arrangement with SouthAfrica's apartheid government.The action was voted on by the largest agency ofthe 10.25-milhon-member Methodist Church. Theboard said its action was the first step in a protest ofthe financial institution's participation in a consortiumof 10 banks extending some $40 millionin revolving credit to South Africa.David Rockefeller, president of Chase ManhattanBank which also participates in the consortium,defended the policy in a stockholders' meeting."None of us at Chase Manhattan holds any brieffor the South African Government's policy of separationof the races," he said. "Funds advanced by thebank have been used for the benefit of people of allraces."292 COVENANTER WITNESS

The Mode of BaptismBy Rev. J. G. Vos, D. D.Historically there have existed three modes ofbaptism in the Church, namely immersion, sprinklingand pouring. Several questions arise concerningthese. Is a particular mode of baptism essential tothe validity of the sacrament? Is the mode ofbaptism a matter of divine appointment in Scripture?Is the mode of baptism significant or symbolicof the meaning of baptism? What is the officialposition of the Reformed Presbyterian Church onthe mode of baptism?It is well known, of course, that sprinkling hasbeen practically universal as the mode of administeringbaptism in the Covenanter Church. An outsidermight very easily jump to the conclusion thatour Church holds that sprinkhng is necessarily thedivinely appointed mode, and that we regard othermodes as irregular if not actually invahd. Yet thiswould certainly be an unwarranted conclusion. Thefact is, rather, that the universal practice of sprinklingin the Covenanter Church and other Presbyteriandenominations rests upon convenience andtradition rather than upon theological principle.Sprinkling is the only mode of baptism practicedamong us, yet as a church we do not hold that thisis the only legitimate mode of baptism.What might be called the radical anti-immersionistviewpoint has existed among members ofthe Covenanter Church, but it has never been theofficial position of the church as set forth in itsstandards. In the latter part of the 19th centuryCovenanters in Nova Scotia repeatedly petitionedSynod to declare that immersion does not constitutevalid baptism and that therefore those who havebeen baptized by immersion must, on joining theReformed Presbyterian Church, be baptized bysprinkling. Synod declared its approval of sprinkhngbut declined emphatically to rule that immersion isnot valid baptism. So the radical anti-immersionistview has remained a privately held minority view,while the Church as a body admits the legitimacy ofimmersion.Diametrically opposed to the view just mentionedis the radical immersionist view. This is wellknown as the view of most Baptists and of variousother bodies. It holds that immersion is the onlyvalid mode of baptism, and that therefore sprinklingand pouring do not constitute valid baptism. Baptistswho are true to their historic position not only preferimmersion, but they insist that it is the only lawfuland proper mode of administration of baptism. Ofnecessity they must regard those who have not beenimmersed as unbaptized and therefore as hvingin sinful disobedience to the command of theLord. Not all Baptists hold this radical position astheir personal view of the matter, but it is thehistoric view of the Baptist faith, and by logicalnecessity, if consistently held, it involves regardingunimmerscd Christians as unbaptized and thereforedisobedient to the Lord.Between the radical immersionist view and theradical anti-immersionist view there exists whatmight be called the common Christian view concerningthe question of the mode of baptism. Thiscommon view has historically been by far the mostwidely held, and I shall seek to show that it is thecorrect view. According to this view the mode ofadministration of baptism is indifferent, and thereforeany one of the three historical modes constitutesvalid baptism. This view holds that the use ofwater is essential but the quantity of water and themanner of contact between the water and the personbaptized are not significant. This view is not antiimmersionistnor is it anti-sprinkling, but it isanti-Baptist in the sense that it opposes the claim ofthe exclusive propriety of immersion which isadvanced by strict Baptists; and of course it is alsoopposed to the claim of radical anti-immersioniststhat sprinkhng is the only proper mode of baptism.NOVEMBER 8, 1967 293

There are several possible approaches to theproblem of the mode of baptism. One method ofapproach is through the history of the Church. Thisis of considerable interest in itself, and may be veryenhghtening both to immersionists and to antiimmersionistswho imagine that a single mode ofbaptism was universally used in the earhest centuriesof the history of the Church. Dr. Benjamin B.Warfield wrote an informative article on The Archaeologyof the Mode of Baptism (BibliothecaSacra, liii, 1896, pp. 601-644; reprinted in Studiesin Theology. New York, Oxford University Press,1932, pp. 345-386). This very learned and welldocumentedarticle shows, among other things, thatin the early Christian centuries immersion was thecommon mode of baptism, while it was never regardedas the only vahd mode of baptism, and itwas never the exclusively practiced mode of baptism.Warfield states that insistence upon immersion asthe only vahd mode of baptism is a quite moderndevelopment. It cannot be traced any further backthan the English Baptists of the seventeenth century,that is, about three hundred years ago. The earlyBaptists both on the Continent and in Englandpracticed affusion or pouring rather than immersion.With regard to the early prevalence of immersion,Warfield states that "should we move backwithin the first millennium of the Church's hfe,we should find the whole Christian world united inthe ordinary use of trine immersion" (Studies inTheology, p. 351). He adds, however, that it would benecessary to inquire further whether this prevalenceof immersion was in harmony with the practice ofthe apostles, or represented a deviation from apostolicpractice. Obviously the study of Church historycan never tell us whether anything is Scriptural.We can learn from church history what practicesand behefs were held at a particular time, butwhether these behefs and practices were Scriptural,and therefore correct in the absolute sense, we cannotlearn from history, but only from a study ofthe Scriptures themselves.Warfield suggests an interesting point when hestates that baptism by immersion in the very earlyperiod of the Church, like Jewish proselyte baptism,was apparently administered to completely nuderecipients. He says that the Jewish rabbis in administeringproselyte baptism would not allow even afinger ring to break the contact of the water with theperson, and that the available evidence indicatesthat early Christian immersion was administeredwith the candidate completely nude. He adds thatpresumably no one would desire to copy this featureat the present day.Warfield traces Christian practice to the middleof the second century after Christ. He shows byliterary and monumental evidence that at that timetriple immersion was the common mode of baptism,but that pouring was freely allowed as an alternativemode when required because of scarcity of water orillness of the person baptized. He adds that it is afair presumption that this represents the originalChristian practice, but that this cannot be regardedas absolutely proved. For a solid and satisfyingsolution of the problem of the mode of baptism wemust turn from archaeology and church history tothe Bible itself. (The New-Schaff-Herzog Encyclopediaof Religious Knowledge, Vol. I, p. 477).Another approach to the problem is by way ofJohn the Baptist and the rite of baptism as administeredby him. Related to this is the whole subjectof Jewish proselyte baptism. It is often claimedas self-evident that John baptized by immersion. Thepresent-day Baptist who says "I want to be baptizedthe way Jesus was" is taking for granted that Johnbaptized exclusively by immersion. The scene ofJesus' baptism is often depicted in stained glasschurch windows, and almost invariably it is depictedas immersion. To state that we should beimmersed because Jesus was immersed is really aquestion-begging method of argument. It is by nomeans proven that Jesus was immersed. The matteris debatable, to say the least. We shall note some ofthe evidence later in this study.But even if it could be conceded as proven thatJohn baptized exclusively by immersion, and thatJesus was immersed, still this would not necessarilysettle the question concerning the mode of Christianbaptism. For John's baptism was not Christianbaptism. Baptists commonly assume that the twowere essentially identical, but this assumption isunwarranted. As a mater of fact it can be provedthat John's baptism was essentially different fromChristian baptism. This is shown by Acts 19:1-5,where Paul at Ephesus finds a dozen "disciples" whostate that they have received John's baptism. Pauldeclares this insufficient, whereupon these men are"baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus." If John'sbaptism and Christian baptism were essentiallyidentical, it is inconceivable that those who hadalready received the one would be required to receivethe other in addition.(To be continued next issue)294 COVENANTER WITNESS

The Spirit of Truth and ErrorContinued from October 25th issueNEO-ORTHODOXYWe now turn our attention to another which Ithink came as a reaction to the utter unbehef whichcharacterized so much of the content of these formerones. It is the movement known as "neo-orthodoxy"most commonly, but has also gone by the namesof "crisis theology" and "dialectical theology." Andin contrast to the cold unbehef of the previousmovements, neo-orthodoxy came as a breath offresh air, and many persons beheved that the effectof unbehef in rehgious circles was fast corning toan end. For this movement reemphasized the transcendenceof God, the fact of sin, and the need forredemption.Now the battleground of theology shifted fromthe black-white areas of behef-unbelief to the areaof semantics and definition of terms. In neo-orthodoxy,and this is what has disillusioned some earlybehevers in it, there has been a total redefinition ofChristian terms. The old common terms of sin,revelation, inspiration, are all used, but quite commonlythey mean something entirely different tothe advocate of neo-orthodoxy. And it is this, in myopinion, which has caused ultimately more harmto the Christian church than we can possibly imaginein our own time. The wolf has come wrappedin sheep's clothing. And it takes quite a while beforewe reahze that the familiar "baaa" of the sheep hasbeen replaced by the growl of the wolf.The fundamental problem with neo-orthodoxy inmy opinion has been their behef with respect to theWord of God. The neo-orthodox has taken this language— that the Bible contains the Word of God —to mean that within the covers of the Bible somewherethere is the Word of God. It is your problemthen to discover what is the Word of God and whatis not the Word of God. Consequently, there is awide divergence of behef among them as to whatconstitutes the Word of God.Closely alhed with this general rehgious conceptare two others that I want to mention.EXISTENTIALISMOne of these is existentialism. I'm not sure thatI have any real clear conception of what existentialismreally is. I have read several writings of theRev. James D. Carson, Pastor ofNorth Hills R. P. Church, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvaniaexistentialist thinkers. I have read books about them.It is basically a philosophy. And as a philosophy, ithas been taken by non-religious writers and developedin quite a secular fashion. But it has been takenby theologians and developed with rehgious overtones.Perhaps the best that I can do this morningwith this concept is to suggest that it begins withman — man where he is, in his immediate environment,and then seeks to work out his problems.The shift is almost totally complete here from aGod-centered rehgion to a man-centered religion.The center of life is me and my problems. The Bibleand religion in general has a value for me only ifit has a value for me; there is no ultimate standard.And I think you can see in this perhaps some of thebackground for modern thinking in relative termsand the development of a situational ethic.DEMYTHOLOGYBut one more area has been closely associatedwith neo-orthodoxy, and that in demythology. RudolfBultmann has been the chief exponent of thistheology. Let me try to explain it to you in thisfashion. Iron ore contains iron, but mixed with theiron there are impurities that may be useless andperhaps even harmful to the iron. So the iron mustbe extracted from the iron ore and freed from thatwhich is useless and harmful. Bultmann has thisgeneral concept — that in the Word of God thereis indeed a true message, but it is all mixed up witha lot of things that are useless and perhaps evenharmful. So your job then is to extract the realmessage of Christianity from the "ore" of the Bible,as it were. Bultmann calls this process demythologizing.His process is to take away from the Biblethat which is not really true or necessary, and tofind the ultimate precious message. In doing so, ofcourse, he takes away all the miraculous, for in hisestimation that does not really help us to find God.And so on. This concept is made possible by theneo-orthodox position that the Bible contains theWord of God.Now we have considered two general areas,with some sub-headings. If I were to condense theseeven more, I guess I would say that in the first area,there is unbelief which is defined as unbelief. It canNOVEMBER 8, 1967 295

e seen for what it is. In the second area, there is are-definition of terms, and unbehef has been wellcamouflaged for many people. I think that themessage might be termed deceit.SECULAR CHRISTIANITYNow we find ourselves in a present whirlwindof activity and writing. Perhaps we are too close todefine what is taking place, and it may be difficultto evaluate properly. But what I refer to is whatappears to be a new brand of thought — and it iscalled by various names. Some refer to it as "secularChristianity." Bonhoeffer, as prisoner under theNazis, whose life was taken just a few days beforethe arrival of the allied troops, wrote and caUed thisthought "religionless Christianity." This thoughthas been popularized in such books as Harvey Cox'sThe Secular City. In the reviews of this work, Coxis heralded by some as being a new and fresh theologianwith a brand new message for our day.By others, he is declared to have given nothing morethan a somewhat dry and superficial rehash ofthe social gospel.It is in this setting that I think we have alsoto consider the "God is Dead" movement. For whatthese men apparently are trying to say is that Godonce hved and had some effect on this world, butthat he died, and is no longer a force or power orperson to be reckoned with so far as the operationof the world is concerned.Some of you perhaps read in the Sunday Timesof the debate on the God is Dead issue between Dr.Altizer, one of the advocates of the theology, and aDr. Montgomery, a conservative theologian. In responseto the opening message by Dr. Altizer,Montgomery told a story that went something likethis:A man was convinced that he was dead. Hisfamily, in concern for him, finally took him to apsychiatrist. In talking with him, the psychiatristtried to establish some point of contact to convincethe man that he was not dead, but actually alive.He decided that he would try to prove the point thatdead men do not bleed — only hving men bleed.To establish his point, he took the man severalplaces and conducted some experiments. Finally,the patient was convinced, and said, "Doctor, I amconvinced that dead men do not bleed." Thinkingthat the time had come to make his final point,the psychiatrist then took a needle and puncturedthe arm of the patient, and the patient, seeing theblood from his own arm said, "Man alive, dead mendo bleed."For when men begin with their own preconceptions,they are unhkely to be convinced by evidenceto the contrary.So we find ourselves today in the very center ofa controversy which is claiming, in one fashion oranother, the total irrelevance of God. I find it difficultto try to define in a simple way what is goingon today, but if we term the first general area asunbehef, and the second deceit, then perhaps wemight refer to this modern heresy as skepticism.This review, as superficial as it necessarily isthis morning, I trust will indicate the instability ofit all. If the modern preacher uses as a basis forhis theology a book written more that 25 years ago,he is to be considered hopelessly out of date. Yet aconservative preacher, with his behef in the unchangingredemptive message of the Word of God,needs to make no apology for using works that goback through the centuries.I said at the beginning that after reviewingsomething of the times in which we hve, I wanted todirect your thinking to some of the evaluationsthat you must make of these theological movements.For as Paul said, "If any man preach any othergospel unto you than that which we have preached,let him be accursed." And John wrote, "Beloved,beheve not every spirit, but try the spirits whetherthey are of God. . ."POINTS OF EVALUATIONLet me suggest these points of evaluation —write these down and ponder them. In your readingin rehgious and secular magazines of all sorts of theologicalviewpoints, keep these handy.1. Ask, What value is placed on the Holy ScripturesIn every one of the theological viewpoints whichI have suggested today, the place of the Word ofGod is devalued. It has become secondary. In somecases, its value has been denied altogether; and inothers, only partially. The behef which you hold, Itrust, is that our Christianity is a revealed rehgion— our knowledge of it depends upon what God haswritten.Our own standards place a high and primaryplace on the written Word of God. The WestminsterConfession of Faith begins with a survey of theBible. The Larger and Shorter Catechisms, afterdiscussing the purpose of man's existence, moveimmediately into a study of the Bible as the Wordof God and the only infallible rule of faith andpractice.It will not always be easy to find what thesegroups really beheve about the Bible. Many of themSee back page296 COVENANTER WITNESS

Our YouthConsiderThePostageStampWhat is a postage stamp worth?The value of this tiny piece of paper about oneinch square would not be worth computing if sizewere a factor. Yet at the going rate it caUs for anoutlay of 5c for the ordinary first-class letter stamp.The value of the stamp is not in the size of thepaper or in the printing, but in the value that theGovernment places upon it. When I buy it, I do notvalue the stamp for its intrinsic value, but for itscontractual worth. I am buying a service of whichthe stamp is the witness both to me and to theGovernment. It is probably the smallest contractthat is made when considered in relation to thesize of the paper that witnesses the agreement. Inexchange for 5c the Government guarantees me thatthey will deliver a letter in the agreed weight andclass to the destination within the prescribed areacovered by the contract.No stipulation is made as to the name on theenvelope or the address except that it must be legibleenough to be deciphered. Even if the name becomesobliterated, it will be delivered to the destination aslong as the address is readable. The condition ofthe envelope is not questioned, it can be soiled, mutilatedor otherwise, but if the address is still legible,the Government will fulfill its contract.Considered in relation to price and value, thepostage stamp's cost is small. What would theaverage person pay to have a letter dehvered fiftymiles away if there were no postal system? Futhermore,the service and hardship needed to performthe contract take on higher value as the distance isextended. How much would it cost from New Yorkto San Francisco, Alaska or Haw ah? The price interms of that value is small.But how about the value God has placed uponthe blood of His Son, Jesus Christ? The Bible tellsus that one soul is worth more than the wholeworld and that Jesus died on the cross so that Hemight redeem that soul and take that person toHeaven, back to the Father's House. It cost His lifeto make "delivery" possible. Moreover, this was nota matter of a moment, but of years. Buying thepostage stamp took but a moment, but the actualdelivery of the letter may take days and, in someinstances, even months. This is so with the soulthat trusts in the Lord Jesus Christ, who guaranteesto deliver him to the Father's house on the date thatonly the Father knows.Futhermore, just as the Government is responsiblefor the safe conduct of the letter, so the LordJesus takes the responsibility to get us Home. Wemay "fall" into trouble along the route and getmarred in the journey, but as long as the address islegible, He will see us through.One part of the agreement that the sender of aletter is not involved in is the selection of the routethat it takes. That is solely the Government's prerogative.It reserves the right to route it via any way itchooses. Delivery is the only thing it guarantees.Likewise with our Heavenly journey, God does notfell us just what route we shall take, what obstacleswe shall encounter, or how long our journey willtake. He only guarantees delivery.Our peace of heart, however, will be determinedby the extent of our confidence in the fact that thedestination is sure. The experiences of the journeyare ours to face, but we are always in His handsand under His care and control. Dangers, floods.fire, sufferings may encompass us, but the outcomeissure! His "stamp" is upon us: we are in His keeping;we are safe.But how can you obtain such a "contract" withthe living God? The answer lies in receiving Christas your personal Saviour through simple faith in Hisfinished work on the cross. How small compared tothe value and yet how important!How about you?Is your "delivery" sure?—N. E. GustafsonReprinted by permission of the American TractSociety, Oradell, New Jersey 07649.NOVEMBER 8, 1967 297

A PAGE FOR JUNIORSTELL-TALE TRACKSby Harold M. LambertIt was two days before the New Year. Bobby'smother had sent him to the store to buy some spicesfor a fruitcake. She wanted to make one, becauseGrandfather was coming for the holidays, and hewas very fond of fruitcake.Bobby started off in the snow, waving his handas he went. Mother had said that if he went quickly,he could get back so she could bake the cake beforeGrandpa came; and they would have a surprise forhim on New Year's Day.Mother got everything ready to make the cake,and looked at the clock. "It is time for Bobby now,"she said to herself.A long half hour went by, and no Bobby. Anotherhalf hour, and Grandfather drove up to the housein a taxi.Way down the street Bobby saw the taxi stop,and began to run. As he came into the house, Motherasked, "Where have you been? I told you to go to thestore and come right back. You have been gone anhour and a half.""O Mother, I couldn't have" said Bobby. "I nevercould have been so long just going to the store andback."Grandfather, hearing the conversation, cameout and took hold of Bobby's hand. "Sometimes," hesaid, "old Father Time plays tricks on us. We shalltry to see what happened."They then walked along down the street. "Ah!"said Grandpa, "I see that you stopped here to seewhat was behind the tree."Bobby looked surprised, but said nothing."And here," said Grandpa, "is where you stoppedin this yard. Then you came out again and went on."Bobby was too surprised to say a word. How didGrandfather know he had stopped in Charlie's andDick's yard? He hadn't meant to, but they werebuilding a snow fort; and he wanted to see howthey were getting on. He helped to make a fewsnowballs for it, but he was sure he hadn't stayedvery long.They walked on a httle way, and Grandfathersaid: "Here is where you turned down this streetand stopped to watch boys skating."That was too much. Bobby could stand it nolonger. "How did you know, Grandpa?" he asked.Then Grandfather showed him that in the snowwere tracks of httle feet. "When I was a young man,"said Grandpa, "and hved in the West where we hadno near neighbors, and where many times wickedmen came meaning harm, or wild animals wouldcome to carry away some of the stock, we learnedto follow tracks."Grandpa then showed Bobby the tracts alongthe way, pointing to the place where he had turnedout. He took him into Dick's yard and showed himwhere he had walked around making the snowballs.He showed him the tracks leading up to a trampledplace, where he stood watching the skaters."Telltale tracks," said Grandfather slowly, "ofa little boy who meant to go straight to the store,but strayed away to see things. All over the worldtoday are men and women who are wanderingaround and not getting anywhere, because whenthey were small no one told them that they mustalways go straight."Bobby looked thoughtful. "Grandpa," he said,"I'll do errands for Mother all the time you are here;and if you follow me, you'll see my tracks go straightevery time."— The Burning BushCROSS-OUT LETTER QUIZZby Elinor F. NealIn each group of twelve letters is the nameof a book of the New Testament and dne of theOld Testament. — The letters are in correct order.Your job is to identify the names.1. M N A A T T H H U E W M2. R E O X M A O N D S U S3. JEAZMEEKISEL4. TGSITNEUSSIS5. LJEUREMKIAHE6. H E J B O R E N W A S H7. THIMOOTSHEYA8. GALJATIAONSB9. M N E A H E R M I K A H10. P N E U T M B E E R R SAnswers1. Matthew—Nahum 2. Romans—Exodus 3. James— Ezekiel 4. Titus — Genesis 5. Luke — Jeremiah6. Hebrews — Jonah 7. Timothy — Hosea 8. Galatians— Job 9. Mark — Nehemiah 10. Peter —Numbers298 COVENANTER WITNESS

iLesson Helps for the Week of December 3,1967Sabbath SchoolLessonfor December 3, 1967.WHAT GOD REQUIRES OF MAN:Micah 1 to 3 and 6.Comments by John K. Gault.Micah, the prophet came from alittle village which was located in thesouth of Judah right near the Philistiancity of Gath. The village wascalled Moresheth-Gath probably becauseof its close proximity to thelarger city of Gath. We are told inverse 1 that "the word of the Lordcame to Micah the Morasthite in thedays of Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah,kings of Judah, which he saw concerningSamaria and Jerusalem." He was,therefore, a contemporary of Isaiah,but a younger man. Isaiah 2:2-4 andMicah 4:1-3 are the same words and soit would seem that Micah had recourseto what Isaiah had already written.Amos and Hosea prophesied principallyagainst Israel, the northern kingdom,but Micah directed his messageagainst both Samaria and Jerusalemfor it was while he prophesied thatSamaria, the capital of the northernkingdom, fell to the Assyrians, aftera long siege.1: God Had a Controversy WithIsrael.We are to interpret this wordcontroversy in a legal sense and tothink of God having instituted a suitagainst the sinful people. Micah saidin 6:1, "Hear ye now what the Lordsaith: arise, contend thou before themountains, and let the hills hear thyvoice." The mountains and the hillsrespond to the commands of God.They were just as they had been createdin the first place. They represent,therefore, immovable standards. InPsalm 36:6 the writer said, "Thy righteousnessis like the great mountains;thy judgments are a great deep:" Thepeople of the earth, however, who havebeen created in God's image have gonewoefully astray. In this Scripture God,through the prophet Micah, throwsout a challenge to the people to ariseNOVEMBER 8, 1967and answer, publicly, the charge whichHe, the Creator, has brought againstthem.Micah said: "Hear, all ye people;hearken, O earth, and all that thereinis: and let the Lord God be witnessagainst you, the Lord from his holytemple. For, behold, the Lord comethfo th out of his place, and will comedown, and tread upon the high placesof the earth. — For the transgressionof Jacob is all this, and for the sins ofthe house of Israel. What is the transgressionof Jacob? is it not Samaria?and what are the high places of Judah?are they not Jerusalem? Therefore Iwill make Samaria as an heap of thefield — And all the graven imagesthereof shall be beaten to pieces, andall the hires thereof shall be burnedwith fire, and all the idols thereofwill I lay desolate:" (1:2, 3, 5, 6a, 7a)These are the charges which Godbrought against the people of Israeland Judah. The prophet is more specificin 2:1-3 as he accused the rich forthe oppression of the poor. Theywould lie in their beds and plot howthey would take the fields of the poor.This was what Ahab did to Naboth. So,Cod said, in 2:3, "Behold against thisfamily do I devise an evil, from whichye shall not remove your necks; neithershall ye go haughtily: for this timein evil."These charges are enlarged stillmore in 3:2-4a as the Lord denouncedIsrael is scathing terms, "Who hatethe good, and love the evil; who pluckoff their skin from off them, and theirflesh from off their bones; who alsoeat the flesh of my people, and flaytheir skin fiom off them; and theybreak their bones, and chop them inpieces, as for the pot, and as fleshwithin the caldron. Then shall theycry unto the Lord, but he will nothear them;" With these words Goddeclared His controversy with thesinful people of Israel and Judah.God has a similiar controversy witheve.y sinful person of the world.2: God's Evidence of Love forIsrael.In 6:3, God through Micah, submittedHis evidence of love. He said, "O\\\my people, what have I done untothee? Wherein have I wearied thee?testify against me." In this suit whichHe had with Israel before the mountainsand hills God wanted the peopleto "testify" against Him if they had agrievance. He then submitted Hisevidence in positive foi m in the words,"For I brought thee up out of theland of Egypt, and redeemed theeout of the house of servants; and I sentbefore thee Moses, Aaron, and Miriam."Micah reminded Israel that Godsaved them in their war against Moaband would not allow Balaam the sonof Beor to curse them. Instead Balaamsaid, "How shall I curse, whom theLord hath not cuised? or how shall Idefy, whom the Lord hath not defied;— Behold, I have received commandmentto bless: and he hath blessed;and I cannot reverse it." As proof ofHis love for Israel, God, therefore,submitted His entire record of benefactionswhich He had bestowed uponIsrael. Had God withheld His hand ofmercy Israel would never have comeout of Egypt, neither would she everhave survived the perils of the wildernessjourneys. Why, in the light of allthis, would Israel, like a dog, bite thehand that feeds her? Humanity hasdisplayed such base ingratitude alldown through history.3: Fanatical Religious Expressionis of No Value in God's Sight.Micah described the form of religiousconduct which he might do ino.der to please God. It was unthinkablethat he could please God byperforming a religious ritual. He said,"Wherewith shall I come before theLord, and bow myself before the highGod? shall I come before him withburnt offerings, with calves of a yearold? Will the Lord be pleased withthousands of .ams, or with ten thousandsof i ivers of oil? shall I give myfirst-born for my transgression, thef.uit of my body for the sin of mysoul?" (6:6,7) Now, Micah did not opposethe sacrificial system which hadbeen instituted under the Mosaic law.It was a type of something much better which was to come. But as an endin itself, even to the extravagant extent\299

of "ten thousand rivers of oil" andOffering the life of one's "first-born,"the sacrifices were but a sham andwithout any spiritual value. Religiousritual without sincere devotion toGod, becomes a hindrance, and not ahelp, in one's efforts to achieve forgiveness.4: Requirements for Doing the Willof God.In 6:8 Micah presented the requirementsfor righteous living. He said,"He (God) hath showed thee, O man,what is good; and what doth the Lordrequire of thee, but to do justly, andto love mercy, and to walk humblywith thy God?" In Micah's mind thisincluded the keeping of the ceremoniallaw but it went must further. Thiswas one of the finest expressions ofthe Old Testament. It summarizes theethical teaching of all the other greatprophets.Three general requirements arehere set forth. The first two concernone's duty to man and the third concernsone's duty to God. Israel hadfailed miserably to measure up to thestandard which is here set forth. Thefirst requirement is "to do justly."Justice is a legal term as the othershave been. Israel had failed to securejustice for all the people. The richtook advantage of the poor and eventhe judges accepted bribes and renderedwrong decisions. The secondrequirement was "to love mercy."This also had been disregarded. Ithad been stipulated in the law thatconsideration was to be given to thestranger, to the widows, and to thefatherless. Mercy is an attribute ofGod, and as He has shown mercy onpeople, so people should show mercyto the unfortunate. The last requirementis "to walk humbly with thyGod." Israel had not done this, buthad estabhshed the worship of idols."Lesson based on International SundaySchool Lessons: the International Bible Lessonsfor Christian Teaching, copyrighted 1963by the Division of Christian. Education, NationalCouncil of Churches of Christ in theU.SA."In the story of "These FollowedOn," Christiana and her sons come tothe Palace Beautiful in their walk tothe Celestial City. While resting atthe Palace, a young girl named Prudencewants to see if Christiana hastaught her sons the things they shouldknow to be Christians. She asked forpermission to question the boys.Prudence started with James theyoungest, and asked him the fivequestions she considered the root ofhis Christianity. "James, who madeyou?" "God the Father, God the Son,and God the Holy Spirit," was hisanswer. "James, who saves you?" Againhe replied, "God the Father, God theSon, and God the Holy Spirit." "Howdoth God the Father save you?" "ByHis grace," said James. "How doth Godthe Son save you?" "By His righteousness,death, blood, and life," answeredJames. "How doth God the Holy Spiritsave you?" "By revealing to us thework of Christ, by His regeneratingpower and by preserving those whobelieve," was the final answer.Since the Holy Spirit takes such anactive part in our salvation, it is veryimportant that we try to understandHis work. Tonight in our study ofHis work, we are going to learn howthe Holy Spirit teaches us.References to the Holy Spirit as ateacher: Luke 12:12; I Cor. 2:13; John14:26; John 16:13; I John 2:27.Memory Psalm: Psalm 119: part 5,page 290. Tonight learn the first stanza.In this Psalm we are asking God toteach us and He teaches through theHoly Spirit. Why do we want to havethe Holy Spirit teach us? So that wemight keep God's laws to the end ofour life. The teaching of these lawswill make us wise unto salvation.The first thing that the Holy Spiritmust teach us is that we are sinners.This means that when you were born,you were born a sinner. You do things,say things, and think things that donot please God. The Holy Spirit teachesus that the only way God canforgive us for doing these things isfor us to accept Jesus Christ as ourSavior. God has told us in the Biblethat it is the Holy Spirit that makesus unhappy about our sins and turnsus to Jesus.Why must we be turned to Jesus?Again the Holy Spirit teaches us theanswer. God has said that only throughthe blood of Jesus Christ can we havesalvation. It is the work of the HolySpirit to teach us truth about salvation.Men say that there are otherways to be saved, other ways to bepleasing in God's sight, but the Spirittells us that there is only one way.How does the Holy Spirit teach us?The first thing the Holy Spirit hasgiven you is God-fearing parents. TheHoly Spirit uses your parents to teachyou the things God wants you to knowand do. He has given you Christianfriends. With them you have time totalk about God, study the Bible together,and help others to do the rightthings. The Holy Spirit has given youSabbath School teachers, and Juniorleaders to help you learn the thingsof God. These people love you and theSpirit uses them to teach you. Oneother person is an important part ofthe teaching work of the Holy Spirit:your pastor. He has studied for yearsto prepare himself to help you learnabout the things of God. You shouldlisten to him during the worship hourand at times when he has talks forthe Juniors. He is God's representative.He is preaching a message given tohim by God and with the help of theHoly Spirit is giving it to you. TheHoly Spirit uses people to teach you.God has told us in His word that Heuses people in spreading the goodnews of salvation. This is the only waythe message of God can be told to theworld. The Holy Spirit through people,even children, tells about salvationthrough Jesus Christ. So it is importantfor you to learn and listen to theHoly Spirit when He speaks to you.You need to learn and prepare yourselfto do the best job you can forGod in telling others the message thatno one can be saved except throughJesus Christ.The Holy Spirit can teach you asyou read the Bible. It is a good ideafor you to offer a prayer before youread that the Holy Spirit will "open"your eyes and help you to understandthe things you have read. People haveread the Bible all their lives and stilldo not understand everything it says.Yet, there are many parts that can beread and easily understood by thechildren your age. The Bible is God'sJunior Topicbook and a wonderful book. With thefor December 3, 1967.help of the Holy Spirit we can learnUNIT: GOD, THE HOLY SPIRITsomething about God every day. MaybeTEACHINGthere will be certain parts you don'tby Mrs. Edward Forestunderstand now, but as you becomeolder and as you read your Bible300 regularly andCOVENANTERwith the helpWITNESSof the

Holy Spirit, you will begin to understandmore and more, the things Godis saying to you.Prayer is an important part of thework of the Spirit as well. We mustpray to God that we will listen to theSpirit, and that as the Holy Spiritleads us, and talks to us through theBible, we will listen and follow God'scommands. So we see each person hasa part to play in the work of the Spirit.Each one has to read God's Word andpray daily that he may allow the HolySpirit to do His best work in him. Ifwe are to grow in our Christian lifeand faith, if we are to see our liveschange for the better and be closerto God, we must allow the Holy Spiritof God to teach us through His word,and by prayer. If we are going to dothings pleasing to God, live clean andpure lives for the Lord, we must prayto God and ask for the help of theHoly Spirit. It is after we do thesethings, that we can have that goodfeeling inside that we are obeyingGod and following His Spirit, and canhave the assurance that we are saved,that someday we will be in heaven withthe Lord. These are some of the importantworks and teachings of theSpirit.Handwork: In John 15:5 we read thatJesus said, "I am the vine and ye arethe branches." The Holy Spirit makesus this one plant with Jesus. Draw asturdy trunk of a grape vine. From itadd the branches and label one ofthem with your own name. Put anarrow where the branch with yourname on joins the trunk, which isJesus Christ. Label this arrow theHoly Spirit. Without the Holy Spirit'spresence we could not have been joinedto Christ, the vine."BEHOLD! I stand at the door, andknock; if any man hear my voice, andopen the door, I will come in to him,and sup with him, and he with me."No special appointment is neededto visit the GREAT PHYSICIAN. Trueof HIM. However as today's society isorganized, with its multiplicity of interestsand needs, time must bescheduled and rationed.A physician beginning the practiceof his profession "hangs out his shingle"at the location he chooses to setup his office and laboratory. That ishis invitation to those persons in needof his advice and care. This is ethical.To expedite attention to one's needs,an appointment is made for a day andan hour mutually suitable. Delayssometimes occur due to more urgent^eeds of othe s, and, contrary to theo"inio-' of some who are self-centeredor other-vise thoughtless, the physiciana!sj> is human: limited as to time,place, and strength. But the GREATPHYSICIAN is in no way limited. His,invitation is not for some future timeor emergency, but now is the acceptedVm~ (II Cor. 6?).Now what is our role in the processof healing our ills? As we have reviewedduring the past eleven monthsit is in:(1) Answering His call, sincerelyand dynamically. "Not everyone whosaith unto Me, "Lord, Lord" shall enterinto the Kingdom of Heaven; but heSee page 303Pastor Plumpwaist was thinking through a problem. How could he convincehis class of alert high school seniors that predestination is not inconsistentwith man's power of choice? Pastor Plumpwaist read at some length from hisBible. Then, his mind still grappling with the problem, he left his study andheaded for the post office to pick up the morning mail. As he walked, he concentratedmore and more on the problem. He began to talk. Out loud. PastorPlumpwaist could always do a better job of thinking when he could think outloud.By the time he reached the post office he had his predestination problempretty well worked out. He also had the village gossips with their tongueswagging like Bruno's tail when he is being praised for catching a rabbit."That poor guy! He's been studying too hard! He's about ready for thebug-house! This morning he walked all the way to the post office, talkingtchimself!"The old wives' tale has it that the man who talks to himself, is showingsymptoms of being deranged. Whereas, many people who do creative workfind that they can do their clearest thinking when they can think out loud.Prayer Meeting Somehow, when they think out loud, they are able to hear their own thoughtswith a critical ear; often they can re-arrange or re-state what they are wantingTopicto say.Winston Churchill's use of the English language was a very real weaponfor December 6, 1967in World War II. But his powerful metaphors did not come off of the top ofREMIND GOD OF HIS PROMISEShis head. They were pounded out by trial and error, by doing and re-doing.Numbers 14:11-21; II Peter 1:4.Often he could be seen in a near-by garden, walking back and forth — talkingNo comments received.out loud, gesticulating, hammering out his speeches in the most intense kindof hard work and concentration.Men who go around talking out loud to themselves, may be the farthestW.M.S. TOPIC from being deranged. It may be that they are simply working a whole lotharder in their thinking processes, than most of us are willing to do. Sometimesfor December, 1967.it can be a good thing when men go walking along, talking out loud to"IN THE THRONE ROOM OF themselves.THE PALACE OF THE KING" It can be an even better thing when men are found on their knees, talking outby Mrs. Jessie Moore Walker loud to God.NOVEMBER 8, 1967 301

jilUSfiROSE POINTRev. Richard Olson of New Brightonwas the assistant at our Communionon April 23 with preparatory servicesApril 20 and 21. He gave us verychallenging and helpful messages. Atthat time John K. Wilson and RobertWilson became communicant membersof the church.Mary Lou Wilson, daughter of Mr.and Mrs. Harold Wilson, and Alan Lee,son of Mr. and Mrs. Howard McConnell,received the sacrament of baptismon April 30.Rev. Renwick Wright gave us anillustrated talk on our churches inIreland and their missionary programat our spring Thank Offering service.This was preceded by a congregationaldinner at which Rev. and Mrs. Wrightand their two sons were guests.Mr. and Mrs. (Virginia McKnight)Ray Crocker have a baby daughter,Barbara Jo. The Crockers have twosons, Raymond and Daniel.Our graduates this year include:Miss Carol Wilson, Miss MaryannBessell, and Miss Nancy Young fromhigh school; Miss Beverly Kennedyfrom Geneva College; Miss EmmaJane Rodgers from New Castle BusinessCollege; Miss Ruth McKnightfrom the School of Nursing, JamesonMemorial Hospital.Elder Clarence Wilson was ourdelegate to Synod at Beaver Fallsthis year.Miss Mary Jane Wilson presenteda book to Ann Caskey and one toJean Ann McFarland. They were winnersin the Missions Project Contestsponsored by the Mary Jane MissionarySociety.Our pastor, Rev. J. M. Caskey,finished teaching the Teachers TrainingCourse which began last fall.Several members of this class helpedto conduct a very successful VacationBible School, June 26-30, under thevery efficient supervision of Rev. andMrs. J. M. Caskey. There was anattendance of 50.These Juniors — Dale Bessell,Edwin Caskey, Ellen Clark, and TomStoner memorized the required 33Bible verses from January until JuneChurch Newsand received appropriate awards.Mr. Roy Bessell, Jr. is now stationedat Jacksonville, North Carolina. Mr.Keith McFarland is at Monmouth,New Jersey. Both have worshiped withus several times this summer.Several of our young people attendedCamp-Penn-O-Cove at the StambaughBoy Scout Reservation.Our pastor has begun a series ofstudies on the Confession of Faith withthe Adult Study Group on Sabbathevenings.Rev. and Mrs. C. E. Caskey ofWilkinsburg stayed overnight at theparsonage on their way to their newhome in Olathe, Kansas. Their daughter,Miss Jean Caskey of Geneva College,was also a recent guest at theparsonage.Miss Anna Blair visited Rev. andMs. Ronald Nickerson of Lisbon, NewYork. From there she went to the Fairat Montreal.Mrs. John Kelland has been ill forsome time. She has been in the JamesonMemorial Hospital. She has asevere case of shingles.Mr. Clarence Wilson has recoveredfrom surgery in Jameson MemorialHospital in New Castle.Mr. William Helsel, who is teachingat Union High School, worships withus quite regularly.Misses Carol Wilson and NancyYoung are attending Geneva College.Dr. Sam Boyle was guest speakerat the Slippery Rock District SabbathSchool Convention on the evening ofSeptember 23. He spoke to us on Sabbathmorning, September 24, on manyof the problems and some of the encouragementsin his work with theChristian Amendment Movement.Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Kennedyand daughter, Elizabeth, returned inMay from an extensive tour of Floridaand Mexico. Mr. and Mrs. Kennedy,teachers in New Castle schools, wereon sabbatical leave for travel thesecond semester.Mrs. C. W. Kerr, of Midland, Texasspent several weeks in the home of herdaughter, Mrs. Clarence Wilson.Mr. and Mrs. Carl McElwain had avacation at Erie, Pennsylvania.The Helsels, Mrs. Dressier, MissesMargaret and Helen Heazlett, and Dr.William Heazlett, were among oursummer visitors who worshiped withus.Miss Rose Munnell visited Mr. andMrs. James Beatty of Allendale, NewJersey.Dr. S. Bruce Willson, Dr. David M.Carson, Dr. D. R. Wilcox, and Rev.Willard McMillan preached for uswhile our pastor was on vacation.Mr. Ira Brown and daughter, Beryl,made an extended western trip thissummer visiting relatives and friendsin Arizona, Wyoming, Colorado, andKansas.Rev. James Calvin, now of Baltimoreand for many years a missionaryin India, visited his sister-in-law, MissMargaret Wilson.Rev. Glenn McFarland preachedfor us on Synod Sabbath.ATTENTIONAre you looking for a new position?Are you looking for an outstanding college?Are you looking for a Reformed Presbyterian Church to worship in?Cambridge meets all these qualifications and more! !Cambridge is right next to Boston, the Hub of the Universe and the homeof the Bean, the Cod, and the Red Socks.Within an hour's drive of Boston there are seventy-five schools andcolleges including M. I. T., Harvard, Northeastern, Tufts, Brandeisand Boston University.The Boston area is one of the electronic centers of the country.The Cambridge congregation is the only Reformed church in the GreaterBoston area and we need help!If you want more information about this wonderful area, write:Bruce E. NickersonRev. J. Paul McCracken32 Spencer Avenue 106 Antrim StreetSomerville, Massachusetts Cambridge, Massachusetts02144 02139302 COVENANTER WITNESS

Mrs. C. R. Whiting and Mrs. DanielCurran and daughter, Blair, sisiter-inlawand nieces of Miss Anna Blaircame from their homes in Hialeah,Florida to care for her while she wasrecovering from a broken wrist.DISPLAY OF REFORMATIONARTIFACTSNEW YORK — A rare Flemishrenaissance tapestry has been addedto a display of Martin Luther Bibles,medallions and other Reformationartifacts being shown at the AmericanBible Society in observance of the450th anniversary of the Reformation.The exhibit, which is open to thepublic from 9 a. m. to 4:30 p. m.,Monday through Friday, at BibleHouse, ABS headquarters, 61st Streetand Broadway, will continue throughDecember.Woven in Brussels about 1550 andin an excellent state of preservation,the tapestry, which measures approximatelyeleven and one half by seventeenand one half feet, is valued at$18,000. It tells the story of Joseph'sbrethren selling him to the Ishmaelites.In the foreground, Joseph isbeing lifted from the pit so that hisbrothers may sell him to the Ishmaelites,one of whom is paying Judah theprice agreed upon. Seven of thebrothers participate in the sale ofJoseph, while to the rear four brothersare dipping Joseph's coat of manycolors in the blood of a goat. In thedistance Reuben walks away.Featuring the Luther Bible (1534,first edition) and a first edition SaurBible, the first foreign language Biblecompleted in the colonies in 1743, theshowing also includes 70 medallionsand coins relating to Luther's activitiesas well as paper currency of a centuryago commemorating his work. Themedallion exhibit is part of one whichwas displayed at the New York World'sFair.Among the other articles of theReformation period on display are anexact, solid gold replica of the weddingband which Luther gave his wife andan original, hand illustrated indulgencecontract. In opposition to thesale of indulgences and some otherchurch practices to which he tookexception, Luther posted his 95 theseson the Castle Church door in Wittenbery,Germany in 1517. Some scholarssay this action was one of many factorsleading to the Reformation.NOVEMBER 8, 1967Several other 16th century Biblesand New Testaments are also beingshown, including the Emser Bible(1528, second edition, New Testamentonly) prepared by a Roman Catholicpriest striving for a better translation.It is, however, basically Luther's textwith slight verbal alterations. AnotherScripture almost word for word fromLuther, which is on display, is theDietenberger Bible (1575, eighth edition).It was originally prepared in1534 by a Dominican priest as ananswer to the Lutheran version.Dr. Otto L. Schreiber, pastor emeritusof Calvary Lutheran Church,Jersey City, N. J., began the medallioncollection 50 years ago on the occasionof the 400th anniversary of the Reformation.The collection is regularlyhoused at the Lutheran TheologicalSeminary, Mount Airy, Pa.W. M. S. TopicFrom page 301that doeth the will of my Father whichis in Heaven" (Matt. 7:21).(2) by faithful service to Him andto those persons around us, and tothose to whom we must "reach-out";(3) by appreciation of His majestyand lovingkindness. This we render indaily private worship, or meditationin the light of His Word taking stock,candidly of our true selves, what to retainand develop and what to avoid;this deals with our actions and withour conversation, both governed byour most secret thoughts — "Whatsoeverthings are true — whatsoeverthings are lovely, THINK on thesethings" (Phil. 4:8). Isn't that goodmedicine? We show appreciation alsoby faithful and reverent attendanceand attention at the Sabbath servicesheld in His name.(4) To testify honestly and effectivelyto our Lord's loving care of us,our lives should radiate joy — cheerfulnessat least! But one wails, "Howcan I be cheerful with so many worries,sickness, bereavement, etc?" The A-postle Paul enumerates some of thetrials of his generation: labors, stripes,prisons, shipwreck, hunger, nakedness,cold ".. .We can add war andApostle Paul adds them up as "notworthy to be compared with the glorythat shall be revealed in us."In us? Insignificant me? That justmay be the wrong type of humility.The doctrine of insignificance may bea kind of wishful thinking so that wemay hide away our one talent in asafe dark place and complacently foldour hands.How much better to give ourselvesenthusiastically to be building blocksin that magnificent Palace of our Lord,the King of kings, of which He is thecornerstone?In Thornton Wilder's play Our Towna small girl tells of a strange letteraddressed:Grover s CornersSutton CountyNew HampshireUnited States of AmericaWestern HemisphereThe EarthThe Solar SystemThe UniverseThe Mind Of GodA small boy listening whispered:"What do you know! What do youknow!"Yes! The bleak facts of every dayexistence are thus set where theybelong, within the circle of Eternity!We find comfort in "God shall wipeaway all tears from their eyes; andthere shall be no more death, neithersorrow, nor crying, neither shall therebe any more pain; for the formerthings, are passed away" (Rev. 21:4).And "the grace of our Lord JesusChrist be with you" (Romans 16:20).TWO CHAPLAINS MEET IN FRANCEI want to relate a rather touchingincident relative to Tom.Having noticed that Tom smokeda great deal, one day I asked him,"Tom, how do you get away with thissmoking?" He replied, "What do youmean?" "Mean," I said, "I mean, Didyou not have to promise never to usetobacco in any form when you became? Methodist preacher?" He said, "No.The committee didn't ask me thatquestion." "Well, Tom," I said, "butisn'tit true that it is a rule of theDiscipline of our church, and youpromised to abide by the Discipline?""Well," he said, "I guess so, but 1have neve, agreed with that rule anyway" "But," said I, "it occurs to methat we are bound as Methodistpreachers to abstain from tobacco solong as the rule is in the Discipline,whether we agree with it or not."After some little discussion, the matterwas dropped. It was not the first timeI had seen a Methodist preacher exone,ate himself because some committeefailed in its duty.303

SpeechFrom page 291by positive goodness in what you say. Testifying toGod's benevolence, mercy, gracious dealing in one'slife, the joy of His salvation through Christ willhonor and glorify God. Your speech betrays youas it did Peter. "What sayest thou"?The Spirit of Truth and ErrorFrom page 296will claim a superficial belief, but will actuallydiscard it in the final analysis. This is true in ourday, not only of the liberal and modernistic heresies,but also of the cults, which by their added writings,effectively destroy the place of the Bible.What is the value placed on the Holy Scriptures?2. Ask, What do they do with Jesus Christ?This is the most basic question of human lifethat has to be faced. When all is said and done,and when the final summons comes, this is thequestion which has to be faced. It will not makemuch difference what positions we have held, orthe amount of money we have made or left, or thekindnesses we have shown, or the family we raised,or even the membership in the church. It will beone's relationship to Jesus Christ.In a meeting in the Pittsburgh area several daysago, a group of men were discussing college education,and one man said, "The most important thingfor a young person is to get a college education."Another man in the group said, "I'll have to takeexception to that — the most important thing forany person is to know Jesus Christ."Heresies, down through the years, have had todeal with this question. And, to varying degrees,and in various ways, Jesus Christ is discarded. Insome ways, through an actual denial of the personof Christ. In other ways, by reducing the needs ofman to the point where he no longer needs agracious Savior. The sacrificial life of Christ, Hisdeath upon Calvary's Cross, the shedding of Hisblood, are all counted as hopelessly idealistic in ourday, and we have discarded them.Our second term of Communion is: "An acknowledgementthat the Lord Jesus Christ is theSon of God and the only Redeemer of men: togetherwith a personal acceptance of Him as Savior andLord."What do they do with Jesus Christ? This is animportant evaluation. John writes: "Every spiritthat confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the fleshis of God: and every spirit that confesseth not thatJesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God..."3. Ask, What do they mean by the terms they use?Many are the sermons, the books, and the churchconfessions and documents that speak freely ofChrist, the Bible, of sin, redemption, atonement,and judgment, but by these terms they mean somethingentirely different than the Bible does whenituses the terms.This makes it very difficult to read some of themodern theology — for at every word you have toconsult his own dictionary — and usually it isdifficult to find — to find what he understands bythe terms he uses.In a recent issue of Christian Heritage (April,1967) there is a quote at the heading of one of thearticles taken from Nels Ferre. It is as follows: "TheChrist without the Bible is like a person with amnesia,i.e. without memory. Such a person lives, sees,chooses, but he does not know who he is or how hebecame what he is."Well now, if you allow me to put my interpretationon those words, I beheve it is true. But whatdoes Ferre mean when he uses the term Bible? Inanother book, he writes concerning the Bible: "Theuse of the Bible as the final authority for Christiantruth is idolatry." And a little farther on, he makesbold to say this: "Jesus Himself, then may havemisled as well as helped by the use of Scripture bothoutside in His struggle with Jewish orthodoxy, andwithin, in His own creative imagination and interpretation."Sun and Umbrella, pp. 39-40.And when you read this kind of definition backinto the original quote from Christian Heritage, itmeans something else entirely.What do they mean by the terms they use?There are, of course, other tests that might beapplied and should be, the farther that one goes inhis evaluation. But these are three starting tests,and a failure of the system at any one of these pointswill indicate it to be a false religion.God tells us that the devil is a roaring lion,walking about, seeking whom he may devour. Heis pictured as being very deceitful, and that if itwere possible, he would deceive the very elect.Friends, how desparately we need to cling to thesimplicity of the Gospel of Christ and to pray thatby His grace we shall be kept from the pitfalls oferror and unbelief in our faith and in our practice.304 COVENANTER WITNESS

G^evt^ttei(,(OK,CMWSJ*coW,vj? 7 #lfa 7 >4^VOLUME LXXIX NO. 20 NOVEMBER 15, 1967 STERLING, KANSAS 67579BIBLE LESSONS FOR THE WEEK OF DECEMBER 10, 1967

THE COVENANTER WITNESSOfficial organ of the ReformedPresbyterian Church of N. A.•IVANarUCALMWCUTIMEditor: Rev. M. W. Dougherty, D.D.125 N. 4th StreetSterling:, Kansas 67579Phone 316 — Br. 8-3472Printed each Wednesday under the supervision of theBoard of Publication by The Patterson Press, Winchester,Kansas 66097.Contributing Editors: Department Editors:Rev. Kenneth Smith Rev. John TweedDr. G. M. RobbMrs. Robert B. MaineRev. John McMillan Mrs. Willis EdgarRev. C. E. Caskey Rev. John K. GaultOpinions expressed in our columns are those of theindividual writer, not necessarily the views of the ReformedPresbyterian Church or the editor.All material to appear in The Covenanter Witnessshould be typewritten, double-spaced, and should be inSterling, Kansas two weeks before it is to be printed.The cost of all pictures is 30 cents per square inch.Obituaries — All words in excess of one hundred fifty,one cent per word. Money should accompany such notices.SUBSCRIPTION RATESIndividual (1 year): U.S. and Canada, $4.00, BritishIsles 35/-, all other places, $5.00;Individual (2 year): U.S. and Canada, $7.00, BritishIsles 63/-, all other places, $9.00;Group: U.S. and Canada, $3.00, British Isles 28/-, allother places, $4.00.9-month student subscription — $1.50; 5-month introductoryoffer —$1.00; 2 gift subscriptions to persons outsideof the R. P. Church — $2.00 each. Single copies, 10c.Subscription Agent for U.S. and Canada: Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Subscription Agent for the British Isles: Rev. HughWright, B.A., 12, Knutsford Drive, Belfast 14, NorthernIreland.All checks should be made payable to The CovenanterWitness in U. S. currency.Give one month's notice of a change of address. Sendboth the new and the old address to Mrs. M.W. Dougherty.Postmaster: Please send Form 3579 to Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Second class postage paid at Winchester, Kansas 66097WE HOLD THE FOLLOWING TO BE TRUTHS OF SCRIPTURE:The Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the only infalliblerule of faith and conduct.The Trinitarian conception of the Godhead.Faith in Jesus Christ as the only way of salvation.Salvation by Grace.Assurance of salvation as a possible Christian experience.The Gospel Call and Election.The Holy Spirit as the Author of regeneration.Sanctification through the cooperating agency of the Holy Spirit.The fact of death and hell as the destiny of the lost and heavenas the destiny of the saved.That the Church of Jesus Christ consists of all those who believein Him together with their children.The Divine Right of the Presbyterian form of Church Government.The Lord Jesus Christ as the only King and Head of His Church.That terms of membership or communion are essential to thewelfare of the Church.Ouotc -THANKSGIVING WISHEST hanksgiving wishes to you today.H ealth and happiness now and alway;A biding faith and hope and love,N one but life's best be yours from above.Kind and gentle, noble and true.S incere in everything you do;G iving your all that others may beInspired to help humanityViewing each day as a special gift,I mbued with God's Spirit to encourage, uplift;N ever unmindful of His manifold bounties,Grateful for His care and tender mercies.— Tressa C. HansenThis Week's WitnessUnited Church Thanksgiving AppealPowerGlimpses of the Religious World .The Mode of BaptismGod's Plan for Thanksgiving . .The First American Thanksgiving . .307.307.308309311.312Our First National Thanksgiving Proclamation 313Wanted: A Bible 314Hidden Books of the Bible 314Lesson Helps 315Scribe With a Hard Pencil 317Church News 318The duty which rests upon officers to maintain discipline andpreserve the purity of the Church.Spiritual worship as a divine requirement mediated through theLord Jesus Christ.The exclusive use of the Psalms in the worship of the Church.The Protestant interpretation of the Sacraments.The divine right of the institution of Marriage and that it is notto be dissolved except by adultery or "irremediable" desertion.The Sabbath as a day sacred to rest and worship.The duty of nations and their civil rulers to honor Christ asKing of Kings and Lord of Lords.That Christian citizens are under obligation to obey lawful authority.The right and duty of the Christian citizen to dissent from allgovernmental and national disobedience to the Law of God.That the Covenants of the past are still binding.From "The Communicant's Class" by J. B. Tweed306 COVENANTER WITNESS

EditorialCommentUNITED CHURCH THANKSGIVING APPEALPoverty, hunger, pohtical upheaval, naturaldisasters, disease, illiteracy — the distresses afflictingour fellow men throughout the world aremany. Through the World Rehef Commission manythousands of dollars are channeled to help alleviatesuffering through programs of assistance to theneedy overseas.Hundreds of churches of all denominations willbe participating in this year's World Relief CommissionThanksgiving effort. Funds raised will provideemergency food, medicines, clothing and shelter forvictims of famine, floods, hurricanes, earthquakes,and other natural disasters; help resettle and rehabilitaterefugees; assist orphans and the elderlyand patients in hospitals and clinics, and help breakpatterns of poverty by supporting vocational training,self-help projects and agricultural and communitydevelopment.As the World Rehef Commission, relief arm ofthe National Association of Evangehcals, labors tomeet oppressing human need in many lands, eachgift of assistance is accompanied by a gospel tractor spoken Christian testimony, "reaching men forChrist. . . by showing them the love of Christ."POWERWhat is power? One can find so many synonymsfor the word that it practically evades a definitiveidentification. Yet it is a word that is much usedtoday.Someone said that power was manliness. Anotherreplied that if power is manliness, then there ismore manliness in the hind leg of a mule than thereis in the greatest character in history. What ispower?It would seem to be a neutral word, a sort ofcatalystic word, giving sense to other words thatare used with it. Today it is used in various senses;there is political, military, and "black" power oftenspoken of. It is a word that deserves much care inits use. It takes on the "scents" of the adjective thataccompanies it.A recent experience has done much to emphasizewhat we have just said. In time when the term,"Black Power," has been screamed by a few magnimaniacs,some of whom have left for foreign shores,there is a college, not known for its great size, wherea student has shown a different, a better, and atruer meaning to this term, made so obnoxious byraids and riots.Without fuss or fury, without explosion or noise,a Negro young woman went about her studentbusiness of just being "herself." It was with great joythat a large crowd heard the announcement of theone named as the "Homecoming Queen" for the season.She is none other than the daughter of our ownDr. and Mrs. Claude Brown, superintendent of ourmission station in Selma, Alabama, our own Cecilia,who through her own personality won the popularityvote of the student body of Sterling College. At thesame time, she has captured the heart of the cocaptainof the football team. This stands as anexample of power, be it white, or black.The word power is not to be identified by color.It is not something visible except in its results.There is another great example of what we meanin one who walked the earth many years ago. Jesus,as a man, was not white, but belonged to all races.As He left for His heavenly abode, He declared thatALL POWER had been given to Him in heaven andon earth. This power, quietly working, affects thoseupon whom it is bestowed, changing them throughouttheir whole person.This is the power we need to yield to and allowit to work in us and through us, bringing honorand glory to Him who is the source of thisPOWER.GLIMPSES OF THE RELIGIOUS WORLDFrom page 308hatred, crime, juvenile delinquency, and immorality."The occasion was the 30th annual convention ofthe Christian Business Men's Committee International.The delegates voted to expand the Committee'sBoard of Directors by adding representativesfrom Australia and the British Isles.NOVEMBER 15, 196? 307

Glimpses of the Religious World"THE NOTHINGNESS BREEDING IN THESUBURBS""I'm tired of wealthy people who give theirchildren cars, but no moral values, coming to meand saying they don't know what's wrong with theiryoungsters. What's wrong is that the parents areleading hollow, empty, shallow lives and not givingtheir children anything to hold onto."This was a psychoanalyst's comment in discussingthe flight of young people from suburban communitiesto the hippie section of East Village inNew York City.The speaker was Dr. Benjamin B. Wolman,dean of the Institute of Apphed Psychoanalysis andprofessor of psychology at Long Island University.Dr. Wolman spoke on "Psychology and the MoralValues of Religion" in a talk at Christ Church(Methodist) in New York.The New York Times quoted Dr. Wolman assaying that parental permissiveness masked the factthat parents had no particular moral norms theycared to pass along. He felt that, in reacting againstthe rigidity of Victorian child-rearing, parents todayare notably reluctant to discipline their childrenor to teach them self-restraint."If the new generation accepts stupid values, itjust shows how hungry they are," he added. "If wedon't give our children the right values, they'll pickup their own."AMISH SCHOOL CASE DECLINED BY HIGHCOURTThe Supreme Court has declined to review thetest case concerning the right of the Amish to refuse,on rehgious grounds, to send their children to stateaccreditedschools.The court's decision left standing the convictionand $5 fine of LeRoy Garber of Yoder, Kansas,who defied a state law by refusing to send hisdaughter, Sharon, 15, to school. It would appearnow as if the only hope of the Amish, from a legalstandpoint, is for special legislative action by thestates. Such legislation has been passed by the stateof Iowa in order to protect the rehgious rights ofthe Amish within their borders.THE REV. JOHN McMILLANR. D. 1, Box 337WALDEN, NEW YORKThree members of the Supreme Court — ChiefJustice Earl Warren and Justices William O. Douglasand Abe Fortas — dissented from the unsignedopinion that denied the appeal and said the Courtshould have heard the case.STUDY BACKS FAMILY DRINKINGAfter six years of study and the expenditure of$1 million, a commission on the study of alcoholismwhich was estabhshed under a federal grant hascome forth with its recommendations. Here are someof them:— Make alcohohc beverages available to youngpersons at adult-supervised church gatherings.— Permit liquor advertisements to show alcoholbeing consumed by the whole family, includingchildren, in a family setting.— Lower the legal drinking age immediately to18, as a start for permitting persons of all ages topurchase liquor.The major goal of the commission recommendations,according to United Press International, is topermit individuals to control their own drinkingrather than have society attempt to place restrictionsupon them.To back its contention that self control would bethe best way to ehminate problem drinkers, thecommission pointed out the few incidents of alcohohsmfound among American Jewish famiheswhere drinking is treated casually but drunkennessstrongly disapproved.The study quickly received endorsement fromthe National Council of Churches. The Rev. Dr.John L. Regier, associate general secretary of thecouncil, said solutions to drinking problems "willtend to be wet rather than dry.""CANADA'S NEED FOR HER SECOND CENTURY"(EP) Speaking at a luncheon for 1,100 men inWinnipeg, Canada, the Honorable Ernest C. Manning,premier of Alberta, declared that Canada'sgreatest need as she begins her second century is"a spiritual revival of God's people." This, he said,"would solve the problems of political unrest, racialSee page 307308 COVENANTER WITNESS

The Mode of BaptismBy Rev. J. G. Vos, D. D.(Continued from last issue)There are other approaches which may place uson solider ground. One of these is to approach theproblem by way of the meaning of the terminologyof baptism used in the Bible. Another is by way ofexamination of the descriptions of the actual circumstancesand procedures of baptism as found inthe historical narratives of the New Testament. Weshall first inquire into the meaning of the terminologyof baptism in the Bible, after which we shallconsider the data of the administration of baptismin the historical narratives of the New Testament;and finally we shall consider the further questionof whether the mode of baptism is symbolicallysignificant of the essential meaning of baptism.With regard to the terminology of baptism inthe Bible, I am indebted for most of what I shallsay to the chapter on The Mode of Baptism in thebook entitled Christian Baptism by Professor JohnMurray (Philadelphia, 1952; reprinted from TheWestminster Theological Journal, May and November,1951).Professor Murray states that "The Baptist argumentrests mainly upon two contentions: (1) thatbaptizo means to immerse and (2) that passageshke Romans 6:3-6 and Colossians 2:11, 12 plainlyimply that the death and resurrection of Christprovide us with the pattern for immersion in, andemergence from, the water" (Christian Baptism,p. 9).He takes up these two Baptist arguments inturn, first dealing with the meaning of the verbbaptizo. He traces this verb first in the Septuagintversion of the Old Testament, stating that it is ofinfrequent occurrence in the LXX. One instance ofits use is in II Kings 5:14, where Naaman the Syrianis said to have baptized himself seven times in theJordan. This does not prove that Naaman immersedhimself in the Jordan. All that can be regarded ascertain is that he bathed seven times in the river.Whether this involved immersion is not clear fromeither the original Hebrew or the Greek translation.This instance of the use of baptizo therefore provesnothing.The word bapto occurs more frequently in theLXX of the Old Testament, and may sometimesactually mean immersion. Murray points out veryacutely that the real question is not whether baptoand baptizo are used for acts which involvedimmersion, but whether these words necessarilymean immersion, that is, whether they can beequated with immersion. He states emphatically thatneither bapto nor baptizo means immersion, as isproved by the fact that in some cases these termsare used for acts which did not involve immersion.An example of this is found in the LXX of Leviticus14:6, 51, where the ritual concerning leprosy involvedthe use of two birds. One bird was killed, andthe other bird was dipped in the blood of the birdthat had been killed. The word used in the LXXof this passage is bapto. It is clear that no bird hasenough blood for the immersion of another bird ofthe same kind. Murray states that the living birdcould be dipped in the blood of the slain bird, butcould not be immersed, because there would notbe enough blood for immersion. Therefore baptodoes not mean immersion, for here it is used ofan act where immersion was not involved. To theassertion that the living bird might be immersedin water in which the blood of the slain bird hadbeen mixed, Murray replies that the passage, Levit.14:51, 52 distinguishes between dipping in theblood and dipping in the water.Murray cites other instances of usage of baptoand bapt zo in the LXX of the Old Testament. Amongthe most striking are Daniel 4:33 and 5:21, wherethe Greek Bapto occurs as the translation of anAramaic verb. The connection is Nebuchadnezzar'sinsanity. The King James Version renders the clausein question by "his body was wet with the dew ofheaven." The Greek is kai apo tes drosou tou our ano uto soma autou ebaphe (Murray, op. cit., p. 14).Nebuchadnezzar may indeed have been very wetNOVEMBER 15, 1967 309

with the dew of heaven, but it is surely clear thathe could not have been immersed in the dew ofheaven. Therefore here again the Greek bapto doesnot mean immersion.Turning to the New Testament, Murray discussesseveral passages in which baptizo or relatedwords occur, and shows how these fail to substantiatethe Baptist contention, and in some cases proveexactly the opposite.The first New Testament passage which Murraydiscusses is Luke 11:38, with Matthew 15:2 andMark 7:2-5. The connection of Luke 11:38 is Jesusdining in the home of a Pharisee, who "marveled thathe had not first washed before dinner". The Greekhere is ou proton ebaptisthe pro tou aristou. Whatthe Enghsh version renders as "washed", therefore,in the Greek is actually "was baptized" or "baptizedhimself." This "baptized" is evidently equivalent tothe word nipsontai in Matt. 15:2 and Mark 7:3. Itis not clear that even the hands were actuaUy immersedin water; the act was apparently the pouringof water, or having it poured, over the hands. InLuke 11:38 there is no mention of the hands; thePharisee simply is said to have marveled that Jesus"was not baptized" before the dinner. Murray concludesthat here baptizo is used if an action whichdid not involve the person being immersed, but onlythe washing of the hands (op. cit., p. 17).In Mark 7:4 there is a textual question, somemanuscripts having the word baptizo while othershave hrantizo. The latter verb means "sprinkle."This word cannot be used to denote an act of immersion;baptizo can denote an act of immersionbut does not mean immersion. Hence, Murray says,"to adduce cases in which 'baptise' or 'baptism' isused to denote an act performed by immersion doesnot prove that they mean immersion" (p. 20). Headds that there is no proof that baptizo, even if thisreading is the genuine one in Mark 7:4a, is used inthe sense of "immerse."It should be added that there is a textual questionas to the genuineness of the word klinon in Mark7:4 ("couches"). Several MSS and Nestle's criticaltext omit this word. Therefore we should avoid usingit as the basis for a point of argument, as has oftenbeen done. The argument has been that couchescould not very well be immersed. But it is quitepossible that couches could be taken apart andimmersed. The couches might be specially constructedwith this very thing in view. Besides this itis doubtful that the word "couches" is genuine at all.Murray next takes up Hebrews 9:10-23, wherethe expression diaphorois baptismois ("diversebaptisms"; "diverse washings") is used to describecertain Old Testament rites. The phrase occurs inHeb. 9:10. In the context, verse 13, "sprinkling" ismentioned as one of the Old Testament rites underdiscussion. Hence it would seem that a rite consistingof sprinkling is listed as included under thecategory of "diverse baptisms". Clearly, then,baptismois here cannot mean immersions. Moreover,we may inquire what immersions there were in theOld Testament system that would fit the baptismoisof Heb. 9:10. While there were many rites of sprinkling,it is difficult to see what immersions prescribedin the Old Testament would fit Hebrews9:10.Next Murray takes up the Baptism of the Spirit,in such passages as Matthew 3:11, Mark 1:8, Luke3:16, with reference also to Acts 1:5 and 11:16. Thequestion is whether the baptism of the Holy Spiritcan be called immersion or not. Jesus said that Hisdisciples would be baptized with the Holy Spirit. Canthis mean immersed in the Holy Spirit?John the Baptist predicted that Jesus wouldbaptize with the Holy Spirit and fire. If baptism necessarilymeans immersion, then this statement mustmean that Jesus would immerse in the Holy Spiritand fire. But such an idea is quite contrary to theactual phenomena of the fulfilment of the prediction.The terms used of the coming of the Holy Spiritare "pour forth", "shed forth" (Acts 2:33), "comeupon", none of which suggests the idea of immersionin the Spirit as one might be immersed in water.In Acts 1:8 Jesus said to the assembled disciples,"Ye shall receive power after that the Holy Spiritis come upon you." Here the verb is eperchoma'.In Acts 2:17, 33, the Spirit is said to be "pouredout" or "shed forth", and the Greek verb is ekcheo.In Acts 10:44 and 11:15 the Holy Spirit is said to"fall" on the believers, and the Greek verb is epipivto.Mention may also be made of Titus 3:6 where theHoly Spirit is "shed" or "poured" on Christians,and the Greek verb is ekcheo. It is worthy of notethat in all these cases in Acts and the Epistles thelanguage used of the coming of the Holy Spirit tobelievers has affinities with sprinkhng or pouringrather than with immersion. Again, at the Day ofPentecost, in Acts 2, the Holy Spirit became visiblypresent as tongues of flame which "sat" upon eachof the Christians; the Greek is ekathisen. Baptismwith fire had been predicted. Here at Pentecost isbaptism with fire, but certainly not immersion in310 COVENANTER WITNESS

God's Plan ForThe average American thinks of ThanksgivingDay as a custom which began with the pilgrims in1621. We are glad that the pilgrims saw the importanceof assembling to give thanks to God forHis bountiful blessings. To them the day meantmuch more than a day of feasting and frolic, ameal of stuffed turkey followed by bicarbonate ofsoda and a football game. Thanksgiving Day wascentered in the Lord, in singing hymns, reading theScripture, and giving thanks to God, and enjoyingthe food God had provided.Our official observance of Thanksgiving Daywas begun in 1864 by the proclamation of AbrahamLincoln. However, the plan for a regular season ofthanksgiving actually originated some 3,400 yearsago.The Feast of Tabernacles was a seven-daythanksgiving festival, established by the Lord. Inthe autumn, when all the chief fruits of the groundwere gathered in, God planned that the people stopand give thanks to Him for these material blessings(Deut. 16:13-17). In the mind of God, thanksgivingwas to be more than hpservice. It was to be thevoluntary expression of their heart-felt gratitudefor benefits they had received. Real thanksgivingcomes from the heart. David expressed this attitudewith the words: "Bless the Lord, O my soul: and allthat is within me, bless his holy name" (Psalm 103:1).God says, "Be ye thankful" (Col. 3:15). Is itThanksgivingnot strange that God would have to command usto give thanks? The Lord pours out His blessingsof sunshine and rain, health and happiness, andyet must wait for our expression of gratitude. Thepsalmist says, "Forget not all his benefits" (Psalm103:2). God knew that we would tend to forgetHis benefits and blessings and remember insteadthe bitter experiences of hfe. God must teach usto be thankful, just as we must teach our childrento say, "Thank you."Someone has said, 'To be thankful means to bethinkful." As we think upon the blessings of God,our hearts will overflow with thanksgiving and loveto Him. Jesus said, "A good man out of the goodtreasure of his heart bringeth forth that which isgood; and an evil man out of the evil treasure ofhis heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for ofthe abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh"(Luke 6:45). While the ungrateful person is complainingabout all of his misfortunes and disappointments,the child of God, who thinks upon the blessingsof God, is seeking opportunities to express histhanksgiving to his Heavenly Father.The Thanksgiving season at harvest time is setaside for giving thanks, yet every day should bethanksgiving day as far as spiritual blessings areconcerned.By permission from American Tract SocietyOradell, New Jerseyfire.Another New Testament passage discussed byMurray is I Cor. 10:2, "All were baptized untoMoses in the cloud and in the sea." Murray statesthat if the Baptist argument is sound, this textmust allude to the mode of baptism. It must thereforemean that the ancient Israehtes were immersedin the cloud and in the Red Sea. But that is exactlywhat did not happen to them. It has been aptlyobserved by another writer that the Israehtes werebaptized without being immersed, while the Egyptianswere immersed without being baptized! TheOld Testament record exphcitly states that theIsraehtes got across without getting wet — on dryground (Ex. 14:22). Against this it has been arguedby Baptists that the Israehtes were actually belowthe level of the water, which was piled high to theright and left of them, so they were virtually im-mersed even though they remained perfectly dry.Murray answers this by saying that is not whatBaptists ordinarily mean by immersion — animmersion which leaves one perfectly dry has littlein common with the rite of baptism as performedby Baptists.As for the pillar of cloud, Paul says that theIsraehtes were baptized in the cloud. But accordingto the record in Exodus (Ex. 13:21), the cloud wasbefore them. It did not surround them nor did theyenter into it. It was to lead the way before them,and on one occasion it served an an impenetrablebarrier between them and the Egyptians. Yet theIsraehtes were baptized in the cloud. It is hard tosee how this can possibly mean immersion. Inwhat sense could it be said that the Israelites wereimmersed in the cloud?(To be continued next issue)NOVEMBER 15, 1967 311

The First American ThanksgivingAll are famihar with the events of the firstThanksgiving day in the New World, but a recallmay help us to recover its inner spirit. The date was1621. These thanksgivers numbered 102. We callthem "the Pilgrim Fathers." This is a misnomer.They were, with a very few exceptions, a band ofyoung people, with the vision and daring of youthin their eyes. Only two were over 50. Only nine wereover 40. Of their three leaders, Bradford was 31,Winslow 35, and Brewster was 37. Forty-four weremarried; five were old bachelors, and one was "abachelor maid." The rest were under 21. They wereexiles, seeking a place where they could worshipGod according to their own convictions, instead offorms laid down by a king. They were poor. Theyhad no money to pay their fare and had to mortgagetheir future to secure passage. The loan was apromise to work for seven years for an Enghshcompany in return for their passage money. Theirwork would be in securing furs and gold if it couldbe found. They were hired men and women workingfor a hard taskmaster. They were mislocated. Theyhad been assigned a tract of land in the forest, notfar from the place where the city of New York nowstands. A rival company, which was trying to settlethe region to which they were assigned, bribed thecaptain of their vessel to land them far north onthe bleak Massachusetts shore, where they weresure to freeze. It was a bitter disappointment, whenthey discovered this treachery. But they were Calvinistsof the strictest sort, and took it as an overruhngof divine providence, which probably was true.They landed in the midst of storm and snow andbuilt rude cabins. Their food was soon exhausted.The last distribution was "five grains of corn toeach person." They then had to resort to shell-fish,crabs, oysters, and an occasional fish, if they were"biting."Hunger, cold and sickness played their parts relentlessly.That winter half of their number died.One of the survivors wrote that during those awfulmonths, "they dug seven times as many graves forthe dead as they built houses for the hving." But inspite of this and the shell-fish diet, when the Mayflowersailed back in the spring and all who wishedto return were offered free transportation, not oneaccepted. They had gotten the idea that the Lordhad a great errand for them — the building in the312New World a home for Liberty. They thought theywere God's appointed angels for carrying out thismighty enterprise for the human race, and there wasnot a shirker among them.They had spent the winter in "making a clearing."The snow was never deep enough or the sleetsharp enough to keep them from cutting down thetrees and grubbing out the roots. They had not muchclothing, but they made up for this in their diligencein cutting and digging. Then they made a greatdiscovery. They found some corn which the Indianshad hidden. They regarded it as a providential provision.The Indians may have differed with themon this matter. History does not enlighten us concerningthat point.By "corn-planting time" they had 21 acres "cleared"and "grubbed." The corn was planted andcultivated. God smiled upon their efforts that summerwith sufficient rain and the crop ripened. Inthe fall they gathered the ears. They had sufficientfor the next winter. It was a happy change from thesea-food which they had learned to loathe. Thiswas the occasion for the first American Thanksgiving.They wished to express their thanks to Godfor His goodness and for the change from crabs andlobsters to civilized food. A Thanksgiving day wascalled for. They needed meat and sent out a companyto hunt turkeys and deer. They were notskilled hunters but brought back a fair return —provided they had no company. But the Old Testamentlaw of the Thanksgiving had a very definiteprovision. The dinner was to be shared with others.They were to send portions to those for whomnothing had been prepared. They specialized in theOld Testament. So they invited the great IndianChief, Massasiot, to be their guest. To the alarm ofthe Christian fathers, the consternation of thePilgrim mothers, and the sorrow of the Pilgrim childrenwho had been promised "drumsticks," theirinvited guest appeared with 90 of his relatives andwarriors. These soon appreciated the condition ofthings and hurried out into the forest and throughtheir superior skill returned shortly with five deerand some turkeys. This first Thanksgiving dinnerlasted for three days. It was observed with gladnessand with love and kindness to their Indian guests.They played English and Dutch games and taughtthe Indians how. The Indians taught them theirCOVENANTER WITNESS

Our First National Thanksgiving Proclamationby E. R.In 1789 the United States of America had muchfor which to be thankful. The long, dreary RevolutionaryWar, so costly in human lives, came to aclose with Cornwallis' surrender at Yorktown in1781. The battle of Lexington, Bunker HiU, Saratoga,and Trenton were now in the past. The terriblesuffering of the ill-clad, ill-housed and ill-fed patriotsduring the winter at Valley Forge was now only asad memory. The Declaration of Independence hadbecome a reahty, and now we were an independentnation.For eight years following the war, the stateswere held together by a weak central governmentwhich operated under the Articles of Confederation.This government had httle authority at home orabroad. The states quarrelled over boundaries,tariffs, debts, currency regulations and many othermatters. Our leaders began to ask one another,"Have we fought through the long war, only tobecome a collection of 13 jealous and quarrelinghttle republics?" In 1784 Washinton wrote, "Ipredict the worst consequences for a half-starved,limping government, always moving on crutchesand tottering at every step."Now, in 1789, we had hved through those yearsof chaos, confusion, and in some areas armed rebellion.A new Constitution had been drafted andratified. We now had a government of the people,by the people, and for the people. The Constitutionhad been drafted to form a "more perfect union."On April 30, at Federal Hall, in New York,George Washington was inaugurated President. Theoath was administered by Chancellor Robert Livingston.Washington bowed and kissed the Bible, and ina deep, solemn voice he was heard to say, "I swear,so help me God." Livingston turned to the crowd,waved his hand, and shouted, "Long hve GeorgeWashington, President of the United States."Washington's Inaugural Address was solemn,eloquent, and reverent. In his introductory remarkshe said, "It would be improper to omit in this firstofficial act my fervent supplication to that AlmightyBeing who rules over the universe — who presidesin the councils of nations — and whose providentialaid can supply every human defect. . . . Every stepby which we have advanced to the character of anMarshindependent nation seems to have been distinguishedby some token of Providential Agency."As autumn drew near, leaders in Congress beganto feel that there were many things for which weas a young nation should express our thanks. Accordingly,in September Congress adopted a jointresolution asking the President "to recommend tothe people of the United States a day of publicThanksgiving and prayer, to be observed by acknowledgingwith grateful hearts the many signal favorsof Almighty God."Washington was pleased with the action ofCongress, and he issued the following proclamation:"Whereas, it is the duty of all nations to acknowledgethe providence of Almighty God, to obey Hiswill, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly toimplore His protection and favor; and"Whereas, both Houses of Congress have, bytheir joint committee, requested me to recommendto the people of the United States a day of PubhcThanksgiving and Prayer, to be observed by acknowledgingwith grateful hearts the many and signalfavors of Almighty God. . .."Now, therefore, I do recommend and assignThursday, the 26th of November next, to be devotedby the people of these States to the service ot uiatgreat and glorious Being, who is the BeneficentAuthor of all the good that was, that is, or that willbe; that we may then all unite in rendering untoHim our sincere and humble thanks for His kindcare and protection of the people of this country;for the signal, manifold mercies, and the favorableinterpositions of His providence, in the course andconclusion of the late war; for the peaceable andrational manner in which we have been enabled toestablish Constitutions for our safety and happiness,and particularly the national one now lately instituted.. .."And also, that we may then unite in mosthumbly offering our prayers and supplications tothe great Lord and Ruler of Nations, and beseechHim to pardon our national and other transgressions;to enable us all, whether in public or privateinstitutions, to perform our several and relativeduties properly and punctually; to render our Nation-See back pagegames in return. It would be greatly to America'scredit if she had retained this attitude toward theIndians. Thus passed the first Thanksgiving day346 years ago. — The United Presbyterian.NOVEMBER 15, 1967 313

A PAGE FOR JUNIORSWanted:ABibleLong ago in a village in Wales a httle girl hada great, big wish — a Bible in her language. ButBibles were very scarce and very expensive, and herfather was a poor weaver.After she had learned to read, a farm womanlet Mary read from her own Bible, and from thattime on Mary began saving all the money shecould earn from selling bundles of firewood, babysitting,sewing and ironing.Her father had made her a wooden box to holdher money. After a year there was so httle — notnearly enough for a Bible, but she kept at it. Atlast, after six years, there was enough. But therewere no Bibles for sale in her village!The nearest place to get one was at Bala, twentyfivemiles away, and there were no buses or trains.So, one day at dawn she started walking, but itwas night when she reached Bala and too late to seethe minister who had the books.Next day, full of joy and hope, she went tothe minister, but he sadly told her all the Bibleshe had were promised to other people. With tearsshe told how she had been working for a Bible.Then, even though someone else would have towait, he gave Mary a Bible, which she carried hometo Llanfihangel and treasured all the rest of herhfe. But the minister did not forget how Mary hadwon her Bible, and not long after, in London, hewas one of those who helped found the British andForeign Bible Society (1804); and it was only twelveyears later that the American Bible Society wascreated, both to make sure that people all overthe world might have Bibles and at a price theycould afford.HIDDEN BOOKS OF THE BIBLEThe names of the books of the Bible are to befound in tlie following story. The letters are in oand they may sometimes be found in two or morewords.While motoring in Palestine, I met Chief Mejud,gesticulating wildly. His fez, raiment, and featureswere odd. I never saw so dismal a chief. On marketdays he pumps alms from everyone, a mostcommon practice. A glance shows that he actsstrangely. Excuse my speaking so, but he wasshowing a crowd how they used to revel at Ionianbouts, when the brew seemed bad.A fakir was seated on a hummock, minus hoseand shirt, wearing as comic a hat as they make.He pointed up eternally toward a rudely carvedletter J on a high cliff.My companion excitedly cried, "See that J. Oh,now I know we are near the ancient Ai. Was thisAi a holy place?" From answer given elsewhereI'll say not.We asked the age of the big stone J. "Oh, elevencenturies at least." I knew that in such a jam, escortwas necessary. Besides, our car stuck in a ruthere. So, leaving the sedan, I elbowed nearer thefakir. A ruthless hag gained access to his side, andpaused to rest herself. She hinted, 'Tou havetreasure?" To which I retorted, "Not I. Moth, youknow, and rust corrupt earthly store."Mejud expressed a wish to accompany us, but Idecreed, "Thy party we will not annex, O duskychief.""I am at the work of tracing a cargo of losttobacco. That's my job." To the chief's expressionof sorrow over the tobacco loss, I answered, "Itwould all have gone up in smoke anyway."My brother is a tramp (rover), B. S. from Harvard,too. His name is Eugene. Sister is nursinghim now. They asked, "Where is the prodigal at?"I answered that it used to be incorrect to use "at"that way, but that the flu kept Eugene at homethis year. It really is too bad, I, a home body,roaming the Orient, and he, a tramp, at home inbed. Author Unknown314 COVENANTER WITNESS

Lesson Helps for the Week of December 10,1967„ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ .Sabbath SchoolLessonfor December 10, 1967.CAN THERE BE PEACE ON EARTH?Micah 4.Comments by John K. Gault.This portion of Micah's prophecyis set in contrast with what he hasjust said. This is indicated by theconjunction "but" with which chapter4 begins. Chapter 3 is a very severeindictment of the "heads of Jacob"and the "princes of the house ofIsrael." "Is it not for you to knowjudgment? Who hate the good, andlove the evil?" Then in verses 11 and12 he said, "The heads thereof judgefor reward, and the priests thereofteach for hire, and the prophets thereofdivine for money.... Therefore shallZion for your sake be plowed as afield, and Jerusalem shall becomeheaps, and the mountain of the houseas the high places of the forest." "But"out of the dust and rubble of the old"Zion" and the desecrated "mountain"a new mountain would arise and it iscalled in 4:1 "the mountain of thehouse of the Lord." This "mountain"would be the kingdom of the Christover which He rules in righteousness.1: The Kingdom of Christ WasEstablished in the "Last Days."During the "last days" of the sacrificialsystem, the mountain of Christ'skingdom was established on the topof the mountains. The long expectedMessiah would come and He wouldrule from the top of the mountains.The word is plural thus indicating thatthere would be many mountains.During the Mosaic economy Jerusalemwas the one great mountain of civiland religious government. When Christwould come in His kingdom He wouldlule over the high eminences of churchand state, the two sources of law inthe world. The mountain, also, "shallbe exalted above the hills." A hillis not nearly as high as a mountain.The "hills" evidently stood for theeveryday activities of people. Thekingdom of Christ therefore, extendsNOVEMBER 15, 1967over the "mountains" and the "hills."The ruler over this kingdom was tobe Jesus Christ the Messiah, who wasborn in Bethehem and who, by Hisdeath and resurrection, conquered sin,death, and hell.2: The Drawing Power of theMountain of Christ.It is said in verses 1 and 2, "Peopleshall flow unto it. And many nationsshall come, and say, Come, let us goup to the mountain of the Lord, andto the house of the God of Jacob:"This was a foreglimpse of the GreatCommission, when Jesus said, "Go yetherefore, and teach all nations, baptizingthem in the name of the Father,and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost."On the day of Pentecost, "there weredwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devoutmen, out of every nation under heaven."These people were filled withthe Spirit and heard each other speakin his own tongue. And "they thatgladly received his word were baptized:and the same day there wereadded unto them about three thousandsouls." During the centuries since thecoming of Christ people have continuedto be drawn into His kingdom.When people profess their faith inCh-ist and seek to do His will, then,the kingdom of Christ is in them. Theyhave become spiritually magnetizedthrough their contact with Him whois the ruler over all things. Jesus said,as recorded in John 12:32, "And I, ifI be lifted up from the earth, willdraw all men unto me. This he saidsignifying what death he should die."3: People Are Taught by ChristWhen They Assemble on His Mountain.Micah continued to say in verse 2."and he will teach us of his ways,and we will walk in his paths: for lawshall go forth of Zion, and the wordof the Lord from Jerusalem.'' Jesussaid to His disciples and others, "Takemy yoke upon you, and learn of me."He was and is the perfect teacher. Itwas said of Him in Matthew 7:29, "Hetaught them as one having authority,and not as the scribes." When the chiefpriests and Pharisees sent officers tojarrest Jesus and when they came backwithout Him, the rulers said to theoffice s, "Why have ye not broughthim? The officers answered, Neverman spake like this man" (John 7:46).In Matthew 5 we find the Sermon onthe Mount, as it is sometimes called.It is there said, "And seeing the multitudes,he went up into a mountain, andwhen he was set his disciples cameunto him: And he opened his mouthand taught them."Christ's teaching enables people to"walk in his paths" and to obey thenew law which goes forth from thcspiritual Zion and the spiritual Jeiusalem. Christ teaches people bymeans of His Word and His church,each of which operates on the mountainof His Kingdom.4: The Pacifying Effect of Christ'sRule in His Kingdom.It is said in 4:3, "And he shalljudge among people, and rebuke strongnations afar off; and they shall beattheir swords into plowshares, and theiispea.s into pruning hooks: nation shallnot lift up a sword againsi nation,neither shall they learn war any more."This is a picture of peace which, st;far, is very far removed from nationalpolicy. 1970 years have passed sincethe "prince of peace" came into theworld and there is still war. Man hasgreatly inc. eased his ability to kill;consequently, war is much more devastating than it used to be. But thi?:does not detract from the truth olthis peaceful prospect. When peoplego up to the mountain of the Lord tt,be taught by Christ they will not resortto bloodshed in the settlement of theirdisputes. War cannot be eliminated inany other way than through the spiritof Christ working in the hearts ofpeople. As the gospel is spread moreand more in the earth the prospectof peace becomes brighter and brighter. The gospel of peace has beengiven to the world in order that manmight have peace with God and peacewi..h his fellowman. Peace is an attributeof God which is communicatedto man; therefore, as long as peoplehate one another, and as long a«-people make idols of the things of thi 1 -.315]

world, there will be war. Micah, evidently,has given to us a picture ofthat better time when the kingdom ofChrist has been perfected through thework of the Holy Spirit.5: In Christ's Perfected KingdomThere Will Be No Fear.Micah tells us that at that time,"they shall sit every man under hisvine and under his fig tree; and noneshall make them afraid: for the mouthof the Lord hath spoken it." Peoplewill enjoy complete security whenChrist's kingdom is perfected in theworld. They will not need locks ontheir doors in order to have safety.A "vine" and "fig tree" would notoffer any protection, if there wererobbers or others bent on doing violence.In the perfected kingdom ofChrist, the Spirit will have full swayby Mrs. Edward Forest.What does it mean to witness?When we talk about the witness ofthe Holy Spirit, we are talking aboutHis telling the world about JesusChrist. The dictionary says that to bea witness a person has to have personalknowledge about another person, asubject, or an event. Or, a person isa witness if he can give evidence orproof about something that has happened.If you have seen somethinghappen through your own eyes or haveheard it happen with your own ears,then you are a witness. Now the HolySpirit can do all these things in witnessingabout Jesus Christ. He haspersonal knowledge about Christ asHe has aways known Christ frometernity. Since He is a member ofthe Godhead, He has seen all thethings that Christ has done. Since Heknows Christ personally, and has seenall the things that Christ has done, theOne important work of the witnessingof the Holy SpLit is to show usthat what the Bible says is true. Manypeople will say that the Bible is justa story book, and many things in it arenot true. But, the Spirit when Hehelped men write the Bible, over andover used the term, "Thus saith theLord," showing that the things thatwere being written were from God.However He has also used the work ofmen to show that His witness throughthe Bible is true. Men have dug upmany things from the ground thatprove the Bible to be true in recordingabout peoples who lived in Bibletimes, about cities that were builtthen, etc. Evil men have tried manytimes to destroy the Bible, kill anyperson caught translating it or printingit, or punish anyone caught reading it.The Spirit of God has not allowedSatan and his evil followers to destroyHis most important witness, the Bible.If the Devil had been able to destroythe Bible the witness for Christ wouldhave come to an end.and the spirit of violence will havebeen abolished.This blessed situation in the world Holy Spirit can give evidence andcannot be accomplished without God. proof that Jesus Christ is the Son ofJames says in 1:17, "Every good gift God and Saviour of the world.and every perfect gift is from above, References: John 15:26; Romans After we become Christians andand cometh down from the Father of 8:14, 16, 17; I Cor. 2:10; John 16:14, 15; study the Bible and come to knowlights, with whom is no variableness, Gal. 4:6; I John 4:13; I John 5:6. God's Word more and more, the Spiritneither shadow of turning." Every Memory Psalm: Psalm 119: part 5, can use this to witness to us day byorganization or institution of man will p. 290, v. 2.day in our hearts. When we havebe of no avail in this elimination of Now the Bible tells us that it is committed a sin against God, or havewar if Christ is not recognized and the book of the Holy Spirit. Paul called disobeyed our parents, used a badthe guidance of His Spirit sought. the Bible "the sword of the Spirit." word, broken the rules at school, or6: Christ, the Prince of Peace Shall The Holy Spirit directed and controlledmen's minds as they wrote the makes us feel bad for the wrong thatmany other things, the Spirit of GodReign Forever.He will administer justice to them Bible. Remember in the Introduction we have done. It is the Spirit witnessingto us that we have done wrong,who have been oppressed. He will to the Shorter Catechism you learned"reign over them in mount Zion from the question, "Who wrote the Bible?" that we have displeased Christ, andhenceforth, even for ever." It will be And that answer was, "Holy men who that we must confess our sin and aska spiritual Zion from which He will were taught by the Holy Spirit." God for strength to do better in thereign. And the city will not be the Human men like Moses, David, Paul, future. This witness of the SpiritJerusalem where he was crucified but John, etc. wrote some of the various should deal with everything we doit will be the new Jerusalem which books in our Bible. The Holy Spirit in our lives. Each day, week, month,the apostle John saw "coming down taught these men to write the things we have many activities. The thingsfrom God out of heaven, prepared as we needed to know in order for us to we say and do, the friends we choose,a bride adorned for her husband" know God and Jesus Christ and the the kind of things we read and watch(Rev. 21:2).Holy Spirit Himself. Paul wrote in one on television, all should be directedof his letters, "What no eye has seen, by the witness of the Spirit with the"Lesson based on International SundaySchool Lessons: tbe International Bible Lessonsfor Christian Teaching, copyrighted 1963 conceived what God has prepared for Since the witness of the Spirit is tonor ear heard, nor the heart of man question, "Will this honor Christ?"by the Division of Christian Education, NationalCouncil of Churches of Christ in thethose who love him, God has revealed reveal Jesus Christ to us, everythingthrough the Spirit." We would have we do or say should be guided by ourUSA.."no idea about God's love for us in desire to please Christ.sending His Son nor of the blessings The Spirit will also use people inwe receive in this life or the life to His witness. When a person presentsJunior Topic come if these things had not been Jesus Christ to someone who is unsaved,this is His working from therevealed to the men who wrote thefor December 10, 1967.Bible. Peter said, "No prophecy ever outside through a human worker. ThenUNIT: GOD, THE HOLY SPIRITcame by the impulse of man, but men the Spirit will be working or witnessingLESSON NO. 2: WITNESSINGmoved by the Holy Spirit spoke from within that unsaved person, showingGod."him his need for Christ. This would316 COVENANTER WITNESS

e the Spirit's witness within a person'sheart. We should be ready to speakto others about what we believe, whywe do certain things and don't doother things, as Christians. The HolySpirit is always with us, ready tohelp us to witness for our Christianfaith. We have only to trust Him andask Him for His help. He will help usto be strong, to do the right thing,and be ready to speak for Christ. Ifwe let the Holy Spirit, He will alwayswitness to us the direction that ourLord and Savior Jesus Christ wouldhave us to go.The Spirit helps in our witness byhelping us to pray. Many times we feelthat we don't know what to say inour prayers. We are told to pray, butfor what? Pray for the guidance ofthe Holy Spirit, to give us wisdomand understanding and to direct us inour thoughts as we pray. We ask Himto show us for what and for whom weought to pray. We ask Him to giveus the proper words and thoughtsfor our prayers. This is His witnessingto us in prayer life, giving us the faithto know that our prayers are heardand will be answered. He gives usthe faith to accept the answer. TheSpirit of God is ready to help all ofus and will witness for Christ in ourlives through our Bible reading, prayertime, and daily activities, if we willaccept His witness of Christ as revealedin the Bible.Handwork: Candle holders — Youwill need the paper core form fromeither a roll of paper towels or fromtoilet tissue. Cut the core the desiredlength that you would like to haveyour candle holder. Cover the corewith either foil or Christmas wrap.If it is a plain covering, maybe youwould like to paste some snowflakestars on it cut out of a paper doily orfrom white paper. Cut a "flame" outof either yellow or orange constructionpaper and set it in the top of tbecore for the flame of the candle. Asthe Spirit of God brings the light ofChrist into our life through His witness,so may our witness bring thelight of Christ into the world.If a brother or sister be naked,and destitute of daily food, And oneof you say unto him, Depart in peace,be ye warmed and filled; notwithstandingye give them not thosethings which are needful to the body;what doth it profit? James 2:15,16.NOVEMBER 5, 1967Prayer MeetingTopicfor December 13, 1967.THEME:THE CHRISTIAN'S RESOURCESIN CHRIST: STRENGTH.Philippians 4:13.by Dr. Adam Loughridge.Greetings to you all in Christ Jesus!This is the first of three studies onour resources in Christ. RelevantScripture portions in addition to thekey verse are Ephesians 6:10-20, IITimothy 2:1-5, and II Corinthians 12:9, 19.Suggested Psalms: 27:1-4. p. 62; 31:18-23, p. 73; 71:10-15, p. 171; and 73:9-11, p. 17P.Paul has learned the vital lesson otcontentment. His peace does not dependon circumstances. His attitude tcthe problems of life is not one of fatalismor a passive acceptance of whatcannot be avoided. His peace of mindSee back pageGreat Aunt Agatha wanted to be especially good to her grand nephewGrigsby. She was very fond of Grigsby. In fact, she considered him as herfavorite grand nephew. Great Aunt Agatha had an abundance of this world'sgoods. She could afford to be as good as she wanted to be.Grigsby, on his part, was holding down a somewhat modest position thatpaid a somewhat modest salary. He felt the need of some mode of transportationto and from work. He had in mind, going to a used car dealer and pricingsomething that had been manufactured no later than 1960. Maybe earliei.Grigsby felt that he could afford a car of that vintage.Great Aunt Agatha heard of Grigsby's need for an auto. She also heard olhis plan to acquire what might be termed a jallopy. Great Aunt Agatha gaveutterance to such ejaculations as "Bah!" and "Fan!" She would do better byGrigsby than that!She went to the De Luxe auto dealer in the fashionable part of town, andplunked down forty-eight hundred dollars as a deposit on an ultra fancyDe Luxe with all the trimmings and all the extras. That would leave Grigsbywith a paltry twenty-four hundred still to pay. Great Aunt Agatha reasoned, "IfI pay two thirds, it isn't asking too much of Grigsby to pay one third. Aftciall, it will be his car!"But Grigsby didn't have twenty-four hundred. Four hundred, he couldhandle. Twenty-four hundred, no! Four hundred was about what he wasexpecting to pay for his jallopy. He was left in a quandary. Should he passup Great Aunt Agatha's gift of a forty-eight hundred dollar deposit? Orshould he accept her gift, thereby having to assume a twenty-four hundreddollar debt that he could not afford?Some times we can do too much for our grand nephews! Indulgent parentshave been known to meet their children's every whim — so that the youngstersare ill equippd in later life to do a realistic job of tailoring their wants anddesires to their capabilities. "The Great Society" can overdo its handouts.Some folks are rebelling, and declaring, "We would rather have self relianceand self respect."Even in church matters, this matter of helpfulness has been over done. AY henrich Mr Moneybags leaves a legacy of a half million for the building of anew church, the congregation may be able to put up quite an imposing structure.But somehow it just seems to work out — that a congregation takes morereal personal interest in a modest structure that they have been able 1

DECEMBER SUBSCRIPTION LISTFresno, Rose PointNOTICE TOBRITISH ISLES SUBSCRD3ERSSubscriptions for the British Islesgroup of subscribers are due, January1, 1968. The price is $4 (U. S. currency)in an overseas group. Please sendyour money to Rev. Hugh Wright, B.A., 12, Knutsford Drive, Belfast, NorthernIreland, BT14 6LZ, the subscriptionagent for your area.MISS MARY B. THOMPSON.Miss Mary B. Thompson, a lifelongmember of the Reformed PresbyterianChurch, died at the Shields NursingHome of Zanesville, Ohio, on October11, 1967 at the age of ninety-one. Shewas born, January 30, 1876, and spenther entire life in the vicinity of WhiteCottage, Ohio where she had been amember of the former Jonathan'sCreek congregation near White Cottage.She is survived by one sister,Mrs. Armour (Nettie) Cusac of Frazeysburg,Ohio.WANTED: A BLUE BANNERThe Lawrence Mission would liketo have a Blue Banner. If anyone hasone from a discontinued church thatis not in use and wouldn't mind partingwith it, we would beg, borrow, or buyit. Please contact Mrs. Harold Mc­Kinney, Route 3, Lawrence, Kansas66044.JOHN (JAY) CALVIN GEORGEJay C. George of Zanesville, Ohio,Route 2, a lifelong member of theReformed Presbyterian Church, died,October 23, 1967, in the BethesdaHospital of Zanesville, Ohio.He had been a member of the formerJonathan's Creek congregation nearWhite Cottage, Ohio. He was an elderand a teacher of the adult SabbathSchool class there. After this congregationdisorganized, he transferred hismembership to the Youngstown, Ohio,congregation.Funeral services were conductedby the Rev. Thomas J. Wilson.WOMEN'S SYNODICALMISSIONARY SOCIETYI want to direct your attention tothe Synodical By-laws, pages 15, 16.You will note the Contingent, ThankOffering, and Life and MemorialFunds. You will also note the disbursementof these Funds.The Life and Memorial Fund is,by action of the Synodical, used forrent money for foreign missionariesduring their furlough year: $10.00 amonth for single missionaries and$25.00 a month for a married couple.Any member of our church may bea Life or Memorial Member of theSynodical on the payment of $25.00,either by the member, or a friend, orrelative, or a society. A certificate ispresented to the member or the familyof the deceased.I will be glad to answer any questionsin regard to the finances of theSynodical. My annual report is publishedin the Minutes of Synod eachyear.Katherine M. Carson, TreasurerGLENMANUS R. P. CHURCH'WELCOME BACK' RECEPTIONThe Glenmanus congregation of theReformed Presbyterian Church ofPortrush, Northern Ireland, gave aspecial reception to Professor AdamLoughridge and Mrs. Loughridge ontheir return from the U. S. A. whereProfessor Loughridge had been servingas guest professor at the R. P. Seminaryin Pittsburgh for the past year.The ladies of the congregation providedsupper, after which the Rev.Thomas Donnelly, minister of BallyclabberR. P. Church, Coleraine,presided.A very warm welcome was extendedto Professor and Mrs. Loughridge byMr. A. Wilson M'Dowell, representingthe Session; Mr. Joseph Gilmour forthe Committee; Mrs. R. J. Rankin forthe Women's Missionary Association;Miss Jennie Moreland for the SabbathSchool; and Mr. William Wright forthe Sabbath afternoon meeting atPortstewart.Doctor of Divinity DegreeThe speakers congratulated ProfessorLoughridge on receiving the degreeof Doctor of Divinity from GenevaCollege, and expressed special pleasurethat he had declined the call fromDublin Road congregation, Belfast, andwas to continue his ministry in Portrush.Mrs. M. Logan, the senior memberof the congregation, conveyed the congregation'sgreetings and good wishesand presented gifts from the congregationto Dr. and Mrs. Loughridge.Returning thanks for the gifts, Dr.and Mrs. Loughridge spoke of their experiencesin the United States, commendedthe congregation for theirfidelity during the past year, andespecially the office-bearers, uponwhom a special burden of responsibilityhad rested, and appealed forcontinued faithfulness and support inthe future.AppreciationTributes were paid to Mr. HarryTadley, Synod's evangelist, for hisdevoted service to the congregationas acting minister for the greater partof the year. Mrs. William Wright spokeof the congregation's appreciation ofMr. Tadley's ministry and asked himto accept a gift as a token of that appreciation.In his reply Mr. Tadley spoke ofhis happy relationship that had existedbetween him and the congregationand the pleasure and profit he hadhad in his work.A presentation was made to theRev. Thomas Donnelly for his goodwork as interim Moderator of GlenmanusSession during the year. Mr.Ross Carson spoke on behalf of thecongregation in handing over the gift.Greetings and good wishes werealso conveyed to Dr. and Mrs. Loughridgeby Dr. Hugh J. Blair, Ballymoney;Mrs. J. A. L. Wright, Coleraine;Mr. V. H. M'llmoyle, Limavady;Peter Hind of the Scripture Gift Mission,Belfast; and Mr. Harry Tipping,Portrush.CHURCH CAMP AT CHATTANOOGAIS 'COVFAMIKOI'by Beth MathewsAmong the many church campsthis summer, there was one namedCovfamikoi. The name is significantto our group because the word includesthe letters of the states repre-318 COVENANTER WITNESS

sented: Cov. — Covenanters, F. —Florida, A — Alabama, M — Michigan,I —- Indiana, K — Kentucky, O —Ohio and I — Illinois.The camp is located in a scenicspot atop Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga,Tennessee at Covenant College.Since the building was previouslya multi-million dollar hotel, thereis wall-to-wall carpeting, bathrooms forevery room, besides extra conveniencesmaking for a delightful environment.Every morning one can arise to gazeupon the beautiful valley. On a clearday seven states can be seen from anearby point.After prayer circle and breakfast,everyone was divided into age groupsfor interesting Bible studies, lecturesand Question Box discussion on Bibletruths. Our theme was, "The Just ShallLive by Faith," taken from Romans1:17 and the main topic was witnessing.The afternoons were packed withevery kind of recreation: tennis, volleyball,ping-pong, shuffleboard, football,hiking, swimming, basketball and tripsto nearby points of interest such asRock City, Confederama, Point Park,and the Incline Railway.The evenings included varied programs.Different ministers gave inspirationalmessages. One night wasspent in "Enjoyment by Faith" inwhich the young people engaged ingames and stunts. After the closing ofthe service everyone could go to acampfire which was held out in theopen under the stars. There, peoplegave their testimonies of what Godmeant to them. Some nights folk songswere sung at the beginning and severalnights the Grapevine was given. TheGrapevine was the secret spy of thecamp who found out incidents, sometimesembarrassing, about people. Butin all, the campfires were challengingexperiences.About 175 adults, young peopleand children from Covenanter churchesattended. No one left feeling sadbecause he came, but because campwas over.THE BULLDOG BARKERSparta, Hlinois high school paper.NOTICEPlease send orders for the 1968W. M. S. Uniform Program bookletsto:Mrs. Charles SterrettOakdale, 111. 62268Cost this year is 40 cents perbookletTHANKSThe Caskeys wish to express theirsincere appreciation to the Wilkinsburgcongregation for the well plannedand efficiently carried out programat their farewell. We also thank themfor the appropriate gifts and for thegenerous contents of the envelopemarked "Long Green." We will longremember the ten years spent atWilkinsburg and we wish the congregationthe Lord's richest blessing forthe days that are ahead.Cloyd, Frances, and Jean Caskey.MRS. LLOYD M. EDGARMrs. Lloyd M. Edgar, of the Sharoncongregation, near Morning Sun, Iowa,passed away, about 8:00 p. m. October25, 1967, in the Burlington Hospitalfrom a heart attack. The funeral washeld, Saturday, October 28 at 2:00 p.m.MR. SAHAGIAN, ABSSECRETARYCOMES TO U. S.NEW YORK — Upon his recentimmigration to the United States afterbeing prevented from returning to hishome in Jerusalem, Vartan Sahagian,executive secretary of the BibleSociety in Jordan, expressed deep concernover events in the Middle East."Christians accounted for onlyseven percent of the population andthis figure is declining due to massmigrations of Canada, Australia andthe United States," he said in conferringat American Bible Society headquarters,1865 Broadway, this weekwith the Rev. John D. Erickson, ABSsecretary for Asia.Mr. Sahagian and his wife andtheir infant daughter were visitingrelatives in Amman when hostilitiesbroke out the day before the familyplanned to return home to Jerusalem.On several occasions since then theSahagians have attempted to returnto Is.aeli-held Jerusalem, but readmissionhas been refused them atborder points despite their InternationalRed Cross applications.There now are some 250,000 refugeesin the East Bank of Jordan frompresently held Israeli territory, withabout 170,000 of these having beengiven validated International RedCross applications for reentry, Mr.Sahagian said. He added that only14,000 to 20,000 refugees have beenallowed readmission and that noformer residents have been permittedto return to Jerusalem.An elder of the Church of theBrethren, Mr. Sahagian and his tamilyare visiting relatives in Boston untilhe relocates himself in this countiy.THE CLYDE W. TAYLOR REPORTGeneral Director of N. A. E.MISINFORMATION ON MARIJUANAIt is sometimes imperative that webecome well informed about subjectswhich are the most distasteful to us.YVe are amazed at how much misinformationis being given the publicabout certain psychedelic drugs. Thehead of the New-American Church,a woman called Boo- Hoo, was recentlyarrested at her home in arather aristocratic section of Washingtonand charged with the possessionof no less than a half-dozen differenttypes of these drugs. Among themwas marijuana about which there isconsiderable noise being made tochange the laws which control it.While we may not fall for some ofthe misinformation and ridiculousclaims being made about marijuanawe cannot be too sure that our youngsterswon't. It is said to be nonaddictive,no more harmful than othercigarettes and the adverse effects onone's behavior is no worse than alcoholin the arguments used to advocatethat it be legalized. We have reliabledocumentation f om both national andinternational sources to demonstratethat these claims are both false andmisleading.A United Nations document listshundreds of crimes committed throughoutthe world which are directly attributableto the use of marijuana.For instance:A man smoked his first two marijuanacigarettes; jumped 18 feet fromhotel window onto adjacent garageroof barefooted, burst into Mr. K'.sroom, said "God told me to kill thisman," and beat him to death withfists.. No recollection of the crimein court.Our current laws for the control olmarijuana (The Marijuana Tax Actof 1937) are quite adequate and providestiff penalties both for its useand possession. The U. S. is also requiredby international treaty obligation(ratified by the Senate this year) tomaintain its prohibition against thepossession of marijuana except forscientific purposes. Since it is notlikely that the treaty obligations willbe changed in the foreseeable futureNOVEMBER 15, 1967319

there will be increasing pressure toreduce penalties to the point wherethey are meaningless.EQUAL TIME FOR SMOKINGHAZARDS — AND ATHEISM?Everyone knows that the FairnessDoctrine which is enforced by theFederal Communications Commissionapplies to politics. But it has createda good deal of controversy in someother areas also. It is now applied totobacco. Broadcasters and the tobaccointerests have been directed to providefree time for announcements on thehazards of smoking. An appeal hasbeen made to the courts to set asidethis ruling.Madalyn Murray O'Hair, the atheistinvolved in the prayer and Biblereading issue, has now filed suit inthe U. S. District Court of Washingtonin an effort to force broadcastingstations to make the airwaves availableto her, contrary to a Federal CommunicationsCommission ruling under theFairness Doctrine.In a unanimous decision two yearsago, Mrs. O'Hair was turned down bythe FCC in her bid to invoke theFairness Doctrine after 15 Honolulustations refused to give her time to airher freethought views. I sent a letterto the FCC expressing appreciation forthis ruling. It is assumed that herrecent court case will be based inpart on her failure to get a favorableresponse from letters which have beensent to radio stations stating in partas follows:The Society of Separationists wasfounded in 1966 by Madalyn MurrayO'Hair and supersedes the formerFreethought Society of America andthe International Freethought Society.Our First National Thanksgiving ProclamationFrom page 313Our purpose is, inter alia, to agitatefor complete separation of church andstate... We are presently engaged ineducating the public as to why churchesshould be taxed, and we are alsopromoting atheistic philosophy... . Weshould like to request that you maketime available to us, either free orpaid, for the expression of the mattersset out above. Our request is promptedby your allowing time to theists forthe propagation of their beliefs.PRAYER MEETING TOPICFrom page 317is based on an experience of his relationshipwith Christ, not on selfsufficiencyor self-discipline such asthe Stoics practised. "I can do allthings in Him who strengthens me."This testimony is all the more strikingin that it comes from a man in a prisoncell. Paul was not a 'super-man' nora man given to idle boasting, but aman who had boundless confidencein the power of Christ to enable himto meet every situation.Philippians 4:13 made a big impactin the life of Oliver Cromwell, whoon the death of Charles I became theLord Protector of the Commonwealthof England. A shy backward man, hewould naturally have shrunk from thetask, but he felt it was God's call andthat this was God's promise to him. Heoften referred to it throughout hislife, especially when his son Robertwas shot dead accidentally. In a letterto Colonel Weston, who had been similarlybereaved, Cromwell quoted thetext with the comment, "This Scripturedid once save my life."This was also Mary Slessor's text.The leader might use profitably somereferences from her biography. Sheal Government a blessing to all the people, by constantlybeing a government of wise, just, and constitutionallaws, discreetly and faithfully executedand obeyed; ... to promote the knowledge andpractice of true religion and virtue. . . and, generally,to grant unto all mankind such a degree of temporalprosperity as He alone knows to be best."Washington's Proclamation issued in 1789 hasreal significance and meaning for us in 1967. ThePresident asked his countrymen to thank God forHis care, protection and manifold mercies, and then:•.'•. RYAVE.1AA ;makes many references to Philippians4:13. E.g. "Man can do nothing withsuch people, but I can do all things—".Some Questions.What could Paul, as a prisoner, doto prove this claim? Was it an impossibleclaim in these circumstances?Is there a limit to our effectiveness inChristian service? An athlete oftencalls forth hidden reserves at a crucialpoint in a race by means of autosuggestion,"I can do it," or by listeningto the plaudits of the crowd. Apep-talk from a team coach has inspireda team to win the game. Shouldwe use such tactics in Christian service?What place is there in our worshipfor 'inspirational' preaching? Howcan we keep the balance betweendedicated effort and complete dependenceon the power of Christ?Some Suggestions.Remember that the main reason forstudying this topic is to encourageprayer. Confess inherent weakness andfoolish dependence on personal effort.Let us examine our relationship withChrist that it is so real and intimatethat there is no barrier to His strengthbeing made perfect in our weakness.Let us pray for a willingness to haveHis power working through us. Rememberall who serve Christ and prayespecially that missionaries might beencouraged in their disappointmentsand strengthened for their work bythis promise of God's Word even asMary Slessor was. Let us never ceaseto praise God for the infinite resourcesthat are found in Christ Jesus ourLord.he called upon his people to pray that God wouldpardon their transgressions and forgive their sins.This is exactly what we must do today if we areto enjoy God's continued grace and mercy. In IIChronicles 7:14 we have a wonderful promise: "Ifmy people, which are called by my name, shallhumble themselves, and pray, and seek my face,and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hearfrom heaven, and will forgive their sin, and willheal their land."Dr. Marsh, prominent Arizona-Southern Californialayman, retired teacher, some years ago preident of Los Angeles Pacific College.— The Free Methodist320 COVENANTER WITNESS

(pvw&tvttei^iterU^VOLUME LXXIX NO. 21 NOVEMBER 22, 1967 STERLING, KANSAS 67579BIBLE LESSONS FOR THE WEEK OF DECEMBER 17, 1967IThe Covenanter BannerBlow softly, ye breezes, by mountain and moor,O'er the graves of the Covenant men,By the muirland and flood that were red with their blood,Can ye waft the old watchwords again?"For Scotland and Christ" the breezes of oldO'er the wilds of the Westland bore,From the Lugar and Nith to the Lothian Frith,And the German Ocean's shore.And where'er they blew, a prayer was breathedAnd a holy psalm was sung;And hands were clasped and the banner graspedWhen the Covenant watchword rung.O for the brave true hearts of old,That bled when the banner perished!O for the faith that was strong in death. . . .The faith that our fathers cherished!The banner might fall, but the spirit hved,And liveth forevermore;And Scotland claims, as her noblest names,The Covenant men of yore.Poets and Poetry of the Covenant

THE COVENANTERWITNESSOfficial organ of the ReformedPresbyterian Church of N. A.• CVANMUCAl HIM ASMdATMNEditor: Rev. M. W. Dougherty, D.D.125 N. 4th StreetSterling, Kansas 67579Phone 316 — Br. 8 • 3472Printed each Wednesday under the supervision of theBoard of Publication by The Patterson Press, Winchester,Kansas 66097.Contributing Editors: Department Editors:Rev. Kenneth Smith Rev. John TweedDr. G. M. RobbMrs. Robert B. MaineRev. John McMillan Mrs. Willis EdgarRev. C. E. Caskey Rev. John K. GaultOpinions expressed in our columns are those of theindividual writer, not necessarily the views of the ReformedPresbyterian Church or the editor.All material to appear in The Covenanter Witnessshould be typewritten, double-spaced, and should be inSterling, Kansas two weeks before it is to be printed.The cost of all pictures is 30 cents per square inch.Obituaries — All words in excess of one hundred fifty,one cent per word. Money should accompany such notices.SUBSCRIPTION RATESIndividual (1 year): U.S. and Canada, $4.00, BritishIsles 35/-, all other places, $5.00;Individual (2 year): U.S. and Canada, $7.00, BritishIsles 63/-, all other places, $9.00;Group: U.S. and Canada, $3.00, British Isles 28/-, allother places, $4.00.9-month student subscription — $1.50; 5-month introductoryoffer —$1.00; 2 gift subscriptions to persons outsideof the R. P. Church — $2.00 each. Single copies, 10c.Subscription Agent for U.S. and Canada: Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Subscription Agent for the British Isles: Rev. HughWright, B.A., 12, Knutsford Drive, Belfast 14, NorthernIreland.All checks should be made payable to The CovenanterWitness in U. S. currency.Give one month's notice of a change of address. Sendboth the new and the old address to Mrs. M.W. Dougherty.Postmaster: Please send Form 3579 to Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Second class postage paid at Winchester, Kansas 66097WE HOLD THE FOLLOWING TO BE TRUTHS OF SCRIPTURE:The Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the only infalliblerule of faith and conduct.The Trinitarian conception of the Godhead.Faith in Jesus Christ as the only way of salvation.Salvation by Grace.Assurance of salvation as a possible Christian experience.The Gospel Call and Election.The Holy Spirit as the Author of regeneration.Sanctification through the cooperating agency of the Holy Spirit.The fact of death and hell as the destiny of the lost and heavenas the destiny of the saved.That the Church of Jesus Christ consists of all those who believein Him together with their children.The Divine Right of the Presbyterian form of Church Government.The Lord Jesus Christ as the only King and Head of His Church.That terms of membership or communien are esieatial to thewelfare of the Church.Quote -The Psalter, composed under the inspirationof the Holy Spirit, is the common possession of thewhole family of God, its ordained manual of praise.It is the oldest hymnbook in existence, having aconnected record through thousands of years downto our own times, and it is consecrated forever ashaving been the hymnary of our Savior and of theApostolic Church. In the Hght of its agelong history,of its rich poetry, of its unsectarian, catholic character,of its freedom from error, of its well-proportionedthought, of its theological depth and spiritualquality, of its wealth of evangehcal matter, of itssupremacy in the utterance of devotion and religiousexperience, and of the unexampled strainsin which it celebrates the glories of God, there isample occasion for the plea that the church ofChrist recognize in the Psalter their heritage ofsacred song, as against a human hymnody with itsnecessary imperfections.— The Psalms in WorshipThis Week's WitnessOh Sing! 323Psalter Revision? 323Glimpses of the Rehgious World . 324The Mode of Baptism . 325Translation Or Paraphrase? ... .... 327Where Is Peace? 328Fighting Fists 330Lesson Helps . . . 331Scribe With a Hard Pencil 333Church News 334The duty which rests upon officers to maintain discipline andpreserve the purity of the Church.Spiritual worship as a divine requirement mediated through theLord Jesus Christ.The exclusive use of the Psalms in the worship of the Church.The Protestant interpretation of the Sacraments.The divine right of the institution of Marriage and that it is notto be dissolved except by adultery or "irremediable" desertion.The Sabbath as a day sacred to rest and worship.The duty of nations and their civil rulers to honor Christ asKing of Kings and Lord of Lords.That Christian citizens are under obligation to obey lawful authority.The right and duty of the Christian citizen to dissent from allgovernmental and national disobedience to the Law of God.That the C»vena»ts ef the past are still binding.Frem "The Comniunjc ant's Class" by J. B. Tweed322 COVENANTER WITNESS

EditorialCommentOH SING!God Himself has revealed to man that He hasmade a place in His plan for singing. The greatinvisible host of heaven, when made visible to man,was a heavenly choir singing glory to God, at theincarnation of our Lord.We know it is a gift of God to man, for He hasa whole book in His Word to be used in singing Hispraise. Over and over again we read the appeal,the invitation, the command, "Oh sing."In the New Testament Church the bloody sacrificeof animals is withdrawn. Now we have thesacrifice of praise. Since this form of sacrificialworship is ordered by the same God who required theoffering of animals in the Old Testament, we maysafely assume He requires that the subject of thesacrifice meet the same specifications. The offeringmust be of the best to be acceptable to God.Perhaps it is in this detail that we fall short inour praise more than in others. Little or no care isgiven to singing our very best. Effort to sing togetheris sometimes forgotten. Punctuation isignored and if the idea requires two lines, we put acomma or a period at the end of the line, leaving"The quiet waters by" to rest in peace.God created man with a mind that has thoughts,emotions, and will. These gifts enter into our worship.To express our thoughts we use words and Hehas given us a vocabulary in the Psalms which Hewill accept for the Psalms are His own Word.One may have varied emotions, depending uponcircumstances and experiences. Emotions are expressedin tone. The greatest variation of tone isfound in singing. God has given man a voice to usefor this purpose. All of this must be done with thewhole heart, and the right condition of the heart isnot to be minimized.In order that men may sing together, we havewhat we call tunes. These are put together with thewords in what we call The Psalter. To express thewords of a Psalm, to portray the proper emotion,makes it necessary to have a tune which will be aproper and comfortable vehicle in which the wordsof praise may ride to the throne of God. Words cannot be fittingly sung to just any tune.Our Synod has appointed a committee to reviseNOVEMBER 22, 1967our present Psalter. This involves finding tunes thatwill suit the meaning and sentiment of the Psalmsso that they may be sung more meaningfully. Thisis a huge task.In The Covenanter Witness you will be readingarticles which have been sent through the committeeto the editor. They are not necessarily the expressionof the editor or of the church. They are the thoughtsand opinions of individuals who are seeking to aidin the work of improving our book of praise.The chairman of the committee, Mr. CharlesMcBurney, requests that you send your "aints."plaints, complaints, and suggestions to him. Thecommittee will welcome any HELP that you cangive.With God's blessing upon this work, in the futurewe shall be able to respond more fully to the greatinjunction, "Oh sing!"PSALTER REVISION?In 1965 Synod appointed a committee to determinewhether a revision of The Book of PsalmsWith Music, 1950 edition, might encourage a moreeffective use of Psalms in worship, both by veteransat Psalm-singing and by novices. The pages ofThe Covenanter Witness have been opened for expressionof viewpoints regarding versions, tunes,and format of the ideal Psalter, so that all interestedreaders can be aware of the suggestions coming toSynod's committee and can share in their carefulconsideration.Please send your ideas and articles to CharlesMcBurney, Geneva College, Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania,15010, for editing. We cannot promise pubhcationof all contributions, but he has promised notto attach names except to direct quotations.Some provocative reading is already availableon the question of how literal the metrical versionsof the Psalms should be. In this issue is an introductionto the problem under the title, "Translation orParaphrase?" written by the chairman of the committee.See page 327GLIMPSES OF THE RELIGIOUS WORLDFrom page 324at Yale University, for a "reformation of the Americanconscience." The Rev. George Hunston Williams,Hollis Professor of Harvard Divinity School, hailedthe student action as an indication of "moral courage."323

SBGlimpses of the Religious WorldSYRIA PROCLAIMS MISSION WORK ENDED"The era of missionary work in Syria has endedfor good," Minister of Education Sulayman al-Khushsaid in a statement at Damascus announcing theconfiscation of all private, largely church-sponsored,schools.Although his remarks were directed againstChristian educational activity, observers believe thathis announcement indicates a campaign againstall rehgious education, including that of Islam,Syria's predominant rehgion and a source of continuingresistance to many policies of the Socialistgovernment.All education in Syria will now be secular, Mr.al-Khush announced.He said schools were confiscated because of theirrefusal to follow an official curriculum which wasmade mandatory in a decree issued on September 9.The former owners of the schools will be financiallyreimbursed, he added. Rehgious tension in Syriaduring the past year has been based chiefly onmutual opposition between the leftist government ofthe Baath Party and the largely conservative leadershipof Islam. It has been complicated further bythe uneasy and sometimes openly hostile relationsbetween Syria and two monarchist Arab nations,Jordan and Saudi-Arabia. (EP)EAST GERMANS LIMIT OBSERVANCE ATWITTENBERGAs this column is being written, the 450thanniversary of the posting of Luther's 95 Theses onthe church door in Wittenberg is being commemorated.There is strong evidence, according to theNew York Times, that for a while the East Germansplanned to use the anniversary of the Reformationto make a great propaganda appeal on behalf of"national consciousness" in the name of their "GermanDemocratic Repubhc." Buildings in Wittenbergwere being repaired and restored at governmentexpense, and the claim was being made that Luther'sprotest against church abuses initiated a revolutionarydevelopment which culminated in the establishmentof the German Communist state.Then late in August the East German InteriorTHE REV. JOHN McMILLANR. D. 1, Bex 337WALDEN, NEW YORKMinistry declared that only those Western churchmensympathetic to the Communist regime wouldbe allowed in. Western correspondents who hadapphed for visas to attend the celebrations were alsoadvised that they could not be admitted. Finally,because of the Communist domination of theJubilee, even the East German Lutheran Churchleaders, with few exceptions, were staying away.Thus, the Times reported "the 450th anniversaryof the Reformation finds Germany divided again,not between Catholics and Protestants, as in Luther'sday, but between capitalist and communist ideologies."NEW POLICY FOR OVERSEAS MISSIONARIES(EP) A new policy will govern the terms of servicefor missionaries in foreign lands served by theForeign Missions Board of the Assembhes of God.An 18-month study preceded an announcementby the Rev. J. Philip Hogan, foreign missions executivedirector for the Pentecostal denomination,that a standard four-year term will become effectivethis year, allowing few exceptions."The length of service abroad for a term wasformerly from three to six years," Hogan said. "Nowthat no airport is more than 36 hours away from anyspot on earth the board felt this change was needed."DRAFT CARDS BURNING AT THE ALTAR(EP) The Arhngton Street Unitarian-UniversalistChurch in Boston was the scene of a dramatic anti-Vietnam War protest when some 67 college studentsset fire to their draft cards from the flame of analtar candle and 214 others gave their cards toclergymen to be forwarded to the Justice Departmentin Washington, D. C.The demonstration was part of a national movementto resist the U. S. Selective Service Act.Protesters included theological students andothers from New England colleges "who cannotkeep faith with themselves and their rehgious convictions"without taking a stand against the draftsystem.The card burning followed a passionate plea bythe Rev. Wilham Sloane Coffin, Protestant chaplainSee page 323324 COVENANTER WITNESS

The Mode of BaptismBy Rev. J. G. Vos, D. D.(Continued from last issue)In dealing with the baptism of the Ethiopianeunuch by Philip (Acts 8:26-40), Murray states thatthis incident proves nothing about the mode ofbaptism one way or the other. It has been used bothby immersionists to prove immersion and by antiimmersioniststo prove non-immersion. The immersionistshave stressed the words "went down intothe water" as proving immersion, while anti-immersionistshave argued that in such a desert regionthere could not have been deep enough water forimmersion. Murray points out that it is a meresurmise that there could not have been enoughwater for immersion. Even in desert country thereare ponds and reservoirs in places. On the otherhand, the words "went down into the water," ifthey prove anything, prove too much, for it is explicitlystated that both Philip and the Eunuch"went down into the water." Therefore if this meansthat the eunuch was immersed it means that Philipwas immersed also. But even Baptists do not supposethat Philip as the administrator of the baptismwas himself completely immersed under the water.It is entirely possible that Philip did immerse theeunuch, but the passage does not prove that he did.All that it proves is that they descended to thewater level and stood at the edge or in the shallowwater near the edge. Hence this passage provesnothing about the mode of baptism.In dealing with the baptism administered byJohn the Baptist, Murray demonstrates that it neednot have been immersion. The fact that John at onetime baptized at Aenon near Salim "because therewas much water there" (John 3:23) and on anotheroccasion baptized "in the Jordan" (Matt. 3:6) havebeen appealed to as proving that the mode wasimmersion. It may very likely have been immersion,but there is no real proof that it was. Even forbaptism bv pouring "much water" would be needed,because great multitudes flocked to the baptism ofJohn. And apart from the water actually used in therite of baptism, so many people, many of whomhad travelled long distances, would need considerablequantities of water for drinking, washing andfor their animals. The water supply of an ordinaryPalestinian community would have been quite disruptedby such unusual demands upon its resources.The statement that John baptized "in the riverJordan" is no more than a designation of the locationwhere he was working, and carries no implicationas to the mode of administration of the riteitself.Murray's general conclusion with regard to theterminology of Baptism in the Bible is as follows:"On the basis of such considerations as these,derived from both Old and New Testaments, we areled to the conclusion that though the word baptizoand its cognates can be used to denote an actionperformed by immersion yet they may also be usedto denote an action that can be performed by avariety of modes. Consequently the word baptizoitself cannot be pleaded as an argument for thenecessity of immersion as the mode of baptism"(op. cit., p. 29).Turning to the actual instances of the administrationof baptism in the New Testament, it shouldbe noted first of all that these are extremely scanty.We have only a few recorded baptisms, and whatis said about them is told in a very few words ineach case. There are statements about groups ofpeople being baptized, and even of three thousandon a single occasion (Acts 2:41). But in no case arewe told just how the rite was performed. It is hardlyeven possible to say whether baptism was performedindoors or out of doors. The three thousand baptizedat Pentecost presumably received the rite in theopen air, but this cannot be proved. The Philippianjailer was baptized with his household at midnightNOVEMBER 22, 1967 325

(Acts 16:33), but the location is not stated. Nor dowe know the place and circumstances of the baptismof Cornelius and his household (Acts 10:47, 48). InActs 8:12 we read of a group of people in Samariabeing baptized, and in verse 13 Simon the Sorcererwas baptized. Again, in Acts 9:18 Saul of Tarsuswas baptized at Damascus, and in Acts 16:15 weread of the baptism of Lydia of Phihppi. In none ofthese cases is there any real evidence as to the modeof administration of baptism. As it was by a riverside that Lydia heard Paul preach, we may supposethat she was baptized in that same river, but againthere is no evidence that it was by immersion. Theseinstances of baptism in the book of Acts provenothing one way or the other about the mode ofbaptism. At most they may suggest possibihties orwhat may seem to some to be probabilities, but nocertainties. It is a mistake to use these cases inargument against immersionists, for nothing isproved, and the impression is given that our casemust be very weak if we have to resort to such inconclusivedata to prove our point. The case forimmersion remains unproved. Neither the terminologyof Baptism in the Bible nor the recorded instancesof the administration in the New Testamentprove the immersionists' claim.Another main line of immersionist argumentis built upon the idea that the essential meaning ofbaptism is burial and resurrection with Christ,which, it is claimed, is dramatized or portrayed byimmersion and emergence from the water, butwhich cannot be portrayed by either sprinkling orpouring. This argument is often presented with agreat show of plausibility, and is perhaps regardedby many immersionists as their main proof for thenecessity of immersion.The starting point for this argument is thepassage in Romans 6:2-6, together with a partialparallel in Colossians 2:12. The passage in Romansstates that Christians are baptized into Christ's deathand that "we are buried with him by baptism intodeath" (Rom. 6:3, 4); that in Colossians speaks ofChristians as buried with Christ in baptism. On thebasis of these two passages it is claimed by immersioniststhat the primary or basic meaning of baptismis burial, and that only immersion can portrayburial. Therefore, it is claimed, these two passagesin Paul's Epistles absolutely require that immersionbe regarded as the only valid mode of baptism.Several things may be said in answer to thisimmersionist claim. In the first place, it is notcorrect to say that the basic meaning of baptism isburial and resurrection. It would be more nearlycorrect to say that the basic meaning of baptism iscleansing or washing. But even this would not beexactly correct, either. The basic meaning of baptismis union with the Triune God, hence participation inthe benefits of God's plan of redemption throughthe mediatorial work of Christ. It is not necessaryto take time in this lecture to give the proof of thisproposition in detail. It is given convincingly byMurray in the book already cited, and has beengiven by other authors. Something may be said aboutit, however. The Great Commission of our Lordincludes the command to baptize "in the name ofthe Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit."Literally it is into the name — the Greek prepositioneis following by the accusative case (Matt. 28:19). Ifit were only into the name of the Son, we mightthink that cleansing or purification must be thebasic meaning of baptism — that as water cleansesaway dirt, so the blood of Jesus Christ cleansesaway sin. But baptism is into the name of the divineTrinity, not simply into the name of Jesus Christ.It signifies a relationship to God the Father and theHoly Spirit as well as a relationship to Christ. Hencecleansing by Christ's atoning blood cannot be itssole import. The Israehtes were baptized "into Moses"or "unto Moses" (1 Cor. 10:2), meaning that theycame to participate in a relationship to Moses, byvirtue of which they received special benefits. Butthey were not cleansed from sin by the blood ofMoses. The basic idea is therefore not simply .cleansing. Nor is the basic idea burial and resurrection,which would not at all fit the idea of theIsraelites being baptized "into Moses". The basic andinclusive meaning of baptism, therefore, is unionwith the Triune God.However the benefits of this union come primarilythrough Christ, the atoning Mediator, andChristianity is pre-eminently the rehgion of redemptionthrough the shed blood of Christ, which cleansesfrom all sin. Therefore it is correct to say that subordinatelyto the basic meaning of union with theTriune God, baptism signifies cleansing from theguilt of sin. It is not correct to say that the basicmeaning of baptism is burial and resurrection. Incontroversy with immersionists, it is necessary toinsist upon this point. For if we allow the claim thatbaptism basically signifies burial, it will prove futileto argue further as to the precise import of the passagesin Romans and Colossians.(To be continued next issue)326 COVENANTER WITNESS

TRANSLATION OR PARAPHRASE?Use of the title, The Book of Psalms With Music,places quotation marks around every word. Just howaccurate are the metrical versions we use? Can theybe called "literal translations"? Should we be singingmore exactly what the Holy Spirit dictated, shouldwe be trying to find more beautiful ways to expressHis general ideas, or should we "leave well enoughalong"?As a brief introduction to later discussion ofthese questions in the Witness, let us review somechanges made in the 1950 edition of the Psalter.The task assigned by Synod in 1948 to a specialcommittee was "to recommend the elimination orcorrection of unnecessary, awkward, or inaccurateversions now authorized." Synod did not approvethe elimination of any versions but did accept afew changes.As you compare the Authorized Version (AV)with the metrical translation in the 1929 and 1950editions of The Book of Psalms With Music, answerthese questions: Was this change for the rightpurpose and in the right direction? Should similarchanges be made for the same purposes and in thesame directions?Psalm 18:19AV: He brought me forth also into a large place;he dehvered me, because he dehghted in me.1929: He to a place where libertyAnd room were, hath me brought;Because he took dehght in meHe my deliv'rance wrought.1950: He brought me forth into a placeOf spacious liberty;And with dehverance He wroughtTo show delight in me.Psalm 18:22AV: For all his judgments were before me, and Idid not put away his statutes from me.1929: His judgments were before me, IHis laws put not from me.1950: His judgments I have noted well,His laws put not from me.Psalm 22:9aNOVEMBER 22, 1967AV: But thou art he that took me out of the womb.1929: But thou art he out of the wombThat didst me safely take;1950: But thou art He that from the wombDidst me in safety take.Psalm 28:8AV: The Lord is their strength, and he is thesaving strength of his anointed.1929: The Lord's their strength, the saving strengthOf his anointed king.1950: Jehovah is their saving strength;Messiah is their King.Psalm 92:14AV: They shall still bring forth fruit in old age;they shall be fat and flourishing.1929: And in old age when others fadeThey fruit stiU forth shall bring;They shall be green and full of sapAnd ever flourishing:1950: And in old age when others fadeTheir boughs with fruit shall bend;They shall be hale and hearty still,Their hfe in vigor end.Psalm 127:3AV: Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord;and the fruit of the womb is his reward.1929: Lo, children are God's heritage,The womb's fruit his reward.1950: Lo, children are God's heritage,And offspring His reward.Psalm 133:2AV: It is like the precious ointment upon the head,that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron'sbeard: that went down to the skirts of hisgarments.1929: For it is hke the precious oilOutpoured on Aaron's head,That down the beard and to the skirtsUpon his garments spread.See back page327

Our Youth *TSttflhWWhere Is Peace?Edna Janes KayserMarcell Hughes left the telephone and leanedshakily against the wall of her home.She repeated the words Vicki her sister hadspoken, "Alden was in a car stealing scrape. Hewill have to serve time now."Marcell felt hke she was standing on quicksand.Alden was her nephew. She loved him so, he seemedhke her very own. He had been such a dear httleboy. She remembered when at her house he hadaccepted "the free gift of salvation from wrath andsin receiving Jesus Himself, and all the benefits Hepurchased with His own blood."Just this morning Marcell thought it to be abeautiful world. The glittering sun on the larkspursand the roses warmed her heart.Where was peace now? What could God doabout this? She chided herself as her faith wavered.But thoughts came surging in hke storm tidesat sea. Alden hadn't been loved as a child shouldhave been. Vicki wouldn't be a Christian. She divorcedher husband. Alden was left alone too much.Was this the price of Vicki's sins? Because she hadrefused the Lord of her dear parents?Marcell knelt down by her bed and talked withthe Lord Jesus, remembering "... God is love." Shefelt refreshed. She must hurry because she was tosing at the httle mission tonight. She walked throughthe violet-blue dusk, praying for Alden as she went.It was like a dagger piercing her heart, becauseshe knew how Alden had suffered in this un-Christianhome. There were the punishments too severe.But Vicki needed help, she knew. In her heart,Marcell cried out to God for both of them.She saw as never before the great importanceof a Christian home — where parents loved andadored the dear Lord Jesus Christ. Boys hke Aldenshould be brought up to glorify the Lord.Marcell was grateful that she had done all shecould. But it wasn't enough. Alden needed a mother— a father who belonged to the Saviour.Now at the mission Marcell slipped inside. Shewatched quietly as the men filed in. She looked ateach one with Jesus' compassion. How they neededGod! The marks of sin were there — welded likeiron on each face.One young boy came in alone. He touched herheart. She thought of Alden. Her throat tightened.Silently she prayed for him.She heard evangehst Norris Medford's words.It seemed to Marcell that he had been there andsuffered at the foot of the cross too. Compassionhke a fountain was pouring from his mouth. "Nomatter how low you have fallen, the Lord Jesusinvites you to come to Him. His precious blood is foryou, if you will accept His offer of salvation. Theysneered at Him. They smashed the face of God. Hebore the cruel lash — the hate — the agony. . .No, they could not break Him — because He lovedyou sol"Marcell felt the power of God — the love permeatingthe room like the overpowering fragranceof rare, exquisite flowers. A sweetness of purity andpeace fell upon these men.When she arose and sang, a number of the menand the young lad rushed to the altar.The moment came when she knelt by the younglad's side. Marcell assured him of God's love. Hewhispered hoarsely, "I — I never had any love.My parents divorced. I just drifted.""Just open your heart and the Lord Jesus willfillit with Himself. More than you can hold. "...for God is love."The boy wept and nodded."You can stay righthere at the mission," Marcellcontinued. "Mr. Medford will help you. You willfind work and a brand new life in the dear Saviour.God forgives freely."328 COVENANTER WITNESS

The boy looked up and exclaimed, "I do havelove at last!"When Marcell left the mission she thanked Godfor loving this lonely, lost, unwanted lad.She hurried home. But thoughts about Aldennagged at her. They were spread out in her mindlike a dark pattern with all of the pieces fitted in unevenly.Not one part was together. It had never beenright for Alden at Vicki's house. God was not at thecenter!She remembered His words, for the Lord hadsaid that without me ye can do nothing.But Vicki wouldn't give up and take the Lord.Alden didn't have a chance.Grief tore at Marcell's heart. What could she do?It was like an avalanche had swept away her hope.But she was not alone. The Holy Spirit broughtremembrance of Him. "And we know that all thingswork together to good for them that love God, tothem who are called according to his purpose"(Romans 8:28).And it flashed into her mind that she couldnever have sung as she did — had she not sufferedso for Alden. When had she ever known such compassionfor others? And the young lad was bornagain.New glory and understanding was thrust intoher hfe. Her mind was once more merged with God'sin His assurance.She knew God was a master mender of hearts."The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hathanointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; hehath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preachdehverance to the captives, and recovering of sightto the bhnd, to set at hberty them that are bruised"(Luke 4:18).Was there anything too hard for Him — theKing of kings?Marcell hastened up to her door. There wasVicki — huddled in the porch swing. Her face wasdefiant!"Why Vicki — it's you!""Yes, I came to tell you I'm leaving. I'll putmiles between me and this. I can't bear the disgrace.""But Alden?""There's nothing I can do.""But you won't visit him? Cheer him up?""I don't care anymore. Nothing I do does anygood," Vicki seethed."Without Christ we can do nothing," Marcellreasoned."Stop," Vicki commanded. "Don't bring that up!""Come in, Vicki. Let's have a bite to eat. Somethingto warm you up. A delicious something.""No, Marcell. My car is at the side. I'm going."With that Vicki jumped off the porch and sped outof sight.Marcell stepped inside, closed the door, andsank into the velour chair. She laid her head downon the arm of the chair and wept.It was too much. She had prayed so deeply —so long for Vicki. Why must Vicki always turn theother way?Marcell felt baffled. But hke a dove the HolySpirit hovered close. "Beheve on the Lord JesusChrist, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house"(Acts 16:31).Marcell lifted her tired face and whispered, "Ohdear Lord, thank you for reminding me."That night she prayed long and deeply. Shedrifted off to sleep.It was in the early morning hours that she heard— a knock at the door.She called, "Who is it?""It's Vicki."Marcell let her in."I — I couldn't go. Because there was Alden.It haunted me. He can't face it alone."Like in the old days — way back before Vickirebelled, she and Marcell chatted far into the dawn.Vicki confessed, "My hfe is a total mess! Nothingwent right. What you said hit me like a bullet.About we can do nothing without Christ. That followedme every mile of the way. It cleared things uptoo. Everything I did failed. I had to come back."Vicki was in tears.Cautiously Marcell asked, "Would you hke tctake our dear parents' Saviour for your very own?"Vicki nodded. "I'll never make it without Him.It's too deep. Think of what I lost. And about Alden!"But Vicki — God is the mender of broken hearts.God is love. He forgives. He will restore Alden untoHimself. We can pour our love into Alden now. Itwill count big at this time. He needs us."Marcell, how faithful you have been. You neverforgot.""God never forgot," Marcell reminded her. "Andall things do work together for good to those wholove God and we do!" Marcell enthused.Marcell felt the lovehness of the moment. Thedazzling sun on the larkspurs and the roses wouldwarm her heart again tomorrow. Vicki and shewere immersed in God's love. Peace was here. ForChrist was their peace!NOVEMBER 22, 1967 329

y Patty SchultzA PAGE FOR JUNIORSFIGHTINGFISTS"Look, Mommie, look!" Charlotte was excited."Look, oh, look! Mary Jo," echoed her secondgradesister."See, see!" little Jo Ellen added her comment tothe commotion.Charlotte tried to explain their discovery, "Mommie,look here! We have ten fingers. God gave Mosesten commandments. Wise King Solomon told us tobind the commandments on our fingers. See, Mommie,we have a finger for each of the ten commandments.Mary Jo, Jo Ellen and I made up a fingerplay. Look! As we say one of God's rules I'll putone of my fingers down. Watch, Mommie, pleasewatch!"Mary Jo quickly recited, "Don't lie. Don't steal.Don't covet — that means to be happy, contented,with whatever you have."Jo Ellen added, "Don't kill"The girls had four fingers down on their lefthand. They paused to think. Charlotte continued,"Don't commit adultery. God planned that just onefather and one mother hve together and raise httlechildren to be Christians."I smiled, "Yes.""See, Mommie! We have a fist full of fingersthat tell us how to love one another. Jesus said thatthere were really just two commandments: First, tolove God more than anything else — even more thanyou, Mommie, or Daddy Zeno; second, God wantsus to love people — everybody. Two fists — right,love God; left, love one another.""Charlotte, I love you. You've really hstened toyour (Sabbath) school teachers and Bible stories.I love you, Mary Jo. I love you, Ellie.""Wait, Mommie. Please hsten! Our right handhas five fingers too. It's the most important becausethe first five commandments tell what to do toshow God that we love Him."Mary Jo was prepared, "Don't worship any other"You mean, 'Children, obey your parents,'"Charlotte corrected Mary Jo.I interrupted, "You're both right. God said tohonor our father and mother. If we keep God'scommandments we will both love and obey ourparents; God too, because God is our real Father.He created, made us." The girls nodded in agreement.Charlotte had both of her hands in tight fists,"Mommie, We have two fighting fists. We can resistthe devil just like James told us to do. Grumblingand complaining, anger and fighting, selfishnessand greed can't hve in our home because we willpoke them on their noses with our fighting fists."Jo Ellen giggled as Charlotte shadow-boxed thedevil."Charlotte, Mommie has a suggestion. Pleaseshow the children in your (Sabbath) school class thenew finger play so they can keep the devil out oftheir homes, too.""I will! I will!" Charlotte promised."I will!" Mary Jo pledged."Me, too!" added httle Ellie.The Free MethodistWHO AND WHERE PUZZLEby Elinor F. MealIn each group of letters is the name of a wellknownBible person and the name of his home town.The letters in the name are in the correct order;those in the name of the home town are scrambled.Can you find them from the clues?1. S E M E M U A A L J R E KCompanion of Paul on his first missionaryjourney.2. B E P T H E T S E A I R D ALeader of the Twelve.3. T B D L A H V E E E I M D HA very good king.4. N O L I U C T K H E ABeloved physician.gods. Don't make idols or images — hke the monkey 5. E H M Y A A R B T H A Ngods we saw on television. Don't swear."Sister of Lazarus."Go to (Sabbath) school and church, and rest in Answers:the afternoon," was Jo Ellen's interpretation of thefourth commandment."And love Daddy and Mommie."Biniep\[ -g qooiiuy — a^nq -^ uiaqajmag — ptAEQ '£•Aireqjaa —Bpresqrpa — jajaj; z uiapsmaf — >{iBp\[ 'I330 COVENANTER WITNESS

j Lesson Helps for the Week of December 17,1967 jI ______ __ ___ _ ____ ^Sabbath SchoolLessonfor December 17, 1967.KEEPING LIFE'S COVENANTS:Malachi 1 and 2.Comments by John K. Gault.The name Malachi means "mymessenger." Where the prophet livedor came from is not known. Some eventhink that Malachi was not the personalname of the prophet else itwould have had the suffix yah at theend of the name, indicating, "Jehovah,my messenger."It seems to be agreed that Malachilived sometime after the restoration,probably during the times of Ezra andNehemiah, after the second templewas built, which was not nearly asmagnificent as the first temple hadbeen.1: Realizing the Love of God.Malachi said, as God directed him,"I have loved you." One might inferthat some of the people were doubtingthat God really did love them. Theywere poor and the land was greatlyimpoverished. In answer to Malachithey asked, "Wherein has thou lovedus?" The prophet answered them byciting the case of Esau and Jacob."Was not Esau Jacob's brother? saiththe Lord: yet I loved Jacob, and I hatedEsau, and laid his mountains and hisheritage waste for the dragons of thewilderness." God has decided whomHe will love and whom He will notlove. Israel was populated by the descendantsof Jacob, and so He couldsay, "I have loved you."Edom, the country populated bythe descendants of Esau, said, "We willreturn and build the desolate places,"yet "against them the Lord hath indignationfor ever." Israel, therefore,should realize that God loved her andshe should arise and build the desolateplaces. This realization of the loveof God is one essential in keepinglife's covenants.2: Worship Must Be Acceptable toGod.NOVEMBER 22, 1967This is another essential in keepinglife's covenants. Israel had failed inthis capacity also, as she had failedto realize the love of God. Evidentlythe priests were not careful to honorGod as they should have been. Theprophet said in 1:6, "A son honorethhis father, and a servant his master:if then I be a father, where is minehonor? and if I be a master, whereis my fear? saith the Lord of hostsunto you, O priests, that despise myname. And ye say, wherein have wedespised thy name?"The people under direction of thepriests offered moldy bread upon thealtar, and lame and sick animals were,likewise, brought for the sacrifice.Malachi ironically suggests to themto "offer it now unto thy governor;will he be pleased with thee, or acceptthy person? saith the Lord of hosts."The civil ruler would never acceptsuch a gift; much less the Lord, theruler over the whole universe. Godhad commanded that only the best wasto be offered to Him. If there was anydefect about the offering it would beunacceptable to God. This should bethe concern of the modern church ifshe is to keep life's covenants.3: One Should Not Have a MercenarySpirit.In relaying the message of theLord, Malachi said, "Who is there evenamong you that would shut the doorsfor nought? neither do ye kindle afire on mine altar for nought. I haveno pleasure in you, saith the Lord ofhosts, neither will I accept an offeringat your hand." The priests would notexert themselves to do anything unlessthey were paid for it in some way. Thesmallest duties of the temple wereperformed only in this mercenaryspirit which prompted them to considerwhat they would get out of performingthe duty. People in themodern church often serve from thismotive also. It should be regarded asa privilege to work for the Lord eventhough the task is menial, or unremunerative.4: Covenants are Binding UponFuture Generations.In speaking for God, Malachi pronounceda curse upon the priestsbecause they had allowed the keepingof the covenant to become polluted.(2:3) He said, "And ye shall know thatI have sent this commandment untoyou, that my covenant might be withLevi, saith the Lord of hosts. M>covenant was with him of life andpeace; and I gave them to him for thefear wherewith he feared me, andwas afraid before my name. The lawof truth was in his mouth, and iniquit>was not found in his lips: he walkedwith me in peace and equity, and didturn many away from iniquity" (2:4-6).God gave the terms of the covenantto Levi in the first place. The descendantsof Levi had been consecrated forthe purpose of conducting the worshipof the tabernacle and the temple. Theyserved faithfully and well for manygenerations but their successors atthe time of Malachi had failed to liveup to the requirements. The prophetsaid, "For the priests' lips should keepknowledge, and they should seek thelaw at his mouth: for he is the messengerof the Lord of hosts. But yiare departed out of the way; ye havecaused many to stumble at the law;ye have corrupted the covenant ofLevi, saith the Lord of hosts" (2:7, 8).Israel had failed to maintain thistandards set by the covenants. "Thereforehave I made you contemptibleand base before all the people, accordingas ye have not kept my ways,but have been partial in the law"(v. 9). A covenant with God is notsomething to be outgrown or nullifiedby the actions of new gnerations.Therefore, we learn in our fifth termof communion "that the Covenantentered into in 1871 is binding uponthe Reformed Presbyterian Churchof North America."5: People Keep Life's CovenantbyBeing Honorable.Evidently many in Israel and inJudah failed to do this. Malachi saidin 2:10, "Have we not all one Father?hath not God created us? why do w

of our fathers?" The people did nottreat each other righteously. As membersof the human race people owe anobligation to every other member ofthe race. We are related to each otherby virtue of creation. The same Godcreated all; therefore, it is the covenantduty of every one to discharge hisobligations to all of the others regardlessof the color of their skin, or of thedifferences of learning or wealth.6: People Fail to Keep Life'sCovenants Through Violation of theMarriage Vows.The people of Israel had beenprohibited from intermarrying withthe heathen people of other nations.Malachi, therefore, condemned Judahfor so doing, as he said in 2:11, "Judahhath profaned the holiness of the Lordwhich he loved, and hath married thedaughter of a strange god." The covenantwith God is endangered wheneither party marries an unbeliever.Paul said in II Corinthians 6:14, "Beye not unequally yoked together withunbelievers: for what fellowship hathrighteousness with unrighteousness?and what communion hath light withdarkness?" The expression, "a strangegod" means a "strange religion." Christiansshould be careful whom theymarry.7: People Fail to Keep Life's CovenantsThrough Divorce.Many men in Israel and Judah becametired of their wives and so theydivorced them that they might marryyounger women. Malachi condemnsthem for this as he said in 2:14, 15,"Yet ye say, wherefore? because theLord hath been witness between theeand the wife of thy youth, againstwhom thou hast dealt treacherously:yet she is thy companion, and the wifeof thy covenant. — Therefore takeheed to your spirit, and let none dealtreacherously against the wife of thyyouth.""Lesson based on International SundaySchool Lessons: the International Bible Lessonsfor Christian Teaching, copyrighted 1963by the Division of Christian Education, NationalCouncil of Churches of Christ in theU.S.A."Junior Topicfor December 17, 1967.UNIT: GOD THE HOLY SPIRITLESSON NO. 3:GIVING LIFE AND SEALINGby Mrs. Edward ForestThe Lord Jesus Christ said verylittle about the work of the Holy Spirituntil toward the close of His life hereon earth. It is true that here andthere we were told some things regardingthe Spirit, and saw a littleof His work, but Christ really beganto teach us about the relationship ofthe Holy Spirit to men in the storyof Nicodemus. You remember that thisman Nicodemus came to see Christduring the night, to ask Him somequestions. He said, "We know thatyou have come from God, for no mancan do these miracles that you havedone, except God be with him." ThenJesus spoke a great new mystery andthought. "Except a man be born ofwater and of the Spirit, he cannotenter into the Kingdom of God." Jesusgave to the Holy Spirit the authorshipor the power of the new birth. Nicodemuswas very surprised, becausehe knew everyone is born when heis a small baby, but for a grown manto be born again, this was somethingnew to him. Of course, Christ wastelling him that he had to be bornspiritually, to accept Christ as hisSavior, and be forgiven of his sins,and then he would be born into thefamily of God. It is the Holy Spiritalone who can bring about this birth.A person who is not a true Christianis spiritually as dead as a soldieron the battlefield, who has been lyingdead on a road for days. Now to makethe soldier get up by himself and moveout of the road is impossible. Youcan talk to him and give him the bestadvice you can on how to get up andmove, and he will not get up. You canyell and make loud noises next to hisear and it will do no good. The soldieris dead! If he is to move, God wouldhave to come into his life and bringhim back to the living. Jesus did thiswith Lazarus who was already dead,so dead that his body had begun todecay and smell. (John 11:39) The samething is true in the spiritual world.If a person is spiritually dead (does notknow Christ) you can use all sorts ofmethods, promise him things, threatenhim with spending his life in hell, yellat him, or sit down and talk with himquietly. Yet, if the Holy Spirit doesnot give him spiritual life, he can nomore come to life spiritually, thancould the dead soldier get up and walkdown the road after he was killed.This is what Christ meant when Hetold Nicodemus that in order to beborn again, to have new life as aChristian, he must be born of theSpirit.I am sure you have all heard of theword seal or sealing. This sometimesmeans to close up something, anditstays closed. You have seen someoneseal an envelope by licking the edgeof the flap that has glue on it, andwhen it is pressed to the envelopewe say the envelope is sealed. Itcould also mean a type of ring witha special sign on the ring. Sometimesa man would put some soft wax ona paper and press his ring into thewax, so that the sign on the ringwould be easily seen in the wax, andthe paper would have his seal or signon it. When anyone saw the paperwith the man's seal or sign on it, theyknew that it came from him or belongedto him as it had his mark on it.Now God has made us a promise. Ifwe accept Jesus as our Savior and tryto do the things God tells us to do,we will be saved, and when we diewe will go to heaven to be with theLord. Now the Holy Spirit is sometimescalled the sealer of our beingsaved. The Holy Spirit comes to usand becomes part of our life when weaccept Jesus Christ as our Savior. Hehelps us to believe the Bible and whatGod is saying to us. He helps us tounderstand God more and more, andas we get to know God better, webecome surer and surer about ourbeing saved and that we will go toheaven. In a way He is sealing us toGod and Christ, bringing us closer allthe time to God, and we become likethe envelope sealed together. We alsowith have the mark or sign on ourhearts, the same way a man wouldput his mark from his ring into thesoft wax. Then people will know bythe way we act and live that we belongto Christ, and in this way the HolyFor it became him, for whom areSpirit has put God's seal on us. Ncall things, and by whom are all things,one, once we are sealed in Christ, hasin bringing many sons unto glory, tothe power to break that seal and sepamake the captain of their salvationrate us from God.perfect through sufferings.References: Eph. 4:30; John 6:63Hebrews 2:10.Romans 8:11; I Peter 3:18; II Cor. 3:6Memory Psalm: Psalm 119: part 5, P332 COVENANTER WITNESS

290, v. 3. In this verse we are againasking that we be turned away fromthe cares of this world that mighthinder us from doing our best for God.Our eyes should be set on God. Hehas given us His Son and His Wordand sent the Holy Spirit to teach, towitness, and to seal us to Himself sowe need to keep our hearts and ourlives turned to Him.For handwork I am going to giveyou two choices. First, you might liketo get a ring that has a mark on it thatwould show up if pressed in wax. Youcould use a drop of wax from anordinary candle. The drop of waxwould have to be almost solid for theimpression to show, but if you waituntil the wax is cooled and presslightly it will show. This is to showhow we can be sealed. Second, youmight like to show how the Spiritgives life. This can be done by drawinga picture of a very sick person, aperson, who is so sick that he ishelpless. A great doctor comes andprepares a medicine that would makethe patient well and strong again andyou might draw a spoonful of medicine.It is ready to give to the patient. Itis placed on the bedside table. Willthat cure the sick man? No. The patientis so sick he cannot take the medicinehimself. If no one can give the medicineto the man, he will surely diefor he is too sick to take it himself.So it is necessary for the doctor orsomeone sent by him to give themedicine. So the doctor sends anotherdoctor to give the sick man the medicine.This represents God's sendingthe Holy Spirit to give us the medicineof Jesus Christ to cure the sicknessof sin and give us life again in Him.Prayer MeetingTopicfor December 20, 1967.THEME:THE CHRISTIAN'S RESOURCESIN CHRIST: ASSURANCEby Dr. Adam Loughridge.Roman 8:31-39; John 10:28, 29.Suggested Psalms: 34:1-5, p. 81; 62:1-6, p. 152; 16:6-10, p. 27.Look carefully at the title of ourtopic. The subject of assurance cannot be discussed apart from Christ andour relationship with Him. Assuranceis not a feeling of confidence; it isNOVEMBER 22, 1967one of the privileges we enjoy inChrist. Assurance is based not onfeeling, but on the solid ground ofthe Word of God. In our Scripturepassages assurance of eternal salvationrests on the following truths:God's sovereign grace, workingnot against us, but for us;Christ's atoning sacrifice on thecross for our sins;Through the death of Christ ontheir behalf, the elect of God areno longer open to a charge againstthem;Christ died and rose again, notto condemn, but to intercede forus;Since there is no condemnationfor those who are in Christ Jesus,there is no separation betweenbelievers and their Lord in life ordeath or eternity.Security for salvation depends noton feeling, not on faith, but onthe power of God to keep us inface of all opposition.(John 10:28,29.)The Church of Rome denies thatit is possible for a Christian to haveassurance of salvation. Arminians notonly reject the doctrine of final perseveranceof God's saints, but consistentlywith this, the doctrine of assurance.We believe, however, that weare commanded by Scripture to giveall diligence to attain this assurance.(II Peter 1:5-11.) It would be profitableto look up the following Scripturetexts: I John 2:3, 5; I John 3:14,19; I John 5:13; Hebrews 6:11;II Timothy 1:12; II Timothy 4:6-8. These examples establish theprinciple that assurance of salvationis attainable by believers in this life.It may be weakened or even lost for aseason, especially in times of physicalweakness and temptation and disobedience.The enjoyment of assurance isrelated to a close walk with God andencourages believers to holy living.Questions for discussion.What is the difference betweenassurance and presumption?Discuss the relation between Christianassurance and Christian hope.Is assurance ever in conflict withfaith?See page 336Location can mean much, or it can mean little. One enterprising travelbureau now offers to ship tourists from New Zealand down to Antarctica andback for a paltry three thousand dollars. Another travel bureau will flyAmerican tourists to Hawaii and back for one fifth that amount. Strange asit may seem, the three thousand dollar Antarctica deal has plenty of takers. Itis refreshing to know that there are at least a few gallant souls among uswho crave the adventure of the frontiers rather than the luxury of our Hawaiianhotels. They don't mind frozen walrus blubber for breakfast.Location can mean much, or it can mean little. The same location can havedifferent meaning to different people. Outside of one of our midwesterncities, is a gently rolling area that is now covered with very fine suburbanhomes. An old timer was heard to remark, "I used to come away out here tohunt jack rabbits." His son exclaimed, "Jack rabbits! I remember this as thearea that I sub-divided and sold for city lots at a good profit!" His grandsonwill probably remember the same area as the location of his boyhood home,where he hung his sock by the fireplace at Christmas time.Location can mean much, or it can mean little. The same location can havedifferent meaning to different people. In the northern part of the country,there is situated a farm that has a barn yard south of the house. Most folks,passing it, would say "So what? It's just a barn yard!" To one of the elders inthe church it is much more than "just a barn yard." To him it is somethingakin to holy ground. He was standing in that barn yard when, after an earnesttalk with one of God's messengers, he gave his heart to Christ.Sometimes it would seem that "where" is not quite as important as "what"!333

SUBSCRIPTION NOTICESubscriptions are due from thesecongregations or groups, January 1,1967: Barnet, Blanchard, First BeaverFalls, British Isles, Broomall, CacheCreek, Cambridge, Denver, Geneva,Greeley, Hetherton, Lochiel, Minneola,New Alexandria, New Castle, OldBethel, Parnassus-Manchester, Phoenix,Portland, Sparta, Topeka, Union, WhiteLake, Winnipeg, Youngstown.INFORMATION WANTED.Anyone who can tell who wrote thefollowing, in what book published orwhere a copy of the whole poem canbe found please write to KennethMacLeod, 31 Royal Ave., Sydney, NovaScotia, Canada.'Twas in the days when ClaverhouseWas scouring moor and glenAnd put to death with bloody swordThose faithful Scottish men...NOTICETO SABBATH SCHOOL TEACHERSThe 1968 edition of Peloubet'sSelect Notes for the InternationalUniform Lesons is now available atyour book store. This is the 94th annualvolume of this high standard help.It is not just a book but a condensedlibrary in which other authorities arequoted so that the reader is gettingnot only the fine comments of WilburM. Smith but the opinions of otherBible students. The teacher is referredto other helps as well and the fullScripture text with its background isincluded in the discussion.The price of this edition is $3.25.Published by W. A. Wilde Company,10 Huron Drive, Natick, Massachusetts.MISS ELLA ADAMS"Lord, my firstfruits present themselvesto Thee, Yet not mine either;for from Thee they come."Through the years that Miss EllaAdams has been my friend, she alwayshad a special place in her purse forher tithe; thus she has taken herearthly treasures with her in death.No one was ever more faithful toher church and the Covenant than wasshe. She faithfully attended all the334services of the church and was usuallypresent at the W. C. T. U. meetingseven as her health failed. She oftenspoke of her gratitude for her Christianheritage.She gave much of herself for others.After being graduated from SterlingCollege, she taught school until it wasnecessary that she care for ailing parentsand a sister. Later she cookedin the Reformed Presbyterian Home;then at the Sterling Hospital; and wason night duty at the PresbyterianManor in Sterling for a time.As we bade her a sad farewell,she went rejoicing to join her lovedones in the heavenly home.Mrs. Olive McNeil for theSterling W. M. S.THANKSIt was our privilege for sevenmonths of this year to occupy theparsonage and enjoy the fellowship ofthe Montclair congregation. Thoughour service of the congregation waslimited to occasional preaching, wewere shown the love and considerationof a generous people. At a congregationalfellowship at the home of Dr.and Mrs. Wade Marsters, we werepresented with going-away presents;a sizeable cash gift and beautifulsweaters for each of our children. Forthis and many other acts of kindnesswe wish publicly to thank our friends,and to commend this congregation,now without pastoral leadership, tothe prayers of the whole church.The Wayne Spears1422 Edgewood AvenueRoslyn, Pa. 19001THANK YOU, YOUNGSTOWNOctober 15, 1967, was a sad day forall of us. We were leaving Youngstownand the Covenanter Church. A numberof the members of the congregationhad asked for their letters. Thecongregation which remained did notplan to continue having services. Weall had too many memories of happiertimes to take that occasion lightly.Nevertheless, we do thank the goodfolk in Youngstown for all their manykindnesses which they showed to usduring our ministry in their midst.There was always a spirit of kindnessand cooperation which we appreciated.We are happy to call the people withwhom we worked there our friends.We want to express our thanks tothe congregation for the generouscheck which they presented to us atthe farewell party which was held inour honor. We appreciate the spiritwhich lay behind the gift.The Wilsons...Thomas, Esther,Paul, Beverly, and GalenNEWBURGH, NEW YORKThe Newburgh congregation wishesto thank Mr. and Mrs. William Daytonfor the electric clock which they presentedfor the church auditorium.The W. M. S. members made contributionsduring the months of Julyand August for a gift of books to theRev. Toshio Masunaga and his familyin Japan, and also a cash gift to theReformed Presbyterian Home fortreats for the members.Several of our members attendedWhite Lake Camp either part time orfor the full encampment period. Mrs.Andrew Price was a counselor at theJunior Camp, as well as Miss LindaMcllwee and Mr. Tommie Price. Mr.and Mrs. Dan Bosch helped in thekitchen.During the past summer, Mr.Clarence Whitehill, member of theBoard of Trustees, has spent severaldays painting the outside of the parsonage.During the month of August, AlvinW. Smith III came to make his abodeat the parsonage, with little Gretchenand her mother and dad, Rev. and Mrs.Alvin W. Smith, Jr. We ask the Lord'sblessing on all of them, as they prepareto leave us for return to Cyprus.Out pastor attended and spoke atthe St. Lawrence Conference over theLabor Day week end. He also attendedthe New York Presbytery meeting atCambridge on October 10 and 11.Prayer meetings have been resumedafter a short lay off, due to vacations,etc. On Wedesday, October 19, a film,"Spiritual Relaxation," was shown.During Mr. Smith's vacation, EldersRobert Meneely and Andrew Price ledprayer meetings on September 17 and24. On September 24, a recorded sermonby Billy Graham was heard.Announcement is made of themarriage of Miss Nancy Klomp andCOVENANTERWITNESS

Mr. Jim Glynn, both of Newburgh.They have re-located in another areawhere Jim is planning to continue hisschooling.We rejoice with Dr. and Mrs.Millard Simmons at the birth of theirnew daughter, Elizabeth Hill Simmons,on September 28.On Friday night, October 13, familynight dinner, family worship, gamesand fellowship was held at the church.Before the dinner our Pastor waspresented with a boutonniere and Mrs.Smith with a corsage. After the familyworship service, a check was presentedthem as a going away gift from thecongregation.October 15-22 was observed asNational Bible Week, and on Sabbath,October 15, our pastor preached anappropriate sermon on the subject anda special offering was received atthis time for the work of the AmericanBible Society.Our fall Communion services wereheld, October 21 and 22. Saturdayevening a family night supper was heldbefore the preparatory service. Coldenhammembers joined us Sabbathevening as usual for the closing service.Mr. Jonathan Chao broughtinspiring and soul searching messages.It was a pleasure to have Mr. and Mrs.Chao with us again.On Communion Sabbath, two beautifulbaskets of flowers were placedin the pulpit by Mrs. Jo L. Klomp, inmemory of her mother and father,Mr. and Mrs. John J. McKay.On Sabbath evening, October 29,the Newburgh congregation joinedwith the Coldenham congregation fortheir closing Communion service. Rev.Alvin W. Smith, Jr., brought the messageof the evening and also preachedfor the Coldenham Church on Fridayat their preparatory service.Sabbath morning, October 29, wasthe closing message by Rev. AlvinSmith to our congregation, after ashort, not quite two years with us.However, we must accept it as theLord's will that he and his familyreturn to the Cyprus field to serveHim, their Savior. We wish them Godspeed,in health, travel and work.BETHELThose from the congregation graduatingthis spring were William Presswoodfrom Pinckneyville High Schooland James Presswood from the eighthgrade at Swanwick.NOVEMBER 22, 1967Members of the congregation werealso invited to the commencementexercises at Concordia Seminary inSt. Louis where Dr. E. C. Copelandreceived the degree of Master of SacredTheology.William and Robert Finley attendedSTP.A five-day Vacation Bible Schoolwas held during the first week of Junewith an approximate attendance of 25pupils.Rev. Ralph E. Joseph attended thePastor's Refresher Course and Synod.Mrs. Joseph and Paul visited herparents, Mr. and Mrs. Edward German,at Hopwood, Pa.Mr. Floyd Finley was the delegateto Synod.Mrs. Lester B. Mclntyre attendedCovenant Heights Conference full time.Martha Mclntyre attended part time.Several members of the congregationattended the wedding of WilliamR. Finley and Elizabeth Elder at NewAlexandria, Pa. on July 28.Miss Eleanor T. Auld passed away,August 2, at the Reformed PresbyterianHome where she had residedfor the last six years. Rev. Ralph E.Joseph, assisted by Rev. CharlesSterrett, conducted the funeral serviceat Oakdale.Mrs. Curtis Christmas of McLeansborowas hostess at a covered dishdinner and meeting of the W. M. S. onAugust 3.Fourteen people from our congregationattended Covfamikoi Conference.Mr. and Mrs. Floyd Finley gave areception in honor of Mr. and Mrs.William R. Finley at the church,August 18.Ann Finley spent two weeks atcamp at Little Grassy Lake.NORTH HILLS, PITTSBURGHWe welcome the following personsas communicant members of the NorthHills church:Three of our young people haveprofessed their faith in Christ andhave become communicant members:They are Douglas Carson, Lois Cook,Carolyn Vogel.The following persons have joinedthe congregation by profession of theirfaith in Jesus Christ: Mr. and Mrs.Lee P. Bittner, Mr. Robert Cook, Mr.Richard Lensner, Mr. and Mrs. WalterLeskowitz, Miss Judy Mills, Mr. andMrs. James McCune, Mr. and Mrs.Stephen Slatton, Dr. Richard Woods.In addition, Dr. and Mrs. Donald Mc­Burney presented their certificates ofmembership from the Cambridge.Mass. Reformed Presbyterian Church.The following children have beenadded to the baptized roll of the congregation:Susan Bittner, Margaret andPolly McCune, Julie, Jodie and ScottySlatton, Ann, Ruth, Elaine and SusanMcBurney, Paul Andrew Schaefer.Miss Mary McGaw remains a patientin Allegheny General Hospital,but has made a remarkable improvementrecently.COLDENHAM, NEW YORKOn October 29, the fall communionservice was held. Rev. Alvin Smith, Jr.preached during this communion season.The Sabbath evening service wasthe last sermon Rev. Smith preachedbefore leaving Newburgh with hisfamily for missionary service inCyprus. We were happy to have friendsfrom the Newburgh congregation,White Lake, and Montclair present.At this communion we were happyto welcome into our church membershipMr. and Mrs. Adelbert Sheeleyby profession of faith.The Sabbath School held a contestduring the month of October to stimulateattendance. The contest wasclimaxed by Rally Day on October 22.Each class recited the memory worVor Psalms they have been studyingthis fall. Our Sabbath School attendance has showed an increase over thesummer months of about 20. JohnMcGinnis's class and Mrs. RuthShafer's class won the prizes for bringingthe most new members to theSabbath School.The Senior CYPU was host to theannual Halloween party which washeld on October 28 with about 100children and parents attending.Word has been received that JefferyLevy will be discharged from service,November 30, and both Jeff and Carolinehope to be home for the holidayseason.New officers of the Senior CYPUare President, John McGinnis; Secretary,Sarah Jane Crawford; Treasurer,Kevin Robinson; Social Chairman,John Crawford.Mrs. Dolores McPhillips has justbeen appointed treasurer of the SabbathSchool.The Women's Missionary Societymet at the home of Miss Grace MarArnott on November 1. Plans wen 335

made for the fall Thank Offering serviceto be held on November 24. MissBlanche McCrea, who is now retiredafter many years of missionary servicein Cyprus, will be our speaker.The Sabbath School teachers metrecently at the home of SuperintendentMrs. Alex Weddell and madeplans for the Christmas party to beheld before the holidays under thechairmanship of Donald Crawford.Mrs. Martha Wilson was appointed toteach the pre-kindergarden class. Mrs.Helen Scott was appointed to teachthe senior high school class and Rev.John McMillan is teaching the communicantsclass.MISS ELEANOR TODD AULDMiss Eleanor Auld, daughter ofWilliam R. and Lou Kennedy Auld,passed away at the Reformed PresbyterianHome at the age of 85 years.Most of her life was spent at Oakdale,Illinois, but she lived in Spartafor about 25 years. In her early yearsshe taught in the public schools ofher community, and in our school inSelma, Alabama. While in Sparta, shetransferred her membership from Oakdaleto the Bethel congregation.Miss Auld loved history and knewlocal and church history. She was ableto converse with those of any age.Children loved her; and many havebeen guided in the paths of righteousnessby her. She was seldom idle andserved faithfully on the work committeefor many years.The following verse which was readat her funeral service truly sums upTRANSLATION OR PARAPHRASE?From page 3271950: For it is like the precious oilPoured out on Aaron's head,The holy ointment cov'ring him,That on his garments spread.her life:"Blessed are the dead which diein the Lord from henceforth: Yea,saith the Spirit, that they may restfrom their labours; and their worksdo follow them."Bethel W. M. S.Even so the tongue is a littlemember, and boasteth great things.Behold, how great a matter a littlefire kindleth! James 3:5.Every good gift and every perfectgift is from above, and cometh downfrom the Father of lights, with whomis no variableness, neither shadow ofturning. James 1:17.PRAYER MEETING TOPICFrom page 333Ought assurance to be the experienceof a privileged few or the rightof every child of God?Why does the Church of Rome denythe possibility of attaining assurance?Why do Arminians reject the doctrineof assurance?Why is there a reluctance to acceptthe doctrine on the part of someCalvinists? This is true of some ofGod's saints in the Highlands ofScotland.Have you ever been grieved bydisplay of assurance that seems to betoo glib and easy?What suggestions could you offerwhy so many professing Christianshave no assurance? To what extentis lack of assurance a sin?Suggestions for prayer.Give thanks to God for the factthat He spared not His own Son, butdelivered Him up for us all. Pray thatHe may with Him freely give us allthings.Pray, that when the birth of Christis being remembered by many in allparts of the world, that there may bea true realisation of the purpose ofHis coming.Pray that peace on earth and goodwilltowards men may be realisedtoday. Keep in mind the bitter conflictsbetween nations, and mention speciallyyoung men serving in the armedforces of their country.Pray that the outreach of theChurch in the home mission work andin evangelism may bring sinners toa saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.Pray, too, that more of our churchmembers may have a deeper spiritualityand a sense of assurance thatwill enhance their witness.Pray that we may be delivered fromthe sin of ignoring God's promises andof doubting God's Word.Pray for families reunited at thefestive season and for all who travelduring their vacation.Pray for the December meeting ofthe Board of Christian Education inTopeka that the Director, Office staffand Board members may be given wisdomand grace for their importantwork.1950 For Thou hast formed my inward parts,CM: And Thou hast covered me,Ev'n when, before my hour of birth,I was inclosed by Thee.1950 My inward parts were formed by Thee;LM: Thou, e'er my birth, didst cover me.Psalm 139:13AV: For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hastcovered me in my mother's womb.1929 For thou hast formed my inward parts,CM: And thou hast covered me,Evn when within my mother's wombInclosed I was by thee.1929 My inward parts were formed by thee;LM: Thou in the womb didst cover me.336Whether pertinent to your evaluation of theschanges or not, your answer to another question iscertain to influence greatly your attitude towardPsalter revision: Is the primary purpose of praiseto please ourselves or to please God?How literal must a metrical version be to bearthe title, THE BOOK OF PSALMS WITH MUSIC?Differing answers have already been expressed toSynod's Committee on Psalter Revision, and some ofthem will be shared in coming issues of the Witness.COVENANTER WITNESS

(oveft&vtteiREFORMED PRESBYTERIANTHEOLOGICAL SEMINARYPITTSBURGH, PA. 15208VOLUME LXXIX NO. 22 NOVEMBER 29, 1967 STERLING, KANSAS 67579BIBLE LESSONS FOR THE WEEK OF DECEMBER 24, 1967IIN TIMES OF PERILWalter E. IsenhourIn times of peril such as theseWe find sweet comfort on our kneesWhile in the secret place of prayerWhere God removes our needless care,And whispers softly, "Peace, be still,And yield to me your heart and will."Then as we say, "My will is Thine,"He keeps us by His power Divine.In times of peril when it seemsThat evil comes like raging streamsTo drown our faith, our hope, our loveThat God is sending from above,It's quite assuring just to knowThat Satan can't our soul o'erthrowAs long as God is on His throneAnd we embrace Him as our own.In times of peril through the worldWhen Satan's fiery darts are hurledTo bring us down to grim defeatWhere we would own that we are beat,It's good to know our anchor gripsThe Rock that holds and never slips,And then to hear the Master say,"Fear not, for we shall win the day."The United Brethren*>•—-\/)I

THE COVENANTER WITNESSOfficial orgaa of the ReformedPresbyterian Church of N. A.— IVANMUCAL HW AIWCUTHHEditor: Rev. M. W. Dougherty, D.D.125 N. 4th StreetSterling, Kansas 67579Phone 316 — Br. 8 • 3472Printed each Wednesday under the supervision of theBoard of Publication by The Patterson Press, Winchester,Kansas 66097.Contributing Editors: Department Editors:Rev. Kenneth Smith Rev. John TweedDr. G. M. RobbMrs. Robert B. MaineRev. John McMillan Mrs. Willis EdgarRev. C. E. Caskey Rev. John K. GaultOpinions expressed in our columns are those of theindividual writer, not necessarily the views of the ReformedPresbyterian Church or the editor.All material to appear in The Covenanter Witnessshould be typewritten, double-spaced, and should be inSterling, Kansas two weeks before it is to be printed.The cost of all pictures is 30 cents per square inch.Obituaries — All words in excess of one hundred fifty,one cent per word. Money should accompany such notices.SUBSCRIPTION RATESIndividual (1 year): U.S. and Canada, $4.00, BritishIsles 35/-, all other places, $5.00;Individual (2 year): U.S. and Canada, $7.00, BritishIsles 63/-, all other places, $9.00;Group: U.S. and Canada, $3.00, British Isles 28/-, allother places, $4.00.9-month student subscription — $1.50; 5-month introductoryoffer —$1.00; 2 gift subscriptions to persons outsideof the R. P. Church — $2.00 each. Single copies, 10c.Subscription Agent for U.S. and Canada: Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Subscription Agent for the British Isles: Rev. HughWright, B.A., 12, Knutsford Drive, Belfast 14, NorthernIreland.All checks should be made payable to The CovenanterWitness in U. S. currency.Give one month's notice of a change of address. Sendboth the new and the old address to Mrs. M.W. Dougherty.Postmaster: Please send Form 3579 to Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Second class postage paid at Winchester, Kansas 66097WE HOLD THE FOLLOWING TO BE TRUTHS OF SCRIPTURE:The Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the only infalliblerule of faith and conduct.The Trinitarian conception of the Godhead.Faith in Jesus Christ as the only way of salvation.Salvation by Grace.Assurance of salvation as a possible Christian experience.The Gospel Call and Election.The Holy Spirit as the Author of regeneration.Sanctification through the cooperating agency of the Holy Spirit.The fact of death and hell as the destiny of the lost and heavenas the destiny of the saved.That the Church of Jesus Christ consists of all those who believein Him together with their children.The Divine Right of the Presbyterian form of Church Government.The Lord Jesus Christ as the only King and Head of His Church.That terms of membership or communion are essential to thewelfare of the Church.BLUE BANNERBOOKSTOREYour supply headquarters for Christianbooks, rehgious cards, music, gifts andSabbath School supplies. We are now startingon a limited basis, with a small inventory, butcan order most any item you want. We planto stock all material printed and handled byour church and now ordered through ChesterFox or C. E. Board.Joe and Edie Copeland703 Fort Street, Box 427Hays, Kansas. 67601This Week's WitnessMen For The Times 339Glimpses of the Rehgious World 340The Mode of Baptism 341Translate or Paraphrase? 343International Convention News 344Universal Week of Prayer 346Lesson Helps 347Church News 350The duty which rests upon officers to maintain discipline andpreserve the purity of the Church.Spiritual worship as a divine requirement mediated through theLord Jesus Christ.The exclusive use of the Psalms in the worship of the Church.The Protestant interpretation of the Sacraments.The divine right of the institution of Marriage and that it is notto be dissolved except by adultery or "irremediable" desertion.The Sabbath as a day sacred to rest and worship.The duty of nations and their civil rulers to honor Christ asKing of Kings and Lord of Lords.That Christian citizens are under obligation to obey lawful authority.The right and duty of the Christian citizen to dissent from allgovernmental and national disobedience to the Law of God.That the Covenants of the past are still binding.From "The Communicant's Class" by J. B. Tweed338 COVENANTER WITNESS

EditorialCommentMEN FOR THE TIMESCertain men of the tribe of Issachar weredescribed as "Men that had understanding of thetimes, who knew what Israel ought to do" (I Chron.12:32). They were born and brought up on the hillsoverlooking the valley of the Jordan. There were twohundred of them, and all of them were men ofsuch influence that all their brethren were at theircommand.These men came to stand by David when hesucceeded Saul as king of Israel. Jewish writers saythey were distinguished by their scientific attainments.The inference we draw is that they were alertto the best culture of the times, as well as being menof bravery, loyalty, and faith. The historian saysthat they were men of understanding, suited to thetimes in which they lived, and knew what Israelought to do.They understood the natural times. They wereweather-wise. They could discern the face of theskies, and therefore could advise their neighbors asto the proper time for plowing, sowing, and reaping.They understood the times politically. They werean asset to David in the pubhc affairs of the nation.They understood the people, and could foretell thetrend of events. Yet they did not intermeddle agreat deal in pubhc affairs. They were men of greatinterests. They were highly esteemed by their brethren.Their abihty to lead and to give counsel wasfreely recognized.They made good use of their knowledge andunderstanding. They knew what Israel ought todo. They were able to advise what should be done ata critical time in the nation's hfe. They knew Israelought to make David king. It was not only expedientbut necessary. The present state of affairs calledfor it.A Bibhcal story hke this is most suggestive.What part should we as Christians be playing indays like these? It is our task to take a decisive leadin the creation of a new order. And the special contributionof the Christian must be not merely in therealm of theory, but in the region of practice. Ifwe had the courage to lead the life that is requiredof us in the New Testament, the world of our dreamswould come quickly, and we should not need totrouble ourselves about economic and pohticalchanges.The Christian faith needs to be translated intoaction in every realm of life. The world is waitingfor men and women to act on the principles ofJesus Christ — to hve in His Spirit. It is not enoughto assent to the teachings of Jesus — we mustapply His teaching to all phases of our humanexistence — social, economic, pohtical, and international.It is the special privilege of the church togive a definite lead, not only in strictly spiritualmatters, but to the great movements which areconcerned with the better welfare of humanity.It is our conviction that if our so-called Christiannations are going to save and serve the world inthis critical hour of its destiny, it will be only throughthe application of Christ's teachings to the wholeof hfe. Have we the faith to do this? Are we apeople of faith prepared to make the supreme contributionto the strength of our nation, and to thestrength of all that is good and noble and pure inthe world today?Knowing the times and their peculiar need, letus fit ourselves to meet this need. Let us take Christat His word, and reassert the gospel in all life.The Free MethodistBIBLE MEDITATION LEAGUE UPDATES NAMESColumbus, Ohio — Recently the Board ofTrustees of the Bible Meditation League voted unanimouslyto change the name of the 44-year-oldliterature ministry to "BIBLE LITERATURE IN­TERNATIONAL.""The change of our name has been under studyfor several years," states BML President John M.Falkenberg. "The trustees felt a new name was imperativesince our calling is not to promote a quiettime to meditate on the Scriptures (as the old namesuggested), but to carry on a vigorous program ofproviding effective, soul-winning, Gospel literature,free of charge, to missionaries and national workersaround the world. "BIBLE LITERATURE INTER­NATIONAL" more aptly describes what we do."We have just completed our greatest year inthe history of this ministry. Tons of literature —tracts, Scriptures, Bible correspondence courses —in more than 175 languages were printed and distributedthrough scores of missionary boards inover 100 countries of the world. With the new name,we feel we will be able to gain even wider support,and thereby reach the lost for Christ in a urcaterway than ever before."NOVEMBER 29, 1967 339

Glimpses of the Religious WorldDIRECT BUS SERVICE — FROM CHURCHSTEPS TO GAMEPeople who have thought they could satisfyboth their conscience and their sporting interests onthe Lord's Day, by going to church first and thefootball game afterward, are getting increasinglyless cooperation from the football promoters. TheKansas City Chiefs announced this fall that thekick-off time for their home games would be 1:05P.M.Sports Illustrated reports that the pastor of theCountry Club Christian Church of Kansas City, Dr.Lawrence Bash, has arranged for a chartered bus towait at his church steps ready to speed the "faithful"to Municipal Stadium following the morning service.Parishioners can attend services in sports clothesand leave their children at the church nursery schoolduring the game. Dr. Bash himself boards the busstill dressed in his cherical robes.Says the Country Club pastor, "Our world producesso many interesting, entertaining, fascinatingand even helpful distractions that old habits ofloyalty just wither and die. . . . Life is full of hiddenpriorities. I don't know whether the question shouldbe, 'What will I sacrifice in order to attend church?'or 'What will I sacrifice to attend a football game?' "A careful study of Matthew 6:24 and 33 shouldgive a clear answer to that dilemma.CARD-PLAYING DENOUNCED AS TIME WASTERThe organ of the Shanghai Revolutionary Committee,Wen Hui Pao, has denounced card-playingas a "maneuver by class enemies to sabotage thegreat victory of the cultural revolution."The New York Times quotes the Communistnewspaper as charging: "Certain people do notmake a distinction between friends and enemies andplay with landowners, rich peasants, and reactionaries.Some even play cards during meetings forthe study of Mao Tse-tung's thought."The paper also said that some workers discussedcards while on the job and thus "commit professionalfaults by lack of attention."The newspaper concluded with a call to "allTHE REV. JOHN McMILLANR. D. 1, Box 337WALDEN, NEW YORKproletarian revolutionaries to struggle against thisevil wind and devote themselves entirely to thestudy of Mao Tse-tung's thought and great criticism."Are Christians that much concerned about timewastingdistractions?NEW ORAL ROBERTS UNIVERSITY PLANNEDIN CHILEThe faith-healing evangehst, Oral Roberts, andhis associates, are continuing to pour millions ofdollars into the establishment of Christian universities.A survey team sponsored by the evangehsticorganization reports that a bold new venture nowbeing planned will build a $150 milhon universityin Santiago, Chile.Evangehcal Press Service, quoting an articlefrom the November 5 edition of Christian Times,points out that most evangehcal efforts in the fieldof education in Latin America have previously centeredaround Bible institutes and primary andsecondary schools. It appears now that dreams fora university in Latin America are near reahty.Members of Roberts' staff are working withnational church leaders in Chile, who set the costat $150 milhon over a 10-year period.NCC DENIES ENDORSEMENT OF REPORT ONDRINKINGThe National Council of Churches was one ofthree agencies that released to the nation a majorand controversial report recommending liberalizedattitudes on alcohol generally and drinking in particular.However, the General Secretary of theNational Council, Dr. R. H. Edwin Espy, has deniedthat the pubhcity created over the report constitutedan "endorsement" of its recommendations.Before the report appeared, the National Councilof Churches invited editors of rehgious publicationsacross the country to a pre-release luncheon at whichthe report would be introduced.The findings and recommendations of the reportimmediately created a general furor. Dr. Samuel A.See page 342340 COVENANTER WITNESS

The Mode of BaptismBy Rev. J. G. Vos, D. D.(Continued from last week)In the second place, burial today in Europe andAmerica is very different from burial in ancientIsrael. We dig a grave or sink a shaft several feetdeep into the ground, and the body is covered withmany feet of earth. In ancient Israel burial wasoften in natural or artificial caves. The burial ofJesus Himself affords an example. He was buried ina cave — not a natural cave but an artificial onewhich Joseph of Arimathea had hewn out of a rockycliff (Mark 15:46). To this artificial cavern therewas a narrow entrance which could be sealed off byplacing a large boulder against the opening. Thisburial was not underground at all in the ordinarysense of the term. And it is rather difficult to seewhat it had in common with baptism as practicedby immersionists. The body of Jesus was not loweredbelow the surface of the ground, but carried horizontallyinto the cave and there laid to rest.Paul was writing to the Roman Christians. Wehave all read descriptions of the catacombs of Romewhere the mortal remains of thousands of the early"Christian dead were laid to rest. These again werenot "buried" as we would understand the termtoday. The body was placed in a niche hollowedout of the catacomb wall. If the Christians who firstread Paul's Epistle to the Romans thought of thiskind of burial how could this call to their minds theidea of baptism by immersion beneath the surface ofa body of water? Would they think in terms of suchimagery as they read Romans chapter 6? We areburied with Christ by baptism into death, certainly,as the Scripture says. But this means that by baptismwe are united or connected with Christ so as toreceive the benefits of His death. It is not proventhat any reference to the mode of baptism is intended.Moreover, both in Romans 6 and in Colossians2 the subject under discussion is not baptism andhow to administer it, but sanctification. The apostleis discussing how Christians ought to hve, in viewof the fact that they have been united with Christ soas to receive the benefits of His death. They are tohve a new life of moral uprightness and holiness.If the subject being discussed in these two passageswere baptism, there might be some color to theclaim that the passages teach that baptism is intendedto portray burial and resurrection. But as amatter of fact, baptism is mentioned only incidentallyin both passages. It is introduced as one part ofthe apostle's argument as to how Christians oughtto hve. To press the reference to burial so as toregard it as implying that baptism is a dramatizationof burial is not sound exegesis. We mightas well argue that because the Church is called"the city of God", Christians ought not to live in thesuburbs or in rural districts; or that because Christiansare called Christ's sheep, they ought always towear clothes made of wool. The true conclusion tobe drawn from Romans 6:4 is not that we should bebaptized by immersion, but that we should "walkin newness of life"; the true inference to be drawnfrom Col. 2:12 is "Set your affection on thingsabove, not on things on the earth" (Col. 3:2).Again, burial is only one of the figures usedto denote the behevers union with Christ. The NewTestament abounds in others. For instance, Christiansare branches of the true vine, namely, ofChrist. Christ is the head, and Christians are Hismembers, as arms and legs are members of ahuman body. Christ is the door, and through Himwe enter into the house of salvation. Christ is thetree, and Christians are grafted into vital unionwith Him. Christ is the passover Lamb, and wepartake of His flesh and His blood. This kind offigurative language is common in Scripture, andmany more examples could be cited. But even inthe immediate context of Romans 6:4 the apostleuses other figures than that of burial and resurrection.In verse 5 he speaks of Christians being"planted" together with Christ, and in verse 6 oftheir being "crucified" with Christ. No one assertsthat crucifixion is dramatized or portrayed by theNOVEMBER 29, 1967 341

mode of baptism. Yet sound exegesis would requirethat if baptism essentially portrays burial, it mustalso essentially portray crucifixion. But it obviouslydoes not portray crucifixion. We are warranted inconcluding, therefore, that Paul is not in this passageimplying anything concerning the mode of baptism;he is only setting forth some of the redemptive factsand spiritual reahties which benefit the beheverthrough his union with Christ, of which baptism isthe sign and seal.The various counts of the immersionist positionare thus shown to be not proven. The terminologyof baptism may be used of acts which involve immersionbut it may also be used of acts which do notinvolve immersion, therefore the terminology doesnot essentially mean immersion. The recordedinstances of baptism of individuals or groups in theNew Testament prove nothing one way or the otheras to the mode of administration employed. Thepassages appealed to in support of the idea thatthe essential meaning of baptism is burial andresurrection, when examined by sound exegeticalmethods, are found to contain no such teaching.Thus we are left with assumptions and allegedprobabilities, but no proven certainities, as to themode of administration of baptism in the apostolicage.Warfield says: "It would hardly appear probablethat the mode of applying the water in baptism canenter into the very essence of the sacrament, whenit is so difficult to obtain certainty as to what themode was in the hands of the apostles" (The NewSchaff-Herzog Encyclopedia of Religious Knowledge,Vol. I, pp. 449, 450). He also says, "No modeof applying the water is prescribed in the New Testament.In the record the New Testament gives ofacts of baptism, the mode in which the water wasapphed is never described. It is never even imphedwith a clearness which would render differences ofinterpretation impossible .... Candor would seemTRANSLATE OR PARAPHASE?From page 343meetre. If therefor the verses are not alwayes soesmooth and elegant as some may desire or expect;let them consider that Gods Altar needs not ourpolhshing. Wee have attended Conscience ratherthan Elegance, fidehty rather than poetry, in translatingthe Hebrew words into English language, andDavid's poetry into Enghsh meetre; that soe weemay sing in Zion the Lord's songs of prayse accordingto his owne will."to compel the admission that not only is there nostress laid in the New Testament on the mode ofapplying the water in baptism, but that all the allusionsto baptism in the New Testament can findready explanation on the assumption of any of themodes of administration which have been widelypractised in the Churches" (ibid., pp. 447, 448).We may conclude, therefore, by reaffirming thehistoric position of the Presbyterian family ofChurches that immersion in water is not necessary,but that baptism is rightly performed either bysprinkling or by pouring (Westminster Confessionof Faith, XXVIII. 3. Reformed Presbyterian Testimony,XXV, Error 5, "That overwhelming with wateris essential to Christian baptism.") Our Church incommon with the vast majority of Christians of allages holds that any one of the three historicalmodes constitutes a vahd and Scriptural administrationof baptism. The Directory for Worship ofour denomination sets forth this position (III. 3, inConstitution of the R. P. Church, page 313), by itsstatement that "The water is apphed by sprinklingor pouring, though the Church accepts baptism byimmersion". Incidentally, the Directory does notspecify sprinkhng in preference to pouring, as inthe actual instructions for baptism it merely statesthat the minister "shall place the water on thehead" of the person to be baptized. How it is to beplaced there — whether by sprinkhng or by pouring— is not specified. (Constitution, page 315).Our disagreement with our Baptist brethren,therefore, is not because of their practice of immersion,but rather because of their unjustifiableand unscriptural claim that immersion alone constitutesChristian baptism. The Scriptural data donot substantiate this claim, and our verdict mustbe that their case is not proven. We are fully warranted,therefore, in continuing our practice ofbaptism by sprinkling.(The End)GLIMPSES OF THE RELIGIOUS WORLDFrom page 340Jeans, pastor of the First Baptist Church of Merchantville,New Jersey, and chairman of the legislativecommittee of the New Jersey Council ofChurches, asked for a "quick retraction telling thepubhc that the NCC has not endorsed this statement...."Dr. Espy said that the Council is giving seriousstudy to the report and recommends that others dolikewise.342 COVENANTER WITNESS

Translate orParaphrase?Editor's note: Rev. Joseph Hill and Rev. Robert small children should be able to understand tMore wrote independently to the chairman of words they are singing. Rendered thus, the metricalSynod's Committee on Psalter Revision who has version in the Psalter explains the Psalm. Our Psalterretains the ancient imagery, but in many in­taken the hberty of reducing the comments of bothMr. Hill and Mr. More to a mere outline of the ideas stances the psalmist's meaning is either lost orthey presented. Why do their conclusions differ? completely obscure.Can they both be right? If not, which one is?TRANSLATE!PARAPHRASE!(condensed from comments by Rev. Robert More)(condensed from comments by Rev. Joseph Hill) "How shall we sing the Lord's song!" (Psalm 137:At Synod 1965 the need of a new Psalter was 4) — in a literal, metrical way (that is, making thediscussed in connection with the report of the Board Enghsh conform exactly and accurately to theof Evangelism. Seme revision of the Psalter is original) or in a paraphrastic way (that is, conveyingdesirable, it was said, in order to make the Psalms merely the sense while not adhering too closely tomore appealing to those who are not accustomed the words of the original)?to singing them. Synod appointed a committee "to This question is not new. Almost 2,000 yearsstudy the advisability of revising the structure, ago, Marcion had such an abhorrence of the Oldformat, wording, and music of the Psalter." In this Testament and its Semitisms that he purged thepresent discussion, our interest is the "structure" New Testament of all vestiges of Hebraic imagery,and "wording" of the Psalter.vocabulary, and concepts. This man carried to itsAs worshipers of the living God, we should aim logical consequence the excisement of the originalto praise God with songs which are beautiful, language in order to achieve more personal acceptability.beautifully rendered. The Psalms themselves instructus to worship Him in the beauty of holiness Martin Luther took a half-way position. Heand also to make His praise glorious (29:2; 66:2). wrote to his friend Spalatin, "It is my intention toIt may be questioned whether some of the Psalms, make German psalms for the people; that is, spiritualsongs whereby the Word of God may be kept ahvejust as they come from the Bible (changed only asto rhyme and meter), really inspire praise within our among them by singing; we seek therefore everywherefor poets." Luther personally cherished thehearts.The editors of our present Psalter did polish Hebrew Psalms, but yearned to make them talksome phrases and thereby improved the beauty of like Germans. The reformer was willing to keepthe Psalms we sing. More than once some of us, the sense of the Psalms but not the precise vocabulary.with youthful candor, smiled when we sang fromthe old Psalter: "They shall be green and full of Isaac Watts, the father of Enghsh hymnody,sap." And then there was Aaron's beard, which vowed to make David talk hke a Christian and succeededall too well in his book Psalms of David inSynod's committee removed (Psalm 133). Theseexpressions, even though found in the Bible, were Metre, pubhshed by John Bryce of Glasgow in 1757.replaced by more fehcitous phrases.In 1794 the Seceder Church of Scotland broke downThere are many crude, inelegant, and even exclusive Psalmody, and so, in practical effect asrepugnant expressions in the present Psalter. Some demonstrated today, threw out the Old Testamentof them are even more objectionable than the ones Psalms as unworthy of Christian praise.that have been removed or revised. Stanzas 6 and The perils of beginning to paraphrase the Psalms11 on page 36 speak of God's nostrils. We sing also is therefore seen from the voice of history. (Inof dead fish and swarming frogs and voracious support of retaining the Psalms literally in meter,canker worms (page 259). Present-day lyrics that including the imagery and exact vocabulary), letsang of eating bulls' flesh and drinking goats' blood the prefatory words to the old Bay Psalm Book, thewould be considered repulsive, yet we sing of this first book printed in North America (at Cambridge,in worship (Psalter, page 128).Mass., in 1640), be noticed. (The original vocabularyOur singing should be meaningful as well as has been retained, but the spelling and punctuationbeautiful. If we are to sing with the understanding have been modified):as well as with the spirit (II Corinthians 14:15), our "Wee have done our endeavour to make a plainPsalter verses must make sense instantly. Even our and familiar translation of the Psalmes into EnglishSee page 342NOVEMBER 29, 1967343

' ' • " . • "THE CHURCH — A LIVING POWERThis title is to be the theme of the 1968Conference of the Reformed Presbyterian Churchesto be held in Edinburgh. We pray that the considerationof this theme will provide real stimulusto the whole Church. This will be the fourth inthis series of Conferences and it is with keenanticipation that we look forward to welcomingfriends from many parts of the world as membersof the Reformed Presbyterian Churches gathertogether in Edinburgh.The Conference will be located in the UniversityHalls of Residence and is situated in one of theloveliest parts of the city with the Queen's Parkand Salisbury Crags just behind the Centre.Dates: 3rd to 10th of August, 1968.Accomodation: 350 places have been booked forthe Conference at the Centre. These will be singlerooms in modern residences and with all modernconveniences. However, for those who wish to havedouble room accomodation, bed and breakfast canbe arranged in Boarding houses close to the Centreand all other meals with the main Conference party.Facilities are also available for day visitors to havemeals during their stay.Conference Grouping: The Conference will meetin two groups.a. Under 25 years will form the YouthConference.b. Over 25 years will form the AdultConference.Other activities are planned which will giveopportunity for joint sessions of both groups aswell as their individual programmes.Cost: At the Conference Centre.1968 Internationala. With three main meals and all services —$40 plus 10 per cent service charge.b. As above with morning coffee, afternoontea, and evening tea and biscuits —$43 plus 10 per cent service charge.CovenanterSPECIALC.NOTICEPlans for the 1968 International Coiconfirmed. Persons already having contacteEducation have received information thronecessaryto register again. However, thosConvention who are traveling on their ownrnow if they desire housing at the Convent;and return it promptly. Conference Conve:this information by the first of the year. Ifycrgroup flight, contact the Board of ChristiaiGRASSMARKET MONI344 COVENANTER WITNESS

entionnow beingof Christian. It is notto attend thedefinitely registeruse this formHome needstravel with theimmediately.Edinburgh is not only a city of culture and learning, it is a city full ofinterest to the historian and especially in the realm of Church history. This isparticularly true for the Covenanter Church. Here in this city the Church wasborn and its position maintained during the troublous times of the 17thCentury. The area of the Grassmarket still bears witness to this fact with amonument which has this inscription:"On this spot many martyrs and Covenanters died for f he Protestant faith."This conference is not meant to be a mere pilgrimage, but in surroundingslike these our interest in the work and witness of the Church will be vivified aswe seek to find the present application of the principles for which our forefatherslaid down their lives.(— Above taken from Conference brochure received from A. Sinclair Home,Conference Convener.)1 » H I 111 «i i •» 11 » 11 » i i ~^ 11 »i 11 • 111 » 11 » 11 ~»i ' -*

Universal Weekof PrayerJanuary 7 -14, 1968Material for personal intercessionand united prayer.None but Jesus!We live in a time of breathtakingchanges; life is full of uncertainties.What does the future hold for theChurch of Christ and His disciples?For us personally and for our dearones? — Neither political ideas nortechnical powers nor cultural valuescan give us confidence and faith.For the Church of Jesus there isonly one thing to look to.In the Gospel of Matthew, Chapter17, we have the report of the tremendousexperience of the disciples on themount of transfiguration, where theysaw something of the heavenly splendorand heard a voice saying; "This ismy beloved Son"! When the heavenlysplendor had faded and when the discipleslooked up, they saw none butJesus. But for them this was morethan enough.Only with Him dare we face thefuture. We do not know what liesahead, but we do know who will bethere: none but Jesus!During the Universal Week ofPrayer this year we concentrate ourthoughts on several sayings of theLord Jesus which are found in theGospel of John, where the Lord showsus who He is, and that there is nonelike Him.He is the Bread of Life, who satisfiesour soul.He is the True Vine; we are thebranches which are part of Himand of each other.He is the Good Shepherd, who caresfor us as individuals and providesfor us.He is the Light of the World, whoguides us and leads us to ourhome.He is the Way, the Truth and theLife; no one comes to the Fatherbut by Him.He is the Resurrection and the Life.He gives us strength to liveeternal life here and now.If we try to put these sayings intothe mouth of any human being, eitherof the past or of the present, we findthat we face the absurd. Only Jesuscould speak like that about Himself,and carry conviction.S46NONE BUT JESUS! May this becomea personal truth to us, and may HisChurch receive the spiritual powerto witness for Him. For this purposewe want during this week to unite inprayer with the Lord's people in manylands.Based on an outline prepared by—The Presidium of the EuropeanEvangelical AllianceSabbath"None but Jesus"John 17:8"I am the Bread of Life"John 6:26-35; Exodus 16:4-6God's Gifts to the ChurchLet us give thanks:For Jesus Christ, who alone isChristianity.He is the Bread come down fromheaven.Only He keeps us alive: not, however,by our hearing about Him orthinking about Him; but by our beingin personal relationship with Him; byreceiving Him into our lives as somebodywho is hungry eats bread.Let us confess:That in our spiritual needs we arefar too easily satisfied.That often we look on Christianityas a kind of 'extra', or even look onourselves as spiritually self-supporting,imagining that we can order our livesourselves.That in our ministry we often givestones (or cake) instead of wholesomeand nourishing bread.Let us pray:That we may be willing to offerfood for the soul which is not timeconditionedbut nourishes eternal life.That in His Church we may bestrengthened and protected by feedingon His Word like daily bread, and thushave fellowship with each other, especiallywhen meeting together at theLord's Table.Intercessions for:The true proclamation of the Faithand instruction in the Word in churches,schools, universities and Christiantraining-centres.The stirring up and promotion ofthe different gifts of the Spirit in theChurch.Revival and a deepening of thespiritual life of church members.Freedom to make known the Gospelin every land, especially where thereis persecution and hatred of Christ'sName.Monday"I AM THE TRUE VINE"John 15:1-8; Psalm 80:8-15.One in HimLet us give thanks:That through Christ we are branchesof the True Vine.For the oneness which exists betweenthe root, the branch, and thefruit.For the fellowship with Him andwith each other.For the eternal springs that feed usif we remain in Him.For the fruit of the Spirit which Hecauses to grow on the branches.Let us confess:That in and around us much remainsdry and sterile, because we arenot completely united with Him inour faith and obedience. Often we arelike decorative branches only, or webring forth barren shoots that quicklywither so that the Vinedresser looksin vain for fruit.That this is one reason why wehave too little fellowship with eachother.Let us Pray:That the Vinedresser may pruneand clean the branches by His Wordand His Spirit so that we can live afruitful Christian life which glorifiesHim.That we all may recognize ourselvesto be branches of the One TrueVine, Jesus Christ, and that by livingoff the same root we may becomeunited.Intercessions for:A true fellowship in the Gospellocally.Divine wisdom for all efforts towardsthe unity of true believers (denominationalunions, dialogues between differentgroups, co-operation in themission field).All members of the Body of Christwho are presecuted for their faith.Tuesday"I AM THE GOOD SHEPHERD"John 10:11-16, 27 and 28; Psalm 23.See page 351COVENANTER WITNESS

Lesson Helps for the Week of December 24,1967jSabbath SchoolLessonfor December 24, 1967.ONE GREATER THANTHE PROPHETS:References:Malachi 3:1-4; Micah 5:2-4; Isa. 9:2-7.Comments by John K. Gault.The prophets were sent to speakfor God. One of them, Amos, directedhis message, especially, to the peopleof the northern kingdom known asIsrael. Most of the other prophetsspoke to the people of each of thecountries, Israel and Judah. The prophetsindicted the people for theirsins, such as idolatry, adultery, bribery,and oppression of the poor. Becausethey had forgotten God, the prophetsproclaimed the certainty of judgmentand the dissolution of their kingdoms.But the prophets also proclaimed thereturn of a "remnant" from the landof captivity who would rebuild thebroken down walls, and then still latertheir Messiah would come, who wouldaccomplish a great change in theirkingdoms, rehgion, and manner ofliving. This Messianic hope was announcedin most of the messages ofthe prophets.him in the spirit and power of Elias,— to make ready a people preparedfor the Lord." After the child wasborn and Zacharias had written, "Hisname is John," he prophesied concerninghis child in the words of Luke 1:76, "And thou, child, shalt be calledthe prophet of the Highest: for thoushalt go before the face of the Lord toprepare His ways; to give the knowledgeof salvation unto His people bythe remission of their sins." WhenJohn was grown and had assumed hismission of "preaching the baptism ofrepentance for the remission of sins"the evangelist Luke wrote of him, "Asit is written in the book of the wordsof Isaiah the prophet saying, The voiceof one crying in the wilderness, Prepareye the way of the Lord, make hispaths straight." Isaiah and Malachi,both prophesied the coming of theforerunner who was John the Baptist.2: Malachi Foretold the Coming ofChrist the Messiah.In continuation of what he saidconcerning John the Baptist, he saidconcerning Christ, "And the Lord,whom ye seek, shall suddenly come toHis temple, even the messenger ofthe covenant, whom ye delight in:behold, He shall come, saith the Lordof hosts." This is but one of the manyme"; and also, "I am the light of theworld: he that followeth Me shall notwalk in darkness, but shall have thelight of life."3: Malachi Said the MessengerWould Come to His Temple.The temple represented the religionof the nation. During the centuriesbefore Christ the religion of Israelwas characterized by various sacrificesand ordinances which symbolized thecoming of One who would perform theperfect sacrifice. Jesus came, therefore,that he might establish a neworder of worship. He said to the Samaritanwoman, whom He met by thewell, "Woman, believe me, the hourcometh, when ye shall neither in thismountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worshipthe Father. Ye worship ye knownot what: we know what we worship:for salvation is of the Jews. But thehour cometh, and now is, when thetrue worshipers shall worship theFather in spirit and in truth: for theFather seeketh such to worship Him"(John 4:21-23).Following the triumphal entry intoJerusalem Jesus went into the temple,"and cast out all them that sold andbought in the temple, and overthrewthe tables of the moneychangers andthe seats of them that sold doves,prophetic utterances concerning theand said unto them, it is written, MyMessiah who was to come. Three hundredyears before Malachi the prophet,house shall be called the house of1: Malachi Foretold the Coming ofprayer; but ye have made it a den ofIsaiah had said in 9:6, "For unto us aJohn the Baptist.thieves" (Matt. 21:12, 13). When Jesuschild is born, unto us a son is given:In 3:1 he said, "Behold. I will sendhung upon the cross and "when Heand the government shall be upon Hismy messenger, and he shall preparehad cried again with a loud voice,shoulder: and His name shall be calledthe way before me." God spoke throughyielded up the ghost, and behold, theWonderful Counselor, The mighty God,the prophet Malachi; consequently,veil of the temple was rent in twainthe everlasting Father, the Prince ofhe used the first personal pronounfrom the top to the bottom" (Matt. 27:Peace. Of the increase of His governmentand peace there shall be no end,"I." That was the same as saying,50, 51). This was wholly a divine act"This is God speaking." John theindicating that the old order of typesupon the throne of David, and uponBaptist, whose mother was Elizabethand symbols had been abolished and aHis kingdom, to order it, and to establishit with judgment and with justiceand whose father was Zacharias, wasnew order had been ushered in, whereinall might enter into the holy oi'sent by God to be the forerunner of from henceforth even for ever."Jesus, the Christ. The angel Gabrielholies of Christ's sacrifice and fellowship.Malachi foretold the coming ofMalachi calls Christ, "the messengerinformed both Zacharias and Elizabeth,each of whom was "old and well-this time as he said in 3:2, 3, "for Heof the covenant." The old covenant ofworks was to be outmoded by a newstricken in years," that they wouldis like a refiner's fire, and like fuller'scovenant of grace sent by God throughbecome the parents of one who wouldsoap: and He shall sit as a refiner andChrist. Christ came to fulfill the termsturn many of the children of Israel topurifier of silver: and He shall purifyof the new covenant and He said,the Lord and who would "go beforethe sons of Levi, and purge them as"Sell all that thou hast and followgold and silver, that they may offerNOVEMBER 29, 1967 347

unto the Lord an offering in righteousness."4: Malachi Foretold the DistinctionBetween the Righteous and the Wicked.He said in 4:1, 2, "For, behold, theday cometh, that shall burn as an oven;and all the proud, yea, and all that dowickedly, shall be stubble: and the daythat cometh shall burn them up, saiththe Lord of hosts, that it shall leavethem neither root nor branch. Butunto you that fear My name shall theSun of righteousness arise with healingin His wings;" Jesus will eventuallysit in judgment. Then He willdivide all people into two groups which'He called in Matthew 25:33, 34, thesheep and the goats. "He shall set thesheep on His right hand, but the goatson His left. Then shall the King sayunto them on His right hand, Come,ye blessed of my Father, inherit thekingdom prepared for you from thefoundation of the world... . Then shallHe also say unto them on His lefthand, Depart from me, ye cursed intoeverlasting fire." Jesus said in John 8:12, "I am the light of the world: hethat followeth Me shall not walk indarkness, but shall have the light oflife." Malachi foretold the coming ofthe "Sun of righteousness." Those whoendeavored to worship God sincerely,upon them the Sun of righteousnesswould shine and would heal them.The others would be destroyed in the"Lesson based on International SundayScb*ol Lessons: the International Bible Lessonsfor Christian Teaching, copyrighted 1963by the Division of Christian, Education, NationalCouncil of Churches of Chrisl in theU.S.A."Junior Topicfor December 24, 1967.UNIT: GOD, THE HOLY SPIRITLESSON: SANCTIFYINGMrs. Edward ForestTonight we are continuing ourstudy of the Holy Spirit and His work.The lesson topic is "Sanctifying." Thisis a big word, but it means our growingin our Christian life. You rememberlast week we studied how the HolySpirit gave us life through a newbirth. Now after a person is born, thenthere is growth. A baby starts togrow right after birth. Weekly, thebaby is weighed to see how muchweightit has gained. We begin to seethe baby develop as it learns to turnover, to crawl, to stand, to walk, etc.So it is in our Christian life. We areexpected to grow from being babies inChrist. This growing, or learning, orgetting to know God better will continueuntil we die and go to be withthe Lord.Here in Florida when a man plantsan orange tree, he does not go awayand leave the tree to grow the best itcan by itself. He has to care for thetree, feed it fertilizer, spray it to keepthe bugs off, cut off any branches thatdie, and many other things. Then andonly then can he expect to get the verybest fruit possible from his tree. Soit is with God's Spirit. He changes ourheart and turns us to God, and thenhe stays with us so that we can growand become stronger in the Christianfaith and life.Now we as Christians should showfruit in our lives if we really are lettingthe Holy Spirit guide us and helpus to grow. Let us think about someof the fruit we should be having ifwe are being sanctified, or growing inthe Lord. One fruit we should showin our living is the fruit of love. Godloved us so much that He sent Hisonly Son to die on the cross, for oursins. It is pretty easy to love peopleyou like, but God wants us to do morethan that. He wants us to .love ourenemies, people who don't like us,people who may treat us badly. Whensomeone is mean to us, instead ofgetting back at him, God wants us tobe kind to that person and do everythingwe can to: show him we wantto be friends, and of course tell himabout Christ if we can. This is veryhard to do and only with the help ofthe Holy Spirit can we show forththis kind of love. This love shows thatwe are growing in our faith, in our lovetoward God.Another fruit we should see in ourlives is that of joy. Christian peopleshould be the happiest people in theworld, because we have a Savior inJesus Christ, and we know somedaywe will be with Him in heaven forever.If we are going to win others forChrist, we cannot go around with sourfaces and complaining all the time.The Spirit will help a Christian to behappy and joyful by reminding us allthe time of our special place with Godbecause we have accepted Christ.Christians should be calm andpeaceful people. You as young Juniorsdo not have many things to worryyou, but as you grow older more thingswill come into your life that mightupset you. Remember you can go tobed at night and sleep peacefully,and can say as David did, "Thou, Lord,only makest me to dwell in safety."Even in the black of night God cansee you and keep you safe. The Spiritof God will help you remember this.As we grow in our Christian life,great destruction of the captivitywhich was a type of the destruction ofthe Spirit should help us control ourthe wicked at the end of the world.temper. We should become more5: Micah Foretold the Place ofpatient, not get angry when thingsChrist's Birth.don't go our way or when someone says- He said in 5:2, "But thou, BethlehemEphratah, though thou be littlesomething we don't like. This again,is very hard to learn, and many grownamong the thousands of Judah, yet outups have trouble in being patient andof thee shall He come forth unto menot losing their temper. But God hasthat is to be ruler in Israel; whosepromised that we can control tempersgoings forth have been from of old,and be patient as the Spirit helps usfrom everlasting." Christ would eventuallycome and He would be bornin this.One thing you can do as Juniors isin Bethlehem; He would also be rulerto be gentle and kind. Being kind isover His spiritual Israel and He wouldan important fruit on the Christian'sbe eternal in character, that is, Hespiritual tree, There are a lot of nicewould be God. Ephratah, evidentlythings you can do for your parents,was the name of the district.friends, teachers, and people in thechurch. Remember that when you do6: Micah Foretold the Manner ofChrist's Entry into the World.He said in 5:3, "Therefore will hegive them up, until the time that shewhich travaileth hath brought forth."The Messiah was to come throughsomething kind for someone elseit isbecause the Holy Spirit is telling youto do this, and don't take the creditfor yourself, but give the credit to God.Being good and helpful to others issomething that is only natural for anatural birth.Spirit-filled Christian to do. God348expects goodness in our lives, and weCOVENANTER WITNESS

should always be ready to do thingsfor the good of others. There are manygood things you as Juniors can dofor the people you know. Pray to Godto help you to be good and the HolySpirit will help you.When we talk about being faithful,we are talking about a fruit that Godreally loves to see in us. He wants usto be faithful to Him. This means weare loyal to Him. He can trust us todo the right things. When we areaway from church and away from ourparents, it is hard to know what is theright thing to do sometimes. We areto pray to God and the Spirit willhelp us to be loyal to Him. The Spiritwill help us in making the right decisionand help us do it. He will helpus remember the things we have learnedin the Junior meetings and in theSabbath School, the things our parentsand minister have taught us. Wepray that the Spirit will help us tostand for the right things, to turnaway from the evil that Satan putsin front of us. Satan can make thewrong thing look pretty. Rememberthe Devil told Eve in the Garden ofEden to look at the forbidden fruitand see how beautiful it was, Then,she disobeyed God and ate it. We mustbe faithful and loyal to God by obeyingHim. The Spirit will help us. As weshow faithfulness, love, joy, kindness,and gentleness in our lives, we arebeing sanctified by the Spirit.The things we have studied tonightare just some of the evidence that weshow of growth in our Christian life.There are other things that you willstudy and learn about as you grow.As I said in the beginning, you will begrowing and learning all your life.Sanctification begins when you acceptJesus as your Savior and it neverstops until you have finished your workhere on earth.Memory Psalm: Continue workingon Psalm 119: part 5, p. 290, v. 4.References: II Thess. 2:13; I Peter1:2; Romans 15:16.Handwork: On a piece of constructionpaper either have the childrendraw a tree or cut one out of coloredpaper and paste it on the first sheet.To this tree, the children may addon the fruit that we have named andany others that they may think of thatwould show in a Christian's life duringthis process of sanctification.NOVEMBER 29, 1967Prayer MeetingTopicfor December 27, 1967.THEME:THE CHRISTIAN'S RESOURCESIN CHRIST:HIS INDWELLING PRESENCE.John 15:4-6; Colossians 1:27.by Dr. Adam Loughridge.Additional Scripture References:John 14:20, 23; Galatians 1:15, 16; 2:20;Ephesians 3:14-21; Philippians 1:20.Suggested Psalms: 119, part 2, p.288; 23, p. 53; 132:1-5, p. 328; and 24:4, 5, p. 54.The indwelling presence of Christin the heart of the believer is moredifficult to explain than it is to experience.It is both a miracle and amystery that the Lord of Glory shouldnot only condescend to dwell withmen but that He should dwell in ourhearts by faith. His indwelling presencefulfills a promise He made toHis disciples. (John 14:23). He relatesit to the coming of the Holy Spiritand to His ministry. (John 14:20). Itis a work of sovereign grace wherebythe Son of God, infinite and eternal,enters and possesses the heart of onewho is finite and the creature of aday. It is not a temporary residencebut an abiding experience. Paul speaksof Christ's indwelling often, particularlyto the Galatians. He shows it isof divine grace, 1:15, 16. "It pleasedGod — to reveal his Son IN me". Heindicates the permanence of the experience,Galatians 2:20, "Christ livethin me". He describes conversion inGalatians 4:19 in the words, "My littlechildren, of whom I travail in birthuntil Christ be formed in you." He alsoshows that Christ's indwelling is offaith, Eph. 3:17, and that the consummationof it is "the hope of glory"(Col. 1:27).Note the significance of the word"mystery" in Colossians 1:26, 27. Pauldoes not mean that it is somethinghidden or sinister or beyond a solution.The word suggests that the factof the indwelling presence of Christis a secret known only to those whohave been initiated. The New EnglishBible helps us to grasp the meaning:"I became its (the church's) servantby virtue of the task assigned to meby God for your benefit: to deliverhis message in full; to announce thesecret hidden for long ages andthrough many generations, but nowdisclosed to God's people, to whom itwas his will to make it known — tomake known how rich and glorious itis among all nations. The secret isthis: Christ in you, the hope of glory."Stephen Olford, in one of his sermons,deals with this theme and suggeststhat the Essence of Christianityis Christ; the Experience of Christianityis Christ in you — acceptedand acknowledged; and the Expectationof Christianity is the hope ofGlory.Suggestions for discussion.1. Sometimes Salvation is simplydefined by evangelists in the terms,"Ask the Lord Jesus Christ to comeinto your heart." What is wrong withthis definition? How does the miracleof Regeneration take place?2. Discuss the seeming paradox, thebeliever in Christ, and Christ in thebeliever. (John 14:20, and John 15:4-6.)3. Is there any distinction betweenthe Indwelling Presence of Christ inthe heart of a believer and the fullnessof the Holy Spirit?4. There are Christians who do notseem to understand the nature of theindwelling presence of Christ. Doesthis mean that they have not beentruly converted? There have been andprobably still are, mystics who possiblyoverstress this point. How may a properbalance be kept between these twoextremes?5. What are some of the benefitsand blessings of Christ's presence inus?Topics for prayer.1. Give thanks for the Committeethat prepared such an excellent seriesof Prayer Meeting topics for 1967.2. Give thanks for all the blessingsof the year. "Thou shalt rememberall the way which the Lord thy Godled thee" (Deut. 8:2).3. Give thanks for the peace andpower enjoyed through the presenceof Christ in us day by day.4. Give thanks for answered prayersin the work of the Church and inpersonal experience.5. Seek forgiveness for the failuresand sins of 1967 and pray for wisdomand guidance in 1968.6. Pray that the New Year maybring peace in Vietnam and in otherSee back page349

MRS. JAMES PENNINGTONThe Lord took Gloria to bewith Himself on Thanksgivingevening, November 23. It was asthough she had truly "fallenasleep."The funeral service and burialwas in Beaver Falls, on Tuesday,November 28 with a memorialservice in the San Diego Churchon Wednesday, November 29.Instead of flowers, my preferencewould be a memorial fundfor some project in Japan.My heartfelt appreciation goesto many across the church whohave given so generously andprayed so faithfully duringGloria's illness.In Christ's Love,James PenningtonChurch Newssummer wedding is planned.Adult FellowshipFor the past five weeks, Dr. DavidCarson has been giving a history ofthe Reformed Presbyterian Church upto 1871. Through each evening in November,Dr. Clark Copeland, professorof Biblical Languages at the Seminary,will give a series of studies on helpsin reading the Old Testament.New BiblesAn additional memorial has beengiven in memory of Knox M. Youngfor the purchase of additional Biblesfor the pews in the sanctuary. We arevery grateful to the donor for this gift.Christmas Card DisplayOur annual Christmas Card Displaywill be made again this year by theW. M. S. Instead of sending greetingcards to the people we see each week,place one card on the display anddeposit the money you save fromcards and postage to be given to amissionary project. The display willbe ready for your cards on Sabbath,December 3.IllnessesMrs. George Jackson has beentaken to the Elsie Miller Rest Home,Swinderman Road, Wexford. She hasbeen in Suburban General Hospital.Miss Mary Thompson is at the Sky-Vue Rest Home on Spring Hill andMiss Jane Redpath is at her home.AWARD TO MRS. R. C. FULLERTONMrs. Roy C. Fullerton was presentedwith the 4 H Award of the EmeraldClover in recognition of twenty-fiveyears of 4 H Leadership by the CooperativeExtension Service, U. S. Departmentof Agriculture and the PennsylvaniaState University at the Annual4 H Achievement Night Program forWestmoreland County, Pennsylvania.In addition to the certificate, shewas presented with a gold clover pinwith an emerald in the center. Mrs.Fullerton lives in New Alexandria andhas served as a volunteer leader in the4H Home Economics Club in the community.reports the decease of a beloved fatherand conscientious elder, ThomasAlexander Burns. "Alex," as he wascalled, was born on September 7, 1890,and deceased on Monday, October 9,1967, in his 78th year. That "ThanksgivingDay," while more disheartenedthan usual, was nonetheless that, forhis two sons and three daughters, aswell as the little flock under his oversight,have received Job's confession,"I know that my Redeemer liveth...and after my skin. .. is destroyed, thenwithout my flesh shall I see God;whom I, even I, shall see." In theabsence of the pastor, Dr. F. F. Readeconducted the funeral at the home ofthe deceased and interment was atAuld Kirk Cemetery in Almonte.REV. AND MRS. RAY JOSEPH INLAFAYETTE, INDIANAOn August 26, 1967, our familyarrived here to take up a work towhich we believe God has called us.The "Lafayette Project" is under theoversight of the Commission of Ohio-Illinois Presbytery and has been theprayer concern of many of you overthe church. We were met by a warmheartedNORTH HILLS, PITTSBURGHCommunionWe thank the Lord for a veryblessed Communion season together.The Rev. Mr. Raymond Hemphill wasthe assistant for these services. Bothhis messages and his presence werehelpful. In addition to the Lord'ssupper, the Sacrament of Baptism wasadministered to the following six persons:Mr. Robert Cook, Susan Mc­Burney, Julie, Jodie and Scott Slatton,and Paul Andrew Schaefer.Youth ActivitiesThe 5th-8th grade evening fellowshipgroup (still deciding on a name)have selected officers for the year.They are: Kenny Carson, President;group of Christians with ahelping hand and strong backs. Afterassisting in unloading our trailer andcar, they assured us of their furtherhelp at any time. Even during thosefirst few weeks of getting settled, wewere drawn to the work of ministeringto those around us. Being only six oreight blocks from the immense PurdueUniversity campus, we have met manystudents and have had opportunity toinvite them to our home for fellowship.Gradually, the ministry withindividuals has opened up and nowhalf a dozen students and four businessand professional men meet individuallyin our home and in a pharmacyfor time in the Word and prayer.Susan Bittner, Vice-President; JeffEach week since mid-September weMcKissock, Secretary; Mike Kitzmiller,Treasurer. The group is planning abowling party on Novermber 17.The 9th - 12th grade group, underhave had a fellowship meeting in ourliving room on Sabbath morning. Thetime is usually spent in prayer, praise,and sharing of testimony around thethe sponsorship of the Schaefers,Word of God. Occasionally Alice hasattended a hay ride at the Steele farmin New Alexandria last Saturday nightand expect to see the inner workingsof a computor soon.EngagementWe are happy to announce the engagementtaken the group of youngsters out forthe latter portion of the hour forflannelgraph stories, singing, and prayer.The attendance to these meetingshas been consistently staying around20, and interest is keen. We praiseof Miss Carol Wooley to THOMAS ALEXANDER BURNS God for this encouraging development.Mr. Robert Harsh. Bob and Carol are The Almonte Session regretfully Added to this has been a bi-weeklystudents at Geneva College and aBible study in our home with married350 COVENANTER WITNESS

couples from the graduate school whohave indicated a desire to study theWord. Ray conducts a group of challengingand exciting high schoolseniors in Bible study in the home of alocal businessman whose entire familycame to know the Lord within the pastyear.Your prayers from day to day aresincerely requested for this workwhich is the Lord's. I Corinthians 1:31; ". .He that glorieth, let him gloryin the Lord." We pray God's blessingfor you each one as you continue yourprayer support.Bloomington Reformed PresbyterianChurch on December 3, 1946, and wasa faithful officer in the church. Hewas a conscientious and willing servant,doing that part of the work ofthe church that was assigned to himin an orderly and effective way. Duringhis nearly twenty-one years as a memberof Session, he seldom missed ameeting. His part in the work of thechurch sometimes went unnoticed becauseof the quiet and methodical wayin which he performed it. He lovedthe house of God, and we feel that itcan be truly said of him, "And in God'shouse for evermore his dwelling placeshall be."Session of theBloomington congregation.it with me over the mountains.'"Be sure to take the Sabbath withyou wherever you go, whether anyoneelse observes it around you or not.God honors the keeping of His day.— Adapted.GOING GOD'S WAYI arise today, equipped and fortifiedto meet life's problems, with:God's strength to pilot me.God's wisdom to guide me.God's eye to look before me.God's ear to hear me.God's Word to speak for me.God's hand to guard me.God's way to life before me.God's shield to protect me.God's host to save me. Selected.MRS. EVA WYLIE SPEERMrs. Eva Wylie Speer was born inBeaver Falls, Pennsylvania, May 24,1886, and died, September 26, 1967,in a Greeley, Colorado hospital.On October 3, 1907, she was marriedto Robert W Speer. Had she livedone week longer, they would havebeen married 60 years.Surviving are her husband; onedaughter, Mrs. Thelma Cosgrove, ofNewburgh, New York; one son, HowardJ., of Farmington, New Mexico; agrandson, Robert, and a granddaugh­"LOVE NEVER FAILETH" UNIVERSAL WEEK OF PRAYERThis morning I gave up! For many From page 346days I have been trying to break my The Love which Caresdog of running away. He has been Let us give thanks:crossing a busy street, and I know that That Jesus has proved His rightsooner or later his wayward habits to be called "The Good Shepherd"will necessitate my digging another by giving His life for the sheep.hole in our back yard and depositing That He did not run away on thatthere the battered remains of another Good Friday, but descended to thefriend of the family. There will be depths of the abyss to find the wanderer,and to carry the lost ones home.ter, Eleanor, of Farmington; two bitter tears on the part of the youngersisters: Mrs. Hazel Hunter, Shawnee members of the household, but in spite That no one can snatch us out olMission, Kansas; Mrs. Bessie Carlson, of all this I have capitulated! His insistenthowls have discouraged me. That He knows every one of us.His hand.Cleveland, Ohio.Mrs. Speer was a life-long member So I went home a little while ago Let us confess:of the Covenanter Church, having been and turned him loose!That all of us are guilty of tryinga member in the Denver, Evans, But what if God ever considered to settle down comfortably in thisKansas City, and Greeley congregations.She was a member of the Gree­our whining, our weeping, our threats, going about, "seeking whom he mayHimself? What if our cries "Unfair," world, although the enemy is alwaysley W. M. S. Although she was not ever caused Him to let us go our own devour."able to attend all of the meetings, wayward way? What if He washed That even today thieves and hirelingstry to break up the fold.regularly, she contributed her share His hands of responsibility and leftspiritually and financially. She attendedchurch services just three weeks shortsighted desires?wisdom, and listen to the many voicesus to the consequences of our own That so often we rely on our ownbefore she went to be with her Lord. The greatest security that we have of the world, instead of following theBurial services were conducted by in this world is to be found in the fact guidance of the Good Shepherd andthe Rev. Harold F. Thompson, and that God never gives up: "Love never submitting to the teaching of the Wordher body was laid to rest in the Linn faileth."of God.Grove Cemetery.— George S. Bancroft, in Today. Let us pray:WILLIAM ARTHUR MOORE KEEPING THE SABBATH DAY HOLY That we may always hear the voic«William Arthur Moore was born Dr. Talmage told of a man he knew of the Good Shepherd.in Bloomington, Indiana, December 9, who was ninety-nine years old. He That the Holy Spirit may sharpen1885, and departed this life, October said: "I went across the mountains in our senses and help us to recognize15, 1967. He was the son of James and the early days of this country. Sabbath the wolves that walk about in sheep'sLucy Smith Moore, and was a life-long morning came. We were beyond the chothing.Covenanter. He is survived by his wife, reach of civilization. My companions That we shall follow the GoodClara; two children: Mrs. Wm. (Louise) were planning to spend the day in Shepherd when He looks for the lostStrain and Robert A. Moore, all of games and other amusements. I said: sheep, and when He calls those winhavenot heard His voice before.Bloomington; one sister, Mrs. Harriet 'No, I can't join you today. It isCotton of Hanover, Indiana; and one (Sabbath). They laughed and said: That our actions may be in thebrother, Ellsworth, of Orlando, Florida. 'Why, there isn't any (Sabbath) here.' true spirit of the Shepherd, especial1>He was installed as an elder in the 'Oh, yes,' I said, 'there is! I brought in our relationship with those entrustedto our care, whether big or small.NOVEMBER 29, 1967 351

Intercession for:The spirit of discernment for allwho have special responsibilities inthe training and leading of society(war and peace, social problems, loveand marriage, addictions etc.).Courage to undertake Christianresponsibility in family, work, andnation.A growing concern for social responsibilityin the Church in a waywhich will intensify evangelistic outreachrather than weaken it.Wednesday"I AM THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD"John 8:12; Isaiah 59:9-10; 60:1-3.The Ministry to the WorldLet us give thanks:That the "Light from on high" hasvisited us, and brings light to thosewho are in darkness and in the shadowof death.For Jesus Christ, the living Wordof God, a light to our feet and a lampto our path.That He gives the light of His loveand friendship in our dark hours.For all who are sent by Him totestify of the Light, so that manymight believe.Let us confess:That we, people of today, in spiteof all enlightenment and culture arein darkness when it comes to spiritual,moral, and personal problems.That so often the Church hides theLight under a bushel.That there is much in and aroundus which thrives best in the shadowor in the twilight. Everything which isseparate from God ends in darknessand death.Let us pray:That the True Light may enlightenevery man.That we may be better followers ofHim who is The Light of the world.That God will give to us light andstrength, as He did to our fathers.That in His strength His discipleswill radiate light to this world andthat His Church will fulfill her callingto be a city set on a hill.Intercession for:The sick, the widows, the old andlonely in our communities; all whominister to the needy, to the sick, andto those in prison ("Feed the hungry").Young men and women to train forChristian work.Christian teachers, doctors, nurses,social workers, etc.Those who have responsibility forpolitical decisions affecting the poorand the suffering elements of society.Thursday"I AM THE WAY, THE TRUTHAND THE LIFE"John 14:1-6; Jeremiah 6:16-19.Evangelism and MissionLet us give thanks:For the Way that leads to God —Jesus Christ, the crucified and risenOne.For the Truth revealed by JesusChrist through His words and Hiswalk: God is our Father who lovesHis children.For the everlasting life whichcounts in time and in eternity: torecognize the Father of Jesus Christas the only true God, and Him whomHe sent, His Son, Jesus Christ.Let us confess:That we fail when we deliberatelyrun away from opposition in our ownspiritual life and in our general behavior.That we are bad witnesses becausewe offer discipleship cheaply.Thus the truth in God's Word isnot made clear — namely, that Christianityis neither a philosophy, normere religiosity, nor ceremony, butJesus Christ Himself, and Him only.Let us pray:That we might be better hearersof the Word of truth and take it asit is written.That all heathen, all Moslems, andthe people of Israel, might find Him,the only Way which leads to Truth andLife.That all who are ministers of theGospel might preach the old messagetruthfully so that modern man maybe able to understand it as the Truthwhich concerns him personally.Intercession for:Evangelists and workers in parish— and city — evangelism.A calling to men and women forwork overseas.The right use of mass media (film,radio, television, press, and otherliterature).Theologians and others who influenceChristian understanding, thatthe Church may not be misled by inadequateor unbiblical concepts ofhuman need and God's reconcilingwork.Friday"I AM THE RESURRECTIONAND THE LIFE"John 11:25-28; Psalm 36:6-10.The Goal of our FaithLet us give thanks:That we have been born again to aliving hope through the resurrectionfrom the dead of Jesus Christ.That here is the fountain of lifewhich gives us hope for the future.That this hope gives us strengthnow, to realize eternal life by faithin Him and in brotherly love.Let us confess:That it is our sin and selfishnesswhich darken our life and lock thedoor of heaven.That the love of lesser things hasfettered us to this world, and that welook on this life as the most importantlife, forgetting that time passes quicklyand that eternity approaches.Let us pray:That we will take the Word of hfeand hold on to it with all our strength.That the Church of Jesus mightreaognize the power of His resurrection,and take the promise of Hiscoming again seriously, so that inthe spirit of faith, hope, and love theChurch — in the midst of time — canbe a living witness to the world.Intercession for:The opening of our eyes to thesigns of the times.Protection from temptation andstrife during the last days.Preparation of the Church for thecoming of our Lord.FINAL DAY:"I am the Alpha and the Omega,who is and who was and who is tocome" Revelation 1:8.PRAYER MEETING TOPICFrom page 349theatres of tension and conflict in theworld.7. Pray for the Covenanter Churchthroughout the world, especially forthe Lord's blessing on all the arrangementsfor the Convention in Edinburghin August, 1968.8. Pray that we may give moreattention to the vital relationship betweenabiding in Christ and bearingfruit, and to all the solemn teachingof John 15.352 COVENANTER WITNESS

(otfeftMiteiVOLUME LXXIX NO. 23 DECEMBER 6, 1967 STERLING, KANSAS 67579BIBLE LESSONS FOR THE WEEK OF DECEMBER 31, 1967See page 354MISSIONARYNUMBER

THE COVENANTER WITNESSOfficial organ of the ReformedPresbyterian Church of N. A.. CVAM9CUCAI MIN ASSOCIATIONEditor: Rev. M. W. Dougherty, D.D.125 N. 4th StreetSterling, Kansas 67579Phone 316 — Br. 8-3472Printed each Wednesday under the supervision of theBoard of Publication by The Patterson Press, Winchester,Kansas 66097.Contributing Editors: Department Editors:Rev. Kenneth Smith Rev. John TweedDr. G. M. RobbMrs. Robert B. MaineRev. John McMillan Mrs. Willis EdgarRev. C. E. Caskey Rev. John K. GaultOpinions expressed in our columns are those of theindividual writer, not necessarily the views of the ReformedPresbyterian Church or the editor.All material to appear in The Covenanter Witnessshould be typewritten, double-spaced, and should be inSterling, Kansas two weeks before it is to be printed.The cost of all pictures is 30 cents per square inch.Obituaries — All words in excess of one hundred fifty,one cent per word. Money should accompany such notices.SUBSCRIPTION RATESIndividual (1 year): U.S. and Canada, $4.00, BritishIsles 35/-, all other places, $5.00;Individual (2 year): U.S. and Canada, $7.00, BritishIsles 63/-, all other places, $9.00;Group: U.S. and Canada, $3.00, British Isles 28/-, allother places, $4.00.9-month student subscription — $1.50; 5-month introductoryoffer —$1.00; 2 gift subscriptions to persons outsideof the R. P. Church — $2.00 each. Single copies, 10c.Subscription Agent for U.S. and Canada: Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Subscription Agent for the British Isles: Rev. HughWright, B.A., 12. Knutsford Drive, Belfast 14, NorthernIreland.All checks should be made payable to The CovenanterWitness in U. S. currency.Give one month's notice of a change of address. Sendboth the new and the old address to Mrs. M.W. Dougherty.Postmaster: Please send Form 3579 to Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Second class postage paid at Winchester, Kansas 66097WE HOLD THE FOLLOWING TO BE TRUTHS OF SCRIPTURE:The Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the only infalliblerule of faith and conduct.The Trinitarian conception of the Godhead.Faith in Jesus Christ as the only way of salvation.Salvation by Grace.Assurance of salvation as a possible Christian experience.The Gospel Call and Election.The Holy Spirit as the Author of regeneration.Sanctification through the cooperating agency of the Holy Spirit.The fact of death and hell as the destiny of the lost and heavenas the destiny of the saved.That the Church of Jesus Christ consists of all those who believein Him together with their children.The Divine Right of the Presbyterian form of Church Government.The Lord Jesus Christ as the only King and Head of His Church.That terms of membership or communion are essential to thewelfare of the Church.ALMOST 300 ATTEND AMERICAN BIBLESOCIETY ADVISORY COUNCILRepresentatives from more than 65 Protestantdenominations, eight church-related agencies andRoman Catholic observers were present at the threeday meetings in New York, November 13- 15. Discussionsabout Africa's Scripture shortage, man'surgent quest for inner peace as he probes outer spaceand cooperation between the Bible Societies and theVatican in providing easy access to the Scriptureshighlighted the convention. Shown at the meetingare: (left to right) Dr. D. Howard Elliott, ReformedPresbyterian Church of North America, Topeka,Kansas; Mrs. M. E. Detterline, Evangehcal CongregationalChurch, Bangor, Pa., and Rev. HowardE. Dentler, International Convention-Disciples ofChrist.They are discussing the Society's best sellingpaperback, "Good News for Modern Man", the NewTestament in Today's English Version, which wasclose to the eight million circulation mark alittlemore than a year after pubhcation.This Week's WitnessPower of Free GraceGlimpses of the Rehgious World . .Missionary Come OnRuth Reade's LetterThe Covenanter Conference — 1968Sam Psalter Meets Howard Hymnal .A Page for JuniorsLesson HelpsScribe With a Hard Pencil ...Church News ....Prayer Meeting Topics — 1968 , .W. M. S. Book List — 1968 .. .355... 356357358. .359... 360. 362363. ,365366. 367368The duty which rests upon officers to maintain discipline andpreserve the purity of the Church.Spiritual worship as a divine requirement mediated through theLord Jesus Christ.The exclusive use of the Psalms in the worship of the Church.The Protestant interpretation of the Sacraments.The divine right of the institution of Marriage and that it is notto be dissolved except by adultery or "irremediable" desertion.The Sabbath as a day sacred to rest and worship.The duty of nations and their civil rulers to honor Christ asKing of Kings and Lord of Lords.That Christian citizens are under obligation to obey lawful authority.The right and duty of the Christian citizen to dissent from allgovernmental and national disobedience to the Law of God.That the Covenants of the past are still binding.From "The Communicant's Class" by J. B. Tweed354 COVENANTER WITNESS

EditorialComment d*POWER OF FREE GRACEI was preaching one Sabbath in a church wherethere was a fashionable audience, and after I hadgot through the sermon, I said, "If there are any herewho would like to tarry a httle while, and wouldlike to stay and talk, I will be glad to talk with you."They all got up and walked out. I felt as though Iwas abandoned. When I was going out, I saw aman getting behind the furnace. He had no coat onand he was weeping bitterly.I said, "My friend, what is the trouble?" He said,"You told me tonight that I could be saved; that thegrace of God would reach me. You told me that therewas no man so far gone but the grace of God couldreach him. I am an exile from my family; I havedrunk up $20,000 within the last few months. Ihave drunk up the coat off my back, and if there ishope for a poor sinner like me I should hke to besaved."It was just hke a cup of refreshment to talk tothat man. I did not dare to give him any money forfear he would drink it up, but I got him a place tostay that night, took an interest in him, and gothim a coat. Six months after that when I left Chicagofor Europe, that man was one of the most earnestChristian men I knew. The Lord has blessed himwonderfully. He was an active, capable man. Thegrace of God can save just such if they will onlyrepent. I don't care how low he has become, thegrace of God can purge him of all his sin and placehim among the blessed. In proportion as man is asinner, much more does the grace of God abound.There isn't a man but that the grace of God willgive him the victory if he will only accept it.— MoodyTHEY SAY . . .Nate Saint, MAF jungle pilot: "If God wouldgrant us the vision, the word 'sacrifice' would disappearfrom our lips and thoughts; we would hatethe things that seem now so dear to us; our liveswould suddenly be too short; we would despisetime-robbing distractions and charge the enemyFwith all our energies in the name of Christ."David Livingstone: "I shall not value anythingI have, or may have, except in relation to the Kingdomof God."David Brainerd, missionary to the Indians oColonial America: "I felt an uncommon pressureof mind; I seemed to stuggle hard for some pleasurein something here below, and seemed loath to giveup all for gone; saw I was evidently throwingmyself into all hardships and distresses in mypresent undertaking. I thought it would be lessdifficult to he down in the grave; but yet I chose togo, rather than stay."Dr. Rowland V. Bingham, founder of the SudanInterior Mission: "For two millennia, He has beewaiting for the task of world evangelization to beaccomplished. There is thrill in it; there is danger;there is difficulty to be overcome; there is triumph;and there is reward at the end— not of passingfame or worldly applause, but the recompense of acrown that fadeth not away, and the laurels thatwill last through all eternity."SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTThe Rev. and Mrs. Alvin W. Smith, Jr. areto leave for Cyprus on December 7. They willbe leaving from the Pittsburgh airport and willbe arriving in Nicosia on December 8. We askfor your prayers for them as they go to Cyprusto take up the work there.Rev. R. A. Henning, Cor. Sec.GLIMPSES OF THE RELIGIOUSFrom page 356WORLDthe Church from without and within," he said.(R. E. S. News Exchange)'•WITHDRAWAL PERIOD" SUGGESTED BY JOINTCOMMITTEEIf the union of the Reformed Church in Americaand the Presbyterian Church in the U. S. is consummated,their joint committee on church unionis recommending that all congregations of both communionswould be brought into the new church fora period of one year. After that time, a congregationwould be aUowed to withdraw, with its property,during the second year. Thereafter, none would bepermitted to withdraw.DECEMBER 6, 1967 355

Glimpses of the Religious World95 THESES: NAILED TO DOOR OR REVEALEDIN LETTER?(EP) An American church historian chose aReforma'ion celebration at a Lutheran college inEast Orange, New Jersey, to question the historicalaccuracy of the event which many consider to bethe beginning of the Reformation 450 years ago —Martin Luther's nailing of his 95 theses to a Wittenbergchurch door.Drawing on studies by a German Roman Cathohcscholar, Professor Erwin Iserloh, Dr. William Pauck,church history professor at Vanderbilt University,said Luther "probably never nailed" the theses to thechurch door.Dr. Pauck, a native of Germany, said Luther verylikely had distributed his theses by letter.The Vanderbilt church historian told a Reformationfestival at Upsala College that the first mentionof the nailing of the theses to the Wittenberg churchdoor was found in a brief biography of Luther writtenby Philip Melancthon in 1546, the year ofLuther's death. (Melancthon was a friend and youngercolleague of Luther, who succeeded the Reformerin intellectual leadership of the German Reformation.)"There is no mention of the nailing of the 95theses in any of Luther's own writings," arguedDr. Pauck. "And Luther was voluminous in detailingevents of his hfe, especially significant events."TEENS ASK "HELP" THROUGH SURVEY FORNSSA(EP) A glimpse at the attitudes and behefs ofnearly 3,000 youth in 197 congregations of 40 evangelicaldenominations shows that they want fromthe church more counsel on sexual problems, vocationalopportunities, and instruction on marriagepreparation.The survey was revealed in the final session ofthe 21s' annual convention of the National SundaySchool Association on October 28, by Dr. Roy Zuckand the Rev. Gene Getz.The survey revealed that moral standards ofprofessing Christian youth rate high. The greatmajority of those questioned did not approve of356THE REV. JOHN McMILLANR. D. 1, Box 337WALDEN, NEW YORKteens swearing, lying, cheating, gossiping, havingpremarital sexual intercourse, reading lewd hterature,drinking, breaking speed limits, and telling offcolorjokes. Willingness to attend a racially integrated(Sabbath) School was expressed by threefourthsof the young people. Three-fourths of theyouths would not object to hving in a racially integratedneighborhood. However, an overwhelmingmajority opposed interracial marriages.Though few evangehcal youth had complaintsabout their (Sabbath) School teachers, the surveydirectors pointed out, many are concerned about thehypocrisy of adults in church.One in every 10 teens surveyed planned topursue a church-related vocation, most as missionariesor pastors.The findings, processed by an IBM computer,included thousands of statistics. "This project is oneof the largest and perhaps the most extensive andvalid surveys ever made of church youth," accordingto NSSA president William Greig, Jr.More than 7,500 (Sabbath) School workers wereregistered for the October 25 - 28 convention atMinneapolis — the highest registration in five years.The theme was, "In Times Like These ProclaimChrist."EDUCATOR PROPOSES NEW REFORMEDCONFESSIONMost of the desire for writing new confessionsat the present time has been expressed by hberaltheologians, in the interests of more emphasis onsocial issues and less concern with Biblical doctrine.Now, however, such a proposal has come from thepresident of Covenant College, near Chattanooga,Tennessee."I beheve our various communions should considerthe need for a new reformed confession," Dr.John Sanderson said recently. The new confessionin his view should be framed in the language ofour day, express the faith of the fathers and addthe fruits of the Church's study over the past 400years. It would express that faith "over againstthe modern heresies which are constantly besettingSee page 355COVENANTER WITNESS

Missionary, Come OnRev. Gene Spear,In spite of the popularity of mission work inthe churches of America everyone knows that therehas been more or less opposition throughout theworld. Nationalistic demands for the missionary togo home have been heard in almost every countrywhere missionaries were sent. This demand hasarisen not only among the general populace, butalso among the national Christians. To many it hasseemed that the missionary work of the Westernnations was at an end. More than ten years agoBill Downes is quoted in "The Voice of Asia" assaying, "Let's face it hke men. The white sahib isthrough in Asia. Absolutely through. I don't meanhe's going to be asked to leave. He's going to bekicked out." But by the grace of God we are stillhere. And we don't feel any more unwelcome nowthan we did ten years ago. There is some hardeningin attitude toward Christianity, but still by the graceof God the churches are growing. Perhaps the secretis revealed partly in an article by Percy Luke in the"Japan Harvest." He says, "The foreigner is a personanon grata at least until he can prove himself a truefriend. They (the Japanese) are watching — lookingfor the signs of true humility, of friendhness, thewarmth of personal interest. ... in other words, thelabor of making friends." If the missionaries as abody can show a sincere, sympathetic, patient, andhumble attitude they will generally be well received."MISSIONARY, COME HOME"In recent times a new voice is being heard. Itis the voice of the people back home who are holdingthe life-lines and supporting the missionaries inprayer. The church has seen the deteriorating moralcondition of our country, the shortage of funds, andthe crying need for more pastors in the home church,and some have given way to the temptation to cry,"Come back here and help us." This cry moves theheart of the missionary much more quickly thanthe former cry. Perhaps the missionary didn'texpect too much of a reception when he went outto evangelize a foreign land, but he does expectmuch whole-hearted support from the churchesback home. This cry may make the missionary feelthat the verv foundations are crumbling.But a httle searching helps us to reahze that the"Missionary, Go Home"Kobe, Japanfoundations haven't crumbled at all. The commandand caU of God remain unchanged — "Go ye into allthe world, and preach the gospel to every creature."This command stands to the end of the ages.Moreover, the need remains unchanged. InJapan, for instance, missionaries are still verymuch needed. There is an indigenous Japanesechurch which is working hard, but at the same timethere is a tendency for each pastor to form a congregationwhich is just large enough to give him comfortablesupport and then not venture much beyondthat. During the recent Billy Graham Crusade inTokyo the newspapers gave very little cooperation.They did not oppose the meetings, but in the fewarticles they did put on the third or fourth pagethey always reminded people that the percentage ofChristians in Japan is less than one per cent.Missionaries are still needed to carry forward thework of evangehsm in Japan.Furthermore, the promise of God remains unchanged."But my God shall supply all your needaccording to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus."This premise will always sustain the missionary aswell as every individual behever. So the foundationof missionary endeavor, the real foundation, is asfirm as ever."MISSIONARY, COME ON"In the face of former voices I would hke to starta new cry which comes from the missionaries themselvesand from many national Christians. Thatis, "Missionary, Come On." The cries, "Go Heme"and "Come Home'' and various other problems havetaken a heavy toll. The number of new missionariescoming to the field seems to be considerably lessthan it was some years ago. Looking around at arecent Missionary Fellowship meeting I noticedthat there were no new missionaries there; theywere nearly all old veterans. The national Christiansas well as the missionaries themselves have begunto feel very keenly the need for new missionaries.Our own Christian people often ask me, "When willanother missionary family be coming to Japan?" Ihave to answer simply, "I don't know, but T hopepretty soon." The missionaries in Japan are overloadedwith the many duties that arc laid upon them.DECEMBER 6, 1967 357

and at the same time they cannot shut their eyesto the new opportunities that open up before them.There is so much more that we could do if therewere only more laborers in this harvest field.But some will say, "If more ministers go asmissionaries what will the home church do forpastors?" This is a real problem which missionariesfeel as keenly as the home church. We cannotanswer this question without a good measure offaith.Some years ago in reading the hfe of JonathanGoforth in China, I remember that he discussed thisproblem of workers. Mr. Goforth was often appealedto for help by other missionaries who wanted someof his Chinese workers. Mr. Goforth said somethinglike this, "I always gave them the best man I hadand God always supplied my need for more workers."Will not God do the same for the church at home?We may seem to write only for our own benefit,but we can see nothing but further defeat in thehfe of the church which draws back from missionwork to save the home church. Do not the Scripturessay, "Give, and it shall be given unto you; goodmeasure, pressed down, and shaken together, andrunning over, shall men give into your bosom. Forwith the same measure that ye mete withal, it shallbe measured to you again." Surely this is just astrue with respect to sending out workers as it istrue with respect to the ordinary things of hfe.Therefore we raise the cry, "MISSIONARY,COME ON." We pray that God will use this cry alongwith His precious Word to lead young men andwomen to go out and serve Christ faithfully in thegreat fields of the world which are white unto theharvest. "He that reapeth receiveth wages, andgathereth fruit unto life eternal.""MISSIONARY, COME ON."The missionaries in Japan are Overloaded.Dear WITNESSReaders,It is always interesting to get side lights andimpressions from others after a Conference, orsome other special activity, has taken place. Andwhen these impressions are not solicited they are allthe more interesting. The first time I met a certaincomposition class after the new school year hadbegun, I assigned a short theme on "What I Did ThisSummer." While correcting them I was very surprisedto read in one of them: "The only really goodtime I had this summer was on Troodos. I went withmy school because there was a Christian Conference.I had five marvelous days up in cool Troodos whereI really enjoyed myself. .. I enjoyed myself not onlyphysically but spiritually too." Surprised, because Ihad not supposed this student was particularly influenced,although she has been a member of theY. W. C. A. Two others also mentioned the Conferenceas a highlight in the summer's activities.In another class I had asked the girls to writeAmerican AcademyNicosia, CyprusNovember 1967for Girlsabout their happiest day of the summer. One chosethe Sabbath of the Conference and wrote ". . .unfortunatelyI was sick, but I had the most wonderfulday in my life." Her tent was near enough themeeting tent that she was able to hear what wenton; and, after describing the day's doings, she ended,"God with His love had helped me to become welland rejoice with Him in salvation." She is a girlwho gave her heart to the Lord last spring.This year we have four American girls in schooland they are having the opportunity of studying theScriptures. One of them said after her first Bibleclass (she was six weeks late in starting school),"I'm really all at sea. I've never studied the Biblebefore because I've always been at public school."My remark was, "Maybe you've had it in 'SundaySchool," and she replied, "Well, not really." I couldnot help thinking, what an indictment of the presentAmerican way of life! She will have a study not only358 COVENANTER WITNESS

of the Pentateuch and the Synoptic Gospels but alsoof Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress during the year, andwe pray that her life may be enriched thereby. Shewill be returning to the States next year for college,so perhaps the Lord brought her here for this shortperiod just so she could hear something of Him.Do pray with us that all 375 of our students maytruly have enriched hves from their study of God'sWord.We at the Academy were saddened by the factthat one of our former part-time teachers and thefather of one of our former students were victimsof the air crash early on October 12. Some of us hadattended the daughter's wedding just a couple ofweeks earher."Our" river (that is the one going past the schoolproperty) suddenly came into spate a couple of weeksago, thereby causing construction of the new bridgeat the end of our street to come to a temporarystandstill. Workers had to scramble for safety as thewall of water came sweeping down the dry bed.Heavy rains in the Macheras Mountain areas causesthe river to flow, but I'm sure the men on the constructiongang wished it hadn t flowed quite soearly in the autumn. However, work was not suspendedvery long and, once again, the noise of theearth-moving machinery gives 'background music'for chapel exercises and several of the classes meetingon the 'river' side of the building. At least, whenthe bridge is completed there should be no morecars carried away by the force of the river whendrivers try to cross it under adverse conditions.We miss Miss McCrea very much but hope manyof you are making her acquaintance or renewingfriendships as she does her deputation work thisfall. We know she will present the problems aswell as the joys of mission service, and trust youwill feel closer to us as you hear her and talk withher about the work here. May the Lord help all, youand us, to be faithful witnesses for Him.Yours in His service,Ruth M. ReadeThe Covenanter Conference -1968James D. CarsonThe officers of the Covenanter Conference havereceived some questions in conversation about theConference for 1968, and through the pages of theWitness, we'd like to help clarify some of thesequestions in the interests of a successful Conference.1. What is the Covenanter Conference? It is aconference made up of representatives of the variouspresbyteries to consider papers which will have beenprepared beforehand.2. Why a Covenanter Conference? The objectis to give extended time for a consideration ofdoctrinal issues before the Church.3. What is the power of the Conference? It haspower only to study and to recommend to Synod.4. When will it meet? It will meet two daysbefore Synod, July 11 and 12, at the same place asthe meeting of Synod, Calvary Bible College, KansasCity, Mo.5. Who are the delegates to the CovenanterConference? The delegates are appointed by thepresbyteries and may be either ordained or unordainedmen. Each presbytery will have a minimum offive delegates and a maximum of one delegate per100 communicant members or major fraction thereof.This will result in an approximate Conferencemembership of 50 delegates.6. What subjects will be considered by the Conference?The general subject will be "Standards forChurch Membership." This general topic has beendivided and one sub-division has been assigned toeach presbytery. The sub-topics are listed in the2967 Minutes of Synod, page 49.7. Who will pay for the Conference 7 Synodwill bear the expense of the Conference from fundsdesignated for the Pastors' Refresher Course. Delegatesto the Conference who are not delegates toSynod will participate in the Traveling Fund.The officers of the Conference (James D. Carson,Chairman; Charles McBurney, Vice-Chairman; andMelville W. Martin, Secretary) have sent out materialto each of the presbyteries in connection withtheir assigned topics, and relative to the appointmentof delegates to the Conference. We specifically askfor the prayers of the Church with respect to thisConference — that God may draw us together evenmore clcselv around the Scriptures as the ultimateground of our authority. If God will be pleased toguide those studying various aspects of these topics,and grant His grace at the Conference, wc believethat much good for the Church can result.DECEMBER 6, 1967 359

OU R YOU 1H y? Mk EkMSAM PSALTER MEETS HOWARDHYMNALA prize winning essay by Miss Kaye WallaceA minister of a Covenanter Church laid down awell-worn Psalter on his shelf next to a shiny newHymnal. The minister walked away, finishedstraightening his study, locked the door, and wenthome.A very strange thing happened after he left. Amost unusual conversation took place.'Hello, I'm Howard Hymnal. Who are you?''Hello there! I'm Sam Psalter. What are you doinghere in this study?''Oh', said Howard Hymnal, 1 was given as apresent to the pastor by a friend.'As the two books talked on and on, they becameclose friends. Week after week, Sam Psalter wasused and then replaced on the shelf. The congregationcame and went Sabbath after Sabbath.Finally, one Sabbath, Howard Hymnal turned toSam Psalter and asked, 'Why do they always useyou in their worship and never me?'Why Howard, do you mean that you haven'theard before?' asked Sam.'No', was the meek little answer that HowardHymnal gave. Would you please tell me about itwhen you have time?''Oh yes,' rephed Sam. 'How about now?'Howard Hymnal agreed that he would give uphis afternoon nap to hsten to the explanation ofwhy he was never used in worship services in theCovenanter Church.Sam Psalter started by saying that the Covenanters(or the Reformed Presbyterians) beheve inthe exclusive use of the Psalms in worship. That isthat only the Psalms are to be sung in the worshipof God. Howard Hymnal was interested to know'why'. 'There are several reasons' rephed Sam. 'Iwill tell you some. First, the Psalms are in the Bible.That in itself is a very good reason. For then youknow that they will be pleasing to God and are aperfect means of praising Him. Psalm 19:7 says,The law of the Lord is perfect.' So also, His Psalmsalone are perfect and complete.''Yes, that's all very well, but there are many360other things in the Bible. Why do you just say thatthe Psalms are written for use in His praise?''That is reason number two, my friend. ThePsalms are given of God to be sung in His praise.God has appointed the Psalms of the Bible to beused when worshipping Him. God appointed them,and they alone have the divine approval. No onebut God can change that appointment.''What happens if someone does change theappointment, so to speak?' asked Howard.'Perhaps you remember' rephed Sam, 'the firstsin in the world was when Eve disobeyed God. Ifwe disobey God by using man-made hymns forworship instead of the Psalms of the Bible, we aresinning.''That is all good Sam, but I'm still not so surethat the Bible says that we are to sing Psalms whenworshipping Him.''Oh yes,' said Sam, 'we are definitely told in differentportions of the Bible, that we should praisethe Lord by using Psalms. Psalm 105:2 says, Singunto him, sing psalms unto him. Again, in Psalm95:2 we read, Let us come before his presence withthanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him withpsalms. In Ephesians 5:19 it says, Speaking toyourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs,singing and making melody in your heart to theLord.''Sam, I don't understand. You just said hymns— singing hymns.''Oh yes,' Sam answered, 'if we sing hymns ofhuman composition we are in a sense, adding toor taking away from the Bible, and the Bible hassomething to say about that. In Revelation 22:18,19 it says that we shouldn't add to or take awayfrom anything in the Bible, or else God will add untous the plagues that are written in the Bible, andtake away our part out of the book of life.''But Sam,' said Howard, 'in Ephesians 5:19 yousaid, singing psalms and hymns.''Howard, the hymns referred to here are a partof the Book of Psalms and not man-made hymns asCOVENANTER WITNESS

you might suppose. In the Greek version of theNew Testament, which was in general use in thetime of Christ and the Apostles, the terms Psalms,hymns, and songs, axe titles to the various portionsof the Book of Psalms.''Oh', said Howard, 'I think that I'm beginningto see. But do your Psalms meet every condition inlife like I do?''Yes, Howard, we do. We have Psalms for trouble,comfort, death and joy.''O. K., Sam. But your Psalms are taken from theOld Testament and I doubt if they tell of Christ hkeI do. I tell of His divinity and resurrection.''That is where you are wrong, my friend, becausethe Psalms are, in a sense, the words of Christ, sothey tell us much about Him.''What do you mean,' Howard asked, 'that thePsalms are, in a sense, the word of Christ? Christwasn't even born when they were written.''Howard it's hke this. In Colossians 3:16 it says,Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in allwisdom, teaching and admonishing one another inpsalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singingwith grace in your hearts to the Lord. Christ, byHis word, was the author of the Psalms. In Psalm2:7 and in Psalm 40:7 Christ is the speaker. ThesePsalms are the word of Christ. In Luke 24:44 weread, And He said (that is Christ) unto them, Theseare the words which I spake unto you, while I wasyet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, whichwere written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets,and in the Psalms concerning me.'That, Sam', rephed Howard, 'might all be true.But I tell of Christ's divinity and incarnation.''So do the Psalms. Psalm 45:6 tells of Christ'sdivinity — Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever.Psalm 110:1 says The Lord said unto my Lord,Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thineenemies thy footstool. When Christ was on earth Hequoted this to prove His divinity. The Psalms alsotell of Christ's eternal sonship. Psalm 2:7 says, Iwill declare the decree: The Lord hath said unto me,Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee. Theincarnation is also told in the Psalms. Psalm 8:5says, For thou hast made him a httle lower than theangels, and hast crowned him with glory and honor.The Psalms also tell of His mediatorial offices.''I guess, Sam, that you are a bit better than Iam so far, but do the Psalms speak of saving graceand holy living?'Yes, Howard, they do. The inspired Psalms aloneare adapted to be the vehicles of grace to the heartDECEMBER 6, 1967and of praise to the Lord. Two characteristics of theinspired Psalms mark their adaptation to this twofoldpurpose, namely, their devotional spirit andtheir objective nature. And furthermore, you believein Christ, don't you?''Yes, of course', rephed Howard.'And you beheve He was perfect in word anddeed, don't you?''Yes', said Howard, but what has that to dowith 'Why Covnanters use you instead of me inworshipping God?''"WeU, it is very simple. Our Savior Jesus Christ,sang the Psalms and so should we. Jesus, along withall the godly Jews of the time, sang only the Psalmsof the Bible in the worship of God. The New TestamentChurch, which Jesus instituted, used only thePsalms of the Bible in praise to God. Covenanterstherefore hold, that, because the Psalms are inspiredby God, and are authorized by God to be used in Hisworship, no other form of praise should be used.'But Sam, what of the men who say that theyhave been inspired to write hymns and spiritualsongs?'Well, they may have lofty ideas, but they arenot inspired of God in the same way as the writersof the Psalms. For, God's Word says that, All Scriptureis given by inspiration of God. II Tim. 3:16. Weknow that the Bible is the very Word of God, and thePsalms are in the heart of the Bible. So, since Godinspired the writing of the Psalms, and has thusprovided a Book of Psalms for His children to usein His honor, the Covenanters beheve that no othershould be used.''You know, Sam, I've never thought of it thatway before. That's pretty good thinking! I thinkI'll be smart and listen, and sing along with you atthe next worship service.'Sam replied, 'I'm glad you now understand whyI'm used exclusively in the worship of God in theCovenanter Church.''Yes Sam, thanks to you, I do understand now.You are very beautiful to listen to, too!''Great is Jehovah, and His praiseShould be proclaimed abroad,Within His hill of holiness.The city of our God.Because this God will be our GodTo all eternity;Yea, even unto death itself.Our constant guide is He.'The Goal Post361

A PAGE FORJUNIORSA BIBLE SPELL—O—GRAMMEIn this star-shaped puzzle you will find names of people and places whichradiate to and from the central letter. The names may be read up or down,across or diagonally.1 — 5 Samson's father2 — 3 An unclean creature that flies at night4 —• 5 A place where Isaac's servants found water5 — 6 A bad king of Israel2 —• 7 Evil, wrong. We shall be judged for these deeds3 —12 One of the five end parts of the foot7—'8 Right, suitable. Christ came at this time8—11 Part of the body.The high priest's slave had his cut off by a disciple11—12 Asahel was as light of foot as this animal5—-9 A prophetess5 —10 A city that Jeroboam recaptured from Judah5 —13 Any one of the four out of the five daughters of Zelophehadhehad JoshuaJoshuaThe ShantymanBETTER THANMANNA FROM HEAVENby Robert M. BurttWe had had a very small breakfastthat morning. Father had a saucerof thin rice gruel; I had a larger serving;mother had nothing, I asked herJudgesLeviticus1311Genesis 26:17-35II Kings 17II CorinthiansExodusRomans5295LukeII SamuelII KingsII Kings222221417why she didn't eat and she said shewasn't hungry. Later I knew she hadgiven all to Father and me.At noon Father and I were sittingon the rear porch which overhung thefish pond behind the Evangel Missionin Shiu Hing on South China's WestRiver. Father was practicing the eighttones of the Chinese language and Iwas trying to concentrate on my algebralesson for the day.Mother came out quietly from thenative-style kitchen in the Heaven'sWell, a small open patio in the building'scentre. "I'm sorry to disturb you,"she said to Father, "but we have nomoney left and practically nothing toeat. It doesn't matter so much aboutus, but I hate to see the girls go hungry."Several months before she hadstarted a blind girl's orphanage andthere were nine other mouths to feed."You must not be troubled," hesaid calmly. "God sent us here to doHis work and He will take care of ourneeds. Come," and he motioned to me,"let us kneel and ask Him about it."When Father finished, he rose andsaid, "Now we'll forget all about it.Do your best to make the girls comfortable.We have placed the problemin God's hands. You may be sure thatHe will provide. However, it won'tmatter if we miss a meal or two. Hemight let that happen to test our faith."Not more than five minutes laterwe heard a loud flapping of wingsoverhead and shrill, raucous cries.Then we heard a loud plunk followedby excited cries from the elderlyChinese woman who helped mother inthe orphanage. I ran to the Heaven'sWell and saw her holding a fish thatweighed several pounds and lookingup into the sky with amazement.By that time both Father andMother arrived, and the old lady explainedthat one of the huge birdsthat fished in the river had been attackedby another and in the fight haddropped the fish it was carrying inits talons."You see," Father said, smiling."Let this be a lesson never to doubtGod. Now let us give thanks."An hour later we all had a richstew made of the fish. The very nextmorning mail came through withchecks from several of the Mission'ssupporters.— Sunday Digest362 COVENANTER WITNESS

Lesson Helps for the Week of December 3L 1967Sabbath SchoolLessonfor December 31, 1967.OUR RESPONSE TO GOD'S GIFT:Malachi 3.Comments by John K. Gault.In our last lesson we studied theprophecies of the coming Messiah.Malachi, Micah, Isaiah, and others allhad something to say about the expectedMessiah, His nature and Hiswork. Nearly four hundred years afterMalachi prophesied, Jesus entered theworld by being born of a virgin. WhenHe had grown to manhood, He engagedin His great work of establishing Hiskingdom, which involved His death onthe cross followed by His gloriousresurrection. Paul said of Jesus,"Thanks be unto God for his unspeakablegift." Salvation, therefore,is a free gift of God. It is not somethingthat mankind merits, naturally,neither is it something which a personcan earn as one might do when paidwages for service rendered. Ourlesson today is the proper sequel to theone concerning the expected Messiah.1: God Will Judge Those SinnersWho Do Not Repent.This is stated in 3:5 as God spokethrough Malachi. "And I will comenear to you to judgment; and I willbe a swift witness against the sorcerers,and against the adulterers, andagainst false swearers, and againstthose that oppress the hireling in hiswages, the widow, and the fatherless,and that turn aside the stranger fromhis right, and fear not me, saith theLord of hosts." This was a long listof charges to be brought against people.They were to be charged, also, withthe primary offense stated in thewords, "and fear not me. — For Iam the Lord, I change not; thereforeye sons of Jacob are not consumed."All the sins of mankind stem from thatone root, "they fear not me." Whenpeople lose their reverence for Godthey automatically resort to all sortsof other transgressions. The commandsof God safe-guard both the rights ofDECEMBER 6, 1967God and man.2: Malachi Told of a Specific Caseof Infidelity to God.This account is found in 3:8-10.In answer to the divine command,"Return unto me, and I will returnunto you," the people said, "Whereinshall we return?" Then God said,"Will a man rob God? Yet ye haverobbed me. But ye say, Wherein havewe robbed thee?" God then saidthrough Malachi, "In tithesi andofferings. Ye are cursed with a curse:for ye have robbed me, even thiswhole nation." They had become soselfish that they did not realize thatthey had been robbing God.Tithing was a practice which hadbeen enjoined upon the Hebrew peoplebefore the time of Moses. It was madea definite part of the ceremonial lawas recounted in Numbers 18:24 whenGod commanded, through Moses, "Butthe tithes of the children of Israel,which they offer as an heave offeringunto the Lord, I have given to theLevites to inherit: therefore I havesaid unto them, among the children ofIsrael they shall have no inheritance."It would seem that there were threetithes of all returns from their fieldsand flocks or herds. The first wasthe paying of one-tenth to the Leviteswho had no inheritance. Then therewas a tithe of the remaining ninetenthswhich was to be taken to Jerusalemto be eaten with the Levites. Thethird tithe was called the "Poor Tithe"which was given to the poor and to theLevites. In addition to these tithesthere were the free-will offerings ofanimals which were sacrificed. Evidentlythe people had failed to payall of these tithes with the result thatthe Levites and the poor were deprivedof their livelihood.In the New Testament Church theemphasis was placed, not so much ona literal tithing as on the practice ofliberality. Paul expressed the principlein I Corinthians 16:2 when he said,"Upon the first day of the week letevery one of you lay by him in store,as God hath prospered him, that therebe no gathering when I come. And whenI come, whomsoever ye shall approveby your letters, them will I sendt:>bring your liberality unto Jerusalem."A literal tithe might possibly representtoo little to give to the Lord's work,and it is possible that it might representtoo much. So, in the benevolencesof the modern church, it is better touse the expression, "as God has prosperedyou" than to literally "tithe."This is as Paul commanded.3: God Challenged the People toProve Him.He as much as said, "Put me to atest." "Give the tithe and see if I willnot open you Ihe windows of heaven,and pour you out a blessing, that thereshall not be room enough to receiveit." This was a direct appeal to faith.Christians are supposed to "walk byfaith and not by sight." No doubt therewere some in Israel who felt that theycould not afford to "bring all the tithesinto the storehouse." But in realitythey could not afford not to give thetithe, and God challenged them totry Him out. That challenge is stillin effect. If one has any income at allhe has something to give. It is saidin Proverbs 11:25, "The liberal soulshall be made fat." It pays one big,then, to be liberal in giving to theLord's work, and it does not pay to beniggardly about it.4: One Should Not Serve God ForWhat Worldly Reward He Might Get.That is a very mercenary motive tohave in mind. But, some of the Israelitesreasoned in that way for theprophet said in 3:14, "Ye have said, Itis vain to serve the Lord: and whatprofit is it that we have kept his ordinances,and that we have walkedmournfully before the Lord of hosts?"Perhaps there were some who madeno effort to serve God who were veryprosperous. There were those who resentedthis and charged Cod withpartiality. This is a wrong motive inChristian service. The parable of Jesusconcerning the laborers in the vineyard,found in Matthew 20:1-16, teachesthat all the laborers who had beenhired during the successive hours ofthe day received the same wage. Itshould be considered an hoiur to work363

in God's vineyard, and His remunerationis not based upon debt but uponHis unmerited grace. People cannotbuy their way into heaven, but thebest response they can make to God'sgreat gift is to receive it humbly andjoyfully.5: The Reward Which Came toThose Who Responded to God Appeal.This we find in 3:16-18 in the words,"Then they that feared the Lord spakeoften one to another: and the Lordhearkened, and heard it, and a book ofremembrance was written before himfor them that feared the Lord, and thatthought upon his name. And they shallbe mine, saith the Lord of hosts, inthat day when I make up my jewels;and I will spare them, as a man sparethhis own son that serveth him. Thenshall ye return, and discern betweenthe righteous and the wicked."This was undoubtedly literally truein Israel. Those that did the will ofGod were spared the cruelties of theconquerors. Some were left in theland, and the children of those whofeared God lived to return to the landof their fathers. The great restorationunder Zerubbabel, Ezra, and Nehemiahenabled them to discern between therighteous and the wicked.God wrote a "book of remembrance"for them that feared the Lord. Hekeeps a record of all those who arefaithful to Him. He will not forget anyone. "They shall be mine, saith theLord of hosts, in that day when Imake up my jewels." God's peopleare likened to jewels. Jewels areprecious stones. When people havethem they guard them carefully. Everyone of God's true servants is a jewelin His sight. It is, indeed, a greatreward to be considered worthy tohave one's name written down in God's"book of remembrance.""Lesson based on International SundaySchool Lessons: the International Bible Lessonsfor Christian Teaching, copyrighted 1963by the Division of Christian Education, NationalCouncil of Churches of Christ in theUSA."This is our last lesson in this studyof the Holy Spirit. Tonight we aregoing to think about the Holy Spirit asthe Comforter, our Comforter. Do youknow what it means to comfort someone?The dictionary says that a comforteris a person or thing that givescomfort. And, to comfort means tobring cheer to someone who is insorrow; to ease, or help him to takehis grief or sorrow a little easier. Thisis very hard to do most of the time,and that is why it is good to haveGod's help as a comforter to us.Let us think back to the life ofJesus. The time had come for Jesus todepart. The disciples were sorrowful,unhappy, and afraid of the future.Jesus does what He can to make themfeel better, to build up their faith,and strengthen them for the work andlife that is ahead. They are to be Hismessengers or ministers to the world,and they need strength to face thesuffering and trouble that is ahead.They still had to learn many thingsabout what they were to say and doas His ministers. Jesus had to teachthem about humble service, of showinglove one to another, of abiding in Him,of obedience to His commands. Jesuswarns them that they are going tosuffer after He leaves them. Theywould be beaten, put in prison, gohungry, and some would even be killedbecause of the work that they woulddo for Jesus. Then in John 14:26 Hegives the great promise that He willsend them the Holy Spirit as a Comforterand the Holy Spirit will givethem this comfort by teaching themand reminding them of what Christtaught them.Now the disciples did not understandall these things. They did notwant Christ to leave them. You allknow what happened after Christ toldthem that He must go to Jerusalemand die. He went, allowed Himself tobe captured, taken to the cross andthere crucified for your sins and mine,and anyone who repents of his sinsand accepts the sacrifice that Christmade on the cross will be forgiven ofthose sins by God. We also know thatChrist did not remain dead, that afterthree days He rose. He was seen bymany people and worked with thedisciples for forty more days and thenascended into Heaven and is now therewith God the Father. Jesus did notforget the promise He made to Hisdisciples for on the Day of Pentecost,the Holy Spirit came to the disciples.They were able to do many wonderfulthings and to win many people over toChrist.Now when you talk about beingcomforted, some of you Juniors maythink about different things. You mayremember the nights that you wokeup in bed and were afraid and howyou ran to your mother's and father'sbed and jumped in with them. Howgood and safe it felt to be there. Youmight remember falling or gettinghurt and running to your mother crying,and she put her arms around you.You knew you were safe and she wouldhelp you and that feeling helped you.You might think about many otherthings that happened in your life whensome person, maybe a teacher, oranother friend, or someone in theChurch was a great comfort to youand helped made a problem easier.God is ready to do this for you andme. I am sure that some of you havealready been disappointed and frightenedin your life. These are things thatwill always be with you. When Adamand Eve sinned against God in theGarden of Eden, they brought sorrowand sin into the world, and it willalways be here until God gives Satanhis final punishment. The Holy Spiritcomforts us when we are sad throughdisappointments, sorrow or fear. Howdoes He do this? Christ told us how.The Holy Spirit reminds us of whatis in the Bible, of the many wonderfulpromises we have from Jesus, thatJesus wants to share our troubles, toput our burdens or problems on Himand that He is always ready to hearand to help. You remember in ourprevious lessons how important wesaid it was to read the Bible. This isone of the reasons. The more you knowthe Word of God, the more the HolySpirit can use this knowledge in comfortingyou when you need help.One of the most important timesthat the Holy Spirit is a real comfortis after we have sinned against God.We know that we have sinned and wefeel sorry for what we have done. Itis at such a time as this that Satan lovesto come to us and tell us, "NobodyJunior Topiccan. be perfect, so why try." "MaybeGod doesn't want you as a Christianfor December 31, 1967.because you sin so much." "Forget theUNIT: GOD THE HOLY SPIRITwhole thing, you can't do it anyway."LESSON: COMFORTINGThis discourages us, makes us disappointedin ourselves. We are temptedMrs. Edward Forest364not to read the Bible, not to pray toCOVENANTER WITNESS

God, not to go to Church, avoid ourChristian friends, and just stop trying.But, the Holy Spirit comes to us withthe wonderful promises of God. TheHoly Spirit gives us the will and thedesire to confess our sins, receive forgivenessfor them through the bloodof Jesus Christ, and to try to overcomethem. It may happen that we willrepeat the sin several times, but if wereally ask for the Holy Spirit's help,we can overcome any sin that is botheringus. The real comfort is in knowingthat we are forgiven by God and theSpirit can bring a real peaceful feelingto us when we know we are forgivenand God loves us. In the Introductionto the Shorter Catechism we have thequestion, "Can you repent and believein Christ by your own power? No, Ican do nothing good without the helpof God's Holy Spirit." "How can youget the help of the Holy Spirit? Godhas told us that we must pray to Himfor the Holy Spirit."Juniors, as we have studied theimportant working of the Holy Spiritin our lives, convicting us of sin, sealingus unto God, sanctifying us inour daily living, comforting us andhelping us to witness to the wonderfulpower of Jesus Christ in our lives,let us pray to God that He will continueto have the Spirit work withinus and to help us to understand thiswork better. Let us also remember tothank God for providing us with HisSpirit and not leaving us alone. Aswe start on a new year tomorrow,this is a good time to make sure thatour lives are in Christ. With our NewYear's resolutions, make certain that"living for Christ" through your lifeand the way the Holy Spirit directsyou to do is number 1 on your list.References: John 14:16; John 14:26;John 16:13.Memory Psalm: You have learnedall four stanzas of the 119th Psalm,part 5. Review these and make themsure in your mind and heart.Handwork: Cut out a large starfrom a sheet of construction paper.Paste a small calender in the centerof the star. These can be bought in adime story for about 2 cents apiece.Put paste all over the star and sprinkleit with gold or silver glitter. Shakethe excess glitter off. Punch a hole inthe top point of the star and tie a loopof ribbon through the hole for hangingthe star.DECEMBER 6, 1967Prayer MeetingTopicfor January 3, 1967ABRAHAM INTERCEDESFOR SODOMGenesis 8:23 - 33.A WONDERFUL PRAYERO Lord, as old age overtakes me,save me from two evils; on the onehand, the querulous, critical, faultfindinghabits into which so manyold people fall; and on the other, thesoft, gullible spirit. Keep my eyeswide open to this weakness, foolishness,guilefulness, and sin of men;yet keep my heart tender, sympathetic,and hopeful."Help me to be firm and steadfastin my loyalty to truth, and alwaysclear as to what the truth is. Don'tlet me be deceived. Don't let me goastray the very least in my old age."Don't permit me to fall even intoa little folly which, like the fly in thepot of ointment, will spoil the influenceof a life devoted to Thee. Helpme, O Lord."— The late Com. Samuel LoganBrengle of the Salvation Army.Scribe With A Hard PencilOur neighbor's dog is just about average, when it comes to pugnaciousness.He barks at passing cars. Last summer he challenged the right of sparrows tocome onto the property. They came, anyhow. Philosophically, he accepted theinevitable. Disposition-wise, he is about averageYesterday morning as we were getting into the ear to go to church, we hearda commotion out in front of the house. Then, streaking across our lawn asthough he might be in a hurry, came our neighbor's dog, shouting "Yipe! Yipe!Yipe!" every time his feet came down and touched the ground — which wasnot often! At the moment he was asking but one thing from life: "Keep out ofmy way!" He raced to the far end of the bean patch and got lost in the tall weeds.What, we wondered, had so upset his poise? Would we find a dinosaurstanding in the road in front of our house? or a fire-breathing dragon? or asabre-tooth tiger? or, maybe, a skunk? Whatever was out there, it certainly hadfilled our neighbor's dog with a driving ambition to be else where!We went around to the front of the house, and there it was! Our neighbor'slittle white kitten! She always comes purring and wants to rub against ourlegs. When we find newly caught mice in our traps, she obliges us by consumingthem.We didn't see the encounter. We conclude that our neighbor's friendly littlewhite kitten had seen fit to resist the dog — which was at least four times hersize. The dog fled — but definitely! The kitten certainly is not a viciousanimal; but even a friendly kitten, when aroused to wrath, can send a dog tothe far end of the bean patch, uttering canine ejaculations!Most of us are not vicious monsters. We get along reasonably well withthe rest of the human race. But there come times when our wrath needs to showits presence. When we discover that some one is trying to tempt our kids totake a drink and be a man of distinction; or is trying to sell them reefers, orpornographic materials, or teach them communism: it is getting time for us toshow our claws a little. One very friendly community where one of ourCovenanter churches is located, discovered that they had gotten a communistonto their high school faculty. They sent him to the far end of the bean patch!A loan company keeps shouting its slogan over the radio: "You haveborrowing power!" All of us need to remember that "we have resisting power!"The Bible tells us, in James 4:7. "Resist the devil, and he will flee from you"— will run yelping to the far end of the bean patch, so to speak!365

CHARIES EUGENE MURPHYCharles Eugene Murphy died suddenlyon October 3, 1967 at Lancaster,Ohio. All acquainted with the Connellsvillecongregation will rememberGene as a son of Carl and MaymeMurphy. After graduating from GenevaCollege, Gene was employed by AnchorHocking Glass Company as an industrialengineer. Gene served his companywell. Several years ago, a plantemploying twenty-five hundred peoplewas scheduled to close because it hadbeen unprofitable to operate. At Gene'sinsistence, the officials decided tocontinue operations and gave GeneMurphy the responsibility for managingthe plant. On the day of GeneMurphy's passing, the president ofthe company had called to tell himthat his plant had just completed thelargest production record in twentyfiveyears, and had shown the firstprofit in four years.WILLIAM JOHN McCLAY1893 -1967The words "faithful unto death"describe the lifetime devotion of ElderWilliam John McClay to the ThirdReformed Presbyterian Church inPhiladelphia. He joined this church ofhis parents in 1908, and served asdeacon from 1928 to 1943 when he waselected to the eldership. While activelyengaged in the duties of these offices,he continued his service as officerand teacher in the Sabbath School.For many years prior to his death, hewas chairman of the congregation.His Christian influence was felt inthe local community where he wasinterested in playground sponsorshipand in his employment at the CurtisPublishing Company. Here he servedin a volunteer capacity directing employeesocial and recreational projects.During World War II in which he losthis oldest son, Mr. McClay joined theCoast Guard Reserve and continuedhis interest in that Service until hisdeath. In the many contacts requiredby these activities he was an outspokenwitness for the Master.His wife Elizabeth died in September1966. He is survived by two sons,ma^ma^^^B^m^^nB^nm^nmmBsaChurch NewsRobert and John, and two daughters,Mrs. Horace Law and Mrs. ErnestForchetti."The habitation of Thy houseO Lord, I love it well."Session of Third Church PhiladelphiaALEXANDER MACKIE ADAMS1879 -1967The session of the Third Church ofthe Covenanters, Philadelphia, wish torecord with thanksgiving the goodnessof the Lord in permitting them toknow and work with Alexander MackieAdams.Born into a Covenant family onNovember 5, 1879, Alexander Adams,son of Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Adams,grew up in an atmosphere of dedicationto the Lord. As he matured, hereadily accepted his responsibilities inthe church and gave of his time andeffort in a variety of fields.Mr. Adams became a member ofThird Church in April 1898. He wasordained a deacon in 1916 and an elderin 1920, acting as Clerk of Session formany years until his death. SabbathSchool classes of young men andadults benefited from his teachingthroughout the years.His talents were always availablefor the Lord's service, whether it bein the leading of the praise or prayerin the sanctuary, the advising of committees,the assisting of young peoplein preparation of prayer meetingtopics, the chauffeuring of elderlymembers to and from church, or thecalming of ruffled feelings betweenmembers. His professional skill as anarchitect was provided willingly wheneverneeded.Outstanding among Mr. Adams'scharacteristics were his patience andoptimism. He was always sure thingswhich seemed impossible would cometo pass and intolerable situationswould be eased. His example in thisregard was an influence on the livesof all who came in contact with him.Passing through many "deepwaters" during his own life, Mr. Adamswas able to convey to any sorrowing,discouraged, or troubled friend a senseof understanding and comfort, coupledwith assurance of God's all-powerfulprovision for every need.After several months of illness,the Lord released Alexander Adamsfor higher service on September 11,1967. As we miss him from our group,we remember his gentle friendly mannerthat was based on the firm foundationof belief in and love for his Lordand our children will tell their children,"There were giants in the churchin those days."With love and deep sympathy wecommend to the comfort of the HolySpirit, Mr. Adams's widow, Alberta,and his children, Marguerite, Arthur,and Robert, who with their childrenpraise the Lord through their tearsfor the loving father whose devotionthey shared for so many years.Session of Third Church PhiladelphiaWILKINSBURGOn August 29 the congregationsaid "Good-bye" informally to Dr. andMrs. C. E. Caskey and Jean at a farewellreception held in their honor. OnSeptember 10 Dr. Caskey preached hislast sermon as our pastor. Thoughthe Caskeys are greatly missed inevery part of the congregational work,we pray that the Lord will bless themrichly in their service in the Olathecongregation.On September 17 Dr. S. Bruce Willsonpreached and declared the pulpitvacant. Dr. Robert Tweed conductedour communion the following week.Since then we have had as guestministers Dr. E. Clark Copeland, Mr.Edward Donnelly of Ireland, who isstudying in our Seminary, Dr. JohnEdgar, Dr. W. W. Weir, Dr. R. C.Fullerton, the Rev. Willard G. Mc­Millan, and the Rev. Joseph Hill.We miss our eight young peoplewho are away at college: Bill Brownat Cornell University; Terry Brown atSlippery Rock State College; Gladysand Margi Boyle, Jean Caskey, andBob Willson at Geneva College; PatsyBoyle at U.C.L.A.; and Bob McKnightat Indiana (Pa.) State College. We arehappy that Dan Copeland, who istaking the missionary training courseat our Seminary, can worship with useach Sabbath, as well as participate inour other activities.Our congratulations go to MargiBoyle, Jean Caskey, and Bob Willson—• three seniors at Geneva — whowere chosen for Who's Who in AmericanColleges and Universities.Under the supervision of the366 COVENANTER WITNESS

Board of Trustees, the interior of ourchurch has recently been repainted.This has added considerably to itsappearance and to the morale of thecongregation.On Thursday evening, November16, the fall congregational ThankOffering meeting was held under thesponsorship of the Woman's MissionarySociety. Dinner was served at6:30, followed by the Thank Offeringprogram at 8:00. A number of thecongregation participated in a variedprogram which centered aroundthanksgiving and our offering to theLord. The final number, which was ashort play, was given as a challenge toour congregation as we shall soonenter a new year.MEMORIAL SERVICE AT THEOHIO-ILLINOIS PRESBYTERIALCONVENTIONby Mrs. Edward ForestThis is a time of remembrance.It's nice to remember old friends andpleasant times. It's nice to be remembered.The greeting card business isa billion dollar business and theirbusiness is to aid us in remembering.We can have our choice of cards thatare elaborate in their beauty, exorbitantin their cost, or extreme in theirverse. Hallmark, one of the leadersin this industry, has as its motto,"When you care enough to send thevery best."Do we send our best to God? Whenit comes our turn to give our accountcan we say that we cared enough tosend our best? Or are we lost in thewoulds? I would go to prayer meeting,but I don't have enough time. I wouldtithe, but I can't afford it. I wouldvisit for my church, but I don't havethe knack of meeting strangers. Iwould teach in the Sabbath School,but I don't have enough books to prepareproperly. If we were lost in thewoods, w-o-o-d-s, we would be veryconcerned about our condition. But,we are often very complacent aboutbeing lost in the woulds, w-o-u-l-d-s.How sad it is that we are not givingGod our very best, because we arerobbing ourselves of the joy of givingChrist all.In the close of a poem, "He LivesLong Who Lives Well," by Randolph,he asks us to count our actions ratherDECEMBER 6, 1967than our days in determining our age,and closes by saying, "But, he thatoutlives Nestor, and appears to havepassed the date of gray Methuselah'syears, if he his life to sloth and sindoth give, I only say he was — he didnot live.""What is the true measure of life?We live in deeds, not years: inthoughts, not breath,In feelings not in figures on thedial.We should count time by heartthrobs when they beat for God,for man, for duty.He most lives who thinks most,feels the noblest, acts the best.Life is but a means to an end —that end, beginning, mean, andend to all things in God."As we remember the women whosenames we have mentioned today, weremember their acts, their giving Godof their best and their joy in Christ.May this time of remembrance helpus all.PRAYER MEETING TOPICS 1968Jan. 3 Abraham Intercedes ForSodom10 The Covenanter Church inModern Society (Part 1)17 The Covenanter Church inModern Society (Part 2)24 Drugs And Christian Responsibility(Medical)31 Drugs And Christian Responsibility(Psychological)Feb. 7 Moses Intercedes For TheChildren of Israel14 The Gospel And Civil Rights21 Social Protest — How Shouldit be Expressed28 The Appeal of the CovenanterChurchMarch 6 The Prayer of Ezra13 Christian Love and HumanMisery20 The Gospel and its Communication27 Let the Redeemed of the LordSay So (Testimony)April 3 Paul Prays for the Jews10 Foreign Missions17 Family Night — Family Worship24 Home MissionsMay 1 Christ Prays for His Disciples8 Heaven and Hell15 Growth of the Church22 The Christian and War29 Foundation for Civil GovernmentChristianity in BusinessPractice12 Church Camps — Factor inChristian Education19 A Call to the Ministry26 Patience in the Christian LifeJune 5July 3 Moral Law and Civil Law10 The Study Conference17 Family Night — Family Living24 Studies in the Minor Prophets— Micah31 Study in the Minor prophets— MicahAug. 7 Ministry Through the ChristianHome14 The Praise of God21 The Bible and Translations28 Studies in the Minor Prophets— MalachiSept. 4Oct. 2Studies in the Minor Prophets— Malachi11 Who Should Educate OurChildren?18 Is the Christian Day SchoolPractical?25 The Future of Church CollegesStewardship in a MaterialisticSociety9 Testimony Night16 Family Night — ChristianYouth in a Secular Society23 Studies in the Testimony —Chap. 2930 Studies in the Testimony —-Chap. 30Nov. 6Character Study — Abraham'sServant13 Diligence in the Christian Lifr20 Studies in the Minor Prophets— Jonah27 Studies in the Minor ProphetsDec. 4111825— Even Jonah So,Even So,Even So,Even So,Come,Come,Come,Come,LordLordLordLordJesus:JesusJesusJesusW. M. S. BOOK LIST AND REVIEWSFrom page 36813. Judson Press, Valley Forge, Pa.14. Prentice Hall, Inc., EnglewoodCliffs, N. J. 07632.15. The Seabury Press, 8152nd Ave,New York, 17, N. Y.16. Westminster Press, Philadelphia,Pa.17. World Publishing Co., 2231 WTenth St., Cleveland, Ohio, 44102.IS. Zondervan Publishing House,Grand Rapids, Mich., 49506.19. Moody Press, Chicago, 111., 60610.367

SomoThis and ThatW. M. S. BOOK LIST AND REVIEWSFOR 1968.(Number preceding book title refersto publisher).Study books or individual reading17. Profiles in Christian Commitment,W. J. Smart. (Just what the titleimplies.) $3.956. God's Warrior, Frank G. Slaughter.(A new book about Paul.) $5.9511. Hurdles to Heaven, Brian Whitlow.(A series of sermons on the sevendeadly sins.) $3.0018. Does Any One Here Know God?Gladys Hunt. (Stories of womenwho do.) $4.957. The Man God Mastered, JeanCadier. (A biography of JohnCalvin.) $3.00Book reviews or individual reading11. Monganga Paul, Lois Carlson.("Here is the California surgeonwho took his family into the steamingCongo only to be gunned downby the rebel Simbas.") $4.9519. Nests Above The Abyss, IsobelKuhn. "This book relives theauthor's selfless life as a missionaryto the Lisu, her spiritualbattles... and the perpetual dangersin the face of a threatenedJapanese advance from Burma."$3.759. Man From Cyrene, Frans Venter.A story about Simon of Cyrene.$4.9514. The Lord Is My Counsel, MarionE. Wade. "The story of a man forWhom spiritual guidance meant notonly fulfillment of life, but businesssuccess as well." $3.958. Early Will I Seek Thee, EugeniaPrice. (Devotional) $2.958. The Christian's Secret of a HappyLife, Hannah Whitall Smith. "Nota new book, but the author's concrete,detailed counsel as to howto dwell in the kingdom of Godhere and now is still relevant." .9511. I Will Lift Up Mine Eyes, GlennClark. A heldful guide to the practiceof prayer. $2.501. Hurryin' Big For Little Reasons,in WttCS6. The Secret of Happiness, BillyGraham. (Comments on the Beatitudes)$2.958. Healing Words, Charles L. Allen."Humility, Forgiveness, Service.. .It is in such Christian conceptsthat this unique compilation of'healing words' finds its focus."$2.504. P. S. I Love You, E. Jane Mall."Four adopted children of differentnational origins comprise the familyof an Army chaplain united bytheir deep love of Christ and eachother." $3.0012. Katie, Clara Bernice Miller (Novelabout an Amish girl). $3.7512. Creating Christian Personality, A.Don Augsburger Very helpful advicefor today's parents with growingchildren. $4.0013. Rhapsody in Black, Richard EllsworthDay. "The story of JohnJasper — born a slave — neverable to attend school— a waywardyouth — was converted — becamea preacher with white folks aswell as black thronging to hearhim." paper $1.95YOUNG PEOPLE12. Promise Unto Death, Grace Cash.(Novel with a religious message.)$3.501. Letters To Karen, Charlie W.Shedd. Karen Shedd asked herfather for his honest advice aboutmarriage. These letters are his responseto her request. $3.0018. Adventures With God, James C.Hefley. (Scientists who are Christians)$2.503. Letters From Mother, Billy Mc-Murray Emmons. (The letters theauthor's mother wrote to her andtheir influence.) $2.9518. Going Steady With God, Anna B.Mow. (Your life with God everyday.) $1.95JUNIORS1. Victory At Bear Cove, Elsa Pederson.(A story of Alaska) $3.0014. Beyond The Frontier, FranklinFolson. (Novel based on the truesad things) something has happenedto our family — somethinggood. How can that be good? That'swhat I'm trying to write about.)$3.5016. On Small Wings, Beatrice McLeod(Missed getting the price)2. General Jim. Hazel H. Davis (Theeventful years of James Garfield'slife make this an inspiring andprovocative story.) $3.0018. Kristie And Bill At The MysteriousMansion, Margaret Bull. (Kristieand Bill stepped into a whole newlife when they were invited tospend the summer with Uncle Alfin the "Mysterious Mansion.") $1.955. The Fourth Window, Ellen JaneMcLeod. (A mystery story adventurefor most boys from ages 10-15.) $1.9512. Welfare Kid, Dave Hill. (JohnnyNolan went from one foster hometo another. When he finally foundone where the parents were likereal ones, he could hardly believe"things are coming out this goodfor me.") $3.00LIST OF PUBLISHERS(Some are corrected from UniformProgram. Please correct in Programbooks.)1. Abingdon Press, Nashville, Tenn.,37203.2. The Bethany Press, St. Louis, Mo.,63166.3. Broadman Press, Nashville, Tenn.,37203.5. Cowman Publishing Co., Los Ange-Louis, Mo., 63118.4. Cowman Publishing Co., Los Angeles,38, Calif.6. Doubleday and Co., Garden City,N. Y.7. Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co.,Grand Rapids, Mich. 49502.8. Fleming H. Revell Co., Westwood,New Jersey, 07675.9. Fortress Press, Philadelphia, Pa.,19129.10. Funk and Wagnalls Co., 152 E. 24thSt., New York, N. Y. 10010.11. Harper and Row, Keystone IndustrialPark, Scranton, Pa.,18512.12. Herald Press, Scottdale, Pa., 15683.See page 367Ronald R. Meredith. A series of adventures of Horatio Jones, aincidents in the life of a pastor.$2,50Revolutionary patriot. This colorfulstory brings to life situations11. Christ's Witchdoctor, Homer E. that have meaning for youngDowdy. The story of the Wai Waitribe in British Guiana and how368 they found Christ. $3.95people today.) $2.9515. Anna And The Sand Dobbies, JohnB. Coburn. ("Because of them (someCOVENANTER WITNESS

Qsmai^^^M ^VOLUME LXXIX NO. 24 DECEMBER 13, 1967 STERLING, KANSAS 67579BIBLE LESSONS FOR THE WEEK OF JANUARY 7, 1968WHICH WILL IT BE?To paths of true discipleshipThou callest me;I hear Thy voice that biddest meSo tenderly.And shall it be that I will countThe cost too high?Shall I, with backward glance, relentAnd pass Thee by?I love Thee, Lord, Thou knowest wellBut can it beThat I would stop at Calvary's cross,And fail to seeThat just beyond that cross there liesA deeper walk .. .A walk of closest fellowshipOr, will I balkAt claims that Thou wilt place on me,Or will I sayLord, take this vessel, make it ThineThis very day?—Georgia B. Adams* • * -.«»^» tt -^«» ^ ^ «» ^ ^ **' -i t ^ «»^»» «»" -e t ^fc \ t ^fc i» ^fc «-4

THE COVENANTER WITNESSOfficial organ of the ReformedPresbyterian Church of N. A.• CVAHOCUCAL*IIUMCUTmEditor: Rev. M. W. Dougherty, D.D.125 N. 4th StreetSterling, Kansas 67579Phone 316 — Br. 8 - 3472Printed each Wednesday under the supervision of theBoard ol Publication by The Patterson Press, Winchester,Kansas 66097.Contributing Editors: Department Editors:Rev. Kenneth SmithDr. G. M. RobbMrs. Robert B. MaineRev. John McMillan Mrs. Willis EdgarRev. Charles Sterrett Rev. John K. GaultOpinions expressed in our columns are those of theindividual writer, not necessarily the views of the ReformedPresbyterian Church or the editor.All material to appear in The Covenanter Witnessshould be typewritten, double-spaced, and should be inSterling, Kansas two weeks before it is to be printed.The cost of all pictures is 30 cents per square inch.Obituaries — All words in excess of one hundred fifty,one cent per woid. Money should accompany such notices.SUBSCRIPTION RATESIndividual (1 year): U.S. and Canada, $4.00, BritishIsles 35/-, all other places, $5.00;Individual (2 year): U.S. and Canada, $7.00, BritishIsles 63/-, all other places, $9.00;Group: U.S. and Canada, $3.00, British Isles 28/-, allother places, $4.00.9-month student subscription — $1.50; 5-month introductoryoffer —$1.00; 2 gift subscriptions to persons outsideof the R. P Church — $2.00 each. Single copies, 10c.Subscription Agent for U.S. and Canada: Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Subscription Agent for the British Isles: Rev. HughWright, B.A., 12, Knutsford Drive, Belfast 14, NorthernIreland.All checks should be made payable to The CovenanterWitness in U. S. currency.Give one month's notice of a change of address. Sendboth the new and the old address to Mrs. M.W. Dougherty.Postmaster: Please send Form 3579 to Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Second class postage paid at Winchester, Kansas 66097WE HOLD THE FOLLOWING TO BE TRUTHS OF SCRIPTURE:The Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the only infalliblerule of faith and conduct.The Trinitarian conception of the Godhead.Faith in Jesus Christ as the only way of salvation.Salvation by Grace.Assurance of salvation as a possible Christian experience.The Gospel Call and Election.The Holy Spirit as the Author of regeneration.Sanctification through the cooperating agency of the Holy Spirit.The fact of death and hell as the destiny of the lost and heavenas the destiny of the saved.That the Church of Jesus Christ consists of all those who believein Him together with their children.The Divine Right of the Presbyterian form of Cfcurch Government.The Lord Jesus Christ as the only King and Head of His Church.That terms of membership or communion are esaeatial to thewelfare of the Church.NOTICE TO JUNIOR SPONSORSThe 1968 Junior Handbooks have beenmailed to local Junior Sponsors. If morecopies are needed please write to:Mrs. Robert B. Maine422 So. 9th St.St. Charles, Illinois 60174.The handbooks are free for the asking.This Week's WitnessWhat God Is Doing — In Evangelism . . . .371Glimpses of the Rehgious World 372Music for the Psalms 373Q. and A 374R. P. Seminary News 375God Cares for You . 378Lesson Helps 379Scribe with a Hard Pencil 381Church News . . 382W. M. S. Topic 383The duty which rests upon officers to maintain discipline andpreserve the purity of the Church.Spiritual worship as a divine requirement mediated through theLord Jesus Christ.The exclusive use of the Psalms in the worship of the Church.The Protestant interpretation of the Sacraments.The divine right of the institution of Marriage and that it is notto be dissolved except by adultery or "irremediable" desertion.The Sabbath as a day sacred to rest and worship.The duty of nations and their civil rulers to honor Christ asKing of Kings and Lord of Lords.That Christian citizens are under obligation to obey lawful authority.The ritat and duty of the Christian citizen to dissent from allgovernmental and national disobedience to the Law of God.That the Covenants of the past are still binding.From "The Communicant's Class" by J. B. Tweed370 COVENANTER WITNESS

EditorialFComment i4WHAT GOD IS DOING — IN EVANGELISMIt is our privilege to share with you the testimonyof Harold D. Madsen of the Park City congregation.This testimony gives witness to God's sovereignleading in his life and in the lives of others tobring him into His family. We rejoice in the continualgrowth God is giving him through regular Biblestudy sessions, witnessing experiences and opportunitiesto lead others in their Christian growth. TrulyGod has been and is working in Harold's life to thepraise of His own Glory.— Glenn E. McFarland, PastorI was raised in a family where neither parentattended church. I attended church when small withmy grandmother and kept on for many years after.I started drinking (alcohol) about three yearsago, and it just seemed to take hold of my life. Itried stopping several times but without success.I started to notice a change when about 20months ago I was involved in an accident and meta young lady. Through different associations Ibegan to have guilty feelings about going out anddrinking after leaving her, but I had no controlover myself.In February of this year I finally asked theLord to help me with this alcohol problem and overnight it was solved. I now can't stand the smell ofthe stuff.Since then the Lord has done wonders with mylife and changed it completely.I finally accepted the Lord as my personalSaviour later (about two months) after, out ofcuriosity, I went with this young lady to her church(Communion day). When the visiting minister askedme if I had accepted Christ as my personal Saviour,all I could say was that I belonged to a church andhad been baptized. Later that day I asked ourminister if I could see him some time that week andso on Tuesday night I did accept Christ as my Savior.Since that time many changes have occurredin my life and all for the better. One of these is theomission of swearing.I am now a member of the R.P. Church in ParkDECEMBER 13, 1967City and am doing my best to live up to God's willand I know He is helping because of many prayersanswered.Harold D. MadsenOther readers of The Covenanter Witness areinvited to send items of evangelistic activities andpersonal testimonies for publication, in order thatwe may all be stimulated and encouraged. Sendthem to: Rev. Waldo Mitchel, 115 Townsend,Walton, N. Y. 13856.We must conquer — some of us especially —our tendency to levity. A great distinction existsbetween holy cheerfulness which is a virtue, andthat general levity, which is a vice. There is a levitywhich has not enough heart to laugh, but trifleswith everything; it is flippant, hollow, unreal. Ahearty laugh is no more levity than a hearty cry.I speak of that religious veneering which is pretentiousbut thin, superficial, and insincere aboutthe weightiest matters. Godliness is no jest, nor isit a mere form. Beware of being actors.C. H. SpurgeonQ. and A.From page 374Many new translations or paraphrases of theBible are appearing and no doubt the personal useof some of these modern editions of the Bible maybe used profitably at times in the study of the Wordof God. The regular use of any of these private translations,however, in the pubhc worship does notseem to be in harmony with the deliverances ofSynod. The Bible is God's Holy Word. Let us everconsider it as His Gracious Message to us and neverattempt to add to it or to take from it.GLIMPSES OF THE RELIGIOUS WORLDFrom page 372UGANDA OFFICIAL HITS "LITERARY" IMPORTS(EP) Uganda's Finance Minister Laurence K.Settala has attacked the importation of "a mass ofnear-pornographic magazines and paper backs. . .vulgarly displayed on most bookstalls and kiosks,"according to the Sudan Interior Mission's magazine,Africa Now.Speaking in Nairobi, Kenya, Settala said this wasone import the nations could do without. He calledfor more worthwhile literature for education andpleasure reading.371

Glimpses of the Religious WorldTHE REV. JOHN McMILLANR. D. 1, Box 337WALDEN, NEW YORKGOVERNMENT'S "RIGHT TO LIE" IS DEFENDED(EP) If he had been living in Western UnitedStates in the early 19th century, Arthur Sylvestersays he would have taken his stand with the "LyingBaptists" against the "Truthful Baptists."The former Assistant U. S. Secretary of Defense,writing in the Saturday Evening Post, made thestatement in an article titled, "The Government Hasthe Right to Lie."The Baptists' dilemma stated above refers to theissue that created the two sects at Long Run,Kentucky, in 1804 and posed the question whethera man with three children captured by maraudingIndians was justified in lying to the savages toconceal the presence nearby of a fourth child. "TheLying Baptists argued," writes Sylvester, "that underthe circumstances he had the right, indeed the duty,to he. But the Truthful Baptists shook their heads,uh-uh: Tell the truth and sacrifice the child."Sylvester scored what he terms "descendants ofthe Truthful Baptists" for wandering in the "sameold moral fog."Citing the case of the Cuban missile crisis,Sylvester said that when the nation's security wasat stake, the government had the right, indeed theduty, to he if necessary to mislead an enemy andprotect the people it represented. He said the newsindustry took his view on the Cuban crisis and"distorted my remarks beyond recognition, howlingthat they were proof the government was not to bebeheved under any circumstances."According to Mr. Sylvester, any "credibility gap"at the present time measures the failure of newsmento do their job.TWO-SIDED TURKISH NEW TESTAMENT ONDISPLAY(EP) An Armenian Christian in Turkey in 1914conceived the idea of printing a New Testamentwith passages from the Bible on one side of a sheetand selections from the Koran on the other.The ingenious trick stopped extreme Muslims inConstantinople from tearing up the Scriptures becauseno Mohammedan would dare to tear theKoran.The New Testament in the Turkish languagewas presented to the American Bible Society in 1939by the late Dr. Samuel M. Zwemer, who was oncejailed in Michigan for distributing American BibleSociety Scriptures without a license.The "two-voiced" New Testament rests amongunique volumes in the library here of the AmericanBible Society."LONG WEEKEND" BILL SHELVED IN HOUSE(EP) A bill providing for the observance of fivemajor holidays on Monday — thus providing aseries of long weekends — has been quietly killed bythe House Judiciary Committee.According to Representative Emanuel Celler,committee chairman, the House unit voted somechanges in the proposed measure, but then failed toreport the bill to the floor.Consequently, he said, the meaure was "dead"for this session of Congress. A similar bill is beforethe Senate Judiciary Committee.Among church groups, strongest objection tothe bill came from the Lord's Day Alliance of the U.S. The Alliance claimed that the proposed five longweekends "would not serve well the moral andspiritual needs of our citizens."THE TWO HUNDRED MILLIONTH AMERICANAccording to Census Bureau calculations, onNovember 20 the United States became a nation of200 million people.It took our nation 300 years to reach its first100 milhon, says the November 6, 1967, U. S. Newsand World Report. The second 100 million came in52 years. The third is foreseen in 30 to 35 years,with median estimates centering on the year 2000.The November 20 notable date came after twodecades of explosive growth.Apart from a solid Christian foundation, thatmany people in one nation can simply crowd,irritate, and exploit one another. The stakes needto be strengthened.See page 371372 COVENANTER WITNESS

Music For The PsalmsTo the Psalter Revision Committee Robert Copeland brings somefine musical talent and training, a deep experience with the Word ofGod, and considerable study of the history of Psalm-singing. He doesnot here speak for the Committee but with the hope that, to use hisawn words, "this proves usable and, perhaps, thought-provoking."The Reformed Presbyterian Directory for Worship,chapter 2, emphasizes praise to God as theprimary goal of the church's musical efforts (cf.Eph. 5:19; Heb. 13:15). The Bible indicates additionalpurposes: Psalms are to be sung for instruction(Col. 3:16), for witness (Ps. 18:49; 22:22; Acts16:25), and for emotional outlet (Jas. 5:13).Assuming the correctness of the Covenanterposition on the exclusive use of the Psalms inworship, we are faced with the problem of findingsuitable music — melody, harmony, and rhythm —to sing with these Scriptural texts.What standards can be adopted in the selectionof music for Psalm-singing? The underlying principleis this: Our worship music must be appropriatefor us to use in the worship of God. The two essentialingredients of this statement are (1) that the musicmust be appropriate for worship (and for its particulartext), and (2) that it must be appropriate forus — it must reflect our faith and manner of life.The first point is reasonably obvious from generalScriptural principles of worship. Music forpraise must focus the worshiper's attention on God,not on earthy impulses or on the techniques of themusic itself. Music for prayer or for reverent adorationmust not be jocular or profane in nature or inassociations.Our worship music, moreover, must reflect ourmanner of life. We are twentieth-century Americans,evangehcals in the Reformed tradition, and ourmusic ought to reflect these influences. British,Japanese, Cypriot or Ethiopian evangehcal musicwill not be identical with ours, and ours, will netbe identical with that of seventeenth-century Cameroniansor sixteenth-century Genevans. All, however,will share some common characteristics.A church's nature and constituency are usuallyrevealed in its hymnal or Psalter. Churches relyingon emotionalism and frowning upon seasoned doctrinelean heavily toward "Gospel songs" drippingwith Victorian sentimentality (e. g. the hymns ofFannv Crosby — and many others). Luther's hymnsreflect the warm piety of Lutheranism. The samerelationship can be demonstrated between nearlyevery Christian tradition and its music.John Calvin's opinion on the music used inworship is indicated clearly in the following paragraph(Institutes, IV, XX, 32):"And surely, if the singing be temperedto that gravity which is fitting in the sightof God and the angels, it both lends dignityand grace to sacred actions and has thegreatest value in kindling our hearts to atrue zeal and eagerness to pray. Yet weshould be very careful that our ears be notmore attentive to the melody than our mindsto the spiritual meaning of the words. . .Therefore, when this moderation is maintained,it (singing) is without any doubt amost holy and salutary practice. On theother hand, such songs as have been composedonly for sweetness and delight of the earare unbecoming to the majesty of the churchand cannot but displease God in the highestdegree."Our Reformed tunes, then, ought to be reverent,dignified and graceful. Perhaps the most effectivetechniques for this purpose are rhythmic variety,smooth, effective voice leading, and interesting harmonizations.The music ought to emphasize ratherthan negate the nature of the Psalm and the senseof the words.Consider, for example, cur heritage of Psalmtunes which reflect the dignity, confidence, anddiscipline of Reformed Christianity. These tunesare the Genevan Psalter melodies of the sixteenthcentury, which with their long, carefully wroughtlines and graceful metres, are well-suited to ourdoctrinal and personal ideals. Yet they avoid thatcoldness which is the antithesis of the true spiritof worship and prayer.Other tunes from later periods arc also suitablein varying degrees. The Scottish and English tunesfrom the seventeeth and eighteenth centuries offeredsome fine examples of appropriate Calvinistic praisebefore their charming rhythms were ironed out toDECEMBER 13, 1967 373

uniform plodding. (Examples are Dunfermline,Dundee and Martyrs.) Most of the church tunes ofthe nineteenth century are not only of dubiousmusical value, but because of over-sentimentalityand triteness are especially inappropriate for usein our worship.Modern Psalm tunes must display the samecharacteristics as early Reformed tunes — clean,graceful lines, dignity and reverence — but withinthe framework of the best contemporary idiom.What specific techniques or characteristics maybe cited as rendering a tune unfit for our purposes?At least four standards may be suggested.1. Associations. Melodies having such strongassociations with profane texts that they distractthe worshipers' attention and destroy the atmosphereof worship may not be used.2. Rhythmic monotony. Tunes with dull, repetitiousrhythms rapidly bore the congregation, asin the case of a simple motif recurring in every ornearly every measure; e. g. Southport, Spencer, Mearand Dennis.3. Melodic monotony. Four-phrase tunes inwhich one phrase is repeated identically two or threetimes show lack of taste and imaginaton, and againQ. and A.QUESTION:"In the light of such Scripture passages asRevelation 22:18-19 are such paraphrased editionsof the Bible as Living Gospels, Living Letters, andLiving Prophecies to be respected or rejected? Forinstance: the rendering of Acts 4:36 is as follows:"For instance, there was Joseph (the rich one theapostles nicknamed "Barny the Preacher"! He wasof the tribe of Levi, from the island of Cyprus.") Therendering of Acts 2:40 is "Then Peter preached along sermon, telling about Jesus and strongly urgingall his listeners to save themselves from the evils oftheir nation." And Matthew 5:14 is rendered: 'Touare the world's hght — a city on a hill, glowing inthe night for all to see." There are many renderingswhich seem as far or farther from the original thanthese. It seems that considerable has been added insome places and some taken away in other places.Yet great preachers hke Billy Graham nightly recommendthe above paraphrased editions. What shouldwe think about Mr. Taylor's manner of renderingGod's Word?374result in boredom. Examples include Monora,Thornton, and Champs Ely sees.4. Triteness. Melodies employing the most basicand overworked musical ideas in a clumsy, tediousmanner should not be used to offer to God oursacrifices of praise. Examples include Effinghamand Erin.Excessive beauty in the music, on the otherhand, is vain and distracting, a point which Calvinemphasized. By supervising the melodies and byprohibiting both harmony and instruments in worship,he tried to prevent this distraction. Zwingli, anaccomplished amateur musician, prohibited musicin worship altogether, because he found it unwarrantedin Scripture and distracting to the true spiritof worship (which is prayer). If indeed we are toretain music in worship at all, we must compromisebetween distracting beauty and that equally distractingbarrenness into which our Puritan andCovenanter traditions have led us. Our worshipmusic must always draw our attention to God ratherthan to detract in any way from the attitude andatmosphere of worship.(To be continued)ANSWER:This question is very similar to a question whichwas before the Synod of 1945, which was, "Is itproper or advisable for Covenanter congregations tomake regular use of modern translations of theBible, such as Moffatt's or Goodspeed's in theirpublic worship, Sabbath Schools or young people'ssocieties?" Synod did not deem it advisable forCovenanter congregations to make regular use ofmodern individual translations of the Bible intheir pubhc worship, Sabbath Schools or youngpeople's societies.In Synod's Minutes of 1954 we find the reportof the "Committee to Evaluate the Revised StandardVersion." The Synod adopted the following recommendation:"That, in view of the many imperfectionsof the Revised Standard Version, it be recognized ona similar basis as other private translations for purposesof reference or comparison."In the body of this same report is this paragraph."In defending the King James Version we make noclaim to its perfection. We are convinced, however,that of all the translations appearing thus far nonecan match it for grandeur of expression or foraccuracy in revealing the Christian faith."See page 371COVENANTER WITNESS

R. P. SeminaryNewsVj|^On September 5, students and professors metat the Seminary for an orientation program. Theday started with breakfast together in the dininghall. After a day of worship, instruction, and recreationtogether, a picnic was held in the evening onthe Seminary lawn. The wives of the professorsand students also attended.On Wednesday evening, September 6, Dr. ClarkCopeland dehvered the opening address entitled,"Pastoral Preaching According to the Epistle to theHebrews." The students were introduced to theaudience. We are thankful to have more studentsthis year than the past several years. One studentfrom Ireland will be finishing his Senior year here.Five missionary candidates are in training forteaching in Cyprus, eight ministerial students arefrom the Reformed Presbyterian denomination andthree are from other denominations. There are threepart time students.Preceding the Seminary opening a dinner washeld in the dining hall honoring Dr. Cloyd Caskeyfor his five years of service teaching Greek Reading.Dr. and Mrs. Caskey are now in Olathe, Kansasserving the congregation there. Mrs. Sam Boyle wasalso honored for her two years as Secretary-Librarianat the Seminary. She resigned her position to teachin the Christian School of Wilkinsburg.Of the Middlers in the Seminary, Wayne Duffieldis taking his field work with the North Hills congregation,Paul Martin with the First Beaver Fallscongregation and James Wright with the CollegeHill congregation.Open House was held at the Seminary on November17. Ron Homa, Junior, served as chairman ofthe planning committee.Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Daugherty are caretakersof the Seminary. Mrs. Stewart Sandberg has beenappointed Secretary-Librarian. Mrs. Adam Caputois serving as cook and Mrs. Francis Sekowskiassists Mrs. Daugherty with her work.In cooperation with the Foreign Mission Boardthe following are part-time instructors for the missionarycandidates: Dr. and Mrs. W W. Weir,Rev. Robert Henning and Mr. E. P. Christuhdes. MrChristulides and Mrs. Weir have classes in ConversationalGreek.There are eight students living in the dormitory:Ted Donnelly, Lee Bittner, Wayne Duffield, PaulMartin, James Wright, Dan Copeland, WilliamSterrett, and Richard Ayres.Knox Hyndman, from Ireland, was called homeon September 17 by the serious illness of his father.Mr. Hyndman passed away on September 26. Knoxhopes to continue his training the second semester.Mr. and Mrs. Charles Marvin are the happyparents of a baby girl, Beverly Amanda, born inSeptember. Mr. Marvin is a Middler in the Seminaryand is pastor of the Assemblies of God Church inDuquesne, Pennsylvania.We are grateful to the Women's Synodical forthe funds to purchase a portable amplifier for thechapel; a micro-film reader and micro-film of severalperiodicals for Library use; and an automaticslide projector. They have all been put to good use.The first series of student preaching was heldon October 25, November 1 and 8 at First BeaverFalls, Allegheny, and Manchester, respectively. OnOctober 25 Donald Crawford, Edward Donnelly andWayne Duffield preached. On November 1 sermonswere preached by Bruce Hemphill and Paul Martin.Dean Smith, James Wright and Charles Marvinconcluded the preaching series on November 8.Student's Wives.Mrs. Dean Smith is teaching in the WilkinsburgElementary Schools. Mrs. Bruce Hemphill is aNurse at Columbia Hospital in Wilkinsburg. Mrs.Ron Homa is teaching in the School for the Deafin Swissvale. Mrs. David Wilcox finished her nurses'training in October and is working in the U. P AgedPeoples' Home in Wilkinsburg as a nurse.The Seminary Board and Faculty expressed itsappreciation to Professor and Mrs. Adam Loughridgeat a dinner on April 25. During the year they spentin the United States, they endeared themselves notonlv to the Seminary group, but to the many congregationsthey were able to visit.DECEMBER 13, 1967 375

THE REFORMED PRESBYTE1• |Uj»ww;«MHf 'Wi.-'^ifrWiuMfclimm, • „, . ,|, • iAdMidA•I wW(\*¥wrwMl,SENIORS — Donald Crawford, Edward Donnelly, Dean Smith,i; mMIDDLERS — Wayne Duffield, Bruce Hemphill, Paul Martin, James Wrightgill'(fSBJl1:r •-'iiiiiwUiitijn iiiiI " .J. IP iiHi'i. iii iiiiSPECIAL STUDENTS — Edward Jackson, Ralph White, Robert Widenorlw376FACULTY — E. C. Copeland, R. C. Fullerton, K. G. SCOVENANTER WITNESS

THEOLOGICAL SEMINARYi *«\111 1 ''Nil! " li-,'1. Hi 111 • ! I I - ' "'HI• '•••JUNIORS — Lee Bittner III, David Wilcox, Ronald Homa, Donald Wolf, Charles Marrinis-!?J«' III* ;, < Itij IHilii ISIHIII 1111.1. W\\•f'i•I ,illk IIIMISSIONARY CANDIDATES —«ill', 11 I! 1 1Richard Ayres, Mary Matteson, Daniel Copeland, William Sterrett, Kathryn Elliott"•*$??}j'illson, R. L. Henning, W. W. Weir, Mrs. W. W. WeirDECEMBER 13, 1967377

Elinor F. NealA PAGE FOR JUNIORSGOD CARES FORYOU"Now what mischief are you two planning?"Mr. Mitchell asked when he saw John and Joan, theten-year-old twins, with their heads together."Not mischief this time,Dad," John grinned."It's school.""Miss Lyons, our teacher, said that now thatmost of our birds have left for their winter homes,we ought to be able to find some nests that are notbeing used," Joan added."We are to see if we can tell what kind of a birdbuilt the nest and how it was made. Then we areto write a composition in school on Monday aboutwhat we have learned.""That sounds like a real adventure," their fathersaid. "You ought not to have to go very far. There areplenty of trees and bushes near-by.""And, Mom," John asked, "may we take yourgrocery basket? We want to bring the nests home tostudy them.""Of course, you may," their mother agreed.So quite early Saturday morning the twins withthe grocery basket set out on their adventure. Andin no time at all they were back with two nests inthe grocery basket.At the supper table that evening their fatherasked what they had learned on their trip.Joan was the first to tell of her experience. "Ifound a nest under some bushes. I think a bobolinkmade it.""Why do you think so?" her mother asked."It looks hke a picture of a bobolink's nest in ourbird book. It is made of dried grass just like ourbird book says.""That's good reasoning," her father said. "Whatdid you find, John?""I was going to take a woodpecker's nest thatI saw in a dead tree, but I saw some wrens go into it.They must be using it now. Then I saw a nesthanging from a low branch. I thinkit was made bya Baltimore oriole. It's made of grass, strips of bark,and even bits of string.""So far so good," their father said. "What elsehave you learned, Joan?"378"I learned that a bobolink is also called a ricebird. On its way to southern Brazil where it spendsthe winter, it stops to feed in rice fields.""And the oriole is called a Baltimore oriole becauseits colors of orange and black and white are similarto the colors of Lord Baltimore's coat of arms. Welearned in history that a famous British family wasknown as Baltimore, and probably gave that name toour city of Baltimore, Maryland," John added."You ought to be able to write a good composition,"their mother said."Yes, but we learned something else that's moreimportant. Birds can fly thousands of miles to theirwinter homes, often hundreds of miles over water.And they don't have maps to guide them as we haveto have to go such long distances. But the birds knowhow to go because God made them with the "knowhow"for their long trip to the warmer climates."Joan added thoughtfully, "If God made the birdswith this abihty to do the wonderful things that theydo and cares for them all the time, how much moredoes He care for us and love us.""We could read what Jesus said about God'scare of the birds and us in Matthew 10:29-31. Arenot two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one ofthem shall not fall on the ground without yourFather. But the very hairs of your head are allnumbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of morevalue than many sparrows,'" Mrs. Mitchell concluded.MATCHING QUIZ1.2.3.4.5.6.7.8.9.10.11.12.CommendMiteKindredWhenceGospelUttermostMeteSanctuaryManifoldEdifyOrdainedPublicanby Hannah Nottinghama. Give outb. Good newsc. Numerousd. Presence of Gode. To instructf. From what placeg. Tax collectorh. Remotesti. Appointedj. Praisek. Tribe1. Smallest Jewish coin§31 III 3 01 36P8^q9q9 JfrlEISftCOVENANTER WITNESS

Lesson Helps for the Week of January 7,1968Sabbath SchoolLessonfor January 7, 1968THE WORD BECAME FLESHJohn 1:1-42; 20:30-31.Comments by John K. GaultThe new year, 1968, begins, veryappropriately, with a study of theGospel of John. It is assumed thatthis Gospel was written by the ApostleJohn, himself, or by his dictation. Thetime of writing has been placed nearthe end of the first century. Theprologue furnishes the basic Scripturefor the study of this lesson on thefirst Sabbath of the new year.1: Why Was Jesus Called "TheWord"?In the original Greek the word isLogos, which means thought or utterance.The origin and expression of communicationsbetween persons are bothbound up in the meaning of the wordLogos. The Apostle's use of this wordundoubtedly was the result of his studyof the Old Testament in which "theword" is repeatedly used to indicateGod's communication with the prophetsto be transmitted to His peopleIsrael. The philosophers of John's dayalso made use of the word Logos asthey endeavored to explain the communicationwhich God sustained tothe word, but without the animationwhich John attached to the wordLogos. The Apostle was evidentlyfamiliar, not only with the Old Testamentuse of "the word" but also withthe "logos" of Greek philosophy.John's objective was to write aboutChrist. In doing this he made of "theword" a living person and that personwas Jesus the Christ. The person ofChrist became God's living communicationwith a world lost in sin. Jesuswas, therefore, the thought of God'smind but He was also the expressionof God's Word because he was God.John solved the problem of the philosophersof his day, concerning God'scommunication with the world, tocreate it, to govern it, and to save it,DECEMBER 13, 1967by holding up the person of JesusChrist as the living Word of God.2: Christ, the Word, Was in theBeginning.This is stated in the first verseand is a copy of the first verse ofGenesis. At the time of the beginningof the world, before there were anyof the works of creation, even then theWord was in existence. Time belongsto the world which rotates on its axisevery twenty-four hours and revolvesin its orbit around the sun so as tocause summer and winter. But theWord had no beginning and will haveno ending. Moses said in Psalm 90,"Lord, thou hast been our dwellingplace in all generations. Before themountains were brought forth, or everthou hadst formed the earth and theworld, even from everlasting to everlasting,thou art God." In Hebrews 1:8it is said, "But unto the Son he saith,Thy throne, O God, is for ever andever:" The eternity of Christ, theWord, is, therefore, clearly taught inthese and in many other passages ofScripture. Jesus' sojourn in humanform was, but a brief interlude amidthe countless aeons of eternity.3: The Co-existence of the WordWith God.John said in verse 1, "And theWord was with God." This statementwould tend to show us that the Word,Jesus the Christ, had an individualityof His own. He had an eternal associationwith God the Father. We learnedin our catechism, question 6, that"There are three persons in the Godhead;the Father, the Son, and theHoly Ghost; and these three are oneGod, the same in substance, equal inpower and glory." Christ, the Word,was the creator; He is the mediatorand He was and will be the judge.He occupies a distinct place in theGodhead and He fulfills a distinctmission. He is, in all, the personificationof God's communication with theworld.4: The Deity of the Word.The Apostle continues by saying,"And the Word was God." This statementshows us that the Word not onlyhad an eternal association with Godbut He actually was God. He possessedthe nature of the divine being. Inanswer to Philip who had asked, "Showus the Father, and it sufficeth us,"Jesus said, "— He that hath seen mehath seen the Father; and how sayestthou, show us the Father? Believestthou not that I am in the Father andthe Father in me? the words that Ispeak unto you I speak not of myself:but the Father that dwelleth in mehe doeth the works." That Jesus wastruly God was indicated by the varioustitles ascribed to Him; such as Matthew1:23, "Behold a virgin shall bewith child, and shall bring forth ason, and they shall call his name Emmanuel,which being interpreted is,God with us." Also in Revelation 1:17it is said concerning Christ, "And helaid his hand upon me, saying, Fearnot; I am the first and the last: I amhe that liveth, and was dead; and,behold I am alive for evermore, Amen;and have the keys of hell and oldeath." There are also many othertitles and expressions in the Biblewhich indicate Jesus' oneness withGod. "Whom say ye that I am"? askedJesus of His disciples in Matthew 16:15, "And Simon Peter answered andsaid, Thou art the Christ, the Son ofthe living God"(v. 16).5: The Word Was 'he Creator.In. verse 3 it is said, "All thingswere made by him; and without himwas not anything made that wasmade." John evidently had beforehim the book of Genesis, the first verseof which reads, "In the beginningGod created the heavens and theearth." This was a direct refutationof the arguments of certain philosophersof John's day, who sought toexplain the origin of the world in someother way: and there were many such,as there are now. Jesus Christ mustbe postula ed in a satisfactory explanationof the origin of the universe.This is the basis of all relimousscience. To attempt to explain theorigin of the world in any other way379i

is to say that matter is eternal, which, one crying in the wilderness, Make number or count the stars. Beforeof course, is unthinkable.straight the way of the Lord." And telescopes were made, it was thoughtwhen John saw Jesus he said, "Behold there were about 3,000 stars altogether6: The Word Is the Source ofPhysical and Spiritual Life.the Lamb of God, which taketh awaythe sin of the world."but today, with our giant lenses andradio telescopes, we are told by astronomersthat there may be billions ofThe Genesis account of creation "Lesson based on International Sundaytells us that "out of the ground the School Lessons: the International Bible Lessonsstars and that they are of a tremen­for Christian Teaching, copyrighted 1963 dous size. "When I consider theLord God formed every beast of theby the Division of Christian. Education, NatioiialCouncil of Churches of Christ in thefield and every fowl of the air." Lukeheavens, the work of thy fingers, thetells us in Acts 17:28 that Paul stood U.S.A."moon and the stars which thou haston Mars Hill in Athens and said, "Forordained. What is man that thou artin him we live, and move and have ourmindful of him and the son of man,being; as certain also of your ownthat thou visitest him?" (Psalm 8:3, 4)poets have said, for we are also hisRead carefully this verse. How muchoffspring." The Word is alive and not Junior Topic effort did it take for God to make thedead. He swears by Himself as is statedheavens and the stars? Did He use allfor January 7in the Bible repeatedly, as in RomansHis might? No, the verse says, "theGOD'S GIFT OF NATURE14:11: "For it is written, as I live,work of thy fingers." It's easy for usMrs. Robert L. McElroysaith the Lord, every knee shall bowto pick up a jack ball with just ourIntroduction:to me, and every tongue shall confessfingers or maybe a tennis ball butDuring the coming four weeks ourto God." Jesus, also, said, "Are notnot many of us can pick up a basketballwith the fingers of one hand. Thisstudy will concern God's Gift oftwo sparrows sold for a farthing? andNature. You will want to collect picturesto illustrate the topics we willone of them shall not fall on theshows us how great our God is. Canground without your Father." Whenyou remember any other time Godbe studying: Nature's Lessons, Nature'sJesus was about to call forth Lazarusused His fingers in a special way? (Ex.Beauty and Praise, Nature's Mysteries,from the tomb He said to Martha, "I31: 18)and Nature's Revelation. These picturesam the resurrection and the life: heAnother example of God's greatshould cover a variety of plant andthat believeth in me, though he wereplan is in the plants and trees He hasanimal subjects. Filmstrips on naturedead, yet shall he live: and whosoeverplaced on this earth. God has givencould possibly be borrowed fromliveth and believeth in me shall neverus a great many things to make ourpublic libraries. The primary leaderdie."life here more enjoyable and moremay wish to select a verse, print it7: The Word is the Source of Light.beautiful. Do you think you couldon a sheet of manila paper, and haveWhen He created the world Hemake a flower? No, not a paper one —the children illustrate or cut picturessaid, "Let there be light and therea real flower. Why not? Do flowerswhich are related to the verse. Forwas light." One believing in Christgrow by themselves? No, flowers aren'tthe intermediate a Bible study drillis here said to have light. Such lightable to do anything by themselves.will accompany each lesson. If yourcomes from the Word, Jesus Christ.Our Heavenly Father makes themfacilities do not permit handwork,In verse 4 it is said, "His life was thegrow. Read Matt. 6:28. "And why takePsalm 136:1-9, 26 could be used forlight of men. And the light shinethye thought for raiment? Consider thememorization as a choral reading —in darkness; and the darkness comprehendedit not." Of John the Baptisttoil not, neither do they spin." Thislilies of the field, how they grow; theythe intermediate saying the firstphrase and the reply by the primary.it says in verse 8, "He was not thatverse and the two that follow remindLesson Number 1 — Nature's LessonsLight, but was sent to bear witness ofus that we are not able to make ourselvestaller or more beautiful than weMemory Psalm: Psalm 148.that Light. That was the true Light,Memory Verse: Psalm 8:3, 4.which lighteth every man that comethwere yesterday. No matter how hardScripture: Psalm 8:3, 4; Matt. 6:into the world." Paul says in Romanswe may try to make ourselves beautifulby new clothes, curly hair, or28; 13:31; Mark 4:28; 13:28; Gen. 8:22.13:12, "The night is far spent, the dayDo you like to go on a hike throughis at hand: let us therefore cast offbraids, we still cannot compare withfields and woods in the fall? Have youthe works of darkness, and let us putthe lily. This doesn't mean we shouldn'ttake care of our bodies and keepever raked up a big pile of leaves andon the armor of light." The devil'sthen jumped into them? Do you thinkinfluence in the world is likened tothem clean and attractively clothed.it's fun to go sliding down a snowdarkness, but the influence of ChristBut rather, we should not be overlybank on a saucer? Or maybe you like tois likened to light.pleased or concerned with our appearance.We must remember that God willrun out into the waves at the shore?8: The Forerunner of the Word.If you have done these things, thenJohn the Baptist was sent by Godprovide for us according to our needs.you have enjoyed one of God's preciousgifts to His children — Nature.to serve in that capacity. In verse 6One of God's most reassuring promisesto His people was given to Noahit is said, "There was a man sent from Have you ever looked up at the skyGod whose name was John. The samewhen the flood waters had dried upon a warm summer's night and triedcame to bear witness of the Light."and the ark had come to rest on Mt.to count the stars as they appear?He disclaimed any evidence of beingArarat. You remember in that storyFirst, it's easy — then suddenly, youChrist but he said, "I am the voice ofGod had destroyed the world He hadcan't count fast enough! For thousandsmade because the earth was corruptof years people have been trying to380 and filled with COVENANTER violence. The WITNESS promise

He made to Noah in Genesis 8:22 was,"While the earth remaineth seedtimeand harvest, and cold and heat, andsummer and winter, and day and nightshall not cease." To seal His promiseHe placed in the sky a symbol of Hiscovenant — the beautiful rainbow.When we go to bed at night we do nothave to worry whether the sun willcome up the next morning or whetherthe snow will really melt away andgrass will again cover the bare brownspots. We do not have to concernourselves when we plant apple seedsthat peanuts will come up. We dependupon the seasons to change and therain to turn to snow — yet none ofthese things can occur without theworking of God's hands.Let us read again the verses we arestudying tonight. What special lessondoes each verse have for you? First,we remember that the God who madeheaven and earth, the stars and thesun, and moon, loves us and offersus the joy of being His children.Second, we must learn to recognizewhat is important for us in our Christainlife. Finally, in the last verses,we have seen the continuity of God'splan for His creation.Questions:1. How do we depend upon natureto provide our daily needs?2. How can understanding what theBible teaches about creation deepenour belief in man's divine being?Activity:During the next four weeks wewant to discover all we can about theplants, animals, trees, and foods thatare mentioned in the Bible. This weekwe'll begin with animals. If you cometo an animal you don't know, look itup in your Bible dictionary. You maywant to illustrate each verse with asketch of the animal that is mentioned.Use the references given below for astart. See how many different animalsyour group can find. You may findother references in your Bible concordanceor in the back of the NewChain Reference Bible.I Kings 10:22; Lev. 11:29, 30; Ps.32:9; Prov. 30:31; Job 7:12; Job 39:13;Ps. 104:17; Job 8:14; Prov. 6:6; Jud. 16:8; Ex. 8:21.Abide in me, and I in you. As thebranch cannot bear fruit of itself,except it abide in the vine; no morecan ve, except ye abide in me.John 15:4.DECEMBER 13, 1967Prayer MeetingTopicfor January 10, 1968THE COVENANTER CHURCHIN MODERN SOCIETYPart I — Laying the GroundworkRev. Ralph Joseph.Matthew 28: 19, 20.Psalms: 113:1-5, p. 279; 147:1-4, p.354; 119 part 17: 1-4, p. 306; 48: 1, 2,6, 7, p. 112.The Covenanter Church has agreat heritage, a heritage so greatthat it would take too much time torecount it. But even though the churchhas this, the fact remains that we livein the 20th century and must concernourselves with the function of thechurch in the present age. For tonightard next week we shall be focusingour attention upon certain aspects ofthe Great Commission.1. If we as a church are going toface the world of today and speak tcthat world, we must have a clearunderstanding of the task of thechurch. We have much confusion inthis area today. The socio-activisttheory that is prevalent today in themajority of the major churches assumesthat man perhaps makes a fewmistakes but that he is not really bad.From this viewpoint he then worksat changing the environment, etc. sothat the good in man will shine forth.The task that Jesus gives the churchSee page 383We were listening for the weather forecast on the radio. We hoped againsthope that the prediction would be fair weather; for the farmers needed dryingin the fields, so they could move in their big machinery to gather the corn. Afour row picker doesn't do well in mud!"And now stand by for the weather!"We stood by."Cloudy today, with intermittent showers. No sunshine in this part of thestate."Our spirits were dampened at the damp prospect. Intermittent showerswere just what we didn't need.But the Bible tells us that it is the Lord who "covereth the heaven withclouds." The Bible also tells us that the prophet of old "prayed earnestly thatit might not rain; and it rained not upon the earth."Possibly some modern-day intercessor was praying "earnestly that it mightnot rain." Or perhaps the Lord felt that we needed sunshine more than weneeded liquid sunshine on that particular day. At any rate, fifteen minutesafter the weather man had predicted that we would have "cloudy today withintermittent showers," the sun came out from behind the clouds; and itstayed out all day.Some times even a government weather prophet can miss it. All he cando, is make the best judgment possible on the basis of the information thathe has.We also have our present-day prophets of doom. Reading the signs of thetimes according to their best human judgment, many of them are lookingforward with hopelessness — and are foreseeing only the deterioration ofhuman society.„,„.,,. muBut the Lord's intercessors are still on their knees praying, W lit Thou notrevive us again: that Thy people may rejoice in Thee'?" Admittedly there aredark clouds on the horizon, and even over head. But the future is still verymuch in the hands of the Lord God Almighty. It could well be that, much soonerthan we suppose, to those who fear His name "shall the Sun of riahu ousm-ssarise with healing in his wings."381

CALLThe Greeley congregation hasissued a call, which I moderated onNovember 17, for the Rev. J. PaulMcCracken to be their pastor.J. E. McElroyNEW ADDRESSENS. T. M. Hutcheson, Jr.Commander Amphibious GroupThreeF. P. O. San Francisco, Calif. 96601U. S. A.EASTVALEGod continues His work in ourmidst!We proudly report Elder DavidWilcox's decision to enter the ministry.David and Katy are now at home inPittsburgh for the seminary years tofollow.Our newest members include MissCarol Heath, Mrs. Raymond Milroy,Mr. and Mrs. William Pander, and Mrs.Thelma Wilds. Oar minister is teachinga communicant's class as well ascontinuing a counseling ministry inaddition to his other pastoral duties,besides serving as CorrespondingSecretary of the Foreign MissionBoard, a member of the SeminaryBoard and Assistant Y. P. Secretary ofPittsburgh Presbytery, and teachingMissionary Methods in the MissionaryCandidate Training Course at theSeminary.For several years, a prayer grouphas met the hour before the Sabbathevening worship. A schedule of topicscovering the entire church's programis followed, members sharing the leadership.Our young people have also heldtheir own Wednesday evening prayermeetings in recent years. Our thankshere to those who so faithfully preparethe topics and comments which arepublished in The Witness.Materially, we are blessed with anew parking lot. A borough ordinancelast spring forbade continued parkingon the street in front of the church.In God's perfect timing, a spaciousparking lot off the street behind thechurch is now in use. Come and helpus enjoy it!Our morning worship services werebroadcast over the Beaver Falls radiostation, WBVP, the month of June,including Synod Sabbath with theRev. Jerrold Milroy, guest minister.Wedding bells have rung twice recently.Mrs. Ruth Haddox became Mrs.Albert Knight and Mrs. Iva Mathewsbecame Mrs. Raymond Milroy. We enjoythe regular fellowship of bothcouples.The Juniors presented a puppetprogram, Pilgrim's Progress, to thecongregation. Sponsors Mrs. MargaretCarson and Mrs. Ruth Henning directedthis project. The Juniors also entertainedthe Junior S. S., of which ElderPaul Coast is Superintendent, to aHallowe'en party.The Junior Hi's are led by Mrs.Brenda McNutt and Elder Roy Adams.The Y. P.'s new format includestheir meetings after the Sabbath eveningworship. Mrs. Elizabeth Wilcoxand Elder Jerrold Richeal are sponsors.A varied program for high schooland college students is pursued.Among the hospitalized have beenElder H. C. Anderson, Mrs. MargaretCarson, Mr. George Doutt, Bob Carvin,Mrs. Alice Green, Mrs. Rose MaryHoffman, Mrs. Joyce Knight, and Mrs.Naomi Snedeker. Mrs. Annetta Douttwore a cast on her fractured wristmost of the summer.Mrs. Ruth Babel Wike passed awayafter an extended illness. She was acharter member of the congregation.New babies have been born into thefollowing member's homes: Mr. andMrs. Ronald Little, Mrs. Fay FreedMadison and Mrs. Leah Rae Belk.Men and boys of the congregationhave participated in two overnightcampouts, with credit due to Mr.Charles Simmons for the plans involved.A labor of love is faithfully offeredby Mrs. Connie Braun through thechurch library. Mrs. Braun is a graduatelibrarian and, naturally, chairmanof the Library Committee.The ministry of the Rev. RobertFullerton for the fall Communionseason, ushered in the congregation's31st birthday. An anniversary dinner,made special by the reminiscing ofDr. George Coleman, was a happyoccasion for the capacity crowd inattendance.Thanks be unto God!THANKSThis Season of 1967, with unusualexperiences, has brought me a newunderstanding of the preciousness ofloving Christian friends. May the Lordreward them all.In His Name(Miss) Emma McFarlandSANTA ANA.Having been on the sick list herselfthis summer, with surgery and a heartattack, this correspondent is late withsome of these items. Other sick oneswere Mrs. Kellogg, Mr. and Mrs.Saylor, Mrs. Schroeder, and Mrs. Ladd.All are now able to be at churchexcept Mrs. Schroeder who is in arest home.In the spring our graduates wereJanice Keys and Franklin Kelloggfrom high school; Patricia Keys,Candace Kellogg, Patricia Robb, andRandall Davis from junior high, andElin Davis, Beverly Keys and AllenKellogg from elementary school.Our deacons delighted the heartsof our women folk by installing a newstove and a new water heater in thekitchen.During the summer we were happyto have Paul Martin speak to us uponseveral occasions, including one whenhe came with the group from SummerTraining Program, Rev. Ken Smith,Jim Wright, Dick Wood, Lee Bittner,and Paul.Rev. and Mrs. Philip Martin spentfive weeks this summer preachingand working at the Indian Mission,Apache, Oklahoma.Rev. J. K. Gault assisted at theFresno Communion on October 29.Rev. Philip Martin assisted with thePhoenix Communion on November 5.In the absence of Rev. PhilipMartin, Dr. Frank Stewart had chargeof the service at the Basler Rest Home.A very happy occasion was theMilligan family reunion which hasalready been reported.The Memorial Fund for SterrettRobb and Hugh McCrum was givento the American Bible Society.Our Communion was held on October15 with the assistant, Rev. Ray382 COVENANTER WITNESS

McCracken giving us very helpfulmessages.The Thomas Davis family and Mrs.Pierpoint, Dr. and Mrs. McCracken,Miss Ethel Torrens, and Mrs. Gaultattended the installation service forRev. James Pennington in San Diego.A "carry in" supper will precedeour Thank Offering meeting on November17. Rev. James Pennington isto be our missionary speaker.Rev. and Mrs. Robert McMillanand Mrs. Moser, the mother of Mrs.Robert McMillan, Junior, came to LongBeach on October 30 to see the youngpeople before Robert, Jr. was sent toVietnam. They all visited with relativesin Long Beach and La Miradaand attended church in Santa Ana onthe Sabbath. Robert, Jr. left for Vietnamon November 2.Congratulations to Mr. Lewis Keys!Lewis was recently promoted to beAssistant Secretary of the WesternTitle Co. "The laborer is worthy ofhis reward" (I Timothy 5:18).JOHNNY CARSON'S ANSWERTO FRATERNITIESQ: Did you belong to a fraternity atthe University of Nebraska?A: Yes, but I don't believe in fraternities.I was sorry I had joined. I foundthe whole attitude juvenile. Besides,a fraternity is undemocratic; it iseverything that it is not supposed tobe. I found bigotry and snobbism, andI didn't like anything about it. I thinkI was too old for all that nonsense. Ihad just had three years in the service,and I was 20 when I started college.People are always going to band togetherone way or another, but toband together for the sake of excludingsomeone else makes no sense to me.— Ladies Home JournalW.M.S. TOPICfor JanuaryOUR SUPREME COMMANDERMrs. Howard KeysIn Concord, Massachusetts, standsa statue of a minuteman. He has onehand on a plow and the other hand onhis rifle. The minutemen were readyat a minute's notice to go to battleagainst the British in the early daysof the American revolution.The Israelites in Nehemiah's timeDECEMBER 13. 1967were "minutemen" too. As they wererebuilding the walls of Jerusalem theirenemies hindered them and threatenedto attack them. "From that day on,"said Nehemiah, "half of my servantsworked on construction and half heldthe spears, shields, bows, and coats ofmail Those who carried burdenswere laden in such a way that eachwith one hand labored on the work,and with the other hand held hisweapon." The Israelites were ready todefend themselves all the time theywere working.This is a good picture of Christians,too, one hand on our work and one onour weapon. We also have enemiesagainst whom we need to be constantlyalert. They are the devil and our ownsinful nature. It is a continuous battle,but one that we do not have tofight alone. Paul tells us in Ephesians6:11, "Put on the whole armor of Godthat you may be able to stand againstthe wiles of the devil." One of ourmost valuable weapons is "the swordof the Spirit, which is the Word ofGod." We study God's Word so wecan overcome the attacks of Satan andour sinful self. God's Word strengthensus by reminding us of the victoryJesus won for us by His obedienceand suffering. We have the promisetoo in I Corinthians 10:13 that thereis a provision made for our safety.Our supreme commander is Christ,— I Peter 3:9. He is worthy of allconfidence and loyalty because Godis perfect (Deut. 32:4, Matt. 5:48), —a leader endowed with the absoluteof perfection, truth, justice, and righteousness;God is patient (Luke 13:7-9,II Peter 3:9, Romans 9:20-23), — amerciful commander; God is powerful(Job 42:2, Isa. 43:13, Matt. 19:26), — anomnipotent leader; God is perceptive(John 2:24-25, Prov. 15:3, II Chron 16:9), a wise leader. The entire 8thchapter of Romans is full of crowningverses of assurance to thrill us torally around our supreme Commanderfor victory.Our goal as God's minutemen inthis battle of hfe isn't merely to defendourselves with the Spirit's sword. TheLord has given each of us a job to dobesides. So our other hand must beon the plow. Wherever God has putus, we're to be busy serving Him.Knowing assuredly that we do this inHis strength and with His help.God is before me, He will bemy Guide;God is behind me, no ill canbetide;God is beside me, to comfortand cheer;God is around me, so why shouldI fear.Author UnknownPRAYER MEETING TOPICFrom page 381makes no such assumption. The taskwhich Jesus gave is two-fold: (1) Thechurch is charged with the making ofdisciples. This itself indicates that manis basically out of alignment with God.(2) The church is charged to teach whatChrist has spoken. If we look closelyat the words of Jesus, they tell us thatman is basically sinful.2. We must also know how thistask is to be implemented. It is onethingto state the task but quite anotherto carry it out. From the studyof the Commission, we can note that:(1) We must be acquainted with theknowledge of what a disciple is. Wcare told that we are to make disciples"baptizing them into the name of theFather, and of the Son, and of the HolyGhost." How many of us know whatit means to be "baptized into" theGodhead? (2) We must teach thatwhich comes from our experience. Thilanguage of the 20th verse indicatesthat the church was to teach thatwhich Jesus had commanded them, notfrom the standpoint of knowledge,but from the standpoint of practice.We may be able to teach knowledgewithout experience, but how can weteach others to observe unless we arcalso observing?Discussion:1. How can we strike a balance inthe knowledge of Scripture and theapplication of the truths of Scripture?2. How can we get the experienceso necessary to teach aright?3. What principles should be appliedto make sure our teaching ofthe Word of God carries with it theduty to observe?Prayer:1. Pray that we might have a thoroughknowledge ourselves of theGospel — what it means to make adisciple.2. Pray that our teaching, formallyand informally, may have this emphasisupon observing to do.3. Pray that we may keep a Biblicalbalance of the church's task despitepressures away from it in some circles.383

a report to thoughtful laymen...How well doyou pay yourMinister?Other professional people set their own fees.The minister, however, must look to layleaders for a judgment of his financial worth.H A V E YOU ever wondered how your ministeris making out financially?If he'sHke the average in 15 major denominations,he's not so well off. For example, themedian income for other salaried professionalsis just under $11,000.* But for ministers, withequal or greater educational background, it'sslightly over $6,000.* Your minister may bereceiving more than this. But is he being compensatedaccording to his training andexperience?One of the reasons that ministerial salariesremain as low as they are is that many laymenreflect the man who said, "After all, he'snot in this work to make money—it's supposedto be a 'calling.' Besides, he has sources of incomenot available to laymen like me." Let'sset the record straight:layman, have you measured up to that trustWedding, funeral and other fees are not large. by The bringing this matter to the attention ofmedian annual total is $89. Many do not acceptfees at all.If not, will you do itthe right people?soon?Church business costs are often charged againsthis salary. Official travel in his car costs ministersmore than $600 a year, on the average."Donations" in kind are negligible. Some ruralchurches make such donations. Most do not.Salary increases are often withheld "until thechurch building debt is paid." This additionalforced contribution can be as large as thepledge of the church's most affluent member."The adequacy with which a church supportsits minister is the measure of the seriousnesswith which it takes its mission,"according to the National Council of Churches.A major reason that the community does notalways take the church more seriously is thatlaymen do not always take their responsibilitiesseriously.The minister has been called "the last unorganizedman." He trusts the Christian spiritand fairness of his people. As a responsible*Salaries quoted are from a recent tabulation of the U.S.Dept. of Labor. Median clergy salaries consist of cash salaryplus $1,800 for housing, utilities and fees, less $600 for nonreimbursedautomobile expenses.Reprints of this public service message for distribution to yourTrustees or Board Members are available on request.~*^ r v < MINISTERS LIFE and casualty unionSINCE 1900 -^.^-.«_••»_• i j .^••.wi.Ministers Life Building • Minneapolis, Minnesota 55^16Published at the request of Synod's Committee to Study Ministers' SalariesCOVENANTER WITNESS

(WvfcwiteiVOLUME LXXIX NO. 25 DECEMBER 20, 1967 STERLING, KANSAS 67579BIBLE LESSONS FOR THE WEEK OF JANUARY 14, 1968-«

THE COVENANTER WITNESSOfficial organ of the ReformedPresbyterian Church of N. A.> CVANWUCAllEditor: Rev. M. W. Dougherty, D.D.125 N. 4th StreetSterling, Kansas 67579Phone 316 — Br. 8 • S472Printed each Wednesday under the supervision of theBoard of Publication by The Patterson Press, Winchester,Kansas 66097.Contributing Editors: Department Editors:Rev. Kenneth SmithDr. G. M. RobbMrs. Robert B. MaineRev. John McMillan Mrs. Willis EdgarRev. Charles Sterrett Rev. John K. GaultOpinions expressed in our columns are those of theindividual writer, not necessarily the views of the ReformedPresbyterian Church or the editor.All material to appear in The Covenanter Witnessshould be typewritten, double-spaced, and should be inSterling, Kansas two weeks before it is to be printed.The cost of all pictures is 30 cents per square inch.Obituaries — All words in excess of one hundred fifty,one cent per word. Money should accompany such notices.SUBSCRIPTION RATESIndividual (1 year): U.S. and Canada, $4.00, BritishTsles 35/-, all other places, $5.00;Individual (2 year): U.S. and Canada, $7.00, BritishIsles 63/-, all other places, $9.00;Group: U.S. and Canada, $3.00, British Isles 28/-, allother places, $4.00.9-month student subscription — $1.50; 5-month introductoryoffer —$1.00; 2 gift subscriptions to persons outsideof the R. P. Church — $2.00 each. Single copies, 10c.Subscription Agent for U.S. and Canada: Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Subscription Agent for the British Isles: Rev. HughWright, B.A., 12, Knutsford Drive, Belfast 14, NorthernIreland.All checks should be made payable to The CovenanterWitness in U. S. currency.Give one month's notice of a change of address. Sendboth the new and the old address to Mrs. M.W. Dougherty.Postmaster: Please send Form 3579 to Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Second class postage paid at Winchester, Kansas 66097WE HOLD THE FOLLOWING TO BE TRUTHS OF SCRIPTURE:The Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the only infalliblerule of faith and conduct.The Trinitarian conception of the Godhead.Faith in Jesus Christ as the only way of salvation.Salvation by Grace.Assurance of salvation as a possible Christian experience.The Gospel Call and Election.The Holy Spirit as the Author of regeneration.Sanctification through the cooperating agency of the Holy Spirit.The fact of death and hell as the destiny of the lost and heavenas the destiny of the saved.That the Church of Jesus Christ consists of all those who believein Him together with their children.The Divine Right of the Presbyterian form of Church Government.The Lord Jesus Christ as the only King and Head of His Church.That terms of membership or communion are essential to thewelfare of the Church.COVENANT FAMILY HOME TRAINING GUIDEThis Guide for instruction has been prepared to assist Christian parents inhigh calling of giving systematic and effective training to their children in thehome.Under the Covenant of Grace the children of believing parents are includedWith them in their covenant relationship with God. Infant baptism is administeredas an acknowledgment of that covenant relationship. In addition to thatpromise claimed, vows taken by the parents at the time of the baptism of theirchildren point up very clearly their covenant responsibilities to provide for theirchildren's education as God enables them, to acquaint them with their lostcondition and need of a Savior, and to instruct them in the principles of ourcovenanted profession. (See Constitution of the Reformed Presbyterian Church,p. 314; see also p. 231, sec. 8.)The home is both historically and Scripturally the basic unit of Christian Education.While the Church School is also essential and Scriptural, its primaryfunction with children and young people of covenant families is to supplementhome training given by Christian parents. The Church School with one or twohours of instruction each week — commendable as this may be — is not meant tobe the only source of Christian Education. The home has this basic responsibility;and when the home and the church work together, there can be tremendousopportunities for Christian growth and development.At each age level this Guide suggests daily Bible readings, Scripture versesto be memorized, Catechism questions and answers to be learned; Psalms (bothwords and music) to be mastered, and books to be read and studied. Many ofthese things may be integrated into or done in connection with Family Worship.A page of tips for Family Worship is included on page 19.ORDER FROM: R. P. Board of Christian Education7437 Penfield CourtPittsburgh, Pa. 15208Price — 50c each; 10 or more — 40c eachThe duty which rests upon officers to maintain discipline andpreserve the purity of the Church.Spiritual worship as a divine requirement mediated through theLord Jesus Christ.The exclusive use of the Psalms in the worship of the Church.The Protestant interpretation of the Sacraments.The divine right of the institution of Marriage and that it is notto be dissolved except by adultery or "irremediable" desertion.The Sabbath as a day sacred to rest and worship.The duty of nations and their civil rulers to honor Christ asKing of Kings and Lord of Lords.That Christian citizens are under obligation to obey lawful authority.The right and duty of the Christian citizen to dissent from allgovernmental and national disobedience to the Law of God.That the Covenants of the past are still binding.From "The Communicant's Class" by J. B. Tweed386 COVENANTER WITNESS

EditorialComment ^WONDERFUL COUNSELORPunctuation was quite an invention or discovery,whichever you wish to call it. The original languagesof the Bible were written without any punctuationmarks. Sometimes as we read the Scriptures weforget that the little dots and dashes were not inspiredby the Holy Spirit. These were put in by manto aid in the reading of the Word and to give clearermeaning to it. Being man — introduced, they maysometimes give the wrong meaning to an expression.As an example, John the Baptist said that hewas a "voice of one crying in the wilderness, prepareye the way of the Lord." But if you move the commaso that it comes right after the word crying, it reads,"The voice of one crying, in the wilderness prepareman who can help us.ye the way of the Lord. . . ." It is not the voice but theway that is in the wilderness.Isaiah 9:6 has a comma between the wordswonderful and Counselor in the King James Versionand the American Standard Version. All of thenames for our Lord have qualifying adjectives orphrases. It would seem logical that the comma isan extra put into the verse and that it should read:"He shall be called wonderful Counselor." The RSVand the Phillips translation read this way. There isFrom page 394no doubt that our Lord is wonderful, but that isnot what the prophet is telling us here. What a comfortit is to know that He is a wonderful Counselorfor our present times.Counseling is a common profession today, andmuch good is being done by men who are trainedfor this specific work. A part of a pastor's work iscounseling. Schools are employing men to counselstudents and their parents. Men in every walk oflife are seeking out counselors. Couples who haverun into difficulties may go to a marriage counselorand often a marriage is saved in this manner.Regardless of the skill and training that manmay have, he will run into problems which are toogreat for him. He does not find the relief that heseeks. But in Christ we have a Counselor who iswonderful. He is divine; He is perfect. He knowsall about our troubles even before we approach Him.FA wonderful thing about this Counselor is thatHe not only knows how to solve our httle, individualproblems, but kings and rulers of nations may go toHim and He can give a proper solution for the mostentangling international problem. "If any of youlack wisdom, let him ask of God, who giveth to allmen liberally, and upbraideth not, and it shall begiven him."The trouble is that men do not seek His services.When was the last time that you went to Him witha problem? Oh, it need not be about modern math,but any problem. Too often we as individuals and asnations do not go to Him until we are nearly drivento distraction, sure that we can not solve the problemourselves, nor can we find any professionalWe rejoice that our Lord is wonderful to besure, but how comforting it is in these days whenthere are so many perplexing problems that we haveone who excels all mankind.He is a wonderful counselor.AN UNFORGETTABLE CHRISTMASinvited me in. As it was a cold day she left theroom to make me a hot drink. While waiting, myattention was caught by a worn Bible on a shelf.I could not restrain curiousity and I picked up thebook. On opening it, I was riveted to the spot. Therewas my dear father's name on the fly leaf. I wasstill holding it in my hand spell-bound when myhostess returned. In conversation I found that shewas the httle girl of the long ago Christmas eve.She had learned to read and it was her lather'sdelight for her to read from the white man's book.I learned that the family had been greatly blessedby the message of the Divine volume. With tearsstreaming down my cheeks I returned the Bible tothe shelf. My father had long since gone home toheaven, and I felt that this was what lie would havewished.The SfiantymanDECEMBER 20, 1967 387

Glimpses of the Religious WorldTHE REV. JOHN McMILLANR. D. 1, Box 337WALDEN, NEW YORKSOVIET CHRISTIANS PLEAD FOR HELP(EP) A life-and-death struggle among Christianbelievers in the Soviet Union has came to light asthe Communists celebrate their 50th anniversary ofthe overthrow of Alexander Kerensky and the startof the Red regime.In a 20-page letter from the Council of theRelatives of Prisoners, members of the Union ofEvangehcal Christians-Baptists in Russia, they addressedGeneral Secretary U Thant of the UnitedNations in a touching appeal for help against theiroppressors.The letter tells of the confiscation of privatehouses and chapels, the depriving of Christian parentsof the right to teach the Scriptures to their ownchildren, court proceedings against believers andthe horrible treatment of Christian prisoners inconcentration camps and prisons.Accompanying the letter, circulated by the SlavicMission Society of Stockholm, Sweden, is a list of202 persons, including 15 women, who were imprisonedlast year and during the first part of 1967for their Christian activity.Meanwhile, Metropolitan Nikodim of the RussianOrthodox Church in Moscow, who has beentouring the United States under the sponsorshipof the Church of the Brethren, has declared to thepress:"As regards the persecution of persons in theSoviet Union, that is definitely propaganda. Behevingpersons have the same equal rights as unbelievingpersons."PASTOR RE-ENACTS PARABLE OF TALENTS(EP) Last spring in Sidney, British Columbia,a United Church minister, the Rev. Howard Mc-Diarmid, borrower $1000 from the bank and handedout $10 each to 100 members of his congregation.Six months later on Canadian ThanksgivingDay (October 9) the congregation returned with$5,000.Pastor McDiarmid said that each member ofthe congregation had made a profit on the original$10. The money that was raised was to be used fora building project and several other church projects.NAVAJO TRIBE GIVES $25,000 TO CHRISTIANHOSPITAL(EP) The Navajo Indians at Window Rock,Arizona, have donated $25,000 toward constructionof a new hospital to be operated by the ChristianReformed Church.The Navajos' governing Tribal Council voted35-4 at its recent session to make the donation.The donation was proposed by Edward McCabe,Jr., director of administration and a member of thehospital's board of governors.Mr. McCabe noted that the hospital has madea practice of treating Navajo patients. "If Navajopeople can afford to pay, they pay," he told theTribal Council. "If they can't, they are taken careof in keeping with the beliefs of the ChristianReformed denomination.""TOO LATE" TO AVOID FAMINE?(EP) According to a Stanford University biologistthe time of famine is upon us, and it is already toolate for the world to avoid the plight which willbe most disastrous by 1975.The United States population is already too big,says Paul Ehrlich, suggesting that birth control mayhave to be accomplished by making it involuntaryand by putting sterilizing agents into staple foodsand drinking water.Ehrlich suggested also that the Roman CatholicChurch should be pressured into going along withroutine measures of population control.World food supplies will have to be tripled tofeed the six or seven billion people expected by2000 A. D. "That may be possible theoretically butit is clear that it is totally impossible in practice,"he said.Such talk of "total impossibility" and threatsof totalitarian control are reckoning without God.As in the time of Joseph, God's plan for feeding ahungry world during years of famine may wellinvolve wise planning and conservation on man'spart. Yet all eyes must wait upon Him for food inseason.388 COVENANTER WITNESS

Music For The Psalms(Continued from last week)The objection is frequently raised that the musicis of secondary importance, and therefore it doesn'tmatter at all what tunes are used. That the firstassertion is true is as obvious as it is that the secondis false.Even if music were absolutely neutral morallyand the choice of music immaterial, would it notbe just as easy to use the best music as the worst?And far more pleasant?In fact, however, music is not morally neutral.The ethical value of music has been attested byancient and modern writers, Christian and pagan.Plato, Augustine, John Calvin and the modern composer,Paul Hindemuth, are only a few of manywho have recognized this aspect of music. "Musicis a part of our human nature," said Boethius in thesixth century; "it has the power either to improveor to debase our character." The music the Christianuses in any situation is important — and is morethan merely a matter of individual preference. Howmuch more important it is to use in worship onlymusic of high ethical value, which will lift ourminds and souls and draw us closer to God.But more important that these arguments fromeveryday hfe, we find a Scriptural warrant forusing only the best music in worship. Hebrews 13:15 says, "By him therefore let us offer the sacrificeof praise to God continually, that is, the fruit ofour lips giving praise to his name. But to do goodand to communicate forget not: for with suchsacrifices God is well pleased."We see that although the perfect and finalsacrifice for sin was Christ Jesus, the New Testamentstill speaks of our responsibihty to offer spiritualsacrifices. In the Old Testament, only the bestanimals were acceptable sacrifices — lambs withoutblemish. Such was Christ. Should the sacrifices webring be less than the best? Is the deepest spiritualityevidenced by slipshod praise or haphazardworship? Our responsibihty to bring the best sacrificesof praise is clear.This in no wise conflicts with the principle thatsinging with the heart is more important thansinging with the voice. God has always been displeasedwith even perfect sacrifices when they donot flow from a sincere heart.The vast majority of tunes in our present Psalterdo not meet the standards we have established above.Robert M. CopelandOnly two are Genevan melodies (Old 100th and Old124th), and a few are from the early Scottish andEnghsh Psalters. Most of the rest are assorted nineteenth-centurytunes which utterly fail to capturethe hving spirit of the Reformed faith and tradition.Roughly two-thirds of the tunes are in short, common,or long metre or their doubles — the same balladmetres used in British doggerel of the seventeenthand eighteenth centuries and eagerly appropriatedin the search for popular and singable Psalmtunes. Only a handful have been written in thetwentieth century, let alone in a modern idiom. Ourharmonizations are generally trite, lacking any butthe most rudimentary harmonic interest.Faced with the requirements of Reformed Presbyterianworshipers for music, we must not onlyresurrect some Reformed melodies from older Psalters,but we must also cull the best modem tunesfrom the Psalters and hymnals of the present. Weshould seek out people to write appropriate newtunes. Any tune meeting the standards we havedescribed would be acceptable if appropriate forsome Psalm or Psalm portion.The question of the practicability of this courseof action will immediately be seen. The musicallevel of individuals and of congregations reflects thespiritual state. If congregations are spirituallyasleep, or essentially non-Reformed in attitude,Reformed worship music will not be acceptable.But if the congregations are ahve and firmly committedto the Reformed faith, they will be properlymotivated to improve their worship music. Thevcan and will learn new tunes if they understand aclear need and are guided by capable and understandingprecentors.Only an immediate and far-reaching revision ofthe Psalter metres and tunes can make Psalmsingingonce more a vital and constructive forcein our worship and hfe. It is to this end that thesesuggestions are respectfully submitted. Perhapsthen we may say, in the words of Paul. "I will singwith the Spirit, and I will sing with the understandingalso."Ed. Note—In response to this fine piece of work, ourreaders are asked to have a part in improving ourpraise, by sending their ideas and suggestions tothe chairman of Synod's Committee, Mr. CharlesMcBurney, Geneva College, Beaver Falls. Pa. 15010.DECEMBER 20, 1967 389

An address at the opening convocation at the R. P. SeminaryPastoral PreachingAccording to The Epistle to the HebrewsRev. E. Clark Copeland, D. D."What is Evangehstic Preaching?" This is thetitle of a stimulating article that appeared in TheChrist.an Graduate, June, 1967, the quarterly journalof the Graduates' Christian Fellowship in GreatBritain. Anghcan rector A. G. Pouncy was movedto raise this question by the implications of thenotice which frequently appeared at the neighboring"free" church, "Bright Gospel Service at 6:30." Thewriter notes that the church also has a morningservice, the Breaking of Bread, which by implicationof the notice for the 6:30 service is not a gospelservice. Yet, says he, "This is exactly what theScripture says that it is. 'For as often as ye eat thisbread, and drink this cup, ye do show (kataggelete,proclaim the good news) the Lord's death till hecome' (I Cor. 11: 26)." He objects that this reducesthe Lord's Supper from its statue as a 'convertingordinance' to one of merely building up Christiansin an exclusive fellowship. Lest he be misunderstood,he immediately acknowledges the necessityof properly "fencing the table" in accord with ICorinthians 11:27, but calls upon us to recognizethat the Lord's Supper has "evangehstic purpose andtherefore presumably evangehstic power." So it mustalso be acknowledged as a Bright Gospel Service inthe New Testament sense. The article is a warningthat by such narrow definition evangehcals areunconsciously creating grave problems about theneeds of the Christian congregation, as well as ofthe nature of Scripture, whether the whole of ithas converting power. He contends that we are notbeing truly evangehstic, because we are not preachingthe gospel if, with Paul, we are not declaringthe whole counsel of God, or as Jesus taught Hisdisciples, expounding in all the Scriptures — all thelaw, the prophets and the Psalms — all the thingsconcerning Jesus Christ (Acts 20:38; Luke 24:2627, 44).Preaching and TeachingIn The Apostolic Preaching and its DevelopmentsC. H. Dodd holds that New Testament writers generallyand early Christian usage made a sharp distinctionbetween "preaching" (erygma) and "teaching"(didache). Preaching, Dodd says, is equivalentto "to evangelize" and always imphes proclamationof "good news"; it is the presentation of Christianityto the non-Christian world. Preaching is followedby teaching, which is "ethical instruction," or "expositionof theological doctrine," or "reasoned commendationof Christianity to persons not yet convinced."It is addressed to a congregation alreadyestablished in the faith, says Dodd. Later studieshave not sustained Dodd's dissecting distinction. E.P. Clowney calls it "a grave mistake." He demonstratesthat "didache is not secondary but a part ofthe kerygma." (Preaching and Biblical Theology, p.58.) Liberal critical studies of the nature of preachingand its authority have related it to the widertheme of revelation in general. These writers definerevelation as "event" rather than "word" and as "communion"rather than "communication." For thempreaching is the contination of revelation. It is dynamicallyunderstood as an event in which God addressespeople; it is described as "sacramental" innature, in that it "mediates the presence of God";and so it is said to be an extension of the Incarnation.(R. H. Mounce, The Essential Nature ofPreaching, p. 154 and references.)Such definition removes the authority from thekerygma — the divine Word proclaimed — andplaces it in the divine action — the Kerygmaticevent. This is not far removed from much evangelical"decision evangelism" in which God's work inChrist is almost meaningless until or unless manresponds in faith. Half-truths lead to perversionsin both directions; so that in both we end with aGod who acts rather than with God who is Saviour,and so saves. Scripture is more concerned withwhat God is than with what He does. The latterreveals and confirms the former.The Seminary's TaskHere at the seminary we are involved in the task390 COVENANTER WITNESS

of equipping for their service those whom God hascalled to be His ministers. The Holy Spirit says theyare His gift to the church to build her up till thewhole body becomes one mature man hke untoChrist Himself (Eph. 4:11-13). God has also saidthat He is pleased "by the foolishness of preachingto save them that beheve" (I Cor. 1:21). The concernof the theological seminary, therefore, is primarilywith the proclamation of the gospel.This is not to suggest that the task of the pastoris hmited to the preparation and delivery of sermons.But it is to emphasize that whatever form the variedservices required of the one called to "do the workof a shepherd" to God's flock, he is in them all tobe proclaiming the gospel. His only instrument forgathering, leading out, feeding, watering, seekingthe straying, protecting the flock or healing is theeverlasting gospel of God's grace. He must be foreverproclaiming by word and example that redemptionGod has wrought for sinners in Jesus Christ. Scripturecompels the seminary and the minister-inpreparationto make sure that their concerns are asbroad as the full salvation that awaits completerevelation at the last day, and as deep as the needsof man; for the minister is a part of that "power ofGod" by which He "keeps (men) through faith" untothat day. The varied activities of the pastor aregiven their proper dignity in that they are, and onlyso far as they are, "feeding (doing the work of ashepherd) the flock of God." (John 21:15, 17; Acts20:28; I Peter 5:1-3).The Problem in HebrewsI have chosen the Epistle to the Hebrews to focusour study of preaching. This Epistle has receivedlittle notice in the published studies of this subject.This is probably due to the fact that keryssein, theverb which most directly means "to proclaim" or "topreach" and its derivatives "preacher" and "preaching,"are not used in the Epistle. Once the writersays, "we have had the gospel preached to us" (4:2),using a synonym euaggelein meaning "to announcegood news." Once he says of Christ, "I will declare(apaggelein) thy name unto my brethren" (2:12quoting Ps. 22:22). The author, however, in 13:22calls his work "the word of exhortation" or "encouragement(parakalein) in speaking to his readers,"I beseech you " (19:19, 22), and twice he callsupon them to encourage one another (13:19, 22),and twice again he calls upon them to encourageone another (3:13; 10:25). In line with this thereare many imperatives and hortatory subjunctivesin the Epistle. The exhortation is so strong thatA. B. Davidson says, "The keynote of the Epistle isstruck and heard in the hortatory parts, to whichthe doctrinal elements are subservient." (Quotedby Hewett, Hebrews (TNTC), p. 217). We must askwhether the Epistle of "exhortation" is really of thecharacter and purpose of "preaching" in the NewTestament sense.We are not alone in considering that the Epistleto the Hebrews has much to contribute to the subjectof preaching — its authority, including its relationto revelation, content, and objective. Though theauthor omits the usual epistolary greeting and personalidentification, he closes by saying, "I havewritten a brief letter to you" (13:22). In form wehave a series of doctrinal statements, each followedby an appeal for appropriate response. F. F Brucedescribes it as a written sermon with an epistolaryending (Peake's Commentary on the Bible, p. 1008).Joachim Jeremias says it is "the oldest GentileChristian sermon preserved." (The Central Messageof the New Testament, p. 31.)The author includes himself with his readersamong those who received the message of salvationfrom those who heard the Lord speak it. (2:3). Thatis to say, he was a "second generation" Christian,no" am apostle. This fact is also significant to ourstudy. Does the writer follow apostolic tradition?Here we use "tradition" in the New Testament senseof that which the apostles handed down orally inpreaching and teaching; so it is virtually a synonymof kerygma.A WarningHe does not identify his readers, but his firstaddress to them is an appeal that they not let slipthe words they have heard (2:1, AV). "Slip" describesthe action of water, "to flow," hence "to wash away";and so of things "to shp off" or "to drift away." Itseems then to speak of the danger these people werein of slipping or drifting away from Christ becauseof neglect of the message they had heard. They weresaid to be in danger cf "departing from the livingGod" because of "an evil, unbelieving heart" (3:12,13). Their ears have become dull of hearing (5:11)so that it is hard to explain to them the significanceof Christ and His sacrifice. The preacher warns thatto turn away from Christ is to go irreparably toperdition (6:4-6; 10:26-31, 39). How does he attemptto turn away the professing church from this dangerousprecipice?(To be continued)DECEMBER 20, 1967 391

Dear Young People...Probably this will be the last timeyou will see the above radar screen,at least in this magazine. This doesnot mean we no longer think it's importantto be "alert," but time hascome to make a change. So, changewe will.Let me share with you what weplan to do, just in case the word hasn'tspread to you yet. The C. Y. P. U. Staffhas decided, with the approval of theBoard of Publication, to try somethingnew in 1968. Instead of publishingThe Goal Post as a separate magazine,they are going to present a color insertonce a month in The CovenanterWitness. This means that anyone receivingthe Witness will automaticallyget a copy of the new youth publication.The Staff has decided to meetthe cost by .., well, you'll hear moreabout that later. The point is thatalong with our regular church paperwill come this "special" for youth.So, "Alert" will not be appearinganymore as such. Instead, we will behaving responsibility to submit materialto the Editor, Dr. Dougherty, forthe weekly page for youth. The Staffcertainly appreciates the cooperativespirit of the Editor and PublicationBoard, and hopes that this change willnot only be an improvement over TheGoal Post, but will also make The(Continued in right-hand column)When Do YorkI had just finished preaching a sermon on Luke6:38, "Give, and it shall be given unto you " AsBob came out the door, he looked me dead in the eyeand said, "Well, I'm going to try it." There was nonote of uncertainty about what he said, and I made amental decision to pray as Bob began to "try out"this promise of Scripture.The nice thing about it all was that Bob was inhigh school, and while he only made a httle moneywith his after-school job, it was great to watch ayoung feUow begin to practice what many oldstershave never begun. I heard of one man who put offtithing because he wasn't making enough money.As he reached the $35,000 a year bracket, he wasoverheard to be reporting that when he hit $50,000he would begin tithing. So I suppose one can concludefrom that the simple lesson that a youth doesnot learn to give when he has enough money.The average young person probably does someamount of "giving," if you define it correctly. Heusually pays when he has a date with her. And sometimeshe gets her something that set him back abit. Then there's Christmas. Mom and the rest of1967-68 CYPU STAFFWhile their name does not sound very exciting, the C. Y. P. U. Staff ithemselves again this year facing great challenge. As representativesfithe seven conference areas of the church, how can they be of any signifiesto Covenanter youth in this day and world? Youth are more than "meetionce a week." The Staff knows that, because they are more than just a mommeeting! They're people! They are not computers: write a program, shove ithe slot, and wait for the expected result.No, youth foul up the computers, for they come out with the unexpe

Learn to Give?the family ought to get something once a year,whether we want to give or not, so there's anotherinstance. But if giving means doing somethingwithout some ulterior motive or pressure, it's unlikelythat the steady and Christmas will producemuch of a giver.When do youth learn to give? Usually never.That's why everybody seems to be fighting abouthow to get more.. . or how to get the big guys cutdown to our size. That's why so many congregationshave financial trouble. Their youth never learnedto give. Ever hear of a church in financial troublewhere everyone was a "cheerful giver"? I haven't.No, most youth never do become givers.The "some" who do, learn it when three thingstake place inside them:1. When they come to believe everything theyhave and are belongs to Christ,2. When they find they want to give more thanto keep (in specific cases), and3. When they start giving and discover the thrillof God's satisfaction.Year-EndNeedsIf "need" has anything to do withgiving, then perhaps the followingdeserve more than a passing glance."Need" means that what is lacking isnot a luxury, nor something to givestatus. It means that without it, somethingor someone pays the price insome other way.— Denominational Budget— Geneva College Campaign— Curriculum FundBesides these advertised needs aremany local and presbytery concerns.And did you know that the followingorganizations are supported by gifts?— Christian Amendment Movement— National Reform Association— Reformation Translation Fellowship.— American Bible Society— Etc.(Continued from left hand column)Ki €\M-: X*AB,^d^x

A PAGE FORJUNIORSAN UNFORGETTABLE CHRISTMASby Grace Rae, Markham, OntarioMy parents were early Canadian settlers. Aswinter approached there were many jobs to be donearound the homestead, if we were to be at all comfortableduring the next few months. We childrenwere not exempt from many duties, some of whichwe enjoyed and some we endured. Among theformer, was going with our father to the bush tohaul the winter's supply of wood. We knew that onone of these trips we would come back with aChristmas tree. Early in December my father wouldhitch up our horses and go to the nearest TradingPost for our Christmas supplies. We were alwaysdehghted to hear the sound of sleigh bells which toldof father's approach, and it was a close race betweenus and Rover as we dashed out to meet the sleigh.From then on it began to look like Christmas in ourhumble home. Mother was making good use of allthat father had been able to find at the Post: therewas the news that he had heard there to be repeatedover and over again with either sorrow or joy. Motherwas cooking spicy things to eat, and as she hadopportunity was picking up her ever-handy knitting.There were lovely red mitts as well as the thickwarm socks, so necessary if our fingers and toeswere not to freeze. We knew that she was workingbefore the eventful day. I had secret longings for adoll, while my brother was hoping for a sled thathe might hitch Rover and skim over the frozen snow.At last our patience was rewarded. It was Christmaseve. We were seated around the blazing fireenjoying its warmth. Spread on my father's kneewas his beloved Bible. He had just finished readingthe Christmas Story of God's love-gift to the world;and commending us all to the loving care of theLord had closed his prayer, enjoying with us thecosyness of the moments.Suddenly and almost silently the door openedand in walked a tall Indian followed by his squaw,with a baby strapped to her back and a small boyand girl beside her. Without a word they made theirway toward the cheery fire. We all felt a httle uneasy.Was the visit friendly or not? My mother roseand welcomed them seeing that they were all comfortablyseated about the fire. They seemed to befascinated by the things which they saw aroundour home. The Indian's eyes seemed to come torest on the book lying open on my father's lap.Finally, with a grunt he held out his hand towardmy father, who handed him the book sensing thatthis was his desire. The Indian proceeded to examineit with apparent great delight. We noticed the childrenlooking longingly in the direction of the Christmastree adorned with ornaments and gifts. Myheart sank as I saw the strange httle girl reach upfor the interesting looking parcel which I felt surewrapped my dearly hoped-for doll; while the boyhad already picked out the nice red mitts whichunwrapped, were adorning the tree. We spent theevening with mixed feeling. The uninvited familyseemed content to sit with us and enjoy such acomfortable home as the white man owned. Noneof us felt hke going to bed. At last we children dozedoff to sleep. Finally, somewhere in the early hoursof the morning the Indian stood up and, motioningto his wife and rousing the children, they made theirway out into the night. He was still clasping myfather's treasured Bible while the girl carried myprecious doll, and the boy was now wearing themitts.A year passed and we had almost forgotten theincident. It was Christmas morning. As my fatheropened the door to sweep the snowy porch steps,there lay a crudely wrapped parcel. On openingit,vve were delighted to find a pair of beautiful deerskinmoccasins for each member of the household.The years passed and I grew to be a young woman.Having met and married a minister, the nextfew years were spent away from my childhood home.After an absence of many years, it was once againour delight to visit the old homestead. On a particularday, my husband having borrowed a trap, weset out visiting. We had been traveling for an hourwhen my husband noticed something wrong with theharness. Letting me off beside a house and tellingme to wait for him, he started back to a blacksmithshop. I made my way to the house and the doorwas opened by a very pleasant Indian woman whoSee page 378394 COVENANTER WITNESS

Lesson Helps for the Week of January 14,1968Sabbath SchoolLessonfor January 14, 1968.THE FIRST OF JESUS' SIGNS:John 1:43 to 2:12.Comments by John K. GaultThis is the record of a miracle,a supernatural occurrence. It couldbe called a "sign" for John says in 20:30, "And many other signs truly didJesus in the presence of his disciples,which are not written in this book."This and other miracles, selected byJohn established the deity of Christ asan irrefutable fact. As is said in verse11, "This beginning of miracles didJesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifestedforth his glory."John began this account by saying,"And the third day." It was the thirdday after the choice of the initialgroup of six disciples. We notice thatthe names of only four are mentioned,but he said in 1:40, "One of the twowhich heard John speak, and followedhim, was Andrew, Simon Peter'sbrother." It is evident, therefore, thatJohn was reluctant to mention hisown name, but we know that the twosons of Zebedee, James and John, wereamong the first to become disciplesof Jesus. We logically infer, then, thatthere were six in the group of discipleswho were invited, along withJesus, to this marriage in Cana locateda few miles from Jesus' original homein Nazareth.Jesus accepted the invitation tothis marriage in which one of theparties must have been a near relative.In doing so He indicated His onenesswith humanity's joys and sorrows. Heshowed His approval of the marriagerelationship which He had made sacredat the time of creation.At this wedding, "the mother ofJesus was there," but Jesus and Hisdisciples were "called," that is invited.Jesus' mother must have been one ofthe hostesses at this feast, but Jesusand His disciples were guests.1: There Is Always a Want inHuman Affairs.DECEMBER 20, 1967In this case "they wanted wine."Wine was a very essential part of theprovision and was considered to bean elixir of health and a symbol ofjoy. If the supply of wine became exhaustedbefore the festival was overit might reflect on the hospitality ofthe host who had not made adequateprovision. In this case that very thinghappened; the supply of wine beganto run low. This was caused, no doubt,by the fact that Jesus and His discipleswere extra guests who had been invitedafter the arrangement had beenmade.This lack of wine at the marriagefestival is indicative of the lack inall human plans and purposes. Thereare very many who go through lifewith a great void in their lives. Therich young ruler had much of thethings of this world but he lackedthat "one thing" which Christ couldsupply. At the last Supper the winebecame a symbol of the blood of Christwhich was shed for the remission ofsins. People who do not accept ofChrist are not covered by the blood;hence, there is a want in their liveswhich can never be satisfied in anyother way. While Jesus was in theworld He met with many wantingfolks. Some wanted health, some wantedability to walk; others the sight oftheir eyes; and still others wantedlife. Humanity is always in want, butof Christ Paul said, "In him all fullnessdwells."2: Mary Could Not Use Her Relationshipto Jesus to Secure DivineFavors.She took upon herself to suggest toJesus, "They have no wine." The implicationis that she took upon herselfcertain authority for the success ofthe feast, and she seemed to feel thather son, Jesus, would be able to supplythe lack. Mary could not secure morewine through natural means, and soif more wine were provided, it hadto be done through supernaturalpower. For this imposition of herselfbetween Jesus and His deity Marybrought upon herself the rebuke ofJesus when he said, "Woman, whathave 1 to do with thee? Mine hour isnot yet come." Now this sounded likea remark of disrespect, but we arenot to understand it that way. It wasa rebuke to Mary for her presumptionupon Jesus' exercise of His divinepowers. In being the human motherof Jesus, Mary was not endowed withthe right to suggest to Jesus whento act as God, which He was. SinceMary was human and therefore asinner, she could never be the advocatewith Christ, but Christ, being divineis ever the advocate with the Father.3: Jesus Had a Fixed Time forPerforming this Miracle.He said also to Mary, "Mine houris not yet come." Christ has a fixedtime for everything to happen. Maryprobably made her suggestion toChrist before the supply of wine wascompletely exhausted. Jesus wouldmake no move to replenish the supplyas long as there was a vestige of theold wine left. So Jesus' "hour" hadnot arrived when Mary made her suggestion.Man's thoughts are not alway;:God's thoughts, and man's "hour" maynot be God's "hour." There is a saying,"Man's extremity is God's opportunity."Christ, therefore, often delays His"hour" until man really has mi extremity.When Jesus' friend Lazaruswas sick iii Bethany the sisters otLazarus sent lor Jesus by saying,"Lord, behold, he whom thou lovestis sick" (11:3b). But Jesus, "when lieheard therefore that he was sick, abodetwo days still in the same place wherehe was," which was across the Jordanriver. Jesus, therefore, had, and alwayswill have, His own time for respondingto a human emergency.4: Mary Had Faith to Believe thatJesus Would Supply Need.Without further request of Christ,she simply said to the servants,"Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it.Mary had not lorgotten what the angelGabriel had said to her, "Behold thoushalt conceive in thy womb, and bringforth a son, and shalt call his nameJesus, — and he shall reign over thehouse of Jacob for ever; and of hiskingdom there shall be no end. —Then lore also that holy thing whichi395

shall be born of thee shall be calledthe Son of God." While this is said tobe the "beginning of miracles" thismay mean the beginning of Jesus'public miracles. It may have been thatMary's faith in her son Jesus, was confirmedby His doing things in theparental home in Nazareth, whichrequired more than human resources."L«*s»ii baaed on ImternaMoMl SandaySchool Loasonc: the International Bible Lessonsfor Christian Teaching, copyrighted 1963by the Division of Christian Education, NationalCouncil of Churches of Christ in theU.SA."Junior Topicis the time of the singing of birds.During the long winter the birds thatdo not migrate are busy searching forfood. The birds who depend uponinsects for food must follow nature'scall to warmer climates in order tosurvive. But with the advent of springthe birds return to their home to raisetheir young. Even birds have a placein God's plan. The phrase, "the voiceof the turtle" does not refer to thereptile but rather to the turtledoves5: Jesus Provided An Abundance of for January 14, 1968Wine.Lesson IIIt is said in verse 6, "And there NATURE'S BEAUTY AND PRAISE which is a species of pigons commonwere set there six waterpots of stone,Mrs. Robert L. McElroyto Palestine. They are a migratoryafter the manner of the purifying of Memory Psalm: Psalm 148.bird leaving in the fall and returningthe Jews, containing two or three Memory Verse: Song of Solomon 2: in March. The fig trees begin to bearfirkins apiece. Jesus saith unto them, 10-13.fruit and blossoms before any leavesFill the waterpots with water. And Scripture: Matt. 6:28, 29; Song of appear. In the Holy Land this is athey filled them up to the brim." This Solomon 2:10-13; Psalm 148.sign of spring.amount could have been well over 100 Last week we studied some of the This beautiful passage of Scripturegallons of water. Jesus never supplied lessons of nature. We were reminded teaches us that in our lives, during apeople's needs part way. When He of the strength, glory, and majesty spiritual winter, we can be dead ingreatly multiplied the loaves and the of God through the things He has sin but with the coming of spring, ourfishes in order to feed the multitude, made. Another of nature's lessons was acceptance of Christ, as our Savior,"they did all eat and were filled; and not to covet fine clothing nor to be we can be born again.they took up of the fragments twelve proud of it, but rather, to depend upon The second part of our lesson tonightis on Praise. Our memory Psalmbaskets full." When Jesus healed the God in His wisdom to care for ourcrippled man, the blind men, the needs.for this unit is Psalm 148. So let uslepers, He healed them completely. Tonight we will be thinking of study this Psalm carefully.Paul said in Ephesians 3:20, "Now Nature's Beauty and Praise. Read togetherthe Scripture reference: Song God? Who should praise Him? WhenWhat is praise? How can we praiseunto him that is able to do exceedingabundantly above all that we ask or of Solomon 2:10-13. This is a beautiful should we praise Him? Study Psalmthink, according to the power that description of one of nature's most 148 to find the answers to these questions.worketh in us, unto him be glory in glorious acts. It is a promise that whenthe church by Christ Jesus throughout winter comes, spring is not far behind. Psalm 148 begins with the words,all ages, world without end." We might Look out your window. Does snow "Praise ye the Lord," as do all of theeven go so far as to affirm that if cover the ground or is rain making Psalms from 146 through 150. Thesetheic had been more water jars standingthere they would have been ters not whether you are living in ary tells us praise means "to glorifypatterns on the windowpane? It mat­are the Psalms of praise. Our diction­filled and they would have had still New York or California the spring God, especially in song; to worship."more wine. There are no limits to season beckons to you throughout the We commonly use the words, "praiseChrist's ability to provide. The limitationis all with people.The Bible tells us that the winter His glory. But praise means moredark winter days.the Lord," to mean to sing Psalms to6: The Change into Wine Was Instantaneous.they won't last forever. Besides, spring thought, in word, and in deed. Wedays we are spending now will pass; than this. We need to praise God inThis fact lent more force to the would not be so wonderful and pleasantif it did not follow winter.that praise the Lord.must back up our praise with actionsmiracle. Had wine been provided bynatural means it would have taken In the Holy Land there was no In the first six verses, there is aa long time. No sooner were the waterjarsfilled than Jesus said to the ser­the cold rains stopped, the flowers — angels and heavenly hosts. Thensnow, rather a rainy season. But when call for heavenly beings to praise Godvants, "Draw out now and bear unto again came to life.the stars, moon, and sun, all creationsthe governor of the feast. And they If you live in the North where snow of God's hands, are told to praise Him.bear it." The ruler of the feast was covers the ground from December to Think about that a minute. How is itmuch surprised when he had tasted March, the first yellow crocus that possible for these things to praise God?the wine. It was better than the first sticks its head through the snow Read the remainder of the Psalmwine had been. It was customary to thrills you and reminds you of the and note the great variety of animalsserve the best wine first and then the beauty of nature. Those of you who and human beings that are mentioned.poorer wine last.live in the South find pleasure in the All of these things are of this world.blooming of tulip trees and giant7: The Purpose of this Miracle WasThere is no creature too important tomagnolias. All winter long, the flowersto Convince the Disciples that Jesuspraise God and neither is there anyhave been dormant waiting for God'sWas the Christ.creature too un-important. Not onlycall.should kings and princes and judges396 Next our text mentions that spring praise God, but also young men, youngCOVENANTER WITNESS

girls, old men, and children. Children,just like you, are called upon topraise God. We must remember thateach of us — no matter how old orhow young, no matter how rich orhow poor, no matter how quick orhow slow, no matter whether we areleaders or followers — is precious toGod and each of us has a place inHis plan of Salvation."Let them praise the name of theLord: for his name alone is excellent;his glory is above the earth and heavenPraise ye the Lord."Questions:1. What are the signs of spring inyour area of the country? Is it the figtree bearing fruit?2. What are some of the mostbeautiful things in Nature you haveseen?3. How can each of us show morepraise to God?Activity:How many different animals wereyou able to find last week in the Bible?What new ones did you find duringthe week? Perhaps, you can share thereferences for these "new-found" animals.Tonight we are going on a differentsafari. We are looking for flowers andplants. Remember the kinds of climatethe Holy Land has, then start looking.You might begin with these:Ex. 9:31; Gen. 41:49; Numbers 13:23; Amos 8:1; I Kings 5:11; II Samuel23:11; Numbers 17:8; Isaiah 35:1; IKings 4:33.Next week we'll be looking for trees.Prayer MeetingTopicfor January 17, 1968THE CHURCH IN MODERN SOCIETYPart II — ExtensionRev. Ralph JosephMatthew 28:19, 20.Psalms: 73:1-3, p. 178; 78:1-6, p. 187;US, pt. 22:1-4, p. 313; 92:11-14, p. 226.Last week we considered our ownpreparation in order to face the 20thcentury, tonight we are going to concernourselves with the extension ofthe church into that society.If we are going to face life realisticallyin the 20th century we mustrealize that upheaval has been thekeynote of this period in history. Wemust further realize that because ofthis the factors that play a part inthe presentation and or acceptance ofthe Gospel may also be changed. Wemust, however, be careful to understandthat the message of the Gospelis the same as it has always been. Letus consider then a few of thesechanges:I. Generally the world no longeraccepts as valid the dogmatic approachto truth. It is no longer enough tosay that such and such a thing istruth (even though it may be such),but rather there must also be reasonableargument presented to supportassertions. Certainly Christianity isnot to be lowered to be a religion ofreason, but on the other hand Christianityis reasonable and must bepresented as such.II. Generally the world does notunderstand the terminology that hastraditionally been associated with theologicalstudies. This is perhaps one ofthe biggest problems in the presentationo/ the Gospel today. Those of uswho have been reared in an environmentwhere words such as justification,sanctification, etc. have beenused, have no problem, but we mustrealize that the average man on thestreet does not have this backgroundand therefore to speak of justificationto him in those terms is meaningless.To reach out then we must find waysto make the Gospel understandable.III. Generally the world is motivatedby that which appeals to thesenses. This means that the ordinaryman in the street more often than notis not going to be particularly interestedin coming into a church buildingfor a traditional worship service unlessSee page 400Scribe With. A Hard PencilThis is ridiculous!There are supposed to be times and seasons for every thing. In sum*- vwe expect aphids, beetles, crickets, caterpillars, mosquitoes, measuring worms,fleas, flies, moths, spiders, gnats, and gnasty gnawing hexapodae of all soils,shapes, and conditions of servitude. Seldom do they stay away.On the other hand, the season for ice and snow is, or ought to be, the seasonfor ice and snow. It may have undesirable accompaniments such as high furlbills, frozen-up auto radiators, snow drifts across the road, coughs and sniffles,and frosted toes. The insect world is expected, in these northern climes, teregard winter time as the season for lying dormant.The other morning as day was breaking the preacher was awakened. It was,not the alarm clock. That faithful sentry had sounded its alarm forty-fiveminutes before — unhear and unheeded. The outrageous fact was, that onthis noticeably winter morning, a house fly was taking a walk across milady'shusband's nose.What was a fly doing there at this season of the year? What had gotten theseason so badly out of joint?A study of cause and effect boils it all down to a nice warm house and notenough fly swatting. In coddling ourselves with creature comforts, we wei ••creating an environment in which flies can thrive and go for walks on slumberingpreachers' noses.There are times when the Lord's people pass through spiritual seasons thatmight be expected to see sin overcome and put away: communion seasons,summer conferences, evangelistic meetings, personal retreats, etc. But if, as wepass through these times, we begin to coddle ourselves and fail to keep swatting,wc may make the dismaying discovery that we are merely substituting one se)of sins for another. Instead of slothfulness and indifference, we have censoriousness.In place of lust, pride and self-conceit may start walking. Unbelief maydepart, only to have its place taken by base ingratitude toward those who, inthe past, have instructed us and worked with us and prayed for us.Flies may walk across noses at any season of the year.DECEMBER 20, 1967 397

CORA EFFIE McCRUM.Less than a month after the deathof her husband, Hugh McCrum, ourbeloved friend, Effie, was also takento the heavenly home.She never regained consciousnessnor knew that her husband had preceled her.Their only child, a daughter, passedon many years ago; and, perhaps,partly because of this loss, they bothhad a great love for children. Withthis in mind, relatives suggested thather memorial fund be given to somework for the benefit of children.Our Missionary Society heartilyagreed. The fund has been given tothe Evangelical Welfare Agency, whichfinds Christian homes for orphans.Effie united with the ReformedPresbyterian Church in early life andhad been a faithful member ever since.She loved to be in her church forworship, regularly, and took an activepart in all the church activities. Shecould truly say, with the psalmist, "Iwas glad when they said unto me, Letus go into the house of the Lord."The Santa Ana King's Daughters.OLD BETHELThe Old Bethel congregation enjoyeda very fine fall communion season,November 3 to 5. The Rev. RobertMilliken, pastor of the Bloomingtoncongregation, very ably assisted ourpastor. We all appreciated his verythoughtful and helpful messages bothat the preparatory and the Sabbathservices.Miss Eleanor Wilson, who teachesat East Alton, was home for communionservices. She is very faithful inattending our services whenever possible.Our pastor, the Rev. Ralph Joseph,assisted with communion at Marion,Iowa. Mrs. Joseph and Paul accompaniedhim and they all enjoyed abrief visit with relatives and friendsat Hopkinton, Iowa.Mrs. and Mrs. Leonard Finley havesold their farm and moved to theirnewly built house in the Green Acressubdivision at the south edge ofSparta. We wish them God's blessingin their new home.Our young people are very activein the work of the congregation. BillWilson and Carl Mathews, seniors atSouthern Illinois University at Carbondale,get home regularly for Sabbathservices.Bill Wilson has been granted anassistantship with the Cemral ComprehensiveSchool of MathematicsProject at S. I. U. His undergraduatemajor is mathematics and his graduatework will be educational psychology.Second Lieutenant James Mathewswas awarded silver wings on October5, 1967, when he graduated from U. S.Air Force Navigation School at MatherAFB, California. Lt. Mathews willremain at Mather for specialized aircrewtraining before reporting to hisfirst permanent assignment unit forflying duty. He and his wife, Mary Ann,recently moved on base and their newaddress is 221 Gilbert Ave., MatherAir Force Base, California 95655. Wecongratulate James on his graduationand wish for him and Mary Ann continuedsuccess.The Old Bethel worship service onSabbath, October 29, was in chargeof the Women's Missionary Society forthe fall Thank Offering service. OurThank Offering Superintendant, Mrs.L. S. Finley, presided, using for theprogram a very fine Psalm Sing entitled,"Psalms Our ForefathersLoved." Mrs. Finley read the backgroundof Scottish history and thePsalms suggested were either sungby the congregation or read by membersof the audience.The younger members of the SabbathSchool and the Junior Society,with Mrs. Ralph Mathews as leader,have each made an interesting temperanceposter and are now writingessays on the dangers of differentnarcotics.FRESNOOur fall Communion was held onOctober 29, with Rev. John K. Gaultof Santa Ana bringing the messages.Four of our young people becamecommunicant members of the churchon profession of faith. They are DebbieGayle Copeland, Kathy Gouge, NormaWagner, and Dale Webster.Our pastor, Rev. Ray McCracken,assisted communion in Santa Ana onOctober 15.Mrs. Maxine Northrup and Mrs.Ethel Steward were hospitalized forsurgery in October. Our prayers gowith them for their complete recovery.We were happy to have Rev. andMrs. Alvin Smith worship with usduring their vacation here in Septemberwhile visiting with their daughter,Mrs. Wayne Fischer, and her family.Our former pastor, Rev. JohnTweed conducted our worship serviceson July 30. We were glad to have Johnand Alta and Mark and Mary AnnFisher who were with them on vacationfrom Kansas City.Fresno had a group of 25 attendingthe Pacific Coast Conference at CampGood News near Phoenix, Arizona,from August 12-19. All reported manyblessings received, despite the cartrouble of most of the drivers, and theaccidental burns suffered by the campcook, Mrs. Frances Moore.Jeffrey Allen Webster was born toDavid and Sandy Webster on September11.The Young Adult Fellowship grouphad a fun night at the "B & W Ranch"(Bill and Willa Copeland's home) onSeptember 22. Good eats and gamesincluding "The Newlywed Game" werethe order of the evening.About 30 children in our BibleSchool were promoted to higherclasses at special services held onSeptember 24.Karen Hammond and Willa Copelandplanned a fine Thank Offeringmeeting for the WMS on November15, featuring Rev. Jim Pennington.Jim gave an inspiring message on thework in the Japan field. A social hourwas held after the meeting.OAKDALE, ILLINOISThe film, The Tony Fontaine Story,was furnished by our Sabbath SchoolBirthday Offering Fund for a showingthis year. After the film, the youngpeople served home-made ice cream inan effort to defray part of their campexpenses.Since our last items, our churchhas been the scene of four weddings:Betty Ruth Brammeier, daughter ofMr. and Mrs. John W. Brammeier, toMr. Terry Renkin. They are at home inNashville, Illinois. Both are attending398 COVENANTER WITNESS

college.Edith Carson, daughter of Mr. andMrs. Stuart Carson, to Mr. Dale Lancaster.They are now at Fort LeonardWood, Mo. where he continues inOfficers Training. Edith is teachingin Rolla, Mo.Earla Jean Auld, daughter of Mr.and Mrs. William Auld, to Mr. DennisKuhlengel. They are now in Denverwhere he continues in Officers Training.Linda Auld, daughter of Mr. andMrs. Charles Auld, to Mr. WayneCohlmeyer. They are both attendingKaskaskia College.Mr. and Mrs. Edward Robson,David, and Peter have recently movedinto our community and are regularattendants at our worship services. Heis commuting to the Concordia Seminaryin St. Louis as a student ofGreek. He has recently begun teachingone of the young people's classes andassisting with their Sabbath eveningmeetings.Late in the summer the WilmerPiper family of Topeka, Kansas, accompaniedby Richard Ayres, visitedwith Miss Irene Piper. They werereturning from the Don Piper wedding.Our fall communion was held onOctober 8, with Rev. Donald Weilersbacherof Southfield, Michigan assisting.His sermons were well received.Wayne Auld and Phil Carson, studentsof Nashville High School, attendedthe National Convention ofF. F. A. in Kansas City.Two additional gas furnaces havebeen installed in the church this fall.The fall Thank Offering messagewas brought by Miss Blanche McCrea.We were glad to have her with usagain.The Oakdale Community ThanksgivingService was held in our churchon Wednesday evening, November 22.Rev. Mr. Brunn of the U.P. Churchbrought the message. A collection forCROP was received.The S. S. officers for next yearare the same as last year: Supt. Mrs.DECEMBER 20, 1967Wm. Auld; Ass't. Supt. Mr. WilliamRichards; Sec. and Treas. Mr. GlennThompson; Ass't Sec. and Treas. Mr.Kenneth Hood.The annual church dinner is to becomea family night dinner this year.It will be held December 28. Allfriends who can join us are invited.Mrs. Elwyn Carson is making satisfactoryrecovery from a cataractoperation.MRS. LLOYD M. EDGAROn October 25, 1967, the Lord calledhome Mrs. Lloyd Edgar of the Sharoncongregation. Mrs. Edgar was a lifelongmember of the church, a distinguishedhome-maker, a faithful helperand friend. She is survived by herhusband, her four sons, Sam, Robert,Bruce and David, and their families,and by a brother, Lloyd Reid. TheSharon members who loved her somuch, and many friends, miss thecheer, encouragement and wisdom sheshared so liberally. The home wasalways a place of generous hospitalityand joy.Helena was ever loyal to the church,and active in its work. The WMS dependedupon her experience and goodjudgment. She was a challenge toothers in her willing acceptance ofresponsibility, as teacher, as devotionalleader, as social leader, and as adiscerning friend of young and old.The influence of her God-centeredlife remains as a lasting tribute toher Lord and Saviour. One of heryoung friends of the church prayed,"Take good care of Helena," and weare confident this prayer had alreadybeen answered.We miss her greatly, but we areglad she lives eternally. Heaven hasa new meaning for us who remain.The Sharon WMSRESOLUTIONOF C C C ASSOCIATIONAt the Annual Meeting of the CaliforniaChristian Citizens Association,at Knotts Berry Farm, in Buena Park,California, Friday, November 3, thefollowing Resolution was read and wasapproved by those present.ResolutionThe California Christian CitizensAssociation resolves that efforts becontinued to restore the Bible andprayer to their rightful place in ourNational life, by encouraging moreemphasis on Bible study and prayerin our homes and churches, and byseeking, constitutionally, to free theBible and prayer from governmentalinterference, in public schools or elsewhere.And be it also resolved to supportthe proposed Bill of Senator EverettM. Dirksen, which states that "Nothingin this Constitution shall abridge theright of persons, lawfully assembled,in any public building, which is supportedin whole or in part, throughthe expenditure of public funds, toparticipate in non - denominationalprayer."AVAILABLE NOW:Arnold's Commentary on the 1968International Sabbath School Lessons,published by Light and Life Press,Winona Lake, Indiana. The price is$2.75.The book contains 330 pages. Thesix pages devoted to each lesson containa preview; Notes on the Text;Insight; Worldview; and Lessons fromLife. Those using it will find it mosthelpful.EditorBELLE CENTER, OHIOMrs. Ralph Mathews, Carl, andBeth of Baldwin, Illinois, visited Mrs.Mathews' mother, Mrs. J. M. Keys,and other relatives here in March. Mrs.Keys was very ill again for severalweeks. We are glad that she is nowable to enjoy the church services.We congratulate Miss Melba Rutherfordon her graduation from theBelle Center High School in May.Jocele Keys was home from GenevaCollege for a short vacation beforereturning for summer school. PaulHenning of Eastvale visited in theWilbur Keys home.Rev. and Mrs. Marion McFarlandand family visited in Belle Center inJune, and Mr. McFarland preachedfor us on June 25. He gave us a veryencouraging report of the meeting ofSynod, especially about the progressour church is making in starting newcongregations in various places.Rev. and Mrs. Luther McFanrland,our former pastor and wife, visited inthe homes of members of the congregationduring the week preceding Synod.Dr. and Mrs. P D. McCracken ofSanta Ana, California, visited Mr. andMrs. Roy Templeton after Synod.The annual Fourth of July picnicwas held, at the beautiful home ofMr. and Mrs. H. H. Hughes and Prof.Harrison Hughes in Lima.Rev. Walter McAlistcr, of WorldLiterature Crusade, was an overnightguest in the home of Mr. and Mrs. SamMorrison, July 16, and he told of thework of the W L. C. at our eveningservice.Dr. and Mrs. J. L. Coon and theirtwo small daughters of Beaver Falls,399

were summer visitors at our church.Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Pattersonand family of Baldwin, Illinois, andMr. and Mrs. Richard Bowes and family,Hickory Hills, Illinois, visited Mr.and Mrs. J. M. Rutherford and family,and worshiped with us on July 25. Mr.Tom Bowes stayed in the Rutherfordhome this summer and helped Mr.Rutherford on the farm.We greatly enjoyed having Prof.Harrison Hughes of Covenant Collegeas the teacher of the adult Bible classthis past summer. Mrs. J. D. McClureand Mrs. Max Leveck also taught theclass a few days. Mrs. Howard Keysis the teacher at the present time.Mrs. Margaret Wilson fell at herhome in July and fractured her hip.She was in the hospital for severalweeks. She is now being cared for inthe home of a niece in Kenton.We had quite a representation atCovenant College near Chattanooga,Tennessee, in August, attending theCovfamikoi Conference; Mr. and Mrs.Wilbur Keys and Jocele; Mrs. HowardKeys, Janet, Bob, and Jimmy; Kathy,Janet, and Joe Leveck; Mrs. J. M.Rutherford, Melba, and Rose; TomBowes; Paul and Donald Breneman,and Miss Roberta Rambo. Mr. and Mrs.Otis Tannehill of Yellow Springs, Ohioalso attended. Mis. Howard Keys,Mrs. Rutherford, and Miss Ramboattended the meeting of Ohio-IllinoisPresbyterial.Mrs. Rose Reed, who resides inBellefontaine, had the misfortune tofall and crack some bones. She wascared for in the home of her daughter,Mrs. Ralph Morrow in Piqua, for atime. Now she is back in her ownhome.Rev. Melville Martin preached forus on July 23. He and Mrs. Martin andfamily were here for the Reed reunionon Saturday. There was quite a delegationof Reeds at the service.Most of the sermons this summerhave been on tape. Rev. M. W. Martinhas been our minister, by tape, mostof the time. Also we had sermons byRev. Jack White, and one each by Rev.Willard McMillan and Rev. HerbertHays. Our sincere thanks to Mr.Howard Keys for providing them andconducting the services each Sabbath,when we did not have a minister.the ladies of the congregation broughtin food for the noon meal.Rev. Mr. Morrow was officiallyinstalled as the pastor of the congregation,September 20. The congregationheld a reception following theinstallation service. Rev. Jerrold Milroy,pastor of the Hetherton, Michigan,church, had charge of the installationservice. Rev. Donald Weilersbacher,Southfield, Michigan, gave the mainmessage. Mr. John McFarland, an elderfrom Southfield, gave the charge tothe congregation. Dr. Roy Blackwood,Indianapolis, gave the closing prayer.The Morrows had Open House onOctober 16 for the congregation andtheir friends. It was a way of sayingthank you to the congregation for allthe things they had done in makingimprovements on the parsonage. Themen of the congregation helped Mr.Morrow build a new garage and put ina new sidewalk in the back to thegarage.A Young People's Society was organizedSeptember 24. The officerselected are President, Janet Leveck;Vice-President, Paul Breneman; Secretaryand Treasurer, Janet Keys. Thesponsors are Rev. Robert Morrow andMr. and Mrs. Max Leveck.The young people had a wienerroast at the Leveck home on September23. Afterward they went rollerskating.The young people had a work dayat the parsonage after school on October13. They helped to rid up some oldlumber, cut down trees and overgrownweeds in the backyard, and wash thewindows of the house. They used theold lumber for a bonfire to roastwieners and marshmallows.The Women's Missionary Societyhad their annual Thank Offeringservice on October 25. The Juniors haddevotions with Mrs. Howard Keys incharge. Miss Roberta Rambo had apart also, and Mr. Morrow showedslides of the work in New Mexico,where he was a pastor for a time.Many friends and relatives, whocame for the funeral of Mr. RussellHarsh, formerly of Sharon, Iowa, worshipedwith us on September 5, thefirst Sabbath of Mr. Morrow's pastoratehere. Mrs. Joseph Smith of BeaverFalls, mother of Mrs. Morrow, was alsoRev. Robert Morrow and family a welcome visitor.arrived in Belle Center, August 29. Miss Melba Rutherford enteredOn Wednesday morning the congregationGeneva College as a freshman in Sep­400 helped unload the truck, and tember. Miss Jocele Keys is attendingCOVENANTERWITNESS15208Cedarville College as a sophomore.Mrs. Edith McClure had a sale onSeptember 6 and left immediately forCheshire, Connecticut, where she willmake her home with her daughter,Mrs. Robert Griffin and family.Rev. Donald Weilersbacher, Southfield,Michigan, was the assistant atthe Communion services, November 3-5. He gave us very inspiring and challengingmessages. Robert Keys, RoseRutherford, and Janet Leveck werereceived into membership.Our hearts were saddened by thenews of the recent deaths of Miss MaryThompson and Elder Jay C. Georgeformerly of the White Cottage congregation.We were sorry that Mr. JamesGeorge and Miss Margorie George ofZanesville, and the Misses Grace andClara Wagner of Cincinnati could notbe with us at Communion time.PRAYER MEETING TOPICFrom page 397the worship service is attractive. Inother areas this involves the use ofmodern means of communication suchas audio-visuals, use of radio andtelevision, the press, or to speakgenerally, the use anything that makesthe timeless truths of Scripture appealing.IV. Generally the world wantssomething that works. Here we againmust come back to the personal preparationof the Christian. A personin society sees Christianity in termsof its workability as he sees theprofessing Christian at work or play.If we make it seem like drudgery orsomething unnecessary then he willcome to that conclusion also.Discussion:1. Discuss the present program ofoutreach in your own congregationin terms of approach, language used,appeal, and workability.2. Discuss specific areas where themessage of the Bible might be improvedlocally.Prayer:1. Pray that personally we mightlive attractive lives.2. Pray that the presentation ofthe Gospel individually and corporatelymay be true to Scripture and yetappealing to the unsaved.

\S>WMtitfo4w 7 ^fl/iteikVOLUME LXXIX NO. 26 DECEMBER 27, 1967 STERLING, KANSAS 67579BIBLE LESSONS FOR THE WEEK OF JANUARY 21, 1968A YEAR UNTRIEDA year untried before me lies,What it shall bring of strange surprise,Or joy, or grief, I cannot tell;But God my Father knoweth well.I made it no concern of mine.But leave it all with Love Divine.Be sickness mine, or rugged health,Come penury to me, or wealth;Though lonesome I must pass along,Or loving friends my way may throng;Upon my Father's word I rest,Whatever shall be will be best.The sun may shed no light by day,Nor stars at night illume my way;My soul shall still know no affright,Since God is all my hfe and hght.Though all the earthly lamps grow dim,He walks in hght who walks with Him.O year untried! — thou hast for meNaught but my Father's eye can see;Nor canst thou bring me loss or gain,Or health or sickness, ease or pain,But welcome messenger shall proveFrom Him whose name to me is Love!R. M. Offord

THE COVENANTER WITNESSOfficial organ of the ReformedPresbyterian Church of N. A.. CVANWOOU. 'Editor: Rev. M. W. Dougherty, D.D.125 N. 4th StreetSterling, Kansas 67579Phone 316 — Br. 8 • 3472Printed each Wednesday under the supervision of theBoard of Publication by The Patterson Press, Winchester,Kansas 66097.Contributing Editors: Department Editors:Rev. Kenneth SmithDr. G. M. RobbMrs. Robert B. MaineRev. John McMillan Mrs. Willis EdgarRev. Charles Sterrett Rev. John K. GaultOpinions expressed in our columns are those of theindividual writer, not necessarily the views of the ReformedPresbyterian Church or the editor.All material to appear in The Covenanter Witnessshould be typewritten, double-spaced, and should be inSterling, Kansas two weeks before it is to be printed.The cost of all pictures is 30 cents per square inch.Obituaries — All words in excess of one hundred fifty,one cent per word. Money should accompany such notices.SUBSCRIPTION RATESIndividual (1 year): U.S. and Canada, $4.00, BritishIsles 35/-, all other places, $5.00;Individual (2 year): U.S. and Canada, $7.00, BritishIsles 63/-, all other places, $9.00;Group: U.S. and Canada, $3.00, British Isles 28/-, allother places, $4.00.9-month student subscription — $1.50; 5-month introductoryoffer —$1.00; 2 gift subscriptions to persons outsideof the R. P. Church — $2.00 each. Single copies, 10c.Subscription Agent for U.S. and Canada: Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Subscription Agent for the British Isles: Rev. HughWright, B.A., 12, Knutsford Drive, Belfast 14, NorthernIreland.All checks should be made payable to The CovenanterWitness in U. S. currency.Give one month's notice of a change of address. Sendboth the new and the old address to Mrs. M.W. Dougherty.Postmaster: Please send Form 3579 to Mrs. M. W.Dougherty, 125 N. 4th Street, Sterling, Kansas 67579.Second class postage paid at Winchester, Kansas 66097WE HOLD THE FOLLOWING TO BE TRUTHS OF SCRIPTURE:The Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the only infalliblerule of faith and conduct.The Trinitarian conception of the Godhead.Faith in Jesus Christ as the only way of salvation.Salvation by Grace.Assurance of salvation as a possible Christian experience.The Gospel Call and Election.The Holy Spirit as the Author of regeneration.Sanctification through the cooperating agency of the Holy Spirit.The fact of death and hell as the destiny of the lost and heavenas the destiny of the saved.That the Church of Jesus Christ consists of all those who believein Him together with their children.The Divine Right of the Presbyterian form of Church Government.The Lord Jesus Christ as the only King and Head of His Church.That terms of membership or communion are essential to thewelfare of the Church.g^ Blue Banner Bookstore703 Fort Street Box 427HAYS, KANSAS 67601Your supply headquarters for Christianbooks, rehgious cards, music, gifts andSabbath School supplies. We are now startingon a limited basis, with a small inventory, butcan order most any item you want. We planto stock all material printed and handled byour church and now ordered through ChesterFox or C. E. Board.Joe and Edie CopelandThis Week's WitnessNew Leaf or New Life .Glimpses of the Religious WorldPastoral Preaching From HebrewsExalting Christ In a CityRTF NewsletterA Good Name for a TeenagerThe Three TreesLesson Helps . .Church News403404405407408410410411414The duty which rests upon officers to maintain discipline andpreserve the purity of the Church.Spiritual worship as a divine requirement mediated through theLord Jesus Christ.The exclusive use of the Psalms in the worship of the Church.The Protestant interpretation of the Sacraments.The divine right of the institution of Marriage and that it is notto be dissolved except by adultery or "irremediable" desertion.The Sabbath as a day sacred to rest and worship.The duty of nations and their civil rulers to honor Christ asKing of Kings and Lord of Lords.That Christian citizens are under obligation to obey lawful authority.The right and duty of the Christian citizen to dissent from allgovernmental and national disobedience to the Law of God.That the Covenants of the past are still binding.From "The Communicant's Class" by J. B. Tweed402 COVENANTER WITNESS

New Leaf or New Lifeby Burdette Palmberg"This year has been pretty much of a washout. Ihad great intentions, but I haven't been able to carrythem through. Beheve me, I've got enough resolutionsfor ten men!"As he said it, his face displayed regret — regretthat the resolves of a year ago had so quickly andeasily faded from purpose and memory. Now withalmost a sigh of despair he proposed another yearof pulling at his own moral bootstraps in a hopelesseffort to rise above the moral morass in which hefound himself. The muscles along the line of hisjaw showed determination, but the dullness in hiseyes betrayed a lack of hope. What he needed wasnot a new leaf to turn over but a new life to live!For most of us the new year pretends to offerjust such a fresh, clean start, but we enter the yearwith the unwashed linen of the one gone by. Thenew chapter in our hves does not really have achance to change the plot. Not many pages arewritten before we begin to see the same old linesof self-sufficiency appear again.What we really need is help from a source outsideourselves. This is the good news of the seasonjust past. We have been reminded that a great hghthas shined upon us who dwelled in darkness (Isaiah9:2).Yet we discover the same regret and make thesame resolves. We have messed up our opportunities.We have not redeemed the time. Our new year isfaced with the old self and our baggage of brokenresolves. So with jaws thrust forward and teethclenched, we charge into the new year with determinationbut httle hope.Relax! Get rid of that baggage! Remember, theonly remedy for sin is our Redeemer, not ourresolves. Take your broken promises, shattereddreams, tarnished ideals, and self-centredness tohim. No more new leaves — try the new life! Nomore wallowing in remorse — rejoice in restoration!The blood of Christ still cleanses from sin. Thegrace of God is still operative. Nowhere in Scripturedo we find a statute of limitations regarding God'sgrace. Claim it!Continual sin can be dealt with only by continualrepentance. Remorse is useful only in that it leadsus to repentance. Resolve is useful only if it leadsus to dependence upon Christ. For Christians, yousee, the new year is not regulated by the calendar.We can have a clean slate every day, if we desire it.We need it!But what of the past? Forget it — all of it! Thenew life does not rest upon its laurels or rehash itsforgiven sins. That is the reason it is the new life.Paul said, ". . . forgetting what hes behind andstraining forward to what hes ahead, I press ontoward the goal for the prize of the upward call ofGod in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:13, 14). Behindwere years of violent persecution of the Church ofChrist and the blood of her martyrs, but this wasforgotten via forgiveness. Work had to be done,and Paul was not about to be hobbled by burdenshe had already left at the cross. Press on!This is the new year for the Christian — newevery day and new in repentance, restoration, responsibility,resource, and hope. The great preacherG. Campbell Morgan spoke of hope when he said,"I never begin my work in the morning withoutthinking that perhaps Christ may interrupt mywork and begin His own. I am not looking for death.I am locking for Him."Begin each day of this new year with this hopeand you will discover that the new hfe is as Christpromised, "life abundant."— The Covenant CompaironASSURANCE FOR THE NEW YEARNo matter what the circumstances, we Christiansshould keep our heads. God has not given us aspirit of fear, but of power, of love and of a soundmind. It is a dismal thing to see a son of heavencringe in terror before the sons of earth. We arctaught by the Holy Spirit in Scriptures of truth thatby it we may spend a lifetime in bondage.God keeps His people and there is nothing inearth or in hell that can harm a trusting soul. Thepast is forgiven, the present is in God's keeping, anda thousand bright promises give assurance for thefuture. Yet we are sometimes terrified by the adversary.This is not uncommon but it is unnecessary.We should not excuse it, but rather acknowledge itas evidence of our spiritual immaturity.Through the Blood of the Everlasting Covenantwe are as safe here on earth as if we were alreadyin heaven. We have not passed beyond the possibilityof physical death, but we have entered a sphereof life where we can afford to die, knowing that forthe Christian death is a bright portal to the ineffableglory.It is entirely possible to reach a place in gracewhere nothing can panic us. We can have an understandingwith God about our yesterdays, our todayand our tomorrows.— A.W. Tozer (Deceased May 13, 1963)DECEMBER 27, 1967 403

Glimpses of the Religious WorldSUNDAY FOOD STORE CLOSING IS UPHELDThe Pennsylvania Supreme Court has upheldthe constitutionality of a law requiring large foodstores to close on the Lord's Day.The Associated Press reports that, with only twojustices dissenting, the court affirmed a ruling ofthe Beaver County Court of Common Pleas inwestern Pennsylvania.The constitutionality of the Sunday closing lawhad been challenged by Bertera's Hopewell Foodland,a store in Hopewell Township. The store hadcontended that the law was unconstitutional becauseit was vague and unspecific. The court's majorityopinion, written by Justice Michael Musmanno,stated:"The American working man is entitled to a dayof rest with his family.While it is obvious that, because of works ofnecessity, charity and recreation, some persons willbe required to toil on Sunday, a number so engagedmush be kept at a minimum.""FISH COMMITTEES" CHALLENGE FAMILYISOLATION(EP) City folk are more likely to grimace attheir neighbors and country folk more apt to smile.That finding by the Family Economics Bureauof Northwestern National Life Insurance Co. opinedthat the majority of people in crowded urban areasare aloof and suspicious of neighbors. Elsewherepeople are comparatively friendly and helpful.With the onrush of urbanism in America, thereport said, neighborliness is waning . . . people aresuffering from self-imposed isolation.The study fits anthropologist Margaret Mead'saffirmation that the American family "has becomeor is fast becoming a small self-contained unit ina world of strangers."To nurture the Biblical Golden Rule throughpractical neighborliness, a "fish committee" organizationis challenging family isolation.Some 200 fish groups, named after the symbolworn by Christians to identify themselves to otherChristians during Roman persecutions, have sprungTHE REV. JOHN McMILLANR. D. 1, Box 337WALDEN, NEW YORKup across the nation. Members help neighbors introuble."Common sense, love and concern are the onlyqualifications for volunteers," says Mrs. ArthurGreen, a member of the Houston, Texas, fish committee.BLIND NAVAJO MISSIONARY HONORED(EP) A bhnd Navajo Indian missionary has beennamed New Mexico's "Handicapped Citizen of theYear" for 1967.He is Geronimo Martin, a missionary for theChristian Reformed Mission Board. He is also atranslator of rehgious writings and often serves asa legal interpreter.Mr. Martin was also nominated by the Governor'sCommittee for Employment of the Physically Handicappedfor the President's Trophy, awarded annuallyto the "Handicapped American of the Year."The 50-year-old missionary learned to speakand write Enghsh after he lost his sight, and helearned Braille by correspondence in a year's time.He helped translate parts of the New Testamentinto the Navajo tongue as part of the Edgerton-HillLinguistics project.PIDGIN TESTAMENT NEARS COMPLETION(EP) By next year, says a committee of Protestantmissionaries working with the British and ForeignBible Society, a translation of the New Testamentin Pidgin Enghsh will be available to nearly a millionNew Guinea nationals who speak or understandthis language.Pidgin is the common tongue of the northernsection of the eastern half of New Guinea — anarea held by Australia under trusteeship from theUnited Nations. Pidgin is a corruption and simplificationof the Enghsh language. In the new translation,"Out Father which art in Heaven," becomes,"Papa bilong mipela yu I stap long heven."THE "NON-HIPPIES" AT BERKELEYPresident Clark Kerr of the University of Cali-See page 408404 COVENANTER WITNESS

An address at the opening convocation at the R. P. SeminaryPastoral PreachingAccording to The Epistle to the HebrewsRev. E. Clark Copeland, D. D.(Continued from last week)Authority of God's WordThe first sentence strikes the note of the unchallengeableauthority of God's spoken Word. Thisnote remains inescapable througout the Epistle.God spoke in the past by the prophets; He hasspoken again "in these last days" by His Son. Whenthe Son, who was appointed heir of all things, hadaccomplished redemption, He sat down upon thethrone of power and glory in heaven and continuesto speak there "for us." The whole sermon is drawnfrom the Words God spoke "by the prophets," the OldTestament Scriptures, and the "words we haveheard," — "the salvation which was first spokenby the Lord and confirmed to us by them that heard(Him)" (1:1; 2:1-3). All is God's Word, and the Wordspoken by Christ and by the apostles is identical. Thewriter makes no claim to a new revelation or toknowledge beyond these sources. True, he is theonly New Testament writer to call Jesus "HighPriest" (3:1, etc.). There is no way of knowingwhether this was original with him or received byhim as a part of the message he had heard (the traditionfrom the apostles.) He draws his exposition ofthe superior priesthood of Christ from Psalm 110which was often quoted in the apostolic kerygma.The apostles' use of the Psalm Messianically wasbased on the words of Jesus when the Pharisees saidthat Christ is the son of David: "How then dothDavid in spirit call him Lord, saying, The Lord saidto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, till I makethine enemies thy footstool?" Matt. 22:43-44. It isclear from the passage that the Pharisees also understoodthe Psalm this way. As Donald Guthrie says,there is no need to appeal to Philo, who had alreadyidentified Melchizedek with the Logos, to accountfor the usage in this Epistle (NBD, 516). The expositionin this Epistle is not fantastic allegorizingof the Alexandrian sort, but sober exegesis perfectlyin harmony with the interpretation of the work ofChrist found in the apostolic kerygma. Our conclusionis that the Holy Spirit has given us an exampleof the lively kind of preaching that should characterizethe pulpit today. From the Old TestamentScriptures and the tradition of the apostles, (for ustoday, the New Testament), the work of Christshould be interpreted in terminology and figuresmeaningful to the hearers in their present-daysituation.From the Old Testament our author uses thePsalms (110, 8, 22, 95, 40), the Five Bocks ofMoses, Joshua, Proverbs, and Isaiah — the Law,Psalms and prophets which Jesus pointed out hadall spoken of Him. The writer dwells particularlyupon the Covenant history of unbelief and disobedienceunder Moses and Joshua, upon the tabernacle(rather than temple) ritual, particularly that of theDay of Atonement, and upon Melchizedek. He usesa creative exegetical method worthy of notice in itstestimony to the unity of the Scriptures and of God'sredemptive work recorded in them. He usually beginswith a quotation from the Psalms which he treatswith a new Christian insight. With this he interpretsa relevant passage of Old Testament narrative, andthen he applies the lesson gained to his hearers intheir situation. (See F. F. Bruce, PCB, p. 1008).Let us trace an example beginning at 3:7 wherePs. 95:7-11 is quoted:Wherefore, as the Holy Spirit says, Todayif ve will hear his voice, harden not yourhearts as in the day of testing in thewilderness. . . .'This is treated as the voice of God to the readersof this Epistle: "Be on your guard, brothers, lestyou possess an evil, unbelieving heart; and encourageone another not to become hardened by sin; forthere is another 'to-day' " (v. 12, 13). Then he refersto the account of unbelief and disobedience in thewilderness and the Promised Land under Mosesand Joshua; and he concludes that since Godrepeated the offer by David in Psalm 95, Israel,through unbelief, did not enter the rest God hadprepared for His people from the foundation of theDECEMBER 27, 1967 405

world (Gen. 2:2). God has now offered that restto us in the gospel that has been preached to us.The applica'ion is made by way of exhortation: "Letus strive earnestly to enter that rest so that no onefall by unbelief as in this evil example." (4:11).Appeal Based on the WordEvery appeal in this sermon is based on a WordGod has spoken. The exhorter bows to the authorityof the Word at every point. The appeal we havejust been examining is pressed upon the readers bya statement of the power of the Word of God to dealwith the human soul; he applies five epithets toit: living, vigorously active, sharp, dividing. "It isthe judge of the thoughts and deliberations of theheart." The activity of the Word is both intellectualand moral; it deals with both mind and heart (will);it supplies knowledge in order to shape conduct.His methodology testifies to his conviction ofthe truth he has just declared. Note, for example,how he emphasizes that God speaks in the OldTestament by the way he introduces his quotations:"He, or God says" (1:5, 6, 7, 8, 13; 2:12; 5:6; 8:7,etc.); "the Holy Spirit says" (3:7), "it is said" (3:15);the words "someone somewhere said" (2:6) in introducingthe quotation from Psalm 8 is not an expressionof ignorance of the person or the location, butof indifference of the human author as compared tothe first speaker, God. On one occasion only thehuman agent is named (4:7) "Again, he sets acertain day, saying through David, "Today," so longafterward, as it is said, "Today when you hear hisvoice, do not harden your hearts." Here God isstill the speaker, "saying through David." God is thespeaker; David is mentioned only to distinguishthe occasion of God's speaking; He had offered restfirst by Moses, then by Joshua, and again by David.The writer of the Epistle is bearing out his statementin the opening sentence of the sermon that Godhas spoken; the human agent is but the utterer ofGod's Word. The important thing is, God said; manmust give attention and obey.Scripture is CovenantalThe use of the expresion "it is witnessed," or"he testifieth, Thou art a priest for ever after theorder of Melchizedek" (7:17), recalls that Scriptureis Covenantal: it recounts the history of God's actsfor and on behalf of His people, and it interpretsthese acts; there are promises, commandments andthreats based on the responsibihty God's redemptiveacts impose upon the recipients. It is therefore therecord of specific deeds and Words of God to thepeople who have been brought to say, "Thou art ourGod" because God has said, "Ye are my people."It was customary in the making of internationaltreaties — covenants — that the copy of the agreementshould be placed in the temple of the nationaldeity that he might be witness to covenant keepingand breaking. In Israel the covenant God had givenwas laid in the side of the Ark of the Covenant, awitness against you. (Deut. 31:26). In Israel Godis witness to bring about His own Word, to blessand to judge His people in respect to the promisesand commandments. The expression also connectsthe word of the Old Covenant with the "witness"of the apostles concerning Jesus Christ (Acts 1:8),and it indicates that this sermon, the Epistle to theHebrews, is based on the same ideas of a specific,verifiable communication which God will bringabout in the hves of His people for their eternalsalvation, or for the condemnation of the unbelievingand disobedient. In fact the Hebrews are remindedthat God did bear witness to the truth of the wordthey had heard and of the salvation they had experiencedthrough it when He distributed to themgifts by the Holy Spirit (2:4). God will continue towatch over His word to bring it to pass (Jer. 1:12).The Coming-One will surely come as He had promisedand reward those who endure to the end; butHe will destroy those who "shrink back." (10:35-39).That God is the author of the Word and that itis therefore persuasive is also vividly portrayed bypersonification of the Word. In introducing Proverbs3:11-12, the word of Scripture is called an "exhortationwhich addresses you as sons."And have you forgotten the exhortationwhich speaketh to you as to children, Myson, despise not thou the chastening of theLord, nor faint when thou art rebuked ofhim: for whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth,and scourgeth every son whom hereceiveth (12:5, 6).Scripture, partaking of the character of God —living (4:12) — discourses with man; it speaksover against him. Cremer's theological dictionary(p. 336) defines exhortation as speech which ismeant to produce a particular effect. It is heredescribed as that kind of speech a man uses withhis sons. Scripture is, then, the voice of God theFather conversing with His covenant sons, counselingthem to act wisely for their eternal salvation.(To be continued)406 COVENANTER WITNESS

EXALTING CHRIST IN A CITY(At my request, the Rev. Keith E. Copeland has was planned in the same way and repeated Tuesdaywritten a modest narrative telling how he and his night, November 7, for the men.people in the Orlando Reformed Presbyterian Churchorganized a multiple witness to the city of Orlando,We phoned T. V. stations and told them aboutDr. Boyle's coming, described his background andFlorida, during my two weeks there. Our motive his work. We had two T. V. interviews in which hewas to labor together to lift up the Lord Jesus Christas Saviour of individuals and King of nations. Keith'sstory does not begin to tell all the hard work, prayerand cooperation invested in this experimental campaign.It is my hope that other ministers may beencouraged to try wider city campaigns based onchurch-centered, direct evangelism, yet reflectingalso a Christian impact on the unsaved communityin all areas of social life. — S. E. Boyle)We, in Orlando, were very happy to have hadDr. S. E. Boyle, of the Christian Amendment Movement,with us for combined Communion, evangelisticoutreach and Christian Amendment thrust. Itwas an exciting time with the first preparatory serviceon Wednesday night, November 1. It ended onWednesday, November 14, when Dr. Boyle spoke tothe Downtown Civitan Club.This all began when the Session asked the pastorand elder representative to Synod to contact someoneto assist in our fall communion. The pastor and Dr.Boyle sat down one afternoon and made a hst ofthe types of things that could be done. This generalhst was approved by Session and Dr. Boyle wasasked to come.Then we began to make some contacts andplan details. It was agreed that the pastor wouldpreach the first preparatory service, and that Dr.Boyle would begin with the second one on Friday,November 3.We had previously sent 100 C. A. M. tracts to100 local ministers. Rev. Mr. Martin, the local YouthFor Christ Director, responded very favorably. Sowe phoned him and made a date for Dr. Boyle tospeak at Youth For Christ on Saturday, November 4.He began with the Christian Amendment and wentinto an evangelistic message illustrated with chalkdrawings.In October the women were all called togetherto discuss the possibihty of a Ladies' Night Out.Several thought this was good as they could bringfriends. So on Monday night, November 6, about36 of our ladies and their friends went out to a localcafeteria for their dinner and later heard a Gospelpresentation via chalk drawings by Dr. Boyle. Thiswas able to discuss his missionary background andexperience with Communism. In one he was able totell briefly about the C. A. M. Both stations includedour pastor in the interview and announced ourFriday, November 10, Thank Offering service andSabbath, November 12, service in which Dr. Boylepresented the claims of a hving Christ on a nation.We had tried to get him on the half-hour CentralFlorida Showcase Television Program which wouldhave been a real opportunity to present Christ andthe C. A. M. philosophy. Failing in this we wereable to get on a two-hour radio program wherepeople phone in to ask questions. This was accomplishedby a phone call to the announcer whomoderates the show.In addition to this the ladies of the congregationserved a noon luncheon to about 15 ministers fromthe area who had been invited to hear a presentationof the C. A. M. The Session of the cop.L;ieL;ationhad discussed this. The Deacon Board approved theexpense and the Social Committee carried it out.The final contact was one which came up almostat the last minute. Had we thought of it sooner wewould have done more with it. Service clubs oughtto be interested in a discussion of C. A. M. We knewof two Civitan Clubs in which there were severalsolid Christians. These were phoned. One club'sprogram was already planned. Another's programwas planned, but they made an adjustment so Dr.Boyle could speak to them on November 14. Theyreceived him very well.The premise upon which this program wasplanned was three-fold. First, Christians need closefellowship with the Lord in order to reach out; sowe had the Communion services. Second, the evangelizingof individuals goes hand in hand with theevangelizing of a nation; so we had the Ladies' andMen's Nights Out and the Thank Offering serviceas well as the meetings that emphasized the ChristianAmendment. Third, others besides the congregationneeded to hear both the Gospel of salvationfor an individual sinner, and the message of Christ'sKingship over a nation; so we looked for opportunitieson radio and T. V and with civic clubs.DECEMBER 27, 1967 407

REFORMATION TRANSLATION FELLOWSHIPNEWSLETTERQuarter by quarter Reformed Faith and Lifecontinues to go out to Chinese speaking pastors andothers. It continues to be the backbone of spiritual,Bibhcal literature which many of them receive.Romans, an Interpretive Outline by Steele andThomas and a reprint of The Inspiration of theScriptures by Boettner are being distributed. Twoother titles, B. B. Warfield's Calvinism and CalvinismToday, and Cameron's God's Plan and Man'sDestiny, this latter also a second printing, are inthe process now in Hong Kong.Mr. Chao says: "The liberal force in Taiwan hasactively shown in the fact that an evangehcal weeklypaper, Heavenly Citizens News, has been pushedout of the scene. The former staff members wereinduced, by high salaries, to join in the effort, andanother hberal paper was launched/'It was reported in the last Newsletter that contributionshave dropped somewhat, and this at atime when an ambitious forward step — we beheve— is being undertaken. Basic expenses, translationsalaries, printing and mailing expense and housepayments run about $900 a month. (There is nopaid administrative or office help. The mortgages onthe house in Los Angeles will pay out in Februaryand March 1968, so this will reduce the monthlyfigure by $144, leaving, of course, the taxes andupkeep expense, but the house will be free ofencumbrance.) We are stiU running nearly $800behind in current expenses, and we expect themoving expense of the Chao family to Taiwan torun between $4000 and $5000.This contemplated move to Taiwan looks towardthe establishing of a vital hterature center, permanentand indigenous, in the Far East. Anyonewho sees in the profuse distribution of sound Christianliterature, an important contribution to glorifyingGod, to the salvation of the lost, and to thepeace of the world, is invited to join in this ventureof faith, of the Reformation Translation Fellowship.We hope to be represented next year at theReformed Ecumenical Synod meeting in Amsterdam,as we were at its last general meeting in GrandRapids, Michigan, five years ago. This organizationis showing strong and vigorous health and is agrowing force in the cooperation of Reformed bodiesof the world.In our Savioufs name,Lester E. KilpatrickGLIMPSES OF THE RELIGIOUS WORLDFrom page 404fornia at Berkeley, deploring the attention focusedon a small minority of student protesters andBohemian types, has reported results of a surveyshowing "the tremendous contributions of studentsin direct assistance to the poor." He is quoted byReligious Newsweekly as saying that last summer8,000 students from the University undertook thefollowing projects: tutored Negro children in WestOakland; were volunteer teachers in Watts; ran acamp in the San Bernadino mountains for disadvantagedchildren; held classes in San QuentinPrison; and conducted summer schools for childrenfor migratory workers in the San Joaquin andSacramento Valleys.DO YOU KNOW YOUR A B C's?From page 409K — Knowledge alone is not the Key. Keenminds have been destroyed by drink.L — Lack of Self-control Leads to Lust, Lawlessnessand Loss of Life.M — Men of distinction don't "Model" a drink— they turn it down!N — Nicotine is a Narcotic, Numbing theNerves when they Need Nourishment.O — Others may find the Odor Objectionable.Don't Offend!p—Parents! Who Pays the Price for SelfishPleasures? Your Children?Q —Quit Quibbling! Just Quit —but Quick!R — Remember! Ruined Reputations can Resultfrom "Round" of drinks.S — Stop Smoking before you Start! That's theSimplest Solution!T — Teen-agers! Temperate hving is worth aTry! Why not Test it?U — Uncontrolled appetites Undermine Usefulhves.V — Valuable Vitamins are destroyed by smoking.Don't be a Victim!W — Words to the Wise: '"Waste not, Want not;"Drinking and smoking are Wasteful.X — Xray and Xaminations reveal many heartsdamaged by smoking and drinking.Y — Young people who Yearn for Years of happiness,Yield Your Youth to Christ!Z — Zeal for right hving brings Zest for living!Associate Reformed Presbyteri408COVENANTER WITNESS

OUR YOUTHA GOOD NAME FOR A TEEN-AGERRobert Smithli you are from 12 to 20 years old, people ordinarilyrefer to you as "teen-ager." But you have someother names, too. "Adolescent" is one of these.Webster's dictionary defines an adolescent as aperson who is growing up.One grown-up defined an adolescent as a personwho acts like a baby when he's not treated as anadult! Another said, "Adolescence is the time in aboy's hfe when he notices that a girl notices he'snoticing her."Adults do have quite a bit of fun with you teens,don't they? Personally, I agree with the person whoadmitted, "The only thing wrong with the youngergeneration is that I don't belong to it any more."Here is a definition of an "adult" that you willenjoy: "An adult is someone who has stopped growingat both ends and has started growing in themiddle!""Juvenile" is another tab that is put on teenagers.It simply means "young person." To manyyouth, juvenile is a bad name. It's reaUy not — thatis, unless it's placed with the word "delinquent."Teen-ager, adolescent, juvenile — these andother names may be given to you. They are aUgood names. And you may be called any of themin the springtime of hfe.No one, however, could pay you a higher complimentthan to call you by the greatest name anyteen has ever been called. That name is Christian.Solomon, the wise man of old, wrote, "A goodname is rather to be had than great riches." If youcan be called a Christian, you are wealthier thanif you owned all the gold at Fort Knox.Decatur, III, MESSENGER.WHY I DO NOT SMOKEby Kathy CrowleyI have many reasons for not smoking. The mainone is spiritual. We are told in the Bible to keepour bodies clean and healthy, as temples of theLord. It is a known fact that cigarette smoking isvery harmful to the body. In this way I would hurtmy Christian testimony by smoking.Also, there is the direct command in the Bible tohonor and obev your parents. I would not only bedisobeying my parents if I smoked, but I wouldhurt their Christian testimony and reputation bydoing so.My physical reasons for not smoking are many.After reading from two sources in particular, I seethat a host of diseases, including cancer, bronchitis,and emphysema can be acquired. This is definitelynot my idea of "fun."Economically speaking, smoking is wasteful. Often,young people "want to be different, and yet theysmoke because "everybody else is doing it." I wouldlike to be different in the smoking aspect.Other social reasons for not smoking are theresults of extremely bad breath, and yellow teeth,and nicotine hands. As far as I know, it has alwaysbeen proper to have clean smelhng breath and whiteteeth. I certainly have never seen anyone go all outto get "yellow hands."It seems to me that with so many reasons not tosmoke, it is foohsh and stupid for any one to do it.Kathy is 14, daughter of Pastor and Mrs. RobertCrowley, Montrose Baptist Church, Rockvilh,Maryland.— CAPITAL VOICEDO YOU KNOW YOUR ABC's?A — Abstinence Alone is the Answer! Ask AnyAlcohohc!B — "Beer Belongs" — with Bleary eyes, Blastedhopes, Broken homes.C — Count the Cost! Cigarettes CAN causeCancer!D — Dare to be Different! Don't Drink! Don'tSmoke!E — Encourage the young folks! Set a goodExample! Don't excuse your Excesses!F — Faith in God gave us our Freedom! Communismwould destroy us with alcohol!G — Greed for Gain is behind the cigarette ads:"Get the Girls" is their Goal!H — Harmful Habits Hazard Health, Home, andHappiness!I — Intemperance and Indulgence Impair Intellectsas well as Injure bodies.J — Jobs are often Jeopardized bv the Jests andJeers of "Jolly Good Fellows!"See page 408DECEMBER 27, 1967 409

THE THREE TREESAngry words again reached Mother's ears. Shewas quite exhausted. The children had quarreledin the house, and now they were quarreling in theyard. Would they never play happily? How couldshe settle it? Then a bright thought struck her. Shelaid down her work and called the children to comefor a walk with her. Cheers of delight rang out andall their petty squabbles were forgotten as they ranafter Mother.They walked together to a quiet spot in thewoods, and there sat down on a fallen log."Would you like a story, children?" Motherasked."Oh, yes," replied the children with one voice,"tell us a story!""Do you see those big trees?" Mother began."Once the trees of the forest were quarreling amongthemselves just as you were. They each wanted tobe the greatest tree in the forest."One little tree spoke up and said, 'When I growup, I want to be made into a lovely cradle, to rockthe most beautiful baby in aU the world.'" 'Ah,' said another, 'I don't want to be made intoan old cradle. I want to be made into a great, bigship to carry precious cargo across the ocean.'"'Do you know what I want to be?' said a thirdtree. 'I want to grow and grow until I'm the tallesttree in all the forest. People who look at me willhave to gaze upward, andI'll point them to the sky.'"Have you ever thought of what you'd like to be,children, when you grow up? Would you hke to be ateacher? — a doctor? — a preacher? Listen, andsee what happened to these trees."Just then a noise was heard in the distance,trampling of feet and clanging of chains. The woodsmanwas coming, looking for trees. All quarrelingceased, and the trees hardly dared to breathe, forthey didn't want to be cut down. Soon the woodsman'svoice could be heard. With his axe he cut achip out of tree after tree so that his men wouldknow which ones to take. These three trees held theirbreath as the woodsman came closer. Sure enough,he put his mark on each one of them."The men soon followed and with heavy blowscut down each tree. The branches were mercilesslylopped off and heavy chains were fastened aroundeach trunk. Strong horses then pulled them out ofGE FOR JUNIORSthe forest to the lumber yard. There the cruel processcontinued. Sharp knives peeled off the bark. Thetrunks were trimmed, and then sawn up and set outready for sale. How the trees sighed and groaned tothemselves as they lay there shorn of all theirbeauty! Of what use would they be to any one now?"One day a man came to the lumber yardlooking for lumber." 'What kind of lumber do you want?' asked theowner." I'm building a barn and need a httle morelumber for the mangers.' ""The lumberman looked over his stock, choseout the small tree, and sold it to be made into amanger." 'Oh,' sighed the httle tree to itself, 'I wanted tobe made into a lovely cradle, and here I'm put inan old barn and made into a manger!'""Listen, children, that isn't the end of the story.One night strangers came to the barn, and to them ababe was born. He was the most precious baby in allthe world and was laid in that very manger to sleep.That baby was Jesus. Did not God do far better forthat little tree than it could ever have dreamed? Yes,it cradled after all the most precious baby in all theworld."The second tree, too, found itself stripped ofall its beauty, and lying naked and bare in thelumberman's shed. How could its hopes ever berealized? What future of usefulness could possiblylie before it?"Again a buyer came along. He wanted to builda fishing boat and needed lumber for it. The lumbermanscanned his stock and spied the tree. Its piecesseemed just the right size, so he sold this second treeto the fisherman."The tree groaned to itself as it saw the end ofall it had ever hoped to be. Of what use was a fishingboat? The tree wanted to be made into a mighty shipto cross the ocean — but had it not said it wished tocarry precious cargo?"One day Jesus was beside the sea. He could findno pulpit from which to preach, but His eye fell uponthe fishing boat nearby. Into that boat He stepped,and from it preached of His Father's love. Was Henot indeed a precious cargo? Was that not, children,even better than that tree had hoped or thought?See page 416410 COVENANTER WITNESS

ITLesson Helps for the Week of January 21,1968' _—.„„_ iSabbath SchoolLessonTHE MEANING OF THE NEW BIRTHJohn 2:13 to 3:36.Comments by John K. GaultFrom Cana, where Jesus performedHis first miracle by turning the waterinto wine, He went to Capernaumwhich was quite an Important city.Since it was situated on the coast ofthe Sea of Galilee, undoubtedly fishingwould be a prominent industry thereand also it, evidently, was the headquartersfor Herod's office of internalrevenue. Matthew was one of the chieftax collectors in Capernaum and Jesuscalled him to be one of His disciples.Jesus was accompanied to Capernaumby His mother, His brothers,and His disciples. He did not travelalone. The reason for this might havebeen that His companions might ministerto His needs and also that theymight attest to His miracles, manyof which He performed in Capernaum.1: One Cannot Experience the NewBirth if He Uses God's Things forPersonal Aggrandizement.This was what the traders in theTemple court were doing when Jesusarrived there from Galilee. It was thetime for the celebration of the Passoverand the Jews had come from distantplaces. It was necessary for thepeople to have the proper animals orbirds for their sacrifices and also thatthey have their money changed intothe proper coins for the Temple tax.The traders set up their facilities inthe outer court of the Temple andwere reaping a large profit in the saleof animals and birds, and in changingthe money for the travelers. TheTemple was the place where peoplewere to meet with God. When theouter court became crowded with theprofiteers, a great commotion was setup and the true worshipers were preventedfom having the spiritual fellowshipwith God. No one, therefore, canclaim to have experienced the newbirth which is a spiritual process,DECEMBER 27, 1967who uses God s house or other things,for his own worldly profit.2: One Cannot Experience the NewBirth who Requires of Jesus a Sign.This was like making a bargainwith Jesus. No doubt many of the Jewsdid not like the presence of the tradersin the Temple but they couldn't doanything about it. Jesus did somethingabout it, and then instead of believingin Him, they ask for a sign of Hisauthority to do it. Jesus had given tothem enough of a sign when He drovethe traders from the environs of theTemple and when He performed manymiracles. "Many believed in his name,when they saw the miracles which hedid. But Jesus did not commit himselfunto them, because he knew all men"(2:23b, 24). Evidently they were notsincere in their belief. They wantedfurther demonstration.3: Jesus Declared the New Birth tobe Absolutely Necessary if One Wereto "See the Kingdom of God."This He said to Nicodemus, "aruler of the Jews." That is, he belongedto the Sanhedrin which was the supremegoverning body of the Jews.As recounted in chapter 3 this Jewishofficial came to Jesus by night. Hedid not want to be seen coming toJesus, which act was an admissionthat Jesus knew things which theJews did not and could do thingswhich they could not do. Nicodemussaid to Jesus, "We know that thouart a teacher come from God," thusimplying that there were others, likehimself, who believed that Jesus hadcome from God for they had seen Hismiracles.The party of the Pharisees, towhich Nicodemus belonged, was verynationalistic. Their idea of the Kingdomof God was the kingdom of Israeland their Messiah whom they expectedwould restore to them their sovereigntywhich the Romans had taken away.But Jesus said to this Pharisee, "Excepta man be born again, he cannotsee the kingdom of God" (3:3 and 7b).This was indeed an inscrutable problemto Nicodemus for he said, "Howcan these things be?"lJ4: In the New Birth One Must Be"Born of Water and of the Spirit"The first of these requirementssignifies the rite of baptism which isan outward sign of an inward grace.John the Baptist baptized people atthe Jordan River with the baptism ofrepentance. In Matthew 3:5, 6 it issaid, "Then went out to him Jerusalem,and all Judea, and all the region roundabout Jordan, and were baptized ofhim in Jordan, confessing their sins."Water was a symbol of cleansing. Itwas outward and could be observedby all those who stood about. In likemanner the new birth is something tobe made public. One cannot experincesuch a change and keep it hidden.Jesus said in Luke 8:16, "No man, whenhe hath lighted a candle, covereth itwith a vessel, or putteth it under abed; but setteth it on a candlestick,that they which enter in may see thelight."The second of these requirementsis to be "born of the Spirit." This is aninward experience and cannot be seensave through the results which aremanifesl. This is the essence of whichbaptism by water is but the outwardsign. On and after the Day of Pentecostthe disciples were able to performmiracles because they were filled withthe Spirit. Nicodemus could only thinkof natural birth so Jesus said to himin. verse 6, "That which is born of theflesh is flesh; and that which is bornof the Spirit is spirit."5: The Now Birth is a Mystery.Jesus, in verse 8 compared the newbirth to the wind. (It can be noted inpassing that the Greek word meaning"spirit" literally means "wind.") Hisaid, "The wind bloweth where itlisteth, and thou hearest the soundthereof, but canst not tell whence itcometh and whither it goeth: so i*every one that is born of the Spirit.As one cannot see wind but can justfeel and see the effects of it, so onecannot see the Spirit but can just secand feel His effects."The wind bloweth where it listeth." Il411

is not subject to human direction butit blows where the meteorologicalconditions compel it to blow. Theseconditions cannot be seen, but theeffects can be seen and felt. "So isevery one that is born of the Spirit."6: Nicodemus Should Have Knownof the Nature of the New Birth andof the Kingdom of God.Being a "ruler of the Jews" hewould be well-versed in Old Testamenthistory. He undoubtedly wasfamiliar with the saying of the prophetsand of the work of the Spirit inthe history of the children of Israel.Yet he said to Jesus, "How can thesethings be?" and Jesus gave him alogical reply when He said, "Art thoua master of Israel, and knowest notthese things?"7: Jesus Possessed First-handKnowledge of the New Birth.By virtue of being "born again" oneentered upon the way to Heaven. Sucha one began to walk with God as Enochdid. So, Jesus said, "We speak thatwe do know, and testify that we haveseen; and ye received not our witness."Jesus had been one with the Fatherand the Spirit from all eternity. Hehad come down to earth from Heavenand no other man had done such athing. He possessed knowledge of thekingdom of Heaven such as no otherperson possessed. Nicodemus couldnot understand Jesus' earthy termsconcerning "birth" and "the wind listeth."He therefore was in no conditionto understand any description of Heaven,the like of which, "Eye hath notseen; nor ear heard."8: One Can Experience the NewBi< th by Believing in Christ.Verse 15 tells us, "That whosoeverbelieveth in him should not perish,but have eternal life."9: The New Birth is the Result ofGod Having "Loved the World."Verse 16, which has called the"little gospel," tell us that "God soloved the world, that he gave his onlybegotten Son, that whosoever believethin him should not perish, but haveeverlasting life.""Lesson based on International SundaySchool Lessons: the International Bible Lessonsfor Christian Teaching, copyrighted 1964by the Division of Christian Education, NationalCouncil of Churches of Christ in theU.S.A."Junior Topicfor January 21, 1968LESSON IIINATURE'S MYSTERIESMrs. Robert L. McElroyMemory Psalm: Psalm 148Memory Verse: John 3:8Scripture: Psalm 139: 15-17; Ec. 11:5; Mark 4:26, 27; John 3:8.Before we begin our study tonight,let us review what we have learned sofar about God's Gift of Nature. Werecall the lessons we are taughtthrough and by nature. We cannothelp but remember the beauty ofnature as we look around us at thecreations of God's hands. Finally, weread that all God's creatures in Heavenand on earth are to praise God. Tonightwe are thinking about Nature'sMysteries.Do you enjoy reading mysteries?Most children do. Some are so excitingyou cannot put the book down untilyou have found out for yourself theanswer to the problem. As we considernature, it seems to me to befilled with mysteries. Our Scripturefor tonight bring to mind mysterieswhich we, as ordinary people, are notable to understand.What is a mystery? Is a mysterythe same as a secret? No, I don't thinkthey are the same. First of all, a mysteryis a hidden or unknown factabout something we don't understand.We may not understand because wehaven't correctly put the clues togetheror we may not be ready tounderstand. A secret is just somethingunknown to others.Many of the workings of natureare mysteries to us. We know whatthings we expect to happen but wedon't know why they do. We dependon nature to act and re-act in certainways. For example, a farmer knowshe should plant most of his crops inthe spring when danger of frost ispast. When the seeds are planted, hedepends on the seed to sprout and pushup through the soil. He waits for rainand sunlight to provide the seed withthe things it needs. But why does theseed sprout? Why do some seeds pushthemselves up through the crust ofthe soil and others push up newsprouts? This is one of nature's mysteries.Read Mark 4:27. When a seedis planted it seems to be lost andknown. A field may be brown andlifeless one day and tinted with greenthe next. A time lapse camera couldtake a picture of this happening sowe could see it, but we would still notknow "how" it worked. This noiselesschange continues until the plantreaches maturity.In our lives we may be lost andburied in our daily work. But whenthe seed of the gospel enters our hearta change takes place. Christians arelike growing plants. When we studyour Bibles and pray, we give the gospelseed the food and strength it needs togrow. As we grow in our spiritual livesit is possible for others to see thechange in us.Another of the mysteries of natureis "you." When you were very smallperhaps you learned the finger play:"God made the green, green grass,God made the sky so blue,God made the birds that sing,And (name) God, made you!"Our bodies are marvelous creations.Your body can grow; it can turn foodinto fuel; it can repair or mend abroken part. No engine or computerscientists have been able to make cancompare with the complex machine ofthe human body. Just as an inventor isable to explain the working of hisinvention so is our Creator. Yetitremains a mystery to us because Godhas not revealed the mystery to us.Just as the farmer depended on theseed to sprout, so we depend on ourbodies to grow and develop in a givenpattern.The first question in the Children'sCatechism is, "Who made you?"and the third is, "Why did God makeyou and all things?" Yes, God didmake us and He did so for His ownglory. God made you for a purpose.It was part of His plan that you wereborn. Yet God gave each of us somethingelse that made us different fromother animals. He gave us souls. Weknow we have souls because we canthink about God and the world tocome. But we don't know how the soulenters our body or how it operates.(Ec. 11:5, 6.) Even as the working ofour body is a mystery even more sois the working of our soul. We knowwe are the work of God and we mustdepend on Him.Our last Scripture is John 3:8.Christine Rosetti wrote a poem youmay have learned at school that began;412 buried but it soon makes its presence "Who hasCOVENANTERseen the wind?WITNESS

Neither you nor I.But when the trees hang downtheir headsThe wind is passing by."It is true we can't see the wind, butwe can see what it does. A farmer maydepend on the strength of the wind toturn the mill that raises water frombelow the ground level. Or a sailormay depend on the wind to fill thesails and move his boat. Or you maydepend on the sea breezes to cool yourhome.The Spirit of God is similiar to thewind. We are unable to see Him butwe are able to see what He does. TheSpirit of God is powerful but the wayHe works is a mystery to us.These are only three of the mysteriesof nature — the sprouting andgrowth of plants, the creation of humanbeings with souls, and the ways ofthe wind. There are many others. Whatcauses a lowly caterpiller to turn intoa beautiful monarch butterfly? Whycan birds fly? Why do ducks know howto swim without ever being taught?These are only mysteries to us. ToGod who made everything, there is nomystery and, perhaps, when we areready to understand, God will revealthe unknown to us.Questions:1. What do you think is nature'sgreatest mystery? Why?2. How can we ready ourselves tounderstand these mysteries?(See II Tim. 2:15)Activity:For our Bible study tonight we aregoing to see how many different kindsof trees are mentioned in the Bible.What kind of seeds do trees growfrom? Can you think of any seeds oftrees you eat? How about coconuts or(Numbers 17:8)? Psalm 52:8? II Sam.5:23? How many more can you find?Prov. 7:17; I Kings 4:33; Gen. 35:4;Is. 41: 19; Jud. 9:10; Job 40:20.Prayer MeetingTopicfor January 24, 1968DRUGS AND THE CHRISTIAN'SRESPONSIBILITYORSTAYING OUT OF TROUBLEDr. R. Paul WrightScripture: Matthew 4:1-11.Psalms: 19:5, 8, 9, p. 42; 119: 14,DECEMBER 27. 1967p. 288; 1:1-6, p. 1.Fortunately, basic Christianity, astaught in the Bible, is a very practicalreligion — no swamies, no trances,no sacred cows, no sitting for hours incross-legged misery while day-dreamingone's self out of contact with reality.No, Christianity, as taught by Christ,calls for facing the facts of life squarelyand handling the problem of life ina practical, optimistic fashion. As ourLord once said, "In the world ye shallhave tribulation, — but brace up! Ihave handled it, and you can, too!"Or words to that effect.We have a Text Book full of informationand good suggestions forour guidance in our assignment totemporary duty here on earth —"Cease thou from every angry thought—," "A soft answer —," "Bring up achild in the way he should go —," tomention a few —• all good sound adviceon the way to handle trouble whenit comes and to stay out of troublebefore it arrives.This business of staying out oftrouble — our sub-title for the evening— has many, many facets; outside ourselvesas well as self-imposed; and perhapsthe most miserable form of selfinflictedtrouble into which we can getourselves is in the realm of drugs —narcotics, pep pills, psychedelics andthe like. True, there are times ofcrisis when the body and mind needsomething to dull the anguish andraise a shield against full perceptionof what is going on; but, by-and-large,the human systems are made to runon full automatic, with enough discomfortof body and spirit to warnus of dangers. Any drug that interfereswith this can be quite dangerous, especiallyif the steady use of such a drugleads to habituation, i. e. full dependenceon its constant presence andgreat misery in its absence, plus damagein its prolonged use.Habituation leads to utter and completeselfishness, in which a personsoon is sacrificing everything — cash,family, friends, honor, decency, everything— in a failing attempt to quietthe screaming horror of his addiction,a situation so aptly described by SirWalter Scott in a poem, ending"In spite of title, pomp and pelf,The wretch, concentered all in self,Living, shall forfeit fair renown,And, doubly dying, shall go downTo the foul dust from whence hesprung,Unwept, unhonored and unsung!"And this ignominious life anddeath are certainly true, for even inthe most unsavory strata of our society,one of the lowest of low rankings isthe "hop head" —• the drug addict.This devouring selfishness mentionedabove is the direct opposite of ourChristian philosophy of "otherness," inwhich we live and work for the welfareof others, with our own rewardsin heart and pocketbook coming asa by-product of our cheerful Christianservice to others.So the Christian's responsibility isto shy clear of drugs, if he wants tobe a follower of Christ. They all meantrouble. The old stand-bys — opium,heroin, hashish and the like — are wellunderstood and their demoralizing effecton body, mind, and spirit arewell known the world over. The newerpsychedelics are still too new to havefully revealed all their dangers butgive promise of severe and lastingdamage. Recently, a school boy's workwith L. D. H. in small animals wasgiven national recognition, showingsevere damage to mother and offspring.The immediate effects, however,are well described and resemblethe wild and lurid night-mares of highfevers and severely toxic illnesses."The right to experiment and theright to experience" — that old passportto iniquity — is being solemnlydusted off for this occasion, also. Butremember two things: (1) these bodiesof ours — there is a scarcity on thomarket, only one to a customer and noreturning to the Manufacturer if damagedthrough careless handling anduse; (2) Christ Himself, as a youngfellow, met tempting proposals withgood results, as we read in the OriginalArticle on The Subject, a few minutesago. This is no place to go intothe lurid and ghastly details oi drugaddiction. For this, see Reader's Digest,December, 1967, an article entitled,"Maybe Somebody Else Can LearnFrom It." Suffice it to say that, asthe joys of delightful Christian companionshipare a foretaste of the joysthe hereafter has in store for thesaved, so the horrors and agonies ofdrug addiction could very well be aforetaste of eternity in hell.What then, is the conclusion of thematter? Simply this: lif is roughenough without adding any avoidableitoubks, and drug problems are cer-See page 41.»413

CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE BUDGET OF THE REFORMED PRESBYTERIANCHURCH OF NORTH AMERICAOctober 1 — December 1, 1967Amount of Budget $160,000.00Raised to December 1, $104,981.93or Approximately 65 %DepartmentsGranted Received to Dec. 1, 1967Foreign Missions43,000.00. . 27,950.00Home Missions 16,200.0010,530.00Southern Mission 2,410.00. . 2,499.00Indian Mission 4,500.00. 2,925.00Women's Association 2,000.001,300.00Theological Seminary 18,500.0012,025.00Students Aid 10.0010.00Ministerial Relief 10.0010.00Widows and Orphans 6,500.00. . . 4,225.00Geneva College .. 19,000.0012,270.00Covenanter Witness .. 14,000.009,100.00Witness Committee 6,500.004,225.00Board of Christian Education 18,500.0012,025.00Board of Evangelism 2,370.00. . . 1,540.50Board of Church Erection 2,000.00. . . 1,300.00Miscellaneous Fund 3,500.00. . . 2,275.00Pastors Refresher Course 750.00487.50National Assoc. Evangelicals 250.00162.50160,000.00104,859.50ESSAY CONTEST TIME LIMITEXTENDED TO MARCH 1, 1968.Due to the pressure of schoolstudies entrants may have untilMarch 1 to submit your essays toyour Presbytery Committee. Oneextension only! A. W. Smith, Ch.Respectfully submitted,Chester R. Fox, TreasurerNOTICE OF CALLOn the evening of November 29,1967,1 moderated a call by the Wilkins­a very fine movie about the underburgcongregation on the Rev. Mr.Glenn McFarland to be their pastor.S. Bruce Willson, ModeratorLOS ANGELESOur congregation held fall communionon October 8, with Dr. AlvinSmith, Mars, Pa., bringing the messageson Friday and Saturday eveningas well as on Sabbath Day. We weregreatly helped with his fine spiritualmessages. Dr. and Mrs. Smith were414guests in the home of his brother, Dr.Esmond Smith. Mrs. Lauren Wolcottunited with the Los Angeles congregationtransferring her membership fromBeaver Falls. Mr. and Mrs. RheaForman and son, Jonathon, transferredtheir membership here from Orlando,Fla. We are very happy to have thesefine people with us.Friday night, October 20, we enjoyeda family night supper and alsoground evangelism in Russia entitled,"Through Blood and Fire." This is anexcellent movie for church affairs andis encouraging to us to know thatChristians are being faithful even insevere circumstances.Our young people had a very"spooky" Hallowe'en party in thechurch social room on October 22, hadgood eats and enjoyed all the weirdthings typical of Hallowe'en.On Saturday evening, October 28,the Donald Walkers were co-hosts withthe Dr. Francis Bucks to the "Sparesand Pairs" group. A buffet dinner wasserved prior to attending the EagleRock-Franklin High School Homecomingfootball game at the Rose Bowl.Performing for the victorious Eagleswere Larry Walker, Frank Madero,Gary Henderson and Blake Hon. GraceChao did a valiant job as cheer leaderfor Franklin High.Thursday evening, November 17,the congregational dinner committeeserved dessert following the annualThank Offering program which was incharge of the two missionary societies.Mrs. Alan Hemphill was in charge ofthe program and led devotions. TheRev. James Pennington brought amessage on things to be thankful forand the needs and work in Japan.Also a short film was shown of therelief work carried on by the N. A. E.Relief Commission in Viet Nam. Thefilm is entitled, "Viet Nam Profile."On Thanksgiving Day we had ourusual Thanksgiving service with ourpastor, the Rev. Bruce C. Stewart,bringing a very helpful message. Hissubject was "Christ Revealed inThanksgiving."Mrs. Harper Lowe, Van Nuys, isnow recuperating at her home followingeye surgery and is makingsatisfactoryprogress.Mr. Foster Chambers spent a weekin the hospital with a back problemearly in October and a number ofweeks recuperating at home beforebeing able to resume his teachingduties on November 27.Our pastor conducted a memorialservice at the San Diego Church,Wednesday, November 29, for Mrs.James Pennington. The members andfriends of this congregation extendsinceresympathy to the bereaved familyand are praying for Mr. Penningtonand his work in the San Diego area.Our church has been saddened bythe death of one of its members, Mr.Arthur Russell, who passed away the28th of November. We commend thefamily to our heavenly Father whodoeth all things well and who strengthensour faith. Our sympathy goesout to the widow, Mrs. Arthur Russell,daughter Sharon and mother, Mrs. E.G. Russell.As we look forward to the HolidaySeason we wish to extend best wishesand Christian greeting to our friendsand members of all the congregationsof our denomination, COVENANTER and to WITNESS our mis-

sionaries and workers in our variousareas of missionary work.TOPEKA, KANSASOn August 4, 1967, Mr. Don Piperand Miss Boni Verrett were marriedin Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania. Don isthe son of Mr. and Mrs. Wilmer Piperof Topeka. A reception was held atthe Topeka church for them as theywere on their way to their home inSeattle, Washington.A little girl was born to Mr. andMrs. Jim Relf of Seattle, Washington,August 5, 1967. Julie Ann is the firstgrandchild of Mr. and Mrs. WilmerPiper of Topeka. Our congratulationsto parents and grandparents.On September 30, 1967, a SabbathSchool Seminar was held in the TopekaChurch. Many came for the very interestingand informing meeting. TheRev. Kenneth Gangel of Kansas City,Missouri was the guest speaker andmany of our own people helped withthe various departments.Several of our congregation attendedthe Billy Graham meetings inKansas City and felt they were a greatblessing.Our sympathy is extended to theDarrell Parnell family in the passingof his father the last of September.We all rejoice with Rev. and Mrs.Mel Boring of Saugus, California, inthe birth of their son, Joshua Scott,on September 15, 1967. Mrs. Boringis the former Virgina Davies. Mr. andMrs. Herb Davies of Topeka are theglad grandparents.We observed our fall Communionservice on October 8 with the Rev.Glenn McFarland bringing the messages.We were happy to welcame Mr.Ralph Enloe and Miss Cheryl Elliottinto our church membership and alsoMr. and Mrs. Joe McFarland andfamily. During the week of October25-28, Mr. Harold Millgan was ourdelegate to the National Sunday SchoolConvention in Minneapolis. Mr. Milliganreported many helpful ideas andwas very impressed with the meeting.On November 7, the young peoplesponsored a chili supper at the church.The young people are hoping to helpdelegates of their group to attend theInternational Convention in Scotlandnext summer.We are happy for Mr. and Mrs.Gene Steuart upon the birth of theirsecond son, James Wirth, born earlyin November.A family night of fellowship andeating just for fun was enjoyed bymany on Friday evening, November17, in the church basement.The annual Thanksgiving servicewas held Thursday morning at thechurch. Several of our people thenattended the Psalm Sing at Sterling,Kansas on Friday evening.Our sympathy is extended to theJohnston family in the passing of Mr.Roy Sterrett of Quinter, father ofMrs. Johnston.The annual Thank Offering meeting,sponsored by the Women's MissionarySociety, was held on Wednesdayevening, November 29, 1967. TheJuniors had a brief part in the serviceand the guest speaker was Mrs. EarlFine, a missionary from Nigeria.We are happy for Mr. and Mrs.Richard Calhoon in the birth of theirson, Brian Scott, on November 17. Mr.Calhoon is in the Navy and was homefor a few days to see his new son. Mr.and Mrs. Dale Calhoon of Topeka arethe grandparents.Mrs. Mel Boring and Joshua visitedwith Mr. and Mrs. Herb Davies a fewdays for Thanksgiving. Mrs. GreetaMitchell of Florida is visiting the Rev.Howard Elliotts for the Holiday season.Mrs. Mitchell is Mrs. Elliott's mother.GENEVA SENIORS ELECTED TO"WHO'S WHO"Twenty-one Geneva College seniorshave been elected to "Who's WhoAmong Students in American Collegesand Universities," a national organizationfor outstanding students.Students are chosen on the basisof excellence and sincerity in scholarship,leadership and participation inextra-curricular activities, citizenship,service to the college, and promise offuture usefulness to business and society.Their names will appear in the1968 edition of the national publicationwhich is made available to UnitedStates and Canadian business concernsseeking employees.Among the twenty students electedby the college faculty and membersof Student Senate, and the studentgoverning board were seven Covenanterstudents; Margaret M. Boyle, Englishmajor, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania;Jean Caskey, elementary educationmajor, Olathe, Kansas; Eileen Faris,speech major, Sterling, Kansas; VirginiaMontini, speech major, BeaverFalls, Pennsylvania; Donald R. Mc­Burney, physics major, Beaver Falls,Pennsylvania; Karen McKinney, Englishmajor, Lawrence, Kansas; andJohn R. Willson, Bible major, Pittsburgh,Pennsylvania.THAT MARVELOUS BOOKThat marvelous book, the Bible,is still "the Word of God" that livethand abideth forever. And all the enemiesof yesteryears and nowadays havenot extinguished one spark of it*holy fire, nor diluted one drop of itshoney, nor torn one hole in its beautifulvesture, nor broken one string onits thousand-string harp, nor weakenedits vitality by one pulse beat, norshortened its march triumph by onestep. Today the Bible walks more bypathsand travels more highways andknocks at more doors and speaks tomore people in their mother tonguethan any other book this world hasever known, or ever will know.— Robert G. Lee, fromChristian Faith and Life.A KEY TO HAPPINESS"Moreover by them is thy servantwarned: and in keeping of them thereis great reward" (Ps. 19:11). I navebeen a lover of Holy Scripture; andI love it more now than I ever did.It has been my habit to read theScriptures through four times a year;and it is important to read it in aprayerful spirit, to meditate uponwhat we read, and to apply it to ourown hearts. Do I understand this? DoI obey this? What has this Word forme? Then we must practice what wcfind in the Scripture; and the resultwill be a happy man, a happy woman.— George Muller.PRAYER MEETING TOPICFrom page 413tainly avoidable troubles. It is muchlike Andrew Jackson's formula forwinning wars: "Trust the Lord, — hutkeep your powder dry!" In otherwords: take good care of yourself.Consider your physique as "on loanto you, to be worked hard but withcareful maintenance, so that wheneventually you "turn it in," the OriginalOwner will give you that final,much-coveted "well done"!DECEMBER 27, 1967 415

Silent Power"Ye are the salt" — purifying."Ye are the light" —shining.(Matthew 5:13-15)Both salt and light speak of silent power. Noneof us know what marvellous things God could do ifHe could get such possession of souls that therewould be the silent salt-work going on constantlythrough them wherever they are, and the silentlight-work anywhere, everywhere. We have placedso much importance on the talking power, and fartoo httle on the silent power pictured by the saltand the hght.But why does the Lord say, "Ye are the hght"?for elsewhere He says, "I am the hght". He is to bethe hght in us. He will shine through us, and wehave only to be the lamps for Him to shine through.Remembering that all this is to come from theinward life of Christ as the source, Christ dwellingin us as the power, let us pass on to the practicalaction, as the outcome of His indwelling.We will look, first of all, at the twenty-secondverse, and note what the Lord says about somethings which we ofttimes call trifles."I say unto you, thai every one who is angry withhis brother shall be in danger of the judgment; andwhosoever shall say to his brother, Raca (an expressionof contempt: R. V. margin) shall be in dangerof the council; and whosoever shall say, Thou fool(a Hebrew expression of condemnation: R. V. margin)shall be in danger of the hell of fire.'No anger, no contempt, and no condemnationof others. The shghtest sneer or expression of contemptfor a soul is, in the sight of God, sin. Weagree about anger. But whosoever shall say "Raca"— a contemptuous expression — that is sin. Oh!the things that we tolerate in practice whilst wesay we are walking with God. If we have true povertyof spirit and really think nothing of ourselves, therewill be no contempt and no judgment of other souls.In the twenty-third verse, again notice: "If therefore,thou art offering thy gift at the altar and thererememberest that thy brother hath aught againstthee, leave there thy gift before the altar, and gothy way, first be reconciled to thy brother, and thencome and offer thy gift."This means that when we appear before theLord to worship Him, presenting our gift before Him,if we remember that our brother has something416against us — not that we have something againsthim — if we are walking in clear fellowship withGod, we shall go and make it right with our brother,and then come and offer our gift.There must be a conscience void of offence towardGod and men always. It is amazing how httlewe Christians think of the intense importance ofkeeping things clear between us and other childrenof God.In the twenty-ninth verse we have the Heavenlydecision in dealing with things. "If thy right eyecauseth thee to stumble, pluck it out, and cast itfrom thee." If we are to hve and walk with Christ,there must be decision in dealing with anything weknow to be a stumbling block, instead of dallying,playing with things we know to be dangerous.Because we are crucified with Christ, by thepower of the Spirit we must make to die — castaway — the doing of the body; thus shall we hve(Romans 8:13).THE THREE TREESFrom page 410"Once again a buyer called at that lumber yard,this time a Roman soldier. His face was stern andhaughty, and his voice was harsh." 'I want the stoutest piece of timber in youryard,' he said." 'Why, what are you making?' the lumbermaninquired." 'A cross,' was the heartless reply. 'A man hasbeen condemned to die, and I need it for his cross.'"From amidst his stock the owner chose out thetallest tree in all the forest and handed it over tothe Roman soldier to make a great, rough cross."It was upon that cross that Jesus died, He whohad said, 'And I, if I be lifted up from the earth,will draw all men unto Me.' Countless thousandshave looked up at that cruel cross and, looking up,have been pointed to Christ."Children, do you really want to be useful inlife? God can give you your deepest desire. It maynot be in the way you expect; but let Him have yourlife, and He will make you of use to others and aglory to Him."The Prairie Overcomer.COVENANTER WITNESS