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JAN 1 0 1942
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THE FREE WILL
Ayden, N. C, January 7, 1942
Battle -Hymn of the Republic
Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming- of the Lord; He is tramping out the vintage where the grapes of
wrath are stored; He hath loosed the fateful lightning of His terrible swift
sword;
His truth is marching on.
I have seen Him in the watch-fii'es of a hundred circling camps;
They have builded Him an altar in the evening dews and damps;
I can read His righteous sentence by the dim and flaring- lamps;
His truth is marching on.
I have read a fiery gospel writ in burnished rows of steel; "As ye deal with my contemners, so with you my grace shall deal;
Let the Hero, born of woman, ciaish the serpent with his heel;
Since God is marching on."'
He hath sounded forth the trumpet that shall never call retreat;
He is sifting out the hearts of men before His judg- ment-seat;
Oh, be swift, my soul, to answer Him! Be jubilant, my feet!
Our God is marching on.
In beauty of the lilies Christ was born across the sea,
With glory in His bosom that transfigures you and me; As He died to make men holy, let us die to make men free, While God is marching on.
— Julia Ward Howe.
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Volume 57 — Number 1, $1.50 Per Year
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2
THE FREE WILL BAPTIST
THE FREE WILL
BAPTIST
Organ of THE FREE WILL BAPTIST CHURCH
Published Weekly by Free Will Baptist Press, Ayden, North Carolina, a nonprofit- sharing Corporation.
R. B. SPENCER Editor
C. K. DUNN, Sr. Manager
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Rev. J. R. Bennett, President
Rev. L. H. Wetherington, Vice-Pres.
C. K. Dunn, Sr., Treasurer
Rev. R. B, Spencer, Secretary
Rev. J. W. Alford
Rev. R. N. Hinnant, A. B.
Rev. D. W. Alexander
Entered at the Post Office at Ayden, North Carolina, as second class mail matter.
CHANGE OF ADDRESS
When notifying to change your address, please give your old one as well as the new one.
TERMS :
Per year $1.00 in advance, six months 50 cents, three months 30 cents.
Remit by Post Office Money Order for all amounts of 50 cents or more.
NOTICE
Any service rendered to any organ- ization of our church, will gladly be rendered to any other similar organ- ization upon request and presentation of manuscript for such service.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 7, 1942
National Church Directory
{National Association)
OFFICERS:
Rev. James F. Miller Moderator
Flat River, Missouri
Rev. J. R. Davidson Asst. Mod.
808 W. 27th St., Bryan, Texas
Rev. E. C. Morris Secretary
201 W. Cypress St., Elizabeth City, N. C.
Rev. L. C. Johnson Asst. Secy.
Glcnnville, Ga.
Rev. F. S. Van Hoose Treasurer
Paini Bville, Kentucky
Rev. Clarence B )wen Statistician
Box 203, East Durham, N. C.
(Chairmen of National Boards)
Rev. J. R. Davidson Education
808 W. 27 St., Bryan Texas Rev. I. J. Blackwelder Foreign Missions 1013 Chicamauga Ave., Nashville, Tenn.
Rev. M. L. Hollis ^ Home Missions
Red Bay, Alabama Rev. F. C. Zinn, Chairman, of Superannu- ation, Bristow, Okia. Mr. E. C. Davidson-_Scc2/.-2'reas. of Su- perannuation, Glennville, Georgia
Rev. K. Tyson, Treas. Home Missions
Pikeville, N. C.
W. E. Coville Sunday School
Route 1, Nashville, Tennessee
Rev. Henry Melvin Young People's
League, 1211 E. Main St., Durham N. C.
Rev. L. R. Ennis Executive Secy.
National Association, Goldsboro, N. C.
{Women's Nacional Auxiliary Convention)
Mrs. J. C. Griffin President
240 Pasteur St., New Bern, N. C.
Mrs. J. E. Frazier First Vice-Pres.
1624 E. Cahal Ave., Nashville, Tenn.
Mrs. Fannie E. Polston Gen. Secy.
318 Woodland St., Nashville, Tenn.
Mrs. Lizzie McAdams Nat. Field Worker
Huntsville, Texas Miss Lola Johnson __ Recording Secy. Alma, Georgia
Mrs. T. B. Mellette, Corresponding Secy.
Blakely, Georgia
( Foreign Missionaries)
Miss Laura Belle Barnard India
"Spring Hill" Kotagiri, South India
Miss Bessie Yeley Venezuela
Upata, South America
Rev. Thomas H. Willey Cuba
Jaruco, Havana Province, Cuba
{North Carolina State Association)
OFFICERS:
Rev. J. C. Griffin President
240 Pasteur St., New Bern, N. C.
Rev. J. R. Bennett Secretary
Bridgeton, N. C.
Mr. Rom Mallard Treasurer
New Bern, N. C.
Rev. Chester Pelt Secy.-Treas. Foreign
Missions, Ayden, N. C.
{North Carolina Women's Auxiliary Convention)
OFFICERS:
Mrs. C. B. Thompson President
Ayden, N. C.
Mrs. Alice E. Lupton Secretary
New Bern, N. C.
Mrs. Herman Nobles Treasurer
Greenville, N. C.
Mrs. L. H. Wetherington Chairman
.Anna. Phillips Educational Loan, Clark, N. C.
{N. C. State S. S. Convention)
Raymond T. Sasser President
815 Briggs St., Wilson, N. C.
Miss Elizabeth Warren . Secretary
Greenville, N. C.
(Georgia State Association)
Rev. L. C. .Johnson Moderator
Glennville, Ga.
Rev. H. L. Oatritt Vice-Moderator
Colquitt, Ga.
Rev. T. B. Mellette, Secretary
Blakely, Ga.
Subscribe to the Baptist
The Honor Roll
J. C. Griffin, New Bern, N. C. 113
D. W. Alexander, Bethel, N. C. 85
W. L. Moretz, Swannanoa, N. C. 82
M. E. Godwin, Dunn, N. C. 70
Mrs. J. J. Blizzard, Deep Run, N. C. _--53
L. H. Wetherington, Clark, N. C. 35
M. L. Hollis, Red Bay, Ala. 33
W. R. Williams, Kenly, N. C. 30
R. P. Harris, Enfield, N. C. 29
Mrs. E. L. Mallard, New Bern, N. C. _-_28
H. C. Wood, Cove City, N. C. 26
Clifton Rice, Kinston, N. C. 25
Mrs. Henry Murphy, Davis, N. C. 24
G. W. Dail, Greensboro, N. C. 21
M. L. Johnson, Goldsboro, N. C. 21
Mrs. M. A. Woodard, Winterville, N. C. .19 L. E. Ballard, Greenville, N. C. 19
G. W. Nobles, Cottonwood, Ala. 18
Mrs. D. C. Davenport, Winterville, N. C. _18
I. J. Blackwelder, Nashville, Tenn. 18
K. W. Gaskill, Sea Level, N. C. 17
M. B. Hutchinson, Zaleski, Ohio 17
J. A. Campbell, Greenville, N. C. 17
E. C. Morris, Elizabeth City, N. C. 17
C. B. Hamilton, Fountain, N. C. 15
Mrs. C. F. Abrams, Macclesfield, N. C. __14
R. N. Hinnant, Micro, N. C. 14
Mrs. Maggie Smith, Pikeville, N. C. _-_14 Mrs. J. L. Nobles, Winterville, N. C. ___14 Mrs. R. Wilbur Stanley, Four Oaks, N. C._14
Mrs. Grady Boyd, Pinetown, N. C. 13
J. R. Davidson, Bryan, Texas 13
Chester Pelt, Ayden, N. C. 13
Rul'us Hyman, Pamlico, S. C. 12
H. L. Catrett, Colquitt, Ga. 12
W. H. Lancaster, Smithfield, N. C. 12
J. R. Bennett, Bridgeton, N. C. 12
L. E. Duncan, Tupelo, Miss. 11
Mrs. Mattie Lane, Grantsboro, N. C. 11
H. L. Catrett, Colquitt, Ga. 11
Mrs. Weils Thomas, Beulaville, N. C. __11
George Webster, Washington, N. C. 11
Mrs. A. L. Summerlin, Macclesfield,
N. C. 10
Mrs. Lizzie McAdams, Huntsville, Texas _10
W. C. Sutton, Cove City, N. C. 10
R. C. Kenned-. Pink Hill, N. C. 10
L. A. FuliVrd, Farmville, N. C. 10
Mrs. J.V/.i) R. Murphv, Snow Hill, N. C. —9 Mrs. Gladys Whaley, Richlands, N. C. --_9
lilrs. A. G. Askew, Kenly, N. C. 9
_eimar. Wooten, Garner, N. C. 9
N. D. Beamon, Snow Kill, N. C. 8
G. E. Ratliff. Pikeville, Ky. 8
Jennino-r Williams, Clayton, N. C. 8
Mrs. R. A. Creech, Smithfield, N. C. 8
P. C. Wi!i-gs, Elm City, N. C. 8
-j. F. Perrish, Elm City, N. C. 8
Mrs. D. J. Pait, Biadenboro, N. C. 8
Lessie Thomas, Beulaville, N. C. 7
Mrs. J. S .Rich. Pikeville. N. C. 7
J. R. Forrest. New Bern, N. C. 7
Mrs. S. B. Strickland, Midditsex. N. C. -_7
L. M. Sawyer, Newport News, Va. 6
Eddie Jones, Grcen-.-Ue N. C. 6
M. S. Cowan, Robsrsonviile, N. C. 6
D. J. O'Donnell, Ashviile, Ala. 6
Mrs. Vv. M. Mayo. Mr-nry, N. C.
L. C. Johnson, Glenr.ville, Ga. G
Geo. Lee, Toccopola. Miss. ^9'
B. B. Richardson, Middlesex, N. C. -5
G. C. Joyner. Smithfield, N. C. 5
E. W. O'Dell, Belmont, N. C. -5
R. R. Eailey, Walstonburg, N. C. --5
Mrs. L'lbv Anderson, Kenansville, N. C. -5 Mrs. H. S. Swain, Columbia, N. C. Marsh -.11 Joyner, Winterville. N .C. 5
F. M. Knight, Blountstown, Fla. o
J. B. Bless, Columbia, Tenn. o
Mrs. M. L. Crawford, Kenly, N. C. 5
Mrs. J. H. Oliver, Kinston, N. C. 5
Mrs. C. T. Adams, Morrisville, N. C. 5
M. E. Tyson, Pikeville, N. C. 5
THE FREE WILL BAPTIST
EDITORIAL
ly^
Word of Thanks- Elder E. T. Phillips sends a word of thanks to his many friends for the many, many Christmas cards and tokens of love from his good friends. He and Mrs, Phillips are greatly ap- preciative of the several nice gifts which they received together with the beautiful Christmas greetings that were so numerous. They have re- quested that we express their thanks to their friends in this editorial note since it would be quite an undertak- ing for Mrs. Phillips to answer each one who was so kind to think of them during the holiday season.
The Elder's condition is about as usual, though much better than it was several days ago. He is anxiously looking forward to his eighty-fifth birth-day which will be on the twenty- sixth day of March. He is greatly de- sirous of the prayers of the good peo- ple that the heavenly Father may spare him to enjoy that day, and to be able to have some of his good friends to come to see him.
— oOo— M. A. Woodard Better- Rev. M. A. Woodard of Winterville, North Carolina, is continuing to im- prove from his prolonged illness. He is planning now to become active again in his church work, and to be able to carry on his usual duties. He and Mrs. Woodard are greatful to the Lord for his much improved condit- ion, and he sends thanks and appre- ciations to all who have remembered him and his good family, during his days of confinement to his home, with tokens of love and friendship in a ma-
00 terial way.
fV — oOo —
r" Christian Workers' Institute — DO
^ The Christian Workers' Institute ^ is now in progress at Erwin, Tennes- see, and will continue through the sixteenth day of this month. It pur- poses to give splendid courses of in- struction to all who shall attend each
lecture conducted by the faculty mem- bers.
May such Institute and those that are to follow during the coming months, and on through the summer prove greatly beneficial to all who shall attend them. It is hoped that such an undertaking on the part of the leaders of the Educational Pro- gram for the denomination shall prove an excellent step for greater educational work in the very near future. There must be Christian zeal and purpose in this endeavor to do a splendid piece of work for the stu- dents who attend, and to greatly bene- fit all who will plan to register in each of the Institutes during the coming months to carry forward and to complete a definite organized piece of work which has been map- ped out by the faculty. History prov- es that great and lasting good has grown out of small beginnings of things that were launched with sin- cere purpose and great determination to achieve success. And this, it is hoped, will be the ultimate outcome of the Christian Workers' Institute.
— oOo— Evidence of Growth —
The sales for Sunday School and League literature for the First Quarter of this year are showing an increase over previous years for the winter months. We have practically sold out, or almost so, the different class quarterlies. The Adult Class quarterly was sold out a few days ago, and we have just printed an ad- ditional several hundred to take care of the orders which are still coming in to the Press. If it becomes neces- saiy we shall print additional quart- erlies of classes to be able to supply the demand of our customers.
We have on hand a goodly number of our Church Treatise, Book of Dis- cipline, Auxiliary Class Study books by different authors. Teachers' Bi- bles, splendid New Testaments that are handy for daily use, and a num- ber of Bible Story books. Those who
are in need of any of these books please write us concerning the type or kind of books you need, and we will supply you with what you want. If we should not have the very book you ' want, we will order it for you from the publishers. We desire to be of , service to you, and your church, | therefore, we are at your service any time you may call upon us. Please be free to tell us your needs.
<^^>-> —
Announcement
To Field Manager of Evangelistic Work :
I am writing this letter in regards to the pastoral or evangelistic work in Kentucky or in Virginia, as I have moved to Kentucky from Tennessee. I was the Associational pastor in the Tennessee River Association for four years. I would like very much to line up as pastor or as evangelist in Ken- tucky or Virginia.
If there is anything open will you please let me know, as I do not know any Free Will Baptists around this part of the state. I left my associa- tion in good standing. I resigned as associational pastor as my health was not good in the lower climate. I have had four years' experience as pastor, and will consider pastoral work or | evangelistic work in either Kentucky or Virginia.
During the four years of service, I organized five churches, and built a thousand dollar building. I received only fifty to sixty dollars per year from the Home missionary Board. I have my 1941 and 1942 card of stand- I ing and can furnish the best of refer- j ences. j
In regard to my work, I will say j that any association wanting a Home Mission man, I would like very much to have the consideration of their Home Mission Board, or a man as | pastor. There are just two of us, my- j self and wife. I am fifty-two years old and very active. I believe in put- ting all efforts into the cause of | Christ. I will go and hold revivals if wanted by any church or churches.
Your brother in Christ Jesus, j Rev. J. A. Staggs,
Box No. 190 Somerset, Ky.,
4
THE FREE WILL BAPTIST
The Value of Affliction
A noted violin maker always went to the forest himself to choose the wood from the north side where the winds had toughened the trees. God knows where His choice timbei' grows, and has a wise purpose when He permits the storms of affliction to blow on us.
The saintly Dr. Payson said, "Christians would avoid much incon- venience and trouble if they would only believe what they profess — that God is able to make them happy with- out anything else. They imagine if a dear friend were to die, or some blessings to be removed, they should be miserable ; but God can make them a thousand times happier without them. To mention my own case — God has been depriving me of one blessing after another: but, as every one was removed. He has come in and filled up the place; and now, when I am a cripple and not able to move, I am happier than I ever was before in all my life, or ever expected to be; and if I h8,d believed this twenty years ago, I might have been spared much anxiety." In his last illness a friend said sympathetically, "Well, doctor, I am sorry to see you lying here on your back." With a smile he replied, "God sometimes puts us on our back in order that we may look upward."
A famous music teacher said of his most promising pupil, "She lacks soul, and she will have to suffer before she gets it. If only something would break her heart, she would be the greatest singer in Europe." Sorrow and disappointment are high-priced teachers, but their tuition are worth what it costs.
A most wonderful degree of per- fection has been reached in the manu- facture of fine wire. Although steel rails sell at about twenty dollars a ton, this price for steel furnishes no criterion for the price paid for the fine wires used in hair springs and delicate instruments used by dentists for extracting nerves from teeth. These last represent a cost of about $1,500,000 a ton. Thus the process, hard and fiery by which this change
was wrought has increased the value more than one hundred thousand fold.
God never permits affliction with- out a wise purpose. When Dr. Moon of Brighton, England, was at the height of ail his mental powers and acquisitions, he became blind. At f:rst there was a constant rebellion against God. "What are all my ac- quisitions, what are all my powers worth now, when I am shut up here and the whole world shut out?" But Dr. Moon began to ask himself if it were possible that he might help the blind to read the Word of God; and, while his own eyes were sightless, he invented the Moon System of alpha- bet; ax^d that has gone into twenty different countries, and has assimi- lated to itself the languages of those countries, and from three to four mil- lions of blind people all over the world are reading the Bible in their native tongue because Dr. Moon's eyes be- came blind under the Providence of God. Trouble was sent in order that Dr. Moon might help other people out of trouble.
Watching large vessels passing up a river one said, "I remember when no large boats could come up this stream because the channel was not deep enough. It required a lot of blasting to deepen the river." When we ask God to give us the power to help bear the sufferings of others we may not see at first that this glory of usefulness can only come through suffering.
"The Gospel Herald," 2375 Thur- man St., S. W., Cleveland, Ohio. Is- sue of August 30, 1941. — Selected from Christian Reader's Digest.
Notes and Quotes
By 7. C. Griffin
Why the Doctrinal Principles of
the Free Will Baptist Church Should Be Maintained. (Continued)
Justification
"Personal justification implies that the person justified has been guilty before God ; and in consideration of
atonement of Christ, accepted by faith, the sinner is pardoned and ab- solved from the guilt of sin and re- stored to Divine favor." — Treatise. "Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ" (Rom. 5: 1). "And not as it was by one that sin- ned, so is the gift; for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto jus- tification" (Rom. 5: 16). "Though Christ's atonement is the foundation of the sinner's redemption, yet with- out repentance and faith it can never give him justification and piece with God." — Treatise. "Repent ye there- fore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord" (Acts 3: 19). "For unto us was the gospel preach- ed, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it" (Heb. 4: 2). "But without faith it is impossible to please him for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him" (Heb. 11: 6).
Free Will Baptists do not believe that man is justified by any merit or work of himself. Justification is wholly of the Lord God through Jesus Christ. Man only accepts of that which God has given — God's free gift. "For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son that who- soever believeth in him should not per- ish but have everlasting life" (John 3 : 16) . Man is not saved by his good- ness, but by the goodness of God. It is God's goodness that justifies.
SANCTIFICATION
'Sanctification is a work of God's grace, by which the soul is cleansed from all sin and wholly consecrated to Christ. It commences at regen- eration, and the Christian can and should abide in this state to the end of life, constantly growing in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ." — Treatise.
"And such were some of you; but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of
THE FREE WILL BAPTIST
6
our God" (J Cor. 6: 11). "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mer- cies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, accept- able unto God, which is your reason- able service" (Rom. 12: 1).
We learn from these as vi^ell as ether Scriptures that sanctification is two-fold. First, God sanctifies the soul by the Holy Spirit. God washes and cleanses the inward man. This work of cleansing is at the time of regeneration. Sanctification begins with the NEW BIRTH. God creates a new creature' "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jes- us unto good works" (Ephe. 2: 10). God creates. God never created an imperfect thing. So at the time of the NEW BIRTH or in the act of the new creation God sanctifies the soul.
Man sanctifies himself — that is man sets himself apart to the com- plete service of God. "I am come to sacrifice unto the Lord: sanctify yourselves, and come with me to the sacrifice. And he sanctified Jesse and his sons, and called them to the sacrifice." (I Sam. 16: 5).
Jesus Christ sanctified Himself, that is He gave Himself completely without any reservations. "And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also be sanctified through the truth" (John 17: 19). It is only through the truth that we can give our life wholly unto the Lord. To make a complete surrender unto the Lord of our life with all of our pos- sessions is complete sanctification upon our part. A life that is set apart to the use and glory of God is a sanctified life.
We cannot sanctify our lives unto the Lord until we have confessed our sins and been regenerated or born again; made new creatures within; born of the water and of the Spirit; adopted into the family of God; then we can lay our all upon the altar and consecrate ourselves completely unto the Lord. We can sanctify our time, our talent, and our money unto the Lord.
Free Will Baptists do believe in sanctification. We believe in a com- plete sanctification. We believe that
God sanctifies and cleanses our soul from all sin. We believe that sancti- fication begins within at this very moment. We further believe in sanc- tifying ourselves unto the Lord. We contend that this doctrine should be maintained. (To be continued)
— - — <-m»
The New Year with New Responsibilities
The old year — 1941 — has past into historJ^ The New Year is here and with it new responsibilities. Never have we as a people faced responsibili- ties that were greater than those we are facing today. Our nation is in a war, a war that is to destroy a great, and perhaps the greater part of the human family. The god of force linked with the god of heathen- ism, with all their associate gods, are lined up against us as a nation. We are now fighting those whom we at one time were trying to evange- lize. Like those who cried, "Away with him," the nations of the earth have cried, "Away with the Christian Religion.'" America with all of its Christian churches has fallen away from God. We believe in God, but live in sin. We are called Christians because we profess Christ. Now the time has come when we must meet the responsibilitity of defending those ideals along with the institu- tions which have come to us as re- sults of believing in God, and His dear Son whom He gave to ransom us from death.
Shall we fight the enemy with malice in our heart? Shall we try to kill the enemies of our Democracy and the democracies of the earth be- cause we have these enemies? We have people who cannot meet opposi- tion even in religious matters, politi- cal matters, and business matters without feeling unkind toward their opponents. That is the reason that we have so much strife in our home life.
The responsibility is upon us to defend that which is sacred. The Democracy that was purchased by the sacrifice of life — the life of our fath- ers— let us defend it and our Nation with its institutions — religious and
educational — because of our love for this our Nation. Let us again sacri- fice our all if necessary for defense. Let us be like little David; let us go "In the name of the Lord." Let us confess our sins so that we may go in the name of our God. Let us not trust in our strength, but in the strength and power of God.
A GREAT CALL
When Our President, Franklin D. Roosevelt called us to prayer as a New Year's beginning, he made the greatest call that could be made. It is necessary for us to listen to every call made to win this war; but the outstanding need of America and its allies is to remember Him who said, "All power in heaven and earth is given unto me." May God have His rightful place in our lives, then vic- tory will be ours.
On His Blindness
(Sonnet)
When I consider how my light is spent
Ere half my days in this dark world and wide
And that one talent which is death to hide
Lodged with me useless, though my
soul more bent To serve therewith my Maker, and
present
My true account, lest He returning chide ;
'Doth God exact day-labor, light de- nied?'
T fondly ask. But Patience, to pre- vent
Than murmur, soon replies, "God
doth not need Either man's work or his own gifts.
■ Who best Bear his mild yoke, they serve Him
bets. His state Is kingly: thousands at his bidding
speed.
And post o'ver land and ocean with- out rest;
They also serve who only stand and wait."
—John Milton
<m->
Subscribe to the Baptist
6
THE FREE WILL BAPTIST
FREE WILL BAPTIST ORPHANAGE !
James A. Evans, Superintendent Middlesex, North Carolina
Marie Caulder
Marie was born October 23, 1926 in Pender County. She was admitted to the Orphanage on January 5, 1939. Marie is in the eighth grade in school. She is taking music and is making good progress. Mr. W. G. Wilson of Bladenboro, N. C. adopted Marie for clothing.
Berkette Raper
Berkette was born September 10, 1927 in Wilson County. He was ad-
mitted to the Orphanage on July 17, 1936. Berkette is in the 9th grade in school. The Baracca Sunday School class of Little Rock Church adopted Berkette for clothing.
Children Report a Nice Holiday Vacation
We were very glad this Christmas that we were able to let each child have a Christmas vacation. Many of them visited relatives, and other friends. The children began leaving on Dec. 19th and returned on Decem- ber 29th. They all reported a very nice Holiday vacation.
We wish to thank each one who helped these children to have such an enjoyable vacation.
******
Free Will Baptist Orphanage
MIDDLESEX, N. C.
Report for November, 19^1
Balance on Hand Nov. 1, 1941 201.24 Receipts for the Month 4,196.72
Total §4,397.96
Expenditures - 2,014.17
$2,383.79
Balance Bank Account (Luc:>ma-
Kenly Bank) $1,805.23
Balance Bank Account (Citizens
Bank) 33.18
Petty Cash on Hand 25.00
$1,863.41
Add : Deposit Dec. 3rd, 1941 of re- ceipts of Nov. 29th 520.38
Total $2,383.79
VALUE OF DONATED COMMODITIES
Cabin Church, Hou.sehold, $ 8.00
Cabin L. A. S., Food, 12.09
Mrs. F. A. Edwards, Household 8.75
Entwistle L. A. S., Gifts 2.00
Stoney Creek L. A. S., Farm,
House, and Food 25.60
Rev. W. L. Loy, Clothing 2.00
Mrs. W. C. Warbritton, Clothing _ 2.00 Int. S. S. Class of Ayden
Church, Household 3.50
Schoal Hill Church, Food and
Household 26.00
Mt. View Church, Food 25.80
Red Hill Church, Food 33.65
Swannanoa Church, Food 70.00
Cedar Hill Church, Food 28.00
Paint Fork Church, Food 9.00
Asheville Church, Food 30.00
Marshall L. A. S., Household 10.00
Marshall Church, Food 54.00
Moseley's Creek Church, Farm
Supplies 27.00
Mrs. Eva Forester and Son,
Clothing 17.51
North Circle L. A. S., House- hold 3.70
Antioch L. A. S., Wayne Co.,
Food 21.10
Wilson L. A. S., Household , 4.00
Mrs. Dennis McLawhorn,
Clothing 3.00
Beaulaville Church, Farm
Supplies 33.00
Snow Hill Church, Duplin Co.,
Farm Supplies 21.00
Union Grove L. A. S., Wayne Co., Clothing, Food and House- hold 23.82
New Sandy Hill L. A. S., Food 21.05 Hugo Church, Food and
Clothing 19.25
Mrs. W. B. Strickland, Households 4.00
Mrs. Rachelle Boykin, Clothing 1.50 Mrs. Ruthie Harrell, Clothing
and Household 13.00
Rev. D. W. Alexander,
Farm Supplies 50.00
Entwistle Church, House and
Clothing 13.00
Mt. Moriah Church, Pood 1.00
Ladies Aid Circle No. 2 of
Araphoe Church, Household 4.05
Macedonia Church, Farm
Supplies 60.00
Tee's Chapel Church, Food
and Clothing- 24.45
Friendship Church, Johnson
County, Food 16.75
Pleasant Plain Church, Food
and Farm Supplies 64.20
Pleasant Plain L. A. S.,
Clothing 13.50
Onk Grove Church. Sampson
County, Household 8.00
Grantsboro L. A. S., Household 6.10
Saratoga Church, Clothing 6.50
Julia Pollock, Clothing .75
Moses Davis, Clothing 4.00
Rocky Mount L. A. S., Food
and Clothing 21.17
Barnes Hill Church, Food 2.50
Kenly L. A. S., Food .85
H. W. Lamn, Farm 7.50
Lee's Chapel L. A. S., Sampson
County, Clothing and Household _ 33.35
Greenville L. A. S., Clothing 40:00
Micro L. A. S., Clothing
and Food 30.00
THE FREE WILL BAPTIST
7
Core Creek L. A. S., Household 19.25
Mrs. Bessie Pate, Clothing 11.25
Mrs. A. V. Greg-ory, Clothing 1.25
Miss Mattie Owens, Clothing 1.15
Mrs. J. J. Pilkenton, Clothing 7.00
Mrs. J. W. Allen, Food .75
Shiloh L. A. S., Household
and Miscellaneous 6.00
Sc's Delight L. A. S., Franklin
County, Household 5.80
Pine Level Church, Food 2.30
Bert Burnette, Food 1.50
Mrs. Apple Flanigan, Food 2.50
Mrs. Hettie Langston and Mary
Evans, Food .85
Selma Church, Food .60
Rock Spring Church, Food and
Household 9.30
Snow Hill Church, Duplin
County, Food 4.90
St. Paul Church, Sampson
County, Food 27.55
Oak Grove Church, Sampson,
County, Food 31.10
Woodington Church, Food 11.45
Long Ridge Church, Food 20.40
Mrs. J. T. Sasser, Food .85
Pleasant Hill Church, House- hold and Food 18.30
Corinth L. A. S., Sampson County,
Kitchen Utensils 2.65
Shady Grove L. A. S., Kitchen
Utensils 6.15
Rains Cross Roads Church. Food
Farm, and Household 56.00
Saratoga Church, Food 19.55
Mt. Zion Church, Wilson
County, Food and Farm 13.75
Stancils Chapel Church, Food 4.90 Holly Springs Church, Johnson
County, Food 32.65
British Chapel, Food 3.65
Goldsboro Church, Food 29.58
Riverside Church, Food and
Farm 23.05
Shiloh Church and L. A. S., Food.
Farm and Household 42.30
Prospect Church, Food 35.00
Ethel and Bertha McLawhorn,
Clothing 100.00
Total .$1,474.77
<m>
Letter from Woodville, Fla.
Dear Baptist Readers :
As quite many people are believing that we are living in the Saturday evening part of time, and I do myself, and since nearly all the Bible is ful- filled (as I understand it), I have a few words to write to the good old paper. Christ said that His Word would be preached to all nations, and this has been practically done. Miss- ionaries are going right back to the countries where Christ and the twelve
apostles roamed and preached, and where Christ sent out the twelve apostles. But at that time this coun- try was an unknown land. Our fore- fathers came in possession of Bibles and missionaries and preachers went forth with the Gospel to Christianize the settlei's. I guess that today our land has as many Christian believers as any other nation on the globe. But Christ said that there would be wars and rumors of wars before the end of time. He said there would be false prophets before the end of time, and we see all these things spoken of coming to pass, we might know that the end is not far from our door.
Jesus said that there would be worse times than there ever had been, and it seems that that time is upon us. The Bible speaks of the war of Armageddon which will be the most bloody conflict of all. But we cannot tell as yet just what is coming upon us. While there are some things in Revelations 13 that have not yet been fulfilled, still it would seem that the Bible time is drawing to its close, or getting short. There is, however, one great thought, and that is, if you are a child of God He will watch over you, no matter where you are, be it in the jail house or in the trenches on the battle front. If you are under the bombing planes or anywhere, the great power of God can protect you, for He is the same God who deliever- ed Daniel from the den of lions. He is the same God that sent His angel and delievered Peter from the prison walls. He is the same God that de- livered Israel from bondage in Egypt, and from the cruel hands of Pha- raoh.
If the good church people will trust in the Lord as they should, He will give the victory over the Devil. Dear people, if you will follow Christ in the straight way, He will walk with you and be your Comforter in all of your troubles, and in all the dark hours of life. He can give you com- fort and sooth your broken spirits. The thing is for you to trust Him, and I only ask you do this, for I can say that I know Him and I praise His dear name.
Your brother in Christ, B. E. Coxwell,
Woodville, Fla.
Trusting
By Zuella Cooke
A year ago you did not know What the future held for you,
But you have trusted God and so In love He brought you safely through.
And neither can you know today What in the year ahead may lie,
But He who is the loving Way Has said : "I'll guide thee with Mine eye."
Then do not fear, dear child of God, Though troubles come and cares in- crease ;
Though briers infest the path you tread,
He'll keep your heart in perfect peace.
Grod's Temple
By Emily S. Strong
0 live divine, 0 matchless grace. That Thou shouldest give me, Lord,
a place Within Thy temple fair, Whose wondrous beauty, jewels
bright.
Make not a perfect building quite Without my humble share!
1 would not make it my concern On fretted arch or lofty dome Conspicuous place to hold ;
But though a lowly spot I fill, With loving heart to work Thy will A perfect stone to mold.
And 0, dear Lord, inspire my breast With holy zeal to build my best On Christ, the cornerstone. That in my own appointed place The light of heaven may show rare grace
In what my hand have done.
And when shall come that last great day.
And all that's false must pass away
In fire's consuming test.
Oh, may my building, wrought
through Thee, Stand fast; my glorious guerdon be To share Thy heavenly rest.
— Selected
8
THE FREE WILL BAPTIST
FREE WILL BAPTIST PRESS
Summary of Auditor's Report for Fiscal Year Closing August 31, 1941
To the Free Will Baptist Press, Inc. Ayden, N. C.
INCOME
Merchandise sales $ 3,169.87
Literature sales 18,094.22
Subscriptions to Free Will Baptist 1,988.65
Job work 721.15 $23,973.89
COST OF MERCHANDISE AND PRINTING SUPPLIES
Inventory September 1, 1940 $ 5,595.66
Merchandise purchases I 1,428.92
Printing supplies and literature 7,028.56 8,457.48
14,053.14
Less Inventory August 31, 1941 8,115.07
5,938.07
OPERATING EXPENSES
Salaries and w&ges $10,849.04
Postage 983.07
Water, heat and light 776.66
Depreciation 1,165.19
Pension— E. T. Phillips 650.00
Insurance 363.37
Directors'and stockholders' expense 236.14
Repairs 87.49
Auditing 54.04
Telephone 32.38
Return checks 27.11
Interest paid 63.09
Miscellaneous 20.83 15,308.41 21,246.48
S 2,727.41
OTHER INCOME
Dividend received $ 3.00
Miscellaneous 15.61 18.61
NET PROFIT FOR THE FISCAL
YEAR ENDED AUGUST 31, 1941 $ 2,746.02
John T. Proctor, C. P. A.
Few Serving God
Note:
The brother who has sent us the following passages from the Word of God, was saved from a marked sin- ful life, when past fifty years of age. It was so wonderful to him, that it seemed more souls would respond to his testimony. Going to a professed holiness church to confess he was seeking God, he returned there after
God met him, but while much truth was preached, he found with great sorrow that preacher and people did not live it, and he must leave them.
Searching diligently the Word of God, he has discovered the "few" in the "straight way" and we send on for him a small number of the scrip- tures he has selected from the many he found to prove that few are serv- ing God.
Few Serving God
Read the Word and prove it, "For ye see your calling, brethren; how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, net many noble are called." 1 Cor. 1 : 26. "Your calling." Not many mighty, noble, high or low, rich or poor, maimed, halt, or blind, are entering this "call- ing." "Many are called but few are chosen." Matt. 22: 14. Then said one unto him, "Lord, are there few that be saved?" And he said unto them, "Strive to enter in at the strait gate; fur many I say unto you will seek to enter in, and shall not be able." Luke 13: 23-24. "Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heav- en; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven." Matt. 7: 21. Many in the broad way. Few in the narrow. Why? "Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it." Matt. 7: 13- 14.
Now of the few that were chosen and the few who found the way, Je- sus said, "And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold." Matt. 24: 12. "When afflic- tion or persecution ariseth for the word's sake, immediately they are of- fended." Mark 4 : 17. "Also the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine . . . and they shall turn away their ears from the truth and shall be turned unto fables." (or made to believe a lie) 2 Tim. 4: 3-4. "Because they received not the love of the truth that they might be sav- ed, for this cause, God shall send them strong delusion (or false teach- ing) that they should believe a lie, that they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had plea- sure in unrighteousness." 2 Thess. 2: 10-12.
Jesus in showing that there were few saved in the days of Elias said, "Many widows were in Israel in the days of Elias (Elijah) when the heavens were shut up three years and six months, when great famine was throughout all the land; but un- to none of them was Elias sent save unto Sarepta, a city of Sidon, unto a
THE FREE WILL BAPTIST
9
woman that was a widow." Luke 4 : 25. He also said to his disciples, "The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few." And many other scriptures prove that only a few were serving God back in those days. Then the Word says ; "Evil men and seduc- ers shall wax worse and worse, de- ceiving and being deceived." (2 Tim. 3: 13.
How can you know servants of God? "For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." Matt. 6: 21. "For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh." Matt. 12. 34. Now, if souls don't have any- thing to talk about only of the world, they are of the world. "They are of the world; therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them." 1 John 4 : 5. "We are of God ; he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth us not. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and spirit of error." 1 John 4: 6. "If ye were of the world, the world would love his own; but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you." John 15: 19.
If the spirit of war is in you, you are of the world. "Ye have heard that it hath been said, an eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth. But I say unto you, that ye resist not evil." Matt. 5: 38. The word also says when Jesus was reviled, he reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed him- self to him that judgeth righteously. 1 Pet. 2: 23.
Self righteousness is the trust of many. The doing of kind, courteous deeds is their hope; but the best works we do cannot save us. The gos- pel is not, "Be good and you will be saved," but "Be saved and you will be good."
"Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, by the wash- ing of regeneration and the renew- ing of the Holy Ghost." Titus 3: 5. "For by grace are ye saved through faith and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God." Eph. 2, 8: 9. "Thanks be unto God, for His un- speakable gift." 2 Cor. 9: 15.
Then Jesus said; "If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me." Matt. 16: 24.
Have you done so?
S. B. Thomas — Selected by Belle Rogers
«^»> •
Superannuation Christmas Gifts
Mrs. M. A. Woodard, Secy. Treas., Sup. Board
The Superannuation work sponsor- ed by the State Association of N. C. was responded to in a fine way in December. This work, at present, is for the purpose of giving each retir- er Free Will Baptist minister of North Carolina an equal Christmas check of whatever amount the Super- annuation treasury can afford, which of course, is governed by the response of local pastors and their people. The Superannuation Board is looking for- ward to creating a fund which may be used to substantiate the needs of those men who have given the zeal and labor of their lives to the cause of the Free Will Baptist denomina- tion.
In December 18 churches, 16 L. A. Societies, and 1 F. W. B. League made contributions to the amount of $149.88. Some other contributions had been received during the preced- ing months of 1941.
It would stir the hearts of each donor to this worthy cause to read the letters of appreciation received from these veterans of the Free Will Baptist cause, after having received their Christmas check. The follow- ing quotations from some of these letters will help you to understand the extent of their gratitude: "Many thanks for the check for which I was in need. The Lord bless you all," from a 78 year old brother. From another one who is almost blind, "I don't have words to thank you, but God knows how I feel." "Not able to tell you how I appreciate the nice lit- tle check. It certainly is a great help to me," is how one brother feels. An- other said, "Thank you for the gift,
it helped me to have a nice Christ- mas." The wife of one faithful ser- vant wrote: "We are so grateful for the check." To be sure, they all are grateful for this little token of our love, but we need to prove our love and appreciation for their years of labor and sacrifice in a much greater way than we ever have yet. Let us remember the cause of Superannu- ation, and freely respond to its needs, thereby showing our love and rever- ence for those concerned.
— ■ «®» ~ —
The Unused or Wasted Talents
We are told that in the quarries of the Baalbie lies a magnificent block of marble so great that it could not have been intended for anything less than a position of honor in the city's impressive temple of the sun. But for some unknown cause it was never raised to its intended position in the temple. For centuries it has lain as rubbish among the debris of the de- molished city, but there it lies, a mag- nificent relic of the past.
There have been persons whose un- usual natural abilities would have led them into positions of remarkable success had they only had a chance to develop those abilities or talents. Some of the most worthy people that I ever met have been forced to live through the years in secret regrets because of their barren ambitions and futile hopes. Alas, what a tragedy for none to never have a chance !
Fifteen million youths in our na- tion now have very little or no chance of what "might be" if they could be given the proper opportunity. As I think' of this old story, I cannot help wondering how many people have gone to waste in life, whose natural endowments were fitted for a place of usefulness in the sphere in which they were born. How many great prospects have we passed by which God willed should have been encour- aged and raised to the place where they could have had a chance in life?
A. R. Flowers, Bailey, N. C.
I
10
THE FREE WILL BAPTIST
^ _„ . , — . ., — _„ — ^
The Women's Auxiliary Department
Mrs. Alice E. Lupton, Editor, JfO Hancock Street, New Bern, N. C.
McAdams' Report
Dear Co- Workers:
You will see by this missionary message that we have reached anoth- er point of the white harvest field. When we left Texas in August, we asked God to help us in Kentucky, Ohio, Virginia and V»^est Virginia be- fore Christmas. He not only helped us get the women's work organized, but we were able to get the Unified Program on two new fields.
We have turned our attention in the South for the winter months where the weather is better for our travel. We will work in Texas for a short while.
While in Tennessee we visited the Orphanage at Greenville, Tennessee, and were delighted to see Brother and Sister Stanley doing a fine work in that Home. It is a real joy to visit the home and see how sweet the chil- dren are there. They are being train- ed well. We also visited the Harris Memorial church where Brother Woolsey is pastor. Both this pastor and the Greenville church lined up with our plans. We went to Erwin, Tennessee, where we visited Brother Dunbar, and it was a great pleasure to be with this pastor and his dear people. They also took the banks and adopted the Chest plan. The church was already lined up with the Na- tional Program. From there we next visited New Bridge church in West Asheville, North Carolina, and had a wonderful service v/ith those people. V/e organized an auxiliary while there. Next we visited Brother Bob- bie Harris' church at Cedar Hill, and had a fine service.
On the next afternoon we visited the auxiliary at Horney Heights church and they accepted the Uni- fied Program plan. We visited Brother and Sister W. L. Moretz at Swannanoa, and had a wonderful service while there, and with the dear pastor. It was indeed a joy to
be with them. Our next stop was at Wilson and Greenville with Brother and Sister Ballard. We enjoyed a short stay with them to talk over the work. May God bless all of these dear workers. Our next stop was in Kinston where we visited again the union prayer meeting that we or- ganized at the close of a ten weeks revival. We held a service at the Free Will Baptist church in Kinston, and a splendid crowd was present. God is indeed blessing the dear peo- ple of the Kinston church. We went the next morning to New Bern and spent some time with Sister Griffin and Sister Lupton who are both Nt» tional workers. It was indeed a joy to talk over the National work with them. We found them deeply inter- ested in every phase of our work. We went from New Bern to Davis, North Carolina, to be with the pastor and the church there. Brother L. R. Ennis is pastor of this church. The people of this church have made a very great progress in the work of their church. They have nice Sun- day School rooms built on the church. We v/ere glad to find them using the Six Point Sunday School system. We visited each class in the Sunday School, and the smallest offering in a very small class amounted to $2.00 that Sunday morning. At the close of the service the morning offering was put on the board. That morn- ing it was $84.90, and on the Sunday before it was $51.00. These dear people not only give the tithe, but a free-will offering above, and many in the homes would tell you that they were happy since learning to tithe and give freely. That night they took an offering for us and it amount- ed to $12.00. Then Brother Ehnis said to his people, "Don't you want to make it more?" One brother rose from his seat and said, "Yes, we want to make it $25." Oh, how we do ap- precia^-e such a liberal-minded peo- ple with such a business view of re- ligion, as well as a spiritual view of
real worship. The Davis people are a happy band of workers, for they believe both in business and spirit- ual worship. We have good churches and good pastors who are teaching their church people to line up with our National plan of work. What we need to do is to get all of the pastors to line up with our National plan. Then we could soon have schools, well directed mission fields amply supported, and everything that it takes to make a fruitbearing de- nomination. I feel that if we all could have heart to heart talks concerning the work it would be of great advan- tage.
We stopped in Ayden and visited the Press and enjoyed meeting all the workers there. The new printing office looks fine. We certainly did enjoy looking it over while v^e were there. We also enjoyed visiting the business meeting which was being held in the Ayden Free Will Baptist church. It was indeed a pleasure to meet so very many of our old friends, and the ministers who were there in the meeting. May the Lord bless them in the great work. We spent the night with Mr. and Mrs. Joe Sutton who have been very dear friends to us every since 1918. God bless them.
From North Carolina we drove over into Alabama and visited Brother K. V. Shutes, in Cordova. We were received with a splendid welcome, and we want to say Brother Shutes is carrying out our plan, and we certainly do appre- ciate men like Brother Shutes. His church had voted to raise ten dol- lars for our expenses even before we arrived. The crowd at the church was small as the mills in the town were running 24 hours, and many had to work. The services were neverthe- less wonderful, and we feel that Brother and Sister Shutes are doing a splendid work in Alabama.
Our next stop was with Brother Hollis, Red Bay, Alabama, and we had a good service with them in that church. We talked over the work with those people. They are fine people and may the Lord greatly bless them. Brother Hollis is doing a noble work with his people. We reached Texas
THE FREE WILL BAPTIST
11
in time to eat Christmas with our mother at the old home. We are now with Sister Franklin at Henderson for a few nights. We are planning to visit a number of churches here in east Texas that do not as yet have the women's auxiliary. A few churches have the work at heart and have one District Convention which met here with Sister Franklin's church. We had a very profitable service, and we feel that when we visit a number of the churches our work will be much stronger.
Please pray for us here in Texas that God will use us to His glory, and for the salvation of lost souls. I am asking our presidents of the local auxiliaries to send $1.00 to sister Pol- ston for the next three months for Home Mission work. That will be such a small amount, just $1.00 for each month for the months of Jan- uary, February and March. These are very bad months for carrying on the work, but the call is just as great for Home Mission work in cold weath- er, as in the summer time.
May the dear Lord bless the dear women everywhere. May we respond to the call for true service. Do not forget, dear women, that this will be a great year for us if we will work to spread the Gospel of Christ.
Yours for Jesus, H. M. and Lizzie McAdams
4: :|c :ic * « 4:
Macedonia Aid Report
The Ladies Aid circle Number One held its regular monthly meeting on December 18, 1941, at the home of Mrs. Clyde Nobles. The meeting was opened with the president reading a chapter in the Bible, and it was fol- lowed by prayer. The devotional pro- gram was conducted by Mrs. John Smith.
In the business part of the meeting the roll was called with 14 members present. Then the minutes of the last meeting were read and approved.
Brought forward from Nov. $10.20
Amount of dues . 3.60
From sale of brooms 60
From furniture polish 25
From sale of sponges 20
Raised for Penny-A-Day plan 49
Total $15.34
Disbursements
Paid on chairs 1.00
Balance in treasury $14.34
Activities
Chapters read 26
Sick visits made . 108
Milk given (quarts) 107
Number of trays 3
Number of funeral designs 1
The next meeting will be held with Miss Violet Willis on January 22, 1942.
Mrs. James McLawhorn, Secy.
* * * * * m
Women's Auxiliary Work of tlie Progressive Association
The district meeting of the Wo- men's Auxiliary of the Progressive Association was held at Cordova Free Will Baptist church at Cordova, Ala- bama, November 30, 1941.
The meeting was held for the pur- pose of organizing a district Women's Auxiliary of the Progressive Associ- ation. The meeting was opened by song and prayer.
An introductory talk was made by Mrs. K. V. Shutes. The delegates from different churches were seated. The constitution and by-laws were read and adopted.
We had special prayer by Sister Winsett, for guidance in electing of officers for the coming year, that God's will might be done.
The following officers were elect- ed:
Mrs. A. J. Lambert, Parrsih, Ala., as President; Mrs. J. B. Bloss, Colum- bia, Tenn., Recording Secretary ; Mrs. K. V. Shutes, Cordova, Ala., First Vice-President; Mrs. Essie Collins, Northport, Ala. Second Vice-presi- dent; Mrs. T. 0. Terry, Cordova, Ala., Third Vice-President ; Mrs. R. A. Par- rish, Columbia, Tenn., Fourth Vice- President; Mrs. A. J. Burgess, Ala- bama City, Ala., Fifth Vice-Presi- dent; Miss Willa Mae Fogg, Colum- bia, Tenn., Corresponding Secretary;
Sister Pettus, Parrish, Ala,, Treasur- er; Mrs. T. B. Lee, Columbia, Tenn., Field Worker.
Our next dsitrict meeting will be held with the Loyal Chapel Free Will Baptist Church in Columbia, Tenn., April 11, 1942.
We request the prayers of our co- workers that we may grow and do great work for the Lord in the en- suing year.
Mrs. A. J. Lambert, Pres., (Miss) Willa Mae Fogg, Cor.- Secretary
******
Loyal Chapel Women's Auxiliary Keport
The Women's Auxiliary of the Loy- al Chapel Church was porperly organ- ized Nov. 26, 1941. New officers were elected for the coming year. New Program Books and Manuals were issued to each officer. It was decided that our monthly meetings be held on the First Saturday afternoon in each month.
The monthly meeting was held at the home of the president, Mrs. J. B. Bloss. The meeting was called to or- der by the president, opened by a song and prayer by Mrs. T. B. Lee. The scripture lesson was read.
The topic for the day was "Over- coming with Christ in Cuba." It was discussed in a very interesting and convincing manner.
Mrs. R. A. Parrish led us in prayer
that we might realize the whole pow- er of the Gospel to save the whole lost world.
The roll was called with each mem- ber reporting activities during the month. We are proud to report that our society is growing. The mem- bers pledged to begin a Christmas box for the needy.
Mrs. Henrietta Scribner dismissed the meeting in a word of prayer to meet next time at the home of Mrs. R. A. Parrish.
Willa Mae Fogg, Cor.-Secy.
12
THE FREE WILL BAPTIST
North Carolina Auxiliary Executive Committee Meeting
The Executive Committee of the North Carolina State Auxiliary Con- vention will hold its annual meeting Tuesday, January 20, 1942, at 10:30 in the Goldsboro church. All mem- bers are urged to attend and help vi^ith the important business which will claim our attention.
Mrs. C. B. Thompson, President, Mrs. Alice E. Lupton, Secretary * * * * « *
Aid Report of Sound Side Church
Our society met on December 11, 1941, with Mrs. R. R. Swain. Mrs. J. R, Swain, the president, called the meeting to order. A part of the twentieth chapter of Matthew was read, and the Aid sang the hymn, "Well Work 'Till Jesus Comes." Pray- er was offered by Mrs. E. B. Arm- strong.
After the reading of the minutes of the last meeting, the roll was called with ten members present. They an- swered to their names with quoting Bible verses. A motion was carried to send Margaret Taylor, the Orphan- age child adopted by the society, a Christmas present. The election of officers was then in order, and the following were elected:
President, Miss Almetia Arm- strong.
Vice-President. Mrs. Joe Brick- house.
Second Vice-President. Mrs. S. M. Woodard.
Third Vice-President, Mrs. E. B. Armstrong.
Fourth Vice-President, Mrs. Ottis Sawyer.
Fifth Vice-President, Mrs. Oscar Sawyer.
Sixth Vice-President, R. R. Swain.
Secretary, Mrs. Daniel Brickhouse.
Corresponding Secretary, Mrs. R. R. Swain.
Treasurer, Mrs. Nancy Sawyer.
Sick Committee: Mrs. Dallis Mor-
ris, Mrs. Clarence Rhodes, Mrs. Sade Sawyer.
Activities
Money taken in |2.06
Money paid out 1.50
Sick visits 47
Trays taken to sick 7
Milk given to the needy (qts.) — ^30
Mrs. R. R. Swain, Secretary
St. Claire Bible Class
Prepared and Arranged by M. B. Hutchinson, Zaieski, Ohio
John the Baptist and Jesus
(Lesson for January 18)
Lesson: Lu. 3: 1-6; 15-17. 21, 22. Read Luke 3: 1-22.
1. Goiden Text Illuminated.
"Thou art My beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased" (Lu. 3: 22).
Much of the force of the strange heresy of modernism is expended on the question of the nature and origin of Jesus. This is in itself a confes- sion of His unique nature, as no other person in history has even had that question raised about himself. Of all men since Adam we can say that they were strictly, purely, simply hu- man beings, born in the natural pro- cesses of biology and from a human father and mother ; so when the ques- tion of the origin and nature of a man is even raised, there must be some profund and amazing phenomenon be- hind that inquiry!
The writing Apostles all agree that Jesus was God's Son ! Peter and John testify in Acts the 4th chapter, that Jesus is "Thy Holy Child", and Philip led the Ethiopian official to say in Acts 8, "I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God"! The record fur- ther states that as soon as Saul of Tarsus was saved, 'straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that He is the Son of God" !
In the various Epistles of Paul, the great Apostle calls Jesus the Son of God thirty-one times ; never once does Paul refer to Him as the son of Joseph !
Back of this, they had the final * authority of God Himself. Moses and
the people with him heard the voice j
of God on Sinai. Certain of the Pro- j phets had heard Him speak, but many
centuries had passed since man had j heard the voice of Almighty God
speaking words that men could un- ■ derstand . This silence God finally
broke, to say of Jesus: " Thou art |
My beloved Son; in Thee I am well j
pleased". Not once, but again and i
again Heaven did not give forth this '
testimony, so Peter could say, "And ;
this Voice which came from Heaven j
we heard — ". Let those who are i
equally qualified dare deny the son- j
ship of Jesus Christ. [
II. Lesson High Points '
One of the famous oldtime circuit ] riders of our country was Peter Cart- , wright. As he was about to begin a | sermon in a Methodist church in ' Nashville, the pastor whispered in ! his ear, "Andrew Jackson has just ! come into the church; be careful not to say anything to offend him." It \ is said that Cartwright began his ser- mon something like this: "I am told | by your good pastor that President j Jackson has just entered the church, i and that I must be careful not to say | anything to offend him, but I do say, j 'If Andrew Jackson does not repent, ; and believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, ' God will damn his soul just as quickly i as he would that of a Guinea Ne- j gro!' " It is said that Jackson was a : firm friend of Cartwright's from that | day on. That fearless old pioneer ' was a worthy follower of the desert ] revivalist who dared say to Herod, | "It is not lawful for thee to have thy \ brother's wife" (Mark 6: 18). :
"A great revival has broken out j
down on the banks of the Jordan." :
This is the news that keeps coming '
to Herod in his palace. As he hears 1
how this new Elijah is preaching |
with fire and power, the first voice '
that has broken the silence of four |
centuries, the ruler's interest in- !
creases, and one day he says to the ^
woman with whom he lives, "Let's \
order the chariot and take a look in ,
on this revival meeting." j
Perhaps the revivalist, absorbed in |
his preaching, does not notice at first j
the royal new-comers, sitting high in |
their chariot on the outskirts of the i
1
THE FREE WILL BAPTIST
13
great crowd. But soon the man cloth- ed in camel's hair raiment turns, and is quickly conscious of the fact that he has royalty in his audience.
"We are unusually priviledged to- day in having in our congregation their majesties, King Herod and his Queen."
No, not that; but after a moment of silence, while all heads are turned in the direction in which the preach- er is looking, he shakes his index fin- ger at the purple-clad new-comers, and cries, "King Herod, you are no better in the sight of God than these publicans, soldiers, and other people to whom I have been preaching re- pentance. It is not right for you to have your brother Philip's wife, and unless you repent, and correct this great evil, you will perish in your sins."
Is this a possible picture of an in- cident in John's revival meeting?
John used strong language indeed, but nobody got mad or wanted to mob him when he flung out that word "vi- pers" to the crowd. It seems to be a regular Billy Sunday kind of word.
John preached hell (vs. 7-9), and our Lord taught it. The man who professes not to believe in hell is tak- ing a great risk, as Billy Sunday said to the professor. Because he did not believe in a wrath to come, John urg- ed a confession that makes no excus- es. —The S. S. Times
III. Sentence Sermons
1. The servants of God are men who are in trusted with the Word of God (Lu. 3:2).
2. The servants of God are men who minister in the places chosen by God (vs. 3).
3. The servants of God are men who proclaim the demands of God (vs. 3).
4. The servants of God are men who depend upon the revelation of God in His Word (vs. 4).
5. The servants of God are men who expect the fulfillment of the pro- mises of God (vs. 5).
6. The servants of God declare the good news of the salvation of God (vs. 6).
7. The servants of God are men who announce the presence of the Son of God (vs. 16).
8. The servants of God are men who warn others concerning the judgment of God (vs. 17).
9. The Son of God has opened the way to the throne of God (vs. 21).
10. The Spirit of God cannot be severed from the Son of God (vs. 22) .
As heaven opened the Holy Spirit passed out to come to the earth. Saint John tells us in his account of the incident that the Spirit lit upon Jesus and remained upon Him. The
Standard Church Register and Record
Special rul- ings for com- plefe register of a member- shiiJ oT 1450. Ic is arranged alphabetically, showing name in full,_ date of admission, how admitted, residence, re- moval, dace of rem o v a 1, change of name, if by marriage, etc. ; the list of el- ders and dea- cons, trustees and clerk; date of ap- pointment and leaving office; minister's date of begin- ning and close of ministry; baptisms, dates of birch, by whom baptized ; records of deaths, burials and marriages. Leather back and corners. PRICE S3.90.
Beautiful Banneirs that Get Results
The use of banners as a recognition is a most effective way of bring- ing up attend- a n c e, offerine and interest Tliis line is made especially for schools wanting a hnnd- sorne. incxpen- s i V e banner. "Ooze" cloth with a finish giving the ap- pearance of ex- pensive silk vel- vet i 3 used. The letlPring iind de- signs are put in by a unique process ; tiny pieces of crys- tal and various colored glass being used, the
whole an exceedingly handsome banner at little cost. Order one. and if not pleased you nniiy return it. Size, 13x18. Seven numbers. Order by number.
3ANNER
voice of the Father came from heav- en in the acknowledgment of His Son on the earth. This was His first aud- ible word concerning Christ His Son. Here He confessed His pleasure at His Son's course. (Read Matthew 3 : 13-17; Mark 1 : 9-11 ; John 1 : 31-34.) — Senior Quarterly (F. W. B.) Note: Our quarterlies have splen- did helps on this lesson. Earnest, prayerful study of Luke 3: 1-22 will bring a blessing to all.
Mother's ©ay
By Carolyn R. Freeman
Recitations, dialofrue>. mo- tion exercises, musical recita- tions, tableaux and sonE3 from which anyone can arrange a very good program to suit the need of the local conditions.
Price, 25 cents each.
Mother', Dny Helper
Usher Arm Bands
Our Usher Arm Bands are made of high grade blue wool felt 4 inches wide, Icitering and decorated border stenciled in white, an attractive and dignified design. PRICE EACH CENTS IN ANY QL.ANTITV.
CONTEST BUTTONS
PLAK NO. 3, Another attractive button for ointest purposes. Cuts show exact size of but- tons. Thi.^^ is also a Vf-ry effective plan Rod and Blue buttons, three-fourth.-; of an inch in diameter, are used, ujion which are the v.-ord,s, "Work for the Red." "Work for the Blue." The school is divided under captains, and rivalry is aroused in the race for the greatest number of persons wearing "Red" or "Blue" buttons. New mem-
Work for the Bed
Work for the Blue
ber.s are o/ten ftathered through curiosity in inquiring about the button his chum is wearing. Price, per doz- en. 20c.; pur lUO, ^1.50. (10)
No. 283. Wording,
No. 284. Wording,
No. 285. Wording,
No. 286. Wording,
No. 287. Wording.
No. 291. Wordin
"Banner Cl.tss" _ $1-00
"Banner Offering" 1.00
"Banner Attendance" 1.00
"lOO'-r Class" 1-00
"Others" 1-00
"Primary" 1-00
No. 292. Wording, ".Tuniors" - 1-00
"Others" is very popular as a class motto and class name, made so largely by the use of the poem, "Others," written by Mr. Meigs. For stich classes Ve have prepared No. 287, price of which is only $1.00. ('7)
Banner Base 'J'/i in. iiiamctcr.
Banner Staff— Harci Wood 5 feet, 55c; postpaid 75c. 6 feet, 75c; postpaid Sl.OO Banner Base — Rounc], wood base, with socket, $1.20; by mail $1.35.
•6 h. Jointed Pole, $1.20; postpd., $1..^5
14
j Boys and Girls Corner The Magic Ring
And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall re- ceive.—Matt. 21: 22.
In a second it was all over. Bernice stood with flushed face and clenched fists. Her eyes seemed to be twice their size, and her breath came in gasps. Across the room, near the wall, lay the remains of the vase which had for years graced one edge of the mantel shelf above the fire- place. Now it lay in a pathetic heap no more than six feet away from where Connie stood.
Connie had unexpectedly entered the room just in time to see Bernice in a sudden fit of anger, seize the vase by one of its delicate handles and send it flying across the room.
Suddenly, as if realizing what had happened, Bernice hurried to Connie. Then she stopped, ashamed that her friend should see her in such a mood.
"I'm sorry," she said simply. "I — I — lost by temper. I was sitting in that chair by the fierplace sewing. Somehow I lost my needle and — "
"And you looked everywhere and couldn't find it. Then you became impatient and provoked because your sewing was being interrupted. You threw the pillows from the chair, and still no needle. Then you lost your temper completely, and sent the vase sailing through the air just because it happened to be handy. You felt as if you had to do something violent to sort of get even with yourself for los- ing your needle. Isn't that what happened?" Connie asked.
"Yes," Bernice said quietly. "Yes. That is exactly what happened. But how did you know ? Were you stand- ing here all the time?"
"No, I just entered in time to see the vase fly through the air and smash against the wall. I know, be- cause I have done the same thing my- self. Many times," she added, look- ing straight into Bern ice's staring eyes'
THE FREE WILL BAPTIST
"You!" Bernice said in bewilder- ment. "Connie, you were once impat- ient and as ill-tempered as I?"
Connie smiled and nodded.
"I dare say I was even worse than you."
Bernice shook her head question- ingly.
"I don't believe it," she said firm- ly. "Why, Connie, I have never heard you utter one impatient word all these three years I've known you. I often compare your disposition with mine. You are so loving to every one. You are so understanding and so kind, so patient and gentle. I am im- petuous and ill-tempered and so very impatient. You are just trying to help me feel less ashamed for what I have done."
"Truly, Bernice," Connie assured her, "I had a terrible temper."
Bernice stepped closer to her friend.
"What happened, Connie?" she asked hopefully. "How did you con- quer it?"
"Through the help of a magic ring," Connie told her seriously.
Bernice's eyes widened. Magic ring! Had Connie gone mad? Why, there is no such a thing as magic these days !
Connie gave a merry little chuckle. It was fun to see Bernice so amazed.
"Let's sit near the fire," she sug- gested, removing her plaid wool jack- et and tam. "I'll tell you all about it."
The air was chilly that October )iight, so Bernice threw several lumps of coal on the hearth before the two settled comfortably on the couch be- fore the crackling flames. This was one of their favorite evening spots.
"Now about the magic ring," Bern- ice prompted eagerly, when they were curled up among the pillows. "I want to know all about it."
"Well, first of all," Connie began as she displayed her left hand, "here it is. You have probably seen that ring many times, for I have never taken it from my finger since the day Miss Hall gave it to me."
"Miss Hall? Who is she?" Bern- ice questioned as she bent to examine the ring more closely. It was a plain gold ring with the initials "J. W. H." engraved in scroll letters across the flat surface forming the top.
"Miss Hall was my Sunday-school teacher a long time ago. She alway.^ helped all of us girls v/ith any per- sonal problems, especially if it was a problem like mine — a bad temper. We had long talks about it before she went to New York. The day before she left she asked me to come to her home and have dinner with her. Af- ter diimer she took this ring from her finger, saying it was a little parting gift she wanted me to have. I thank- ed her and then looked down at the ring on my finger.
" 'Jessie Vv^ilma Hall,' I mused. 'No,' Miss Hall said in her sweet way. 'Those letters mean .Jesus will help.'
"She said for me always to wear the ring, and when I was tempted to lose my temper or become impatient, I should rub the ring and remember what the letters meant. Then I should ask Jesus to help. I tell you, Bernice," Connie continued, "It is a magic ring. You can see for your- self what it has done for me."
Bernice sat very still, listening. On- ly the crackling, sputtering coals dis- turbed the stillness of the dusk-laden room.
Then Connie took the ring from her finger and slipped it on Bernice's left hand.
"Now it's your turn to wear it," she said softly. "Ask Jesus to help you."
Bernice held her hand in the fire- light's glow. Then she drew it close to her.
"Jesus will help," she whispered as she gently rubbed the magic ring.
. _
Sermon and Bible Study Outlines
The Sevenfold Witness to Christ in John's Gospel
By Doctor- Wilbur M. Smith, Moody Institute
1. Of the Father, 5: 34, 37.
THE FREE WILL BAPTIST
16
2. Of the Son, 8: 14; 18: 37.
3. Of His Works, 10: 25; 5: 36.
4. Of the Scriptures, 5 : 39-46.
5. Of the Forerunner, 1 : 7 ; 5 : 35.
6. Of the Disciples, 15: 27; 19: 35.
7. Of the Spirit, 15: 26; 16: 14.
<m^
"Special Sundays"
Among the many demands that are made upon the preacher, one that is steadily growing in number is that urging him to observe "Special Sun- days." One of our Southern Presby- terian pastors a year or two ago, kept a list of such requests. He found that in one year he had been urged by va- rious local, state, and national organ- izations, some of them government- al, to have not less than 72 such observances. The great majority of the requests were, of course, ignor- ed. Nevertheless, he, and presum- ably his fellow pastors, had received them. '
In a recent issue of a popular relig- ious weekly, one pastor makes a strong protest against such appeals, being led to do so by having press- ure put upon him to observe the same Sunday as "Special Sunday" for three different causes. Starting out to make a list of the appeals that had recently come to him, he enumerates — before becoming discouraged — "Ed- ucation Sunday," "Mother's Day, ' "Father's Day," "National Letter Writing Week, ' and many others. The minister's mail, he says, is fill- ed with communications from those "who offer sermon outlines on every- thing from Sabbath observance to the urgent social need of vitamin A milk." As the reader scans the list, he is not surprised at the exclama- tion, "I am weary of being told what to preach !"
Doubtless there are causes to which "Special Sundays" can be devoted without ignoring the great central purpose of the Church or the vows taken by the preacher. The true min- ister, however, must keep uppermost in his mind the farreaching import of the scriptural injunction. "Preach
the Word." Many causes make a strong appeal to sentiment, to patrio- tism, or to our feeling of social re- sponsibility, but they are not the gos- pel of Christ, which we believe God calls His ambassadors to proclaim.
"Let the preacher be the voice of God," writes the above-mentioned pastor. The Church is not an organ- ization set up for the use of the pro- pagandist, however worthy his cause nor is the preacher called to be the
representative of any man-made pro- ject. The greatest contribution that cither Church or preacher can make to the well-being of humankind is to proclaim with all earnestness and faithfulness the whole message of Christ to the hearts of men. — Chris- tian Observer.
—^m>
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16
THE FREE WILL BAPTIST
A Petition for Prayer
My Niece, Mrs. T. E. Frazier, is real sick from a serious tumor opera- tion. We all desire the prayers of her many friends that she may soon be restored to her former health and service, if it is the Lord's will. She is in St. Thomas Hospital, room 315, and would like to hear from her friends, I feel sure, whenever she is able to see them.
Yours very truly,
Her Aunt Mary Patton, Nashville, Tenn.
Ring Out the Old, Ring In the New
Ring out, wild bells, to the wild sky, The flying- clouds, the frosty light: The year is dying in the night —
Ring out, wild bells, and let him die.
Ring out the old, ring in the new — Ring, happy bells, across the snow : The year is going, let him go;
Ring out the false, ring in the true.
Ring out the grief that saps the mind, For those that here we see no more, Ring out the feud of rich and poor,
Ring in redress to all mankind.
Ring out a slowly dying cause, And ancient forms of party strife ; .fi,ing in the nobler modes of life,
With sweeter manners, purer laws.
Ring out the want, the care, the sin, . The faithless coldness of the times :
HOLMAN EtJinOM SMITH'S SELF-PRONOUNCING
BIBLE BICTIOMAEY
suid CoacordaBCS
Siee. 9^i^6'A inches rr^Tj^^ '^^'^ °^
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Send Orders to Free Will Baptist Press Ayden, N. C.
Ring out, ring out my mournful rhymes, But ring the fuller minstrel in.
Ring out false pride in place and blood,
The civic slander and the spite; Ring in the love of truth and right, Ring in the common love of good.
Ring out old shapes of foul disease,
Ring out the narrowing lust of gold;
Ring out the thousand wars of old, Ring in the thousand years of peace.
Ring in the valiant man and free, The larger heart, the kindlier hand ;
Ring out the darkness of the land- Ring in the Christ that is to be.
Alfred Tennyson
Absentee Post-cards
Series 1
r.^-,.^^}^'^^^ ? eighteen graded absentee post-cards. Beautifully Pfio it'" ^"o??,- '^'^ messages command the attention of absen- tees. Jivery_ Biblc> school will mak« a paying investment by syste- matically using these cards. Suitable for ail departments of the school. Price, per dozen, 20c.;. per 100, 51.25.
: I.S srt Ihe church docfT e »ajling hers for you, ccnc bsck lo our djis 6exi ! ?,w U5ad to
VHEHE TESE- YOU -SUMJAY f TSe btys In our ctaw are fwe on the <H Bul.thers'j lomethlrj th;- 1 missing, alacfcl Tlj your cnm jolly self thai »r'-« rteedns a lot WonT jwj hurry, «jy) ayrat
right backr COtffi SIM NEXT SUTfflAY
N? 570
BE HERE NEXT SJNDAY Itoirt sltjj> for the »eather; Ve'd make il toselher The pleaaantesi kind of • day: Although II be raldng, We'll not be eomplainlnj. If you-U pn>mlse to not stay a»»y
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THE FREE WILL
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A National Weekly Religious Magazine |
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Ayden, N. C, January 14, 1942 «®>->
At Church Next Sunday
If I knew you and you knew me, How little trouble there would be. We pass each other on the street, But just come out and let us meet,
At church next Sunday.
Each one intends to do what's fair, And treat his neighbor on the square, But he may not quite understand Why you don't take him by the hand At church next Sunday.
This world is sure a busy place. And we must hustle in the race. For social hours some are not free The six week days, but all should be At church next Sunday.
We have an interest in our town, The dear old place must not go down ; We want to push good things along. And we can help some if we're strong At church next Sunday.
Don't knock and kick and slam and slap At everybody on the map. But push and pull and boost and boom And use up all the standing room
At church next Sunday.
— Anonymous
Free Will — Free Grace — Free Salvation
Volume 57— Number 2, $1.50 Per Year
miiiiniiiHj^NMlllUIIIIIIIIIIIIMIMIIIIIIIIIIIlllMII||lllllllllli|M|||||||i|i|||||||||{||||||||{|,|||||,,|J^^
2
THE FREE WILL BAPTIST
THE FREE WILL
BAPTIST
Organ of THE FREE WILL BAPTIST CHURCH
Published Weekly by Free Will Baptist Press, Ayden, North Carolina, a nonprofit- sharing Corporation.
R. B. SPENCER Editor
C. K. DUNN, Sr. Manager
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Rev, J. R. Bennett, President Rev. L. H. Wetherington, Vice-Pres. C. K. Dunn, Sr., Treasurer Rev. R. B. Spencer, Secretary Rev. J. W. Alford Rev. R. N. Hinnant, A. B. Rev. D. W. Alexander
Entered at the Post Office at Ayden, North Carolina, as second class mail matter.
CHANGE OF ADDRESS
When notifying to change your address, please give your old one as well as the new one.
TERMS :
Per year §1.50 in advance, six months 75 cents, three months 40 cents.
Remit by Post Office Money Order for all amounts of 50 cents or more.
NOTICE
Any service rendered to any organ- ization of our church, will gladly be rendered to any other similar organ- ization upon request and presentation of manuscript for such service.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY, 14, 1942
National Church Directory
{National Association)
OFFICERS:
Rev. James F. Miller Moderator
Flat River, Missouri
Rev. J. R. Davidson Asst. Mod.
808 W. 27th St., Bryan, Texas
Rev. E. C. Morris Secretary
201 W. Cypress cit., Elizabeth City, N. C.
Rev. L. C. Johnson Asst. Secy.
Glennville, Ga.
Rev. F. S. Van Hoose Treasurer
Paini Bville, Kentucky
Rev. Clarence B 5wen Statistician
Box 203, East Durham. N. C.
(Chairmen of National Boards)
Rev. J. R. Davidson Education
808 W. 27 St., Bryan Texas Rev. I. J. Blackwelder ._ Foreign Missions 1013 Chicamauga Ave., Nashville, Tenn.
Rev. M. L. Hollis Home Missions
Red Bay, Alabama Rev. F. C. Zinn, Chairman, of Superannu- ation, Bristow, Okla. Mr. E. C. Davidson. -Sec^/.-Treas. of Su- perannuation, Glennville, Georgia Rev. M. E. Tyson, __ Treas. Home Missions Pikeville, N. C.
W. E. Coville Sunday School
Route 1, Nashville, Tennessee
Rev. Henry Melvin Young People's
League, 1211 E. Main St., Durham N. C.
Rev. L. R. Ennis Executive Secy.
National Association, Goldsboro, N. C.
(Women's National Auxiliary Convention)
Mrs. J. C. Griffin President
240 Pasteur St., New Bern, N. C.
Mrs. J. E. Frazier First Vice-Pres.
1624 E. Cahal Ave., Nashville, Tenn.
Mrs. Fannie E. Polston Gen. Secy.
318 Woodland St., Nashville, Tenn. Mrs. Lizzie McAdams --Nat. Field Worker
Htmtsville, Texas Miss Lola Johnson __ __ Recording Secy. Alma, Georgia
Mrs. T. B. Mellette, Corresponding Secy.
Blakely, Georgia
( Foreign Missionaries )
Miss Laura Belle Barnard India
"Spring Hill" Kotagiri, South India
Miss Bessie Yeley Venezuela
Upata, South America
Rev. Thomas H. Willey Cuba
Jaruco, Havana Province, Cuba
(North Carolina State Association)
OFFICERS.
Rev. J. C. Griffin President
240 Pasteur St., New Bern, N. C.
Rev. J. R. Bennett Secretary
Bridgeton, N. C.
Mr. Rom Mallard Treasurer
New Bern, N. C.
Rev. Chester Pelt Secy.-Treas. Foreign
Missions, Ayden, N. C.
(North Carolina Women's Auxiliary Convention)
OFFICERS:
Mrs. C. B. Thompson President
Ayden, N. C.
Mrs. Alice E. Lupton Secretary
New Bern, N. C.
Mrs. Herman Nobles Treasurer
Greenville, N. C.
Mrs. L. H. Wetherington Chairman
Anna Phillips Educational Loan, Clark, N. C.
(N. G. State S. S. Convention)
Raymond T. Sasser President
815 Briggs St., Wilson, N. C.
Miss Elizabeth Warren Secretary
Greenville, N. C.
(Georgia State Association)
Rev. L. C. Johnson Moderator
Glennville, Ga.
Rev. H. L. Catritt Vice-Moderator
Colquitt, Ga.
Rev. T. B. Mellette, Secretary
Blakely, Ga.
Mr. A. D. Ivey, _. State Treasurer of
Co-operative Program, Jakin, Ga.
(Alabama State)
Rev. J. J. Stabb, Moderator State Assn.,
2313 N. 33rd. Ave., Birmingham, Ala.
Rev. K. V. Shutes, Asst. Moderator,
Cordova, Ala.
Rev. R. P. Ritch, Clerk,
Pell City, Ala.
My Cross
"God laid upon my back a grievous load,
A heavy cross to bear along the road.
I staggered on, till, lo, one weary day An angry lion leaped across my way.
I prayed to God, the swift, at his com- mand,
The cross became a weapon in my hand.
It slew my raging enemy, and then It leaped upon my back, a cross again.
I faltered many a league, until at length.
Groaning, I fell and found no further strength.
I cried, '0 God, I am so weak and lame,'
And swift the cross a winged staff became.
It swept me on until I retrieved my loss.
Then leaped upon my back again, a cross.
I reached a desert, on its burning track,
I still preserved the cross upon my back.
No shade was there, and in the burn- ing sun
I sank me down and thought my day was done.
But God's grace works many a sweet surprise ;
The cross became a tree before my eyes.
I slept, awoke, and had the strength of ten,
Then felt the cross upon my back again.
And thus, through all my days, from
that to this, The cross, my burden, has become my
bliss.
Nor shall I ever lay my burden down, For God shall one day make my cross my crown."
— D. H. S. — In Christian Advocate
THE FREE WILL BAPTIST
I
♦
RIAL
EDI
The Red Cros^ —
The Red Cross is an organization which has as its function the admin- istering of relief to the needy and suf- fering humanity. The call just now for increased contributions to this worthy cause is very urgent in this country. It is evident, therefore, that every mdividual who possibly can, every home and each local church organization is requested to contrib- ute liberally to this great cause.
Suffering humanity is now stand- ing in need of adequate help from those who can give support through the channel of the Red Cross. Money spent in this way will go for a wor- thy purpose, and it will do great good to relieve much suffering and to com- fort those exposed to pitiable circum- stances because of the devastations of war.
The response of the church people as a whole to this call is expected to be great throughout the entire coun- try. Sunday Schools, Young People's Leagues, Auxiliary societies. Mission- ary circles, and other religious groups are expected to contribute freely and cheerfully to this much needed work of the Red Cross. It is understood that it is each Christian's duty to share, if at all possible, in this great work of the Red Cross by contribut- ing freely for the relief of those hav- ing to suffer because of the horrors of war. Ministers and lay-leaders of the church have excellent opportun- ity to stress the Red Cross Drive in their communities and before their congregations. They are in a posi- tion to arouse interest, and to lead the people to see the great need of giving liberally to this cause. The men in the service of the United States, fighting for human rights, are risk- ing their ALL for our safety and freedom. They deserve, therefore, our wholehearted support for the re- lief of their suffering and depriva- tion of the comforts of life. Dollars by the tens of thousands are now
«—.m-.m. - - — ♦
needed to be placed in the treasury of the Red Cross so that it can do a greater service to relieve suffering, to save lives and to give comfort to the distressed.
Hearts Made Glad—
During the Christmas season sev- eral hearts were made glad due to the fact that several Superannuation checks were received by several dis- abled ministers. In North Carolina the Superannuation Treasurer, Mrs. M. A. Woodard of Winterville, mail- ed quite a number of nice checks to each disabled minister (all of whom she had record) of the Free Will Bap- tist church in North Carolina.
Mrs. Woodard made report in last week's issue of the Baptist, stating that she had the pleasure of sending Christmas greetings to those worthy soldiers of the cross. Those who read her article doubtless noted the fine expressions of gratitude (which she quoted) to her for the checks sent to them. Mrs. Woodard also stated that she was able to send those men more this time because more money had come into the treasury than here- tofore. This is, we are sure, most gratifying to all who had a hand in contributing to the Superannuation Fund. Moreover, we say, to those who did not read Mrs. Woodard's re- port in last week's Baptist, turn to page 9 and read her splendid letter. It is very good, we think, and many of our readers would do well to note the nice expressions of thanks which she quoted from the letters those ministers sent to her.
In view of this fine spirit which has been shown on the part of many of the church people in contributing to the Superannuation Fund for the year 1941, may active ministers and church leaders seek to do even more for the disabled ministers during the present year. Regular and system- atic giving to this cause month by month during the year will greatly in- crease the funds for this worthy
cause. And that is what each local church should seek to do. Special of- ferings for this purpose will stimulate greater interest in giving, and the more one gives to such noble work, the more joy comes to his heart. God promises to bless the cheerful giv- er. No one has ever been made worse for the giving of his means to worthy causes. He is always repaid, in one way or another, for his brotherly kindness toward mankind.
Call to Worship —
There has never been a time in this nation, that we recall, when the call to worship was ever denied the peo- ple. Moreover, everyone has the free- dom to exercise his will, his con- science, in the matter of real worship to Almighty God. In view of this fact, the Jew, the Catholic, the Pro- testant are all privileged to worship God the way best suited to them. But, even in free America, the records show that less than half of the pop- ulation claim any allegiance whatso- ever to any form of real worship to the eternal God. With churches, ministers. Christian workers and Bibles plentiful all about them, yet it is true that more than fifty-five persons out of every one hundred lay no claim upon the Christian way of life. They have not taken a public stand for Christ and righteousness, nor have joined ranks with either the Catholics, Jews or Protestants in wor- ship in this country.
There comes a call, then, to wor- ship as never before in this nation. For one reason or another the church has failed to reach these people, and to win them for God. Possibly easy living in peace-times in this land has had something to do with this appal- ling situation. We read in the Old Testament scriptures that when the people had a plenty and lived good, then they forgot their God. They transgressed. But He brought them to account and punished them. We wonder if that sort of thing has been happening in this country for the last decade. How strange it is that some people seem to think they do not need God and His goodness when they are living at ease. But it is a well known
(See Editorial on Page 6)
4
THE FREE WILL BAPTIST
Gospel of ^^oar Salvation
By Rev. C. J. Harris
(Ephe. 1: 13, 14)
Why did Paul make the above state- ment which we have selected for our text? In the proclamation of the Gospel were claims which the Jews could urge, and which the Gentiles could not share in advocating the cause of Israel. Hence, the express- ion of Christ to the Samaritan wo- man at Jacob's Well: "Ye worship ye know not what. We know what we worship; for salvaion is of the Jews" (Jno. 4: 22). The gospel of our salvation is in Christ.
Amidst the sorrows and vicissi- tudes of life, do we find daily conso- lations from God ? Under the terrors of conscience, do we find a peaceful asylum in the gospel of Christ? All these blessings and consolations flow to us from Judah. God's Holy Book was penned by Jewish hands. The Gospel was proclaimed by Jewish lips; yet by that Sacred Victim who died on the cross. He is the world's only hope, the sinner's only joy, and wears not even He the lineaments of the children of Abraham? In the long catalogue of our own mercies, we have to refer to the Seed of Abra- ham in whom all the nations of the earth shall be blessed. And in Him the Gentiles likewise shall trust.
God is not willing that any should perish, but rather that all would come to repentance, and to the knowledge of the truth. Christ has given us a Gospel of the salvation which He has provided for us, and in the text the Gospel is called "The Gospel of Your Salvation." Paul used the term "your salvation" when talking to his bre- thren at Ephesus, perhaps, intending to make a distinction there between the Jews and Gentiles. The church at Ephesus was mostly made up of con- verts from the Gentile world. The Jews at that time endeavored to mo- nopolize all the blessings of the Gos- pel in the mistaken idea that is was for them alone; but Paul, to encour- age his Gentile brethren, says "It is your salvation."
We are interested in the preaching of the Gospel for the salvation of the whole world. It is man's salvation, of our race, of our community and of all individuals. I include myself with those to whom the thought comes from the blessed Son of God. It is the gospel of our salvation be- cause, if we heed its instructions and study its sacred lessons, it will teach us all how we need its assurances. We learn that we need salvation by our reading and hearing the Word of God preached. We were born in a land of Bibles; but, if we had been born away among the heathen, would we be the Christian members of the Church that we are? No. Our minds would be as void and as blank of the doc- trine of Christian truth as the minds of savage men and women who pene- trate the jungles of Christless gloom.
The Gospel of our salvation holds out for us a proper standard of right as against the wrong, and it shows what is to be done, and what is not to be done. It represents to us the will of God as the standard of right living. Well, what has that to do with showing us the way of salva- tion? It is just this. It presents us with the standard of right and shows us how to compare our lives with that standard of right conduct. "For who- soever shall do the will of God, the same is my brethren, my sister and mother" (Mark 3: 34, 35; Luke 8: 21; Matt. 12: 49, 50). Do our prin- ciples of life and our conduct corres- pond with the will of God? If they do not, then we are guilty of a de- parture from the Word of God. The will of God is the standard of right; and, in proportion to our departure from that will, in like manner we are guilty of abiding not in the whole standard of right. It is the gospel of our salvation, and therefore shows how far we are wong and how we are guilty.
The Christian knows that he has the truth of the gospel on his side, he does not, therefore, have to go to the learned men. the influential men, the
elegant men to ask the question: "Is it true?" Nay, he goes alone to Him who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Then, with boldness he says, "I know whom I have believed." The everlasting and self-evidencing veri-. ties of heaven are in his soul, for "He that believeth hath the witness in himself." The truth of the gospel of your salvation, which the Christian maintains, cannot be laughed down, nor burned down, nor fought down. Men may crucify it and bury it, as they did crucify and bury the "Incar- nate Truth," but it shall rise again. Armed from head to foot with invinc- ible armor is he who stands for the Gospel truth, and manfully contends for it.
The Gospel of your salvation not only shows your guilt or proves your guilt, but it also offers you pardon for your transgression. It shows that God has provided a ransom for your sins. It both shows and gives the remedy. While it shows the wound, it provided the cure — the Cure in the Balm of Gilead, our Christ. The good old prophet Jeremiah at the bitter distresses of his nation, exclaimed, "Oh, that my head were waters, and mine eyes a fountain of tears, that I might wep day and night for the slain of the daughter of my people !" And on another occasion he said, "Is there no balm in Gilead? Is there no phy- sician there? Why then is not the health of the daughter of my people recovered?" Ah! Jeremiah knew that there was power in the Messiah. Why are men and women today so indiffer- ent to their highest interest and so careless of their moral conduct as to go on in sin, subjecting themselves to the terrible distresses of sin, and destined to meet the sinner's eternal doom? The gospel of your salvation contains the remedy, for it contains Christ and His atoning blood. It is the gospel that holds Him up. Do you rem&mber that interesting ac- count in the sixteenth chapter of ii^Acts where Paul and Silas dispossess- raed the damsel of the evil spirit? Bad
THE FREE WILL BAPTIST
6
spirits have a good deal of knowledge, and Devils do not always lie. They sometimes tell the truth, though ter- ribly mixed with error. That young woman, though under the influence of a demon, said of Paul and Silas, "These men are the servants of the Most High God, which show unto us the way of salvation." You will prob- ably remember it, but perhaps it nev- er struck you with such deep force. Oh, that is the grand character of every true minister of the gospel, he who labors to raise the standard of the world's moral excellency higher.
Christian character is built upon the Word which is the Gospel of sal- vation. Oh, how I love thy law ! Thy law is perfect, converting the soul, and in thy law is my delight. Thy word is sweeter unto me than honey or the honeycomb. It is the language of the gospel preacher, and of all Christian believers.
The Gospel of your salvation, how important ? All the treasures of wis- dom and knowledge are in the gospel of Christ. No other written docu- ment can equal it for literary beauty, sublimity of description, fidelity to human nature, and for the revelation of the Will of God. It finds a home in every language, and it makes its appeal to every heart that will heed its teachings. It is the Missionary Book of the world's Missionary relig- ion. It meets every unfolding need of human society, as it has anticipated every phase of human progress. It will never become obsolete, for it is the ever unchangeable Word of the Most High God. Its saving truths are the same yesterday, today and forever.
The truth of the Gospel of our sal- vation in its generalization will be ac- cepted by all. But it is not enough that we preach the gospel in its gen- eral character, for we must come down to details. Paul said to the Philippian jailer, "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved." Then, what followed? "They spake unto him the word of the Lord," and it is said that, in the same hour of the night, the jailer was bap- tized, and he rejoiced in God with all his house (Acts 16: 30-34). Will
someone please tell me how this jail- er knew anything about baptism? Philip preached Jesus to the eunuch so strong that the eunuch suggested his own baptism (Acts 8: 35-39). How did he know anything about bap- tism? Paul, Silas and Philip preach- ed the Gospel of salvation in detail, and that takes in all, "God's means of grace."
— <-^>
The Need of Patience
By Mrs. Vera Elliott, Nashville, Tennessee
"Rest in the Lord, and wait pa- tiently for him: fret not thyself of him who prospereth in his way, be- cause of the man who bringeth wick- ed devices to pass." — Ps. 37: 7.
How we Christians sometimes suf- fer because we do not have patience ! How much sweeter our lives would be if we would only learn to rest in the Lord and wait, for we can only car- ry on our part of God's work any- way; but sometimes we find ourselv- es trying to work out a problem that only God can do. It is then that we should go to God in prayer for His help.
How impatient we become some- times when we have given what we think is our best in working for God. Oh, how we notice someone who doesn't seem to care anything about God's work and yet seems to prosper and have so much more than we. It is then that we need to think how real heaven is, and think how pros- perous we Christians will be to gain a home that will never perish beyond this war torn world. Won't it be wonderful ?
And again, as we think how little patience we have when we think why God allows men to live that bring wicked devices to pass, and when we are giving our all to Him. But did Jesus get impatient when they were falsely accusing Him. No. He said, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." I trust that we consecrated Christians may learn to be more patient and Christ- like day by day.
I am a member of the "New Trin- ity Free Will Bapti&t Church" at Nashville, Tenn. Rev. 1. J. Blackwel- der is our pastor, and we are so hap- py in our church, and everyone is so willing to do his or her part, when there is something to be done. It is just the kind of spiritual atmosphere I have always hoped for in a church — "all in one accord." All seem to be willing to be led by the pastor, and he is willing to be led by the Holy Spirit,
Our church people are certainly proud to have Brother and Sister Blackwelder back with us. They went to Florida for the Christmas holidays, and they were gone for two weeks. We certainly did miss them while they were away.
Do pray for us that God will con- tinue to lead us, for we have a great field open for us in which to work. We are very anxious to start a build- ing fund. In Psalms 37: 4, we read, "Delight thyself also in the Lord and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart." We are trusting in God to give us a church building of our own.
Dear Lord, I pray that thou wilt give, More faith, more courage, more hope to live; A life that's gentle, kind, and pure. More patience that our cross we can endure.
■ — <^>- — •
Important Request
The Board of Directors of the Press passed a resolution in its last meeting to offer free the Baptist pa- per to all Superannuated ministers of the Free Will Baptist church in the United States. The Superannuate Boards are, therefore, requested to furnish the Business Management of the Press the names and addresses of all Superannuated ministers on their lists so that we can place the disabled ministers on our regular mailing list of the Baptist paper. We want them to be able to receive the paper each week as long as they de- sire to receive it or as long as they shall live. — Editor-Secretary.
— • —
Subscribe to the Baptist
6
THE FREE WILL BAPTIST
EDITORIAL
axiom : "Ill-at-ease rests the soul that feasts upon the passing comforts of this life," and ignors God.
God doubtless, in this great world- conflict, is whipping us into the real- ization of our negligence toward Him and His Gospel. Many are already beginning to think seriously of this terrible calamity which has been thrust upon us. Were we too much at ease in Zion? Well, that may be the cause. Some are asking the ques- tion: "Why does God allow this war to go on?" Many may be reaping now what they have sown in the past. Still others may reap soon the fruits of their selfish lusts and jealous greed. But, whether such be the case or not, it certainly is a time when greater emphasis should be placed upon real worship to God. No one should be so affected over the present world-conditions as to lose interest in the Church of the living God. On the contrary, all should pray more, go to church more, and give more for the cause of righteousness, and rededicate his or her life afresh to the heavenly Father. Let Him have full sway over our lives. He has promised victory to those who will trust Him, and follow in his footsteps.
What Can We Do?
By Mattie Lee Ward
"Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might" (Eccl. 9: 10).
As we read of the tragedy which has come to our country, we look at the future with fear and terror. We feel that we have done all we can; but, in spite of this, it seems to be all in vain. Then, we are faced with the question: "What can we do about it?" We feel that we can be of no service to our country, because we have not the money to buy Defense Bonds with, and we are not called to serve on the battlefield. But after giving this question our thoughtful consid- eration, we came to the conclusion that there is something that we all can do about it: we can look to God.
God is the Center of the Universe, for He created the world, and there- fore He can change the condition ex- isting in the world today.
"But why doesn't He change these conditions"? we ask. The answer is: "We are not ready for Him to change these conditions." God is willing to serve mankind, and the only rea- son we are not blessed is that we are not willing to do our part. We are not willing to meet with God's requir- ments ; we haven't the faith. God has always blessed His people. He was with our forefathers who came over to the New World, and founded this great nation, America. Their chief motive for settling this country was to worship God as they desired.
Our forefathers were very conser- vative people and were not willing to take any kind of religion; but would serve only the true and living God. This called for great sacrifices which are too numerous to mention. For the most of us would have given up in despair. But these people were so determined that they were willing to give their lives for the sake of God, They had many struggles, but after so long a time they soon founded this great nation of which we are a part.
God has blessed their posterity be- cause He was pleased at the attitude of our forefathers. America has prospered in every way, and up until the present time we have known very little about the sacrifices that other nations have had to make in connec- tion with this Second World War. Now we are being punished for our drifting away from our heavenly Fa- ther's will. We are seeking pleasures for our selfish desires, thinking only about how we can get ahead of our fellowman. We are giving very lit- tle thought of our neighbor who is in need and who would be so much comforted with a few words of en- couragement from us.
We are forgetting the mighty God who has blessed us so wonderfully. We feel that the things which we have accomplished in life have been of our own efforts. It seems that our attitude is to boast of ourselves ra- ther than being grateful to our heav-
enly Father for giving us strength i
and power to accomplish these things. ■
Now that we are engaged in the '
horrible war, we feel our strength ;
growing weaker, and can see how '
weak and frail we are within ourselv- j es. Now that we can do nothing by
ourselves, we are beginning to think [
of our heavenly Father, the one who |
is always willing to comfort us in j
time of trouble. |
God never fails, therefore, He will ! forgive us of our sins, if we will only
trust Him. He is calling today for |
our nation to turn back to Him, and ;
He will bless us. "It is necessary for I
the welfare of the nation that men's '
lives be based on the principles of the j
Bible." We all realize that we need ]
armor to fight in this horrible war, '
but there is one thing we need more i
than that equipment, and that is the ^ love of God in our hearts. Christ
said, "Draw nigh unto me and I will ]
draw nigh unto you" (James 4: 8). |
He is saying this to our nation today, 1
as a whole, as well as to each Individ- j
ual; but, instead of the people draw- 1
ing nigh unto the Lord, our people |
are continuing in the same path of j
sin which leads to eternal destruction. i
We should look up to God and ask I Him to bless us. The church of today I is placed under a great responsibility. j We are living in the days when men's hearts are failing them for ' fear, and for looking after those i things which are coming on the earth, j (Luke 21 : 26) . We as a church should i do all we can in promoting the Gos- pel of Christ in this world today. We ; should be willing to sacrifice as did j our forefathers in the days of old. j We should trust God completely, and j keep our faith in Him. We should j pray and read our Bibles daily, and ; be ready to do what God requires of ] us. j
I
Let us not become discouraged, al- |
though we read and hear of the trag- j
ical things occuring in the war. Let j
us be not afraid, let us turn to God. j
He is our refuge and our strength. ! So, let us make this thought, "I can
do all things through Christ which j
strengtheneth me" (Phil. 4: 13), our | motto. Everyone can do something.
THE FREE WILL BAPTIST
7
we can pray, and prayer is the great- est implement of defense. Although there are fightings and fears in the outer world, we can have peace in our hearts if we will trust God. Let
us always remember this thought from Paul's letter to the Romans, "We know that all things work to- gether for the good of them that love God" (Rom. 28: 8).
»■ - ■•
FREE WILL BAPTIST ORPHANAGE !
1
James A. Evans, Superintendent I
\
Middlesex, North Carolina }
Beadie Warbritton
Beadie was born on October 12, 1928, in Nash County. She was ad- mitted to the Orphanage on May 5, 1933. Beadie is in the 7th grade in school. Micro L. A. S. adopted Beadie for clothing.
* « * « « *
Copy of Recent Letter
"Inclosed you will find a money or- der for $5.00 for the children a Christmas present.
It is with great pleasure that I send this money for I am sure that they need and will appreciate it.
This money that is being sent to the Orphan children was gotten up by a little girl, Willis Meeks, who is just seven years old. And she is very anxious for the children to receive it."
Yours truly.
Rev. Marshall Joyner
Tommie Brantly
Tommie was born April 27, 1929, in Nash County. He was admitted to the Orphanage on November 27, 1937. Tommie is in the 4th grade in school. St. John's L. A. S. adopted Tommie for "clothing.
lie itc :|c * i|c 4i
Free Will Baptist Orphan- age, Middlesex, N. C.
Report for December, 1942
Balance on hand Dec. 1, 1941 $2,383.79
Receipt.s for the month 1,556.48
$3,940.27
Expenditures 3,523.82
Balance on Hand, Jan. 1, 1942 416.45 Balance Bank Acct. (Lucama-
Kenly Bank) $ 358.27
Balance Bank Acct. (Citizens
Bank 33.18
Petty Cash on Hand 25.00
• f. $ 416.45
ilames A. Evans, Supt.
Expenditures
Salaries $ 357.82
Office Supplies 12.88
Telephone and Telegraph (Two
months) 33.35
Financing- and Publicity 29.50
Food 516.56
Clothing 43.77
Laundry 25.58
Household Supplies 24.97
Transportation 19.82
Health Supplies and Fees 56.18
Lights 35.33
Plant Replacement and Repair 108.14
Superintendent's Travel 26.00
Farm Supplies 190.58
Farm Replacement and Repair __ 220.71
Replacement of Livestock 165.00
Repayment of Short Term Loan _ 1,555.00
New Equipment, Furniture
and Fixtures 102.63
Total $3,523.82
Receipts for December, 1941
Prospect Church 7.50
White Oak Grove Church 3.50
Oak Grove Church, (Craven
Co.) 23.00
Union Grove S. S. (Wayne Co.) _ 13.00
Beaulaviile S. S. 10.00
Fourth Union, Western Asso. __. 42.35
Little Rock S. S. 4.50
Bethel Church 4.00
Mable Ave. S. S. 5.00
Rose Hill Church 4. 80
Goshen Church 10.50
Corinth Church 25.00
Christian Chapel Church 20.30
Morehead City Church 11.28
Cypress Creek S. S. 3.00
W. M. Beam 5.00
Hickory Chapel S. S. 16.05
Second Union, Central Conf. 48.30
Sandy Plains, Church & S. S. 33.11
Refund (Auto Ins.) .44
J. D. Ballance 5.00
Nancey Howarton 1.00
White Oak Church, (Pee Dee
Association 25.20
Union View Church I.55
Union Grove Church, Durham
County 5.00
South View Church 5.97
Oak Grove Church (Western
Association l.QO
Hansley's Chapel Church 24.96
Tippett Chapel Church 6.00
King's Chapel Church 6.00
Third Union, (Western Asso.) 3.15
Milbourney Church 1.00
First Union (Western Asso.) 16.44
Rose Hill S. S. 4.20
Union Meeting of Carteret
County 5.00
Micro Church 18.76
Macedonia Church 44.85
St. Mary's S. S. 4.57
Spring Branch Church 4.00
(See OrphanagQ on Page 10)
8
THE FREE WILL BAPTIST
Notes and Quotes
By J. C. Griffin
Why the Doctrinal Principles of the Free Will Baptist Church Should Be Maintained. (Continued)
Perseverance of the Saints
"There are strong grounds to hope that the truly regenerate will perse- vere unto the end, and be saved, through the power of divine grace which is pledged for their support," Treatise.
"For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor prin- cipalities, nor powers, nor things pre- sent, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Rom. 8: 38, 39).
Many use the above Scripture to prove that it is impossible for a once regenerated person to fall away and be lost.
But salvation does not do away with the free will of man. Man even though he is born again does not lose the freedom of his will. We Free Will Baptists believe that a once regener- ated person can fall from grace and be finally lost. The Calvanists be- lieve that "Once in grace always in grace." But never is it so with Free Will Baptists. Here are our reasons — at least some of them.
"The Lord is with you while ye be with him — but if ye forsake him, he will forsake you" (2 Chron. 15: 2). "Wherefore the rather brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure ; for if ye do these things ye shall never fall" (2 Peter 1 : 10) . "When the righteous turneth from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, he shall even die thereby" (Ezek. 33: 18) . "For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost. And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come. If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto re- pentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and
put him to an open shame" (Heb. 6: 4-6).
Notice that Paul, or the Writer of Hebrews, says, "Who were once en- lightened." The unregenerated are in darkness. No "enlightenment in unregeneration." But these have been enlightened. Again he states, "And have tasted of the heavenly gift." Those who are unregenerated have never tasted of the heavenly gift. Salvation is a gift. It comes from God, "Our Father who art in heaven." It is a heavenly gift, be- cause it comes from God. Again not- ice that they know something of "The powers of the world to come." No such knowledge as this belongs to the un-saved. Notice that he says, "If they shall fall away, to renew them again to repentance." The man that is down cannot fall down. He has to be up to fall. The unregenerated is down, or away from God. How can he fall away, when he is already away? Then notice these words. "For it is impossible — to renew them again unto repentance." Impossible to "Re- new." Impossible to "renew them again." Does this not teach that they had been made a new? What does a sinner become when he passes out from under condemnation, and the guilt of sin? Why he becomes a child of God. There is no half-way distance between a child of God and a child of the Devil. A person is either a condemned sinner, or he is a pardoned sinner — one who has been made a "new creature in Christ Je- sus." Not saved in his sin, but sav- ed from his sin. If this person shall go back into sin and unbelief he falls away.
In the 12th chapter of Hebrews the Writer says, in using Esau for an illustration, "Lest there be any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright. For ye know how that afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he was reject- ed; for he found no place of repent- ance, though he sought carefully with tears" (Heb. 12: 16, 17).
It looks like dangerous business to preach that one cannot fall away in the light of all these Scriptures. "For the Lord searcheth all hearts, and un-
derstandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he will be found of thee; but if thou forsake him, he will cast thee off for- ever" (I Chron. 28: 9). "For after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entagled therein, and are overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning. For it would have been better for them not to have known the way of right- eousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy com- mandment delievered unto them" (2 Peter 2: 20, 21).
Again we take you to some more convincing Scripture. Listen to Jude, "I will put you in remembrance, though ye once knew this, how that the Lord, having saved the people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed not. And the angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habi- tation, he hath reserved in everlast- ing chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day" — "These are spots in your feats of charity, when they feast with you, feeding themselves without fear; clouds they are without water, carried about of winds; trees whose fruit wither- eth, without fruit, twice dead, pluck- ed up by the roots."
We get from this assertion, "twice dead, plucked up by the roots," this doctrine. Paul says, "And you hath he quickened who were dead in tres- passes and sins" (Ephe. 2:1). The unregenerate is the dead in trespass- es and sins." When he is saved he is made alive. When he goes back on God and turns away from faith in God, he dies to God, his fruit wither- eth. His faith dies. His influence dies. And we believe that he can con- tinue in this state until eternal death takes the toll and therefore, the "twice dead" as Jude puts it takes place.
"Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou hast fallen, and re- pent, and do the first works; or else
THE FREE WILL BAPTIST
I
I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent" (Rev. 2: 4, 5).
Jesus is speaking to John. Christ warns the Ephesian Christians to re- pent. He says that they have "fall- en." Christ gives them place to re- pent. He warns them if they do not repent that He will "remove their candlestick."
Backsliding
Backsliding within itself is not fall- ing from grace. God will hear the prayer of the honest backslider, who comes confessing his sin. That is proven in the life of David, and by the parable of the prodigal son, these cried and confessed their sin and God heard and answered, and pardoned their sin. They did not go until they were completely overcome. They sin- ned and confessed. The one who has fallen from grace is "dead" again, according to Jude. He is like Esau he has sold his birthright. We are warned by the Scriptures not to fall. "Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away by er- ror of the wicked, fall from your own steadfastness" (2 Peter 3: 17).
"Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present fault- less, before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, To the only wise God our Saviour and majesty, domin- ion and power, both now and ever. (Jude 24: 25).
We Free Will Baptists believe that it is possible for a once saved person to fall completely away and be lost. The person who does not believe this is not an orthodox Free Will Baptist. He is out of harmony with the doc- trine of the Free Will Baptist church. He belongs to other denominations rather than the Free Will Baptist. We believe that it is dangerous to preach that a once saved person can- not be lost. We are contending for the "Faith once delivered to the Saints." (To be continued)
■ <m>
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The Colonel's Word Will Stand
During the military service in In- dia, in those stirring times of mutiny and murder, I had in my regiment a little bugler who was too weak and delicate for the life he had to lead; but he was born in the regiment his father had been killed in action, and then his mother drooped and died. After his mother died his life was made miserable by the scoffing sneers and ribald jokes of the men, whose butt he was.
When little Willie Holt was four- teen years old, the regiment was bi- vouacking some miles from camp for rifle practice. I had intended leav- ing the lad behind, but my sergeant- major begged hard to "take him along." "There is mischief in the air, Colonel," he said; "and, rough as they treat the lad, his pluck and his patience tells on 'em; for the boy is a saint, sir; he is, indeed."
I had a rough lot of recruits just then. Before we had been out a forf-night several acts of insubordi- nation had been brought to my not- ice, and I had pledged to make an ex- ample of the very next offense by having the culprit flogged.
One night the targets were thrown down and otherwise mutilated. On investigation the act was traced to occupants of the very tent where Willie Holt was camped.
In vain I appealed to them to pro- duce the man, and at last I said: "If any one of you who slept in number four tent last night will come for- ward and take his punishment like a man, the rest will get off free ; but if not, there remains no alternative but to punish you all, each in turn to receive ten strokes of the cat."
For the space of a couple of min- utes, dead silence followed; then, from the midst of the prisoners, where his slight form had been com- pletely hidden, Willie Holt came for- ward.
"Colonel," said he, "you have pass- ed your word that if any one of those who slept in number four tent last
night comes forward to take his pun- ishment, the rest shall get off free. I am ready, sir; please, may I take it now?"
For a moment I was speechless, so utterly was I taken by surprise ; then, in a fury of anger and disgust, I turn- ed upon the prisoners: "Is there no man among you worthy of the name ? Are you all cowards enough to let this lad suffer for your sins? For that he is guiltless you know as well as I." But sullen and silent they stood, with never a word.
Then I turned to the boy, whose pleading eyes were fixed on me, and never in all my life have I found my- self so painfully situated. I knew my word must stand, and the lad knew it, too, as he repeated, "I am ready sir."
Sick at heart, I gave the order, and he was led away for punishment. Bravely he stood with bared back, as one, two, three strokes descended. At the fourth a faint moan escaped his white lips; but ere the fifth fell a hoarse cry burst from the crowd of prisoners who had been forced to witness the scene, and with one bound Jim Sykes — the black sheep of the regiment — seized the cat, as with choking utterance he shouted: "Stop it. Colonel, stop it, and tie me up in- stead. He never did it, but I did"; and with convulsed and anguished face he flung his arms around the boy.
Fainting and almost speechless, Willie lifted his eyes to the man's face and smiled — such a smile! "No, Jim," he whispered, "you are safe now, the Colonel's word will stand." Then his head fell forward — he had fainted.
The next day I visited the hospital tent where the boy lay dying. The shock had been too much for his fee- ble strength. He lay propped up on the pillows; and at his side, half kneeling, half crouching, was Jim Sykes. I saw the drops of sweat standing on his brow as he mutter- ed brokenly: "Why did ye do it, lad? Why did ye do it?"
"Because I wanted to take it for you, Jim," Willie's weak voice an-
10
THE FREE WILL BAPTIST
swered tenderly. "I thought it might help you to understand why Christ died for you."
"Christ died for me?" the man re- peated.
"Yes, He died for you because He loved you. I love you, Jim, but Christ loves you much more. I only suffer- ed for one sin, but Christ took the punishment for all the sins you have ever committed. The penalty was death, Jim, and Christ died for you."
"Christ has naught to do with such as me, lad; I'm one of the bad 'uns; you ought to know."
"But He died for bad ones," an- swered Willie. "After you have sin- ned against Him He loves you so much that He came all the way from Heaven, and suffered and died in your place, and now He is calling you. He wants to cleanse you from every stain of sin and make you fit for His presence. He wants you to live with Him in glory. He was wounded for your transgressions, He was bruised for your iniquities, the chastisement of your peace was upon Him, God laid your sins all on Him. How can you resist such love as that ? Dear Jim, listen! 'God commendeth His love toward us in that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us.' 'His own self bare our sins in His own body on the tree.' 'He suffered for sins the just and the unjust that He might bring us to God.' But you can never enter heaven, Jim, unless you let Him cleanse you from all sin in His own blood. Nothing can ever en- ter there that is not just as pure and as perfect as He is. You must have a garment of spotless purity in which to enter the presence of God or you will be forever cast out of His pres- ence into everlasting darkness and despair. The Lord Jesus is God's righteousness which He will give you the moment you are willing to re- ceive Him. He says, 'He that hear- eth My Word and believeth Him that sent Me hath everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment but is passed from death unto life.' Won't you receive Him now?"
The lad's voice failed him, but he laid his hand gently on the man's bowed head.
After a little while we saw a strange light in his dying eyes, and with a happy cry he flung out his hands as if in welcome. Then grad- ually the weak arms dropped: the light faded from the shining eyes; and his spirit passed from earth to heaven.
Union Gospel Press,
Box 680, Cleveland, Ohio
— Sent in by a friend
— »— <^>-> —
ORPHANAGE
I'jdgewood L. A. S. 2.00
Edgewood Sunday School 2.04
Jlarsh Swamp Church 5.00
La Grange L. A. S. .50
Cabin Sunday School 5.00
Lockhart Sunday School 5.00
Union Grove Church (Wayne
County 20.48
Owens Chapel Sunday School 5.00
Kinston Sunday School 6.00
Bridgeton Church 28.50
Roberts Grove Church 13.10
Core Creek S. S. 8.54
Terry's Fork Church 9.13
Pleasant Grove Church,
Wayne County 90.00
Union Grove Church, (Dur- ham County) 15.00
Mrs. L. W. Baggett 5.00
Shoal Hill Church 7.00
Smyrna Church 25.05
Sidney Church 13.81
Cedar Hill S. S. 3.31
Stoney Creek L. A. S. 5.25
Grimsley's L. A. S. 10.00
Mrs. W. P. Fuller 1.00
Stoney Hill Church 1.07
Ben Ave. Sunday School 3.00
Winterville Sunday School 35.00
Fifth Eastern Union Conf. 40.00
Fairview Church No. 1 5.00
St's Delight S. S. (Central
Conference) 4.00
Fairview Church No. 2 8.25
Bethlehem Church 15.00
Goldsboro Sunday School 6.15
Sandy Grove Church 3.00
St. Mary Church, Eastern
Association 35.55
Spring Hope Church (Eastern) _ 6.63
Hull Road Sunday School 2.00
Free Union Church, Beaufort
County 14.30
St. Mary's L. A. S. Eastern
Association .50
Watery Branch L. A. S. 3.92
Union Chapel Church, Eastern .75
Wardens Grove S. S. 4.00
Mt. Zion S. S. (Beaver
Creek Association) 5.00
May's Chapel S. S. 3.40
Mrq. Fid. T. B Mpilptte 2.00
Willie Meeks by Rev. Marshall
Joyner 5.00
Micro Church 55.03 \
W. H. Glover 5.00 '
Antioch Church, Central
Conference 10.00
J. R. Sasser 25.00 \
Milbourney Church 2.00 *
Finch Drug Co. 5.00 \
Peoples Chapel Sunday School 5.00 I
Parkers Chapel S. S. 2.15 \
Owens Chapel Church 6.00
Sweet Gum Grove S. S. 7.00 |
P. W. B. League Convention 9.30
Sidney L. A. S. 5.00 j
Union Grove L. A. S. (Wayne '
County 4.70 \
Piney Grove Church, Nash Co. 6.60 \
Paint Fork Church 3.00 j
Third Union Eastern Asso. 20.00
Mrs. A. L. Duncan 10.00
Bethel Church, by Mildred I
Massengill .50 '
Sandy Plain L. A. S. 5.00 \
Little Rock Church 35.00 .
Belhaven Church 7.25 j
Free Union Church, Central i
Conference 11.46 !
Free Union S. S., Central Conf. _ 10.00 i
St. John's Chappel Church 5.48 |
La Grange L. A. S. 2.00 ;
La Grange S. S. 2.55 :
Mr. & Mrs. D. K. Purifoy 2.00 I
B. F. Spencer 7.25 j
Mrs. Novella Smith 5.00
.Junior League of Malachi's j
Chapel 1.00 !
W. J. Winstead 25.00 ■
Rains Cross Roads Church 10.35 \
Red Hill Church 8.00
Shady Grove Church 14.57 '
Mrs. Ashton Smith 1.00 \
Sound View Sunday School 3.00 1
Holly Springs S. S. (Western) __ 2.00 j
Union Chapel Church 53.64 '
Union Chapel S. S. 4.36 |
Marsh Swamp Church 28.00 j
Mr. and Mrs. C. J. Liverman 2.00 ;
Core Creek Church (Credit to \
Thanksgiving offering 17.00 '
Friendship Church (Greene Co.) _ 10.00
Stoney Hill Church 5.00 \
Swannanoa Sunday School 6.00 1
First F. W. B. Church of ;
Sylaconga, Ala. 5.00
Davis Church 5.00 '
Rev. J. C. Griffin 1.00 j
Moseley's Creek S. S. 5.00 |
Rev. C. H. Honeycutt 2.00 |
Wilson Sunday School 16.08 j
Smyrna S. S. 3.00
Little Rock Church 8.50 I
W. T. Hall 1.00 j
Rose Hill Church 3.20 ;
Holly Springs League 3.00
Black Jack Church 75.00 .
I
Total $1,556.48 i
Value of Donated Commodities \
Oak Grove Church, Craven Co., '
Food and Farm 14.35 i
Hul Road Church, Farm and I
Food 58.00 I
Hugo Church, Food and Farm ;
!
I
THE FREE WILL BAPTIST
Supplies 54.05
Friendship Church, Johnston Co.
Food and Farm 35.00
Mrs. Lillie Slaughter, Clothing .50 Hickory Grove Church, by Miss
Dare Barnhill, Clothing 17.50
Milbourney Church, Farm 51.50
Spring Branch Church, Farm
and Food 28.80
Union Grove L. A. S. (Wayne
County) Food 17.80
Union Grove Church (Wayne
County) Food and Farm 65.80
Calvary Church, Food and Farm _ 73.90 Stoney Creek L. A. S., Food
and Household 27.75
Mrs. Gladys Day, Clothing 3.00
Miss Olive Ange, Household 4.00
Mrs. W. B. Everett, Food -75
St. Mary's L. A. S. (Eastern),
Food and Household 21.15
Sandy Grove Church, Farm 39.00
L. A. S. of First Baptist
Church, Florida, Household 4.00
Mr. L. H. Taylor, Food 6.00
Peoples Chapel L. A. S., House- hold 11-75
Mrs. B. M. Ratcliff, Clothing 2.00 Owens Chapel Church, Food
and Corn . 24.55
L. A. S. of North Belmont,
Household & Clothing 13.00
Goldsboro Sunday School, Kitchen
Utensils 7.00
Milbourney Church, Community Friends, and Wilson Merchants,
Food and Farm Supplies 130.40
Spring Branch Church, Food
and Corn 29.10
Branch Aid Society of Pilgrims
Rest Church, Household 1.90
Sweet Gum Grove Church,
Household 7-54
Day-Lite Bakery, Food 1.40
Sandy Grove Church, Food
and Household 21.90
Maury F. W. B. Church,
Household 5.00
Rachel Moore and Virginia Bos- well, Clothing 7.50
Wake Field Baptist Church,
Food and Clothing 5.20
Hansley's Chapel Church,
Food 3.25
Deep Run L. A. S., Clothing 12.90
Friends, Household 4.20
Oak Grove Church, Craven
County, Household 7.05
Piney Grove Church, L. A. S. Beaufort Co., Household and
Clothing 6.25
Little Rock League, Food and
Clothing 7.50
Little Rock Missionary Society
Fruits and Gifts .75
Mrs. A. C. Overman, Food 1.50
Mrs. J. R. Davis and Family,
Food 2.00
Hamilton Wholesale Co., Food 2.25
C. L. Gray Wholesale Co., Food 2.00 Thomas and Howard Wholesale
Co., Food 3.00
Mid-way Grocery, Food
Standard Grocery Co., Food _ George Marsh and Co., Food Francis Brewer, Clothing
.50 3.15 12.00 2.50
Total $ 861.89
» ■■ " — - — "
OBITUARIES
Obituaries, 150 words long, are in- serted free of charge. When they exceed this number, one cent for each additional word should be enclosed in Postage Stamps in the letter with the obituary.
WILLIS. On December 12, 1941, the death angel visited our community, and took away, to be with God on high. Brother Lo- renza Willis, better known as L. B. Willis.
He was approximately 76 years old. He was cheerful and very lively. He associat- ed with many of his good friends during the day that he died. He was opening oysters when he died.
Brother Willis was a member of Wel- come Home church in Carteret County, and was Deacon for twenty years. He was Sun- day School superintendent for twenty-five years. He will be missed by the kind deeds which he performed in helping others.
He is survived by a host of friends and relatives. His funeral was conducted by Rev. W. E. Anderson of Morehead City, N. C. His body was laid to rest in the family cemetery under a beautiful mound of flow-
Parted from home and community, And all whom he loved so well;
How we all hated to give him up, No one on earth can tell.
Written by the request of the family. Rev. G. W. Kennedy
4: 4: * 4: 4= 4c
JOYNER. Written in memory of Mrs. Walter .Joyner, age 41.
She loved the Lord as but few do. He asked and she answered to work and be true.
Her faithfulness is a memory that lingers still.
For she loved and worked to do God's Will.
This faithful member of Gum Swamp Church
Has fought a good fight, has finished her work;
Her memory will still linger on While she is waiting for us in that eternal Home.
The many fine children that are left be- hind.
Will find her footsteps worthy to follow in perilous times;
n
Teach them, 0 Lord, to live for thee, And at the end we'll meet in communion and fellowship free.
The Bereaved husband, 0 Lord, speak to him,
We realize his losses, but God is his friend. The road of life which is narrow but straight.
Let's all pray to enter this golden gate.
Written by a friend, Mrs. Frank Clark, Jr. Greenville, N. C, Rt. 4
Ebenezer
By Zuella Cooke
Ebenezer, stone of help,
Oft I pause to raise anew, To remind my fainting heart
God hath helped me hitherto.
Ebenezer points two ways —
Stirs my mem'ry; faith renews.
Thus encouraging my heart
Lest the thought of Him I lose.
Ebenezer backward looks
O'er the way my feet have trod, And my joyful soul gives praise
For the wonders of my God.
Ebenezer beckons on
To the path ahead, untried ; And I follow unafraid,
Knowing God is by my side.
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12
THE FREE WILL BAPTIST
if.—^ — . — +
St. Claire Bible Class
Prepared and Arranged by M. B. Hutchinson, Zaleski, Ohio
The Tempta^tion of Jesus
(Lesson for January 25)
Lesson: Matt. 4: 1-11.
Read: Matt. 4: 1-11; Mk. 1: 12, 13; Lu. 4: 1-13.
Golden Text Illuminated
"For we have not an High Priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin" (Heb. 4: 15).
I. Home Work
1. To what things does the Spirit of God at times lead? (Rom. 8: 14; Gal. 5: 18; Mat. 4:1).
2. From what sources do tempta- tions to evil come? (Jas. 1: 13-15).
3. Who besides Jesus spent forty days in fasting? (Exo. 34: 28; 1 Ki. 19: 7, 8; Jon. 3: 4-10).
4. What three appeals are the basis of all our temptations? (I Jn. 2: 16; comp. Gen. 3: 1-5).
5. What should be our attitude to- ward temptation? (Jas. 1: 2, 3).
6. What consolation and assurance have we at any time when we are sorely tempted? (I Cor. 10: 13).
7. Should we ever intentionally ex- pose ourselves to temptation to prove our strength? (Mk. 9: 43-48).
8. ^When will temptation cease? (Rev. 20: 3, 7-10.
9. On whom can we depend to deliv- er us from the snare of the tempter? (II Pet. 2:9).
10. What reward is promised for overcoming in temptation? (Is. 33: 15, 16; Jas. 1: 12).
11. Consult our quarterlies for the best helps on this lesson. Below are
some thoughts by W. H. Ridgway, now more than 80 years young.
11. The Busy Men's Corner
By William H. Ridgway
The Weapon. — If thou art the Son of God, command this stone that it may become bread. Ever been hun- gry— not fishin' hungry, but the gen- uine too-hungry-to-sleep ? Then you can measure a little bit the power of this temptation. Christ's temptations are ours (Heb. 4: 15). We have the same old enemy of defense. It is ours also. Meet him with a text. Keep tlie club a-swinging. You will have this temptation at the mail to-mor- row. "A fellow has to live." Jake Badger was as good a workman as we ever had. The Devil enticed Jake to try to turn brass into bread. Jummy the chief got him, and he is now in jail, and his family is to be pitied. If Jake had been a Christian like you, he would have heard God say, "I will supply all your need" (Phil. 4: 19), and Jake would have whipped the De- vil with that promise. Note the "If." That is the Devil's own password. "If I hadn't," or "If I had." The mean- est of words. A dust and doubt thrower. Hard to believe in a prom- ise. Most hungry folks feel safer with a loaf of bread than with a promise. If the heavens open for you to-day the Devil will have you doubt- ing in a week. Keep the club a-swing- ing!
Soaring. — If thou art the Son of God, cast thyself down from hence.
Satan knows Scripture. Since you are trusting God trust him to the limit, he says. "I am a child of God — -I can go to the races — I don't bet. I can play cards — no danger of me gambling." There is only one way to a Kingdom. The way of opposi- tion and of the garden and of the cross. The Devil tempts to a soar- ing. The liar (John 8: 44). No fel- low soars through mill, bank, store, or office. Harry Deacon has inched along by economy, self-denial, close application, and trust in God, until he now fills the president's chair after the years. Fred Philips, with splen- did qualities of person, was just ahead of Deacon. Satan came to
Fred and persuaded him to try soar- ing. Fred soared into West Chester
jail — broke his wife's heart — did his ]
time — and nobody knows what has j
become of him. The commercial sky ]
is full of young men the Devil has "
set soaring on the promise of a king- j
dom. The click of the jail doors is s
constant tally of the fools the liar |
bags. Don't let him fool you. The !
Master knows him and will care for >
you (Luke 22: 31). ]
Cheap? — If thou . . . wilt worship j
before me, it shall all be thine. Satan j
never offered me a kingdom to wor- :
ship him. He didn't have to. I came |
very cheap. Satan is mean, and a !
close buyer. Big men cannot be !
tempted with small things. Satan |
dosen't have to take some of us to \
mountain-tops. Does not have to 1
bring us any further than our front j
porch. You can measure your size j
as a man by the Devil's estimate of ,;
the ^ize of your temptation. If it is ^
a big temptation, you are a big man. j
But if it is a street-car fare that ! brings you on your knees to the Devil
as a thief, you are a-five-center. And ■
mark you this, it is only a matter of .
time until all the world will know it, '.
too (Num. 32: 23). While Satan is .;
mean and stingy, there is one proper- ; ty he "gives away" — his victims!
— S. S. Times of October 7, 1922 |
III, Lesson Illustration
Questioning God's Word ;
Some time ago I spoke to a great j
Southern audience. I pictured the ]
theistic drift in the educational life j of America. A man sat on the front
seat and followed my every word with ; an expression of agony I rarely have
seen on a human face. When the i
service was over his pastor said to I
me, "Did you see that man who look- !
ed like the incarnation of agony? He \
sat in the front seat to-day. He is ! a member of my church. He is one
of the truest Christians I ever have i
known. He is on my board. He had i
one daughter. She was a beautiful j
child. She grew up in the Sunday |
school and the church. She finished i
high school. He sent her off to a \
certain college. At the end of nine j
months she came home with her faith j
shattered. She laughed at God and ■
1
THE FREE WILL BAPTIST
13
the old-time religion. She broke the hearts of her father and mother. They wept over her. They prayed over her. It availed nothing. At last they chided her. She rushed up- stairs, stood in front of a mirror, took a gun, and blew out her brains."
Evangelist Bob Jones — <<®>?— —
Education for Tithing
Any Church can now put on a ten week's course of tithing education, in the midst of its other activities, and at a very small cost according to the Layman Tithing Foundation, 740 N. Rush Street, Chicago, Illinois. This philanthropic organization, which has distributed millions of pamphlets on the tithe, now announc- es an attractive new series at so low a price that distribution to an entire church through ten weeks costs only 3iy4 cents a family. A set of samples and full particulars are offered free of charge upon request, but this com- pany asks that persons writing, af- ter seeing this announcement, state their denomination, and also mention the Baptist paper.
Layman Tithing Foundation, 740 North Rush Street, Chicago, Illinois
"Why Does God Allow War?"
In response to requests from read- ers of the Times, the ditorial "Why Does God Allow War?" (Nov. 1, 1941), has been put into pamphlet form by the writer of the article, the Rev. J. E. Harris. It is an eight-page leaflet that can be enclosed in the us- ual size business envelope, and to cov- er printing and mailing expense is priced at 3 for 10 cents, 12 for 35 cents, and 100 for $2.50, postpaid. Re- quests should be addressed to the Rev. J. E. Harris, Crescent Heights Baptist Church, Calgary, Alta., Can. Please do not send U. S. postage stamps to cover cost of orders, as such stamps are not usable in Can- ada. The pamphlets may also be ob- tained at the same prices from the Times Book Service, 1721 Spring Gar- den St., Philadelphia.
(Printed for the benefit of those who should desire copies of this eight - page leaflet.)
Shakespeare's Faith
It is not generally known that Will- iam Shakespeare professed faith in Christ. The following excerpt from his last will and testament indicates that his faith was real:
"I, William Shakespeare, of Strat- ford-upon-Avon, in the county of Warrick, gentleman in perfect health
and memory, God be praised, do make and ordain this my last will and testa- ment in manner and form following, that is to say, first, I commend my soul into the hands of God, my Cre- ator, hoping and assuredly believing through the only merits of Jesus Christ, my Saviour, to be made par- taker of life everlasting, and my body to the earth whereof it is made."
— Clipped
Pictures for Teaching and Rewards
Standard Biblical Reward Cards
(Lithographed in charming colors)
'rriinmed sizp, 4% x6 inches. Price, 30c. per dozen: $2.00 per 100.
Forty beautiful Bible pictures are now available for l i'wards, or for use in vacation Bible schools and week- ilay solioois of religious education. These pictures ai-e printed in .soft, delicate colors, by the oti'set process. (_'liildr(,n ijrize attractive prints. To enhance the teach- ing value, tlie Bible story is given on the back of each jjicture. Order the full set of forty designs from which to make selections. Be sure to order individual subjects hy number.
No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. So. No. No. No. No. No.
No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No,
NEW TESTAMENT SUBJECTS
573. The Madonna
574. The Baby Jesus
575. Visit of the Wise-men
576. The Flight into Egypt
577. Boy Ciiiist in the Temple
578. Jesus Blessing Little Children
579. Jesus and Children of Other Lands
580. Baptism of Jesus
581. The Good Shepherd 682. The Lost Sheep C5i. tioJisider the Lilies
584. Chrtst Healing the Sick
585. Sending Forth the Twelve 580. The Eich Young Ruler
587. jesus by the Sea
588. The Good Samaritan
589. The Lord's Supper
590. Gethsemane.
591. Easter Morning
592. The Great Commission
OLD TESTAMENT SUBJECTS
593. Noah Thanking God
594. The Call of Abraham
595. Test of Abraham's Faith
596. .Jacob's Dream
597. Joseph's Coat of Many Colors
598. Joseph the Dreamer
599. Joseph Sold by the Brethren
600. Joseph Made Ruler
601. The Baby Moses
602. Ruth and Naomi
603. The Boy Samuel
604. A Captive Maid Helps Naaman
605. Esther
606. David, the Shepherd Boy
607. The Shepherd Psalm
608. David and Jonathan
609. David with the Sling
610. Daniel Refusing the King's Wine
611. Three Heroes in the Fiery Furnace
612. Daniel Praying
Ideal Bible Pictures for Gifts
A more suitable gift could not be selected than this series of eight beautiful pictures, representing the great characters and scenes of the Scriptures. 'This small reproduction gives only a bare hint of Ihe real beauty of the pictures themselves. They are printed in India tint, on highly finished paper, in sepia ink. Size, 14x16 inches. The titles are:
No. 1. The Shepherds
No. 2. The Infant Jesus
No. 3. The Adoration of the Wise-men
No. 5, The Boy Jesus in Naz- areth
No. 6. Christ in the Temple No. 7. Jesus and the Little Ones
No. 4. The Flight into Egypt No. 8. Jesus the Protector Price, each, 10c. ; per dozen $1.00; per 100, $6.00
14
I Boys and Girls Corner
A Birthday Disappoint- ment
Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful. — I Cor.- 4: 2.
Jack hurried home from school that afternoon. It was his birthday, and he was expecting something from Aunt Marie and Uncle Cliff. In fact, he was depending upon receiving his usual birthday gift that very day.
"Did the postman leave anything for me?" he asked breathlessly as he entered the kitchen.
"Yes, he did. Jack," Mother told him smilingly. "A box. And quite a large one, too!"
Sudden disappointment flashed in Jack's eyes.
"A box!" he said weakly. "A box!" His face seemed to lose its ruddy glow.
Mother looked up quickly from the apple she was peeling.
"Why, Jack," she said, quite con- cerned. "You sound as if you were disappointed."
But Jack did not hear Mother. His mind seemed confused. His thoughts so jumbled.
"Is — is that all they sent me?" he asked, his eyes plainly showing his annoyance.
"All?" Mother repeated in a sur- prised tone. "Why, Jack, it is quite a big box and must contain a very lovely gift. I am surprised at you. You sound so ungrateful. Open the box, and I am sure you will find something very lovely."
Instead of following Mother's sug- gestion, Jack turned and hurried out of the kitchen. He blindly made his way upstairs to his room, his eyes blurred with tears. A box! For the first time since he could remember. Aunt Marie and Uncle Ciff had sent him a gift for his birthday instead of a brand-new, crisp five-dollar bill. What was he going to do now ? How
THE FREE WILL BAPTIST
could he possibly tell Mother and Dad? And yet there was nothing else to do. He simply could not go to class meeting that night without the money the boys had paid as dues.
When Mother entered his room several moments later, she found him stretched out on his bed, his face bur- ied in his pillow.
It was not easy for Jack to tell
Mother what he had done. And it was even harder to tell Dad. It nev- er occurred to Jack that anyone might accuse him of stealing. He merely intended to borrow the money until his birthday present arrived. He was always permitted to spend such gifts as he pleased. Therefore, he felt perfectly safe in taking a dime or a quarter from the box in which he kept his class dues each time he spent
Outline Pictures for Children
His Twelve
Here is a new collection of outline pictures for children, by Miss Lillie A. Paris, outstand- ing children's worker. Fifty-two pictures alto- gether, there is a different one for each Sun- day illustrating some event in the lives of Jesus' chosen twelve. The outlines fire simple and Instructions are given below each picture for the coloring of that particular outline. The corre-
sponding Scripture text is also given in full.
This type of handwork is especially appealing to the child, as it gives opportunity for either col- oring, cutting out or pasting — just as the teacher may decide. And, at the same time, the pupil is acquiring a better understanding of these friends of Jesus than he has ever had before.
One set of these pictures is needed for a year's handwork for each pupil. Size, 6x9 inches. Price, of 52 outlines in folder, 35c.
OTHER OUTLINE PICTURES By Lillie A. Farts
Each set contains 52 different outlines in folder, with instructions! for coloring. Price, 35c.
Children of the Bible
Each outline pictures some phase of the life of outstanding characters, as Moses, Aaron, Miriam, Jesus, Paul and others
Handwork for the Little Beginner
This set of clear, meaningful outlines on "God's Love" is simple in design and understanding. Lit- tle children everywhere love birds, flowers, ani- mals and fruits, and these are the pleasing sub- jects chosen for the fifty-two outlines.
More Handwork for the Little
Children of Other Lands
Here are pictures of little people of thirteen different countries, including Hindu, African, Ha- waiian, Japanese, Chinese, Eskimo, and others. There is also a study of the child himself, followed by one of the home life.
The Life of Christ
Outlines fifty-two outstanding events in the life of our Lord. The child finds his pleasure and profit in coloring to suit his own fancy, or in fol- lowing the direction given under each outline.
Jesus' Loving Helpers
This fine study brings to the child in a vivid, compelling way, fifty-two of Jesus' dearest friends (or groups of friends) who helped in some out- standing way to carry on His work.
Outline Pictures for the Primary Child
A series of fifty-two outline pictures to be col- ored by the child, representing thirteen animals, thirteen birds, thirteen trees and thirteen flowers of the Bible. Beneath the picture there is a space for the child to write "something my .Bible says" about the subject presented. The Scripture refer- ence is given and is to be copied here.
Beginner
This set (see illustration below) deals with the general theme of "God's Gifts." It carries throughout, in poetry and picture, the sweetest and best thoughts of childhood, seeking to cre- ate in the child a clearer conception of his de- pendence upon the Father in heaven for every gift of life Beginning with the creation, the ob' jects are pictured in clear, light outline to be colored by the child On each separate page the rimed thought of God's love for him is given in simple verse so that it may easily be understood. The Scripture references for story material are also given.
THE FREE WILL BAPTIST
16
his whole allowance before Saturday. That was the day Dad gave him his spending money for the next week.
Now, as he stood before Dad, he knew without being told, that what he had done could rightfully be call- ed stealing.
"When you were elected treasurer of your class," Dad told him, "the boys selected you because they trust- ed you, and because they had faith in you. When you fail to take care of the money they entrust with you, then you fail the boys. You fail your class. And you fail your teacher."
Jack hung his head in shame.
"You fail yourself, too," Dad con- tinued, "for when you are willfully dishonest, you can not help but fail to keep your self-respect. I shall not give you the money," Dad told him gravely, "for I am disappointed in you, Jack. Instead, I shall merely give you your allowance far enough in advance to replace the amount you have spent. By doing without mon- ey, perhaps you will learn how to value it more and take better care of that which is entrusted to you."
Dad was sitting on the edge of Jack's bed. Jack had been standing close by. Now he put his arms around Dad's neck and hid his face on Dad's shoulder.
First of all he was ashamed. Thor- oughly ashamed, for he had been a disappointment and disgrace to Mo- ther and Dad. Then, he hid his face because he was thankful. Thankful to have a father who understood and was willing to help. And last but not least, he hung his head because he was grateful for a chance to prove to Mother and Dad how sorry he really was by acknowledging his wrongdo- ing and gladly forfeiting his allow- ance without argument or complaint.
— The Magic Ring and Other Stories
—Standard Pub. Co.
«m»
Consider the Hammer
It keeps its head. It doesn't fly off the handle. It keeps pounding away. It finds the point, then drives it home.
It looks at the other side too; and thus often clinches the matter.
It makes mistakes, but when it does, it starts all over.
It is the only knocker in the world that does any good.
— Clipped
<m>>
Prayer Suggestions
"They were all filled with the Holy Ghost." God's power comes into our
souls through the Holy Spirit. His power "worketh" in them that believe on Christ. We may be very weak in ourselves, but it is our privilege to be "strong in the Lord, and in the pow- er of his might" (Eph. 6: 10). When we are filled with the Holy Spirit, we are filled with wisdom and pow- er. "He . . . giveth strength . . . unto his people" (Psa. 68: 35).
Subscribe to the Baptist
HELPS FOR OBSERVING EASTER ( Continued)
Easter Service No. 1
By R. 0. Johnson and J. E. Sturgis
This is an Easter service with emphasis upon decision for Christ, so it may be used at any Easter time.
In the oidir > i service there is it place for participation by pupils of eacli of tlie departments • — Beginners, I'rimary, Junior, Intermediate, Se- nior and Youu; People. The music is new, the poems are origin.il.
There are two prayers which the superintendent may use, if desired. Pp. 16. Price, per copy, 8c.; per dozen, 85c.; per 100, $6.00.
Through Darkness to Light
AN EASTER PAGEANT By Mrs. Charles R. Mitchell
This is an impressive and inspiring pageant, which brings out in startling contrast the hope- lessness of life had the seal of Joseph's tomb never been brolten, and thii hope and joy and co"hfidence of belief in a resurrected Christ.
The audience feels the thrill of the events un- folded before them, eveits that made believers of the far„t Ciiristian disciples.
The pagennt is prepared with consideration of the limitations' of small churches that have little equipment, and also offers comparatively unlimited dramatic possibilities for tin- large churoh. It utilizes the talent of youn:: i.^ ', 'i, and has a last- ing effect upon the partitii'Uiii.., ,is well as upon the audience. It requires ouly simple costumes and few properties for the stage settings. It is simple, dramatic, impressive, Scriptural. Price, per copy, 15c.; per dozen, $1.50.
Life and Love Triumphant
AN EASTER PAGEANT By Ada Rose Demerest
An Easter service appropriate for the Sunday- school hour, with the entire school meeting to- gether for the morning church service or for a vesper hour.
It is suitable for use in both large and small schools. It utilizes the talent of young people as much as of tlie children. The rehearsals of the songs may be made a part of the worship of several Sundays preceding Easter. Price, per copy, 15c.; per dozen, $1.50.
Easter Post-cards. Series 330
A Scripture text series of rare lieauty is here offered. The gladsome Easter season calls for
((EJOICE TMi; EA/IER Oft/"
I know thai my fi[ecteemer liv/etW.
green grass and church bells, suggest in a very attractive way the spirit of Eastertide. These cards are very appropriate for individual use as well as for Sunday schools and churches. Five beautiful designs. Price, 20c. per dozen; $1.25 per 100.
Easter Scripture Text Post-cards No. 571
371
The illustration of this group of five cards in- dicates the careful selection of Bible pictures. A finer collection of Scripture text post-cards for the E,T.^ter season has never been offered. Litho- graphed in colors. Price, 20c, per dozen; $1.25 per 100.
Easter Post-cards. Series 444
Five beautiful designs, four of which contain an appropriate message and Scripture text, and
One of the Five Designs
truly artistic greeting-cards, illuminated with a message of soul-light. This series truly embodies every desirable feature. The designs, depicting pastoral scenes, bluebirds, Easter lilies, flowers,
one with an Easter wish, w'ithout Scripture. Printed in colors. Price, per dozen, 20c.: per 100, $1.25.
Buttons No. 835
The series of Floral Scrip- ture text buttons is largel.v used as rewards of merit for attendance, being on time, learning Scripture verses, etc. There are six varieties, beau- tifully lithographed in colors, with a Scripture text on each. Per dozen, assorted, 25c.; per 100, $1.76. (lu)
16
THE FREE WILL BAPTIST
The Honor Roll
Wanted!
Prayer Suggestions
J. C. Griffin, New Bern, N. C. 113
D. W. Alexander, Bethel, N. C. 85
W. L. Moretz, Swannanoa, N. C. 82
M. E. Godwin, Dunn, N. C. 70
Mrs. J. J. Blizzard, Deep Run, N. C. _-_53
L. H. Wetherington, Clark, N. C. 35
M. L. Hollis, Red Bay, Ala. 33
W. R. Williams, Kenly, N. C. 30
R. P. Harris, Enfield, N. C. 29
Mrs. E. L. Mallard, New Bern, N. C. —28
H. C. Wood, Cove City, N. C. 26
Clifton Rice, Kinston, N. C. 25
Mrs. Henry Murphy, Davis, N. C. 24
G. W. Dail, Greensboro, N. C. 21
M. L. Johnson, Goldsboro, N. C. 21
Mrs. M. A. Woodard, Winterville, N. C. _19 L. E. Ballard, Greenville, N. C. 19
G. W. Nobles, Cottonwood, Ala. 18
Mrs. D. C. Davenport, Winterville, N. C. _18
I. J. Blackwelder, Nashville, Tenn. 18
K. W. Gaskill, Sea Level, N. C. 17
M. B. Hutchinson, Zaleski, Ohio 17
J. A. Campbell, Greenville, N. C. 17
E. C. Morris, Elizabeth City, N. C. 17
C. B. Hamilton, Fountain, N. C. 15
Mrs. C. F. Abrams, Macclesfield, N. C. __14
R. N. Hinnant, Micro, N. C. 14
Mrs. Maggie Smith, Pikeville, N. C. ___14 Mrs. J. L. Nobles, Winterville, N. C. ___14 Mrs. R. Wilbur Stanley, Four Oaks, N. C._14
Mrs. Grady Boyd, Pinetown, N. C. 13
J. R. Davidson, Bryan, Texas 13
Chester Pelt, Ayden, N. C. 13
Rufus Hyman, Pamlico, S. C. 12
H. L. Catrett, Colquitt, Ga. 12
W. H. Lancaster, Smithfield, N. C. 12
J. R. Bennett, Bridgeton, N. C. 12
L. E. Duncan, Tupelo, Miss. 11
Mrs. Mattie Lane, Grantsboro, N. C. 11
H. L. Catrett, Colquitt, Ga. 11
Mrs. Weils Thomas, Beulaville, N. C. __11
George AVebster, Washington, N. C. 11
Mrs. A. L. Summerlin, Macclesfield,
N. C. 10
Mrs. Lizzie McAdams, Huntsville, Texas _10
W. C. Sutton, Cove City, N. C. 10
R. C. Kennedy, Pink Hill, N. C. 10
L. A. Fulford, Farmville, N. C. 10
Mrs. John R. Murphy, Snow Hill, N. C. _-9 Mrs. Gladys Whaley, Richlands, N. C. -__9
Mrs. A. G. Askew, Kenly, N. C. 9
Herman Wooten, Garner, N. C. 9
N. D. Beamon, Snow Hill, N. C. 8
G. E. Ratliff, Pikeville, Ky. 8
Jennings Williams, Clayton, N. C. 8
Mrs. R. A. Creech, Smithfield, N. C. 8
P. C. Wiggs, Elm City, N. C. 8
J. F. Parrish, Elm City, N. C. 8
Mrs. D. J. Pait, Bladenboro, N. C. 8
Lessie Thomas, Beulaville, N. C. 7
Mrs. J. S .Rich, Pikeville, N. C. 7
J. R. Forrest, New Bern, N. C. 7
Mrs. S. B. Strickland, Middlesex, N. C. __7
L. M. Sawyer, Nevirport News, Va. 6
Eddie Jones, Greenville, N. C. 6
M. S. Cowan, Robersonville, N. C. 6
D. J. O'Donnell, Ashville, Ala. 6
Mrs. W. M. Maye, Maury, N. C. 6
L. C. Johnson, Glennville, Ga. 6
Geo. Lee, Toccopola, Miss. 5
B. B. Richardson, Middlesex, N. C. 5
G. C. Joyner, Smithfield, N. C. 5
E. W. O'Dell, Belmont, N. C. 5
R. R. Bailey, Walstonburg, N. C. 5
Mrs. Luby Anderson, Kenansville, N. C. _5
Mrs. H. S. Swain, Columbia, N. C. 5
Marshall Joyner, Winterville, N .C. 5
F. M. Knight, Blountstovra, Fla. 5
J. B. Bloss, Columbia, Tenn. 5
Mrs. M. L. Crawford, Kenly, N. C. 5
Mrs. J. H. Oliver, Kinston, N. C. 5
Mrs. C. T. Adams, Morrisville, N. C 5
M, E. Tyson. Pikeville, N. C. . 5
There is wanted for our permanent files one copy of the Adult Class Quarterly for the Last Quarter of 1940. Our file copy was lost from the files when we moved over into the New Building in September. A nice award will be given to the one who sends in this copy of the last quarter of 1940 in good condition. — Editor.
"Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities." Christians, because of their natural weakness, require the aid of the Holy Spirit for life and service. Without His wisdom and might our work would be foolish and vain. Great as our infirmities are. His power can make us what we ought to be for His strength is made perfect in weakness.
Birthday Cards and Folders with Envelopes
Birthday Cards for Children, with Envelopes, No. 674
These cards are delightfully illustrated with rabbits, puppies, kittens, birds and children en- gaged in actual play. Every design in this se- ries win immediately absorb the interest of ohil-
dren in the Nursery, Beginners and Primary Di- visions. This general selection of Birthday cards carries messages that will please the child mind. Each card also has a brief Scripture text.
Five designs, size 2 % x 4 inches. Sold only in packages of ten assorted cards, with white mail- ing envelopes. Price, per package of ten, 15c.
Birthday Cards for Young People and Adults, No. 675
A charming series! The pastoral scenes are quite realistic, being tastefully printed in several colors — the popular offset process. Each birthday message conveys cordial felicitations that will be
appreciated on the part of the recipient. Each card also carries a brief Scripture text.
Five designs, size, 3% x5% inches. Sold only in packages of ten assorted cards, with envelopes. Price, 20c. per package.
The use of these new Birthday Cards will develop a loyalty to a class or school and will encourage regular giving to Birthday Fund.
Children's Birthday Folders with Envelopes, Series 676
Child subjects have been used for the front cover illustrations. Children engaged in actual play with their pets. The printing is executed in exquisite colors. Page two of the folder gives a
short Scripture-text verse, page three being a cheery birthday greeting.
Five designs, size 3 x 4 inches. Sold only in packages of ten assorted cards, with white mail- ing envelopes. Price, per package, 20c.
Birthday Folders for Young Peo- ple and Adults, Series 677
Floral decorations and quiet, restful rural scenes illuminate the iront covers of this striking series of birthday folders. The illustrations nrc beauti-
1 ^^^\
677
fully done in multi-colors, acceptable to the most exacting taste. The second page of each folder contains a short Scripture text, the third page having a delightful birthday felicitation.
Size, 314x4 inches. Sold only in packages of ten assorted, with white mailing envelopes. Price, per package, 20c.
I" iiiiiniiiiiiiiiimrriiiiiiiiiiiriiiiiiiiiiiiriiiiiiiiiiriii MriiiiiiiiMmiiiiiiiiiriiiiiNiiiiiiiri!
JAN Z * i -
iiriiiiiiiiiiiiriimrriiii (iijiiiiiiiiiiiriiiiriiiriiiiiiiriiiiiiii jiliiiiiiiiii rriiMmiiliriiiiiiiiiiliiiimiriliJMiiiiiiiliiiiiiiiiiriiiiiiiM iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiir iiiiiiiniiiiiiiriiiiiiiiiiiiiriiiiiiiiiiiniiiLiI
THE FREE WILL
I
A National Weekly Religious Magazine
Ayden, N. C, January 21, 1942
Jesus, Saviour, Pilot Me
Jesus, Saviour, pilot me, Over life's tempestuous sea; Unknown waves before me roll. Hiding rock and treacherous shoal: Chart and compass come from Thee: Jesus, Saviour, pilot me.
As a mother stills her child, Thou canst hush the ocean wild; Boisterous waves obey Thy will When thou say'st to them "Be Still !" Wondrous Sovereign of the sea. Jesus, Saviour, pilot me.
When at last I near the shore, And the fearful breakers roar 'Twixi: me and the peaceful rest, Then, while leaning on Thy breast, May I hear Thee say to me, "Fear not, I will pilot thee !"
— Rev. Edward Hopper
Free Will — Free Grace — Free Salvation
imnrnmryiiiimiimiiiiiuiiiiiiiiiiiiiiMiiiiiiHiiniN iiiiiiiiiiiiiiini;iii:iiiiiiiiiiiiiii^
Volume 57— Number 3, $1.50 Per Year
2
THE FREE WILL BAPTIST
THE FREE WILL
BAPTIST
Organ of THE FREE WILL BAPTIST CHURCH
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Published Weekly |
by Free |
Will Baptist |
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Press, Ayden, North |
Carolina, |
a nonprofit- |
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sharing Corporation. |
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R. B. SPENCER |
Editor |
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C. K. DUNN, Sr. |
Manager |
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Rev. J. R. Bennett, President
Rev. L. H. Wetherington, Vice-Pres.
C. K. Dunn, Sr., Treasurer
Rev. R. B. Spencer, Secretary
Rev. J. W. Alford
Rev. R. N. Hinnant, A. B.
Rev. D. W. Alexander
Entered at the Post Office at Ayden, North Carolina, as second class mail matter.
CHANGE OF ADDRESS
When notifying to change your address, please give your old one as well as the new one.
TERMS :
Per year |1.50 in advance, six months 75 cents, three months 40 cents.
Remit by Post Office Money Order for all amounts of 50 cents or more.
NOTICE
Any service rendered to any organ- ization of our church, will gladly be rendered to any other similar organ- ization upon request and presentation of manuscript for such service.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 1942
National Church Directory
(National Association)
OFFICERS:
Rev. James F. Miller Moderator
Flat River, Missouri
Rev. J. R. Davidson Asst. Mod.
808 W. 27th St., Bryan, Texas
Rev. E. C. Morris Secretary
201 W. Cypress 6t., Elizabeth City, N. C.
Rev. L. C. Johnson Asst. Secy.
Glennville, Ga.
Rev. F. S. Van Hoose Treasurer
Paini Bville, Kentucky
Rev. Clarence B wen Statistician
Box 203, East Durham. N. C.
( Chairmen of National Boards)
Rev. J. R. Davidson Education
808 W. 27 St., Bryan Texas Rev. I. J. Blackwelder ._ Foreign Missions 1013 Chicamauga Ave., Nashville, Tenn.
Rev. M. L. Hollis Home Missions
Red Bay, Alabama Rev. F. C. Zinn, Chairman, of Superannu- ation, Bristow, Okla. Mr. E. C. Davidson__Seci/.-rreas. of Su- perannuation, Glennville, Georgia
Rev. M. E. Tyson, Treas. Home Missions
Pikeville, N. C.
W. E. Coville Sunday School
Route 1, Nashville, Tennessee
Rev. Henry Melvin Young People's
League, 1211 E. Main St., Durham N. C.
Rev. L. R. Ennis Executive Secy.
National Association, Goldsboro, N. C.
(Women's National Auxiliary Convention)
Mrs. J. C. Griffin President
240 Pasteur St., New Bern, N. C.
Mrs. J. E. Frazier First Vice-Pres.
1624 E. Cahal Ave., Nashville, Tenn.
Mrs. Fannie E. Polston Gen. Secy.
318 Woodland St., Nashville, Tenn. Mrs. Lizzie Mc Adams --Nat. Field Worker
Huntsville, Texas Miss Lola Johnson __ Recording Secy.
Alma, Georgia Mrs. T. B. Mellette, __ Corresponding Secy. Blakely, Georgia
(Foreign Missionaries)
Miss Laura Belle Barnard India
"Spring Hill" Kotagiri, South India
Miss Bessie Yeley Venezuela
Upata, South America
Rev. Thomas H. Willey Cuba
Jaruco, Havana Province, Cuba
(North Carolina State Association)
OFFICERS;
Rev. J. C. Griffin President
240 Pasteur St., New Bern, N. C.
Rev. J. R. Bennett Secretary
Bridgeton, N. C.
Mr. Rom Mallard Treasurer
New Bern, N. C. Rev. Chester Pelt ___ Secy. -Treas. Foreign Missions, Ayden, N. C.
(North Carolina Women's Auxiliary Convention)
OFFICERS:
Mrs. C. B. Thompson President
Ayden, N. C.
Mrs. Alice E. Lupton Secretary
New Bern, N. C.
Mrs. Herman Nobles Treasurer
Greenville, N. C.
Mrs. L. H. Wetherington Chairman
Anna Phillips Educational Loan, Clark, N. C.
(A^. C. State S. S. Convention)
Raymond T. Sasser President
815 Briggs St., Wilson, N. C.
Miss Elizabeth Warren Secretary
Greenville, N. C.
(Georgia State Association)
Rev. L. C. Johnson Moderator
Glennville, Ga.
Rev. H. L. Catritt Vice-Moderator
Colquitt, Ga.
Rev. T. B. Mellette, Secretary
Blakely, Ga.
Mr. A. D. Ivey, _. State Treasurer of
Co-operative Program, Jakin, Ga.
(Alabama State)
Rev. J. J. Stabb, Moderator State Assn.,
2313 N. 33rd. Ave., Birmingham, Ala.
Rev. K. V. Shutes, Asst. Moderator,
Cordova, Ala.
Rev. R. P. Ritch, Clerk,
Pell City, Ala.
America First!
Not merely in matters material, but in things of the spirit.
Not merely in science, inventions, motors and skyscrapers, but also in ideals, principles, character.
Not merely in the calm assertion of rights, but in the glad assumption of duties.
Not flaunting her strength as a giant, but bending in helpfulness over a sick and wounded w^orld like a Good Samaritan.
Not in splendid isolation, but in courageous co-operation.
Not in pride, arrogance and dis- dain of other races and peoples, but in sympathy, love and understand- ing.
Not in treading again the old v^^orn, bloody pathvi^ay which ends inevit- ably in chaos and disaster, but in blazing a new trail, along which, please God, other nations will follow, into the new Jerusalem where wars shall be no more.
Some day some nations must take that path — unless we are to lapse once again into utter barbarism — and that honor I covet for my beloved America.
And so, in that spirit and with 1hese hopes, I say with all my heart and soul, "America First!" — Bishop G. Ashton Oldham (Epis.) Albany, New York
— " — -<<®J-> _
Behold thy salvation cometh; be- hold, his reward is with him, and his work before him. ISA. Ixii. II.
What is it makes my Saviour stay?
So strong, so ready to redeem? Not Jesus wills the unkind delay,
Nor casts out those that come to him
His grace the^ secret bar must move. Or I shall still reject his love.
THE FREE WILL BAPTIST
S
*
EDITORI A
Race and Religion
Christ's mission to earth was for the purpose of redeeming lost souls from sin and eternal condemnation, and to give them a home in heaven. For this cause He made the supreme sacrifice on the cross that the plan of salvation might be made complete.
The gospel Jesus preached was for everyone. He made not a single ex- ception. The Jews, the Gentiles, the bond the free — all were entitled to its benefits, and were privileged to accept its teachings when presented to them. It was and still is a free gospel the world over. The Red man, the Black, the Yellow, and White man, all have a right to the saving grace of this Gospel of Christ. It is a universal religion which has as its purpose the salvation of the lost, re- gardless as to race or color, rank or station in life. No one, however vile or debauched in character, is denied the privilege of accepting this gos- pel way of life, if he will freely ac- cept it upon the gospel plan of sal- vation. Inasmuch as, "All have sin- ned, and come (fall) short of the glory of God" (Rom. 3: 23), the plan of salvation was made the same for the Red man, the Black, and the Yel- low, as well as for the White man. There is no difference. Christ desires all to hear the gospel and be saved. He makes no distinction or prefer- ence among the races of people in the world, but extends, through his Chris- tian messengers wherever they go, the gospel invitation. It is a religion of love for all fallen peoples, regardless of the land they occupy or the con- dition of life which they are main- taining.
This gospel of love and purity seeks to remove sin and Satan from the hearts of wicked people, and to entrench itself in the souls of men and make of them "new creatures in Christ Jesus."
Yes, this is the work which it is
1.
to do in the world. That is what Christ meant when He said to His disciples, "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every crea- ture" (Mk. 16: 15). This message of salvation was for every race, kin- dred and tongue the world over, and it had to be taken, by those who knew it, believed in it, and were willing to die for it, if need be, unto the people who had never heard of it. It was Christ's command. It was His way of letting the world know what He had come to give unto the sin-cursed peoples of earth. Regardless of race, color or station of life, such people were to have the gospel taken unto them. Thus, the followers of Christ, his true soldiers of the cross, were to be his witnesses and messengers unto the people. That was and still is their Christian mission, and Christ made no exception to his great com- mand. His gospel was for all, and all should have it preached unto them.
In this world of hatred, strife and bitter warfare now existing between different races of people over the earth. What is the proper attitude for the Christian to take toward those who are drawn up in battle array, it seems to appear, against human rights and religious freedom?
In the light of the Scriptures, the stand taken should be, we think, the manifestation of the true teachings of the gospel for the redemption of the lost everywhere. The followers of Christ are to maintain their love for the Christian way of life at any cost, and to show forth their Chris- tian zeal for the salvation of the lost. They are to oppose the wrongs com- mitted by vile sinners; but, at the t-ame time, they are to seek to do the good for the redemption of lost souls. They are to remove, if possible, the evil existing in human hearts by im- planting therein the good. Whether Red man. Black man. Yellow or White, whatever the race or color, ;he true child of God is to seek the liberation of his soul from sin, and
to remove the hatred and ill-will for others. Christ held no malice nor hat- red for the Jew, the Gentile, the bond, the free, as human beings, sim- ply because they were such. What He hated was their sins, their vile wickedness and wilful transgressions of God's law. It was the corrupt lives which they were living that He con- demned them for, not because of the fact that they were Jews, bondsmen or freemen. The cause of righteous- ness is ever arrayed against the forc- es of evil which are at work in the hearts of the people, not against races, kindreds, and tongues. Were this true, Christ would be unjust to- ward some and show favortism to- ward others simply because they were of a particular race or color. It means simply this: the fight or con- flict is between the good on the one hand by the forces of righteousness, and the evil on the other by the mighty power of sin and Satan.
What, then, should be the average person's attitude toward his door neighbor, whether Greek or Roman, Japanese or German?
Christ would have us to treat him with kindness and as a neighbor. Tell him of his sins, if he is vile and wick- ed, and point out to him the Christian way for him to live. Accept his good, neighborly qualities as right and con- ducive to good citizenship, as we would those of an English or an American friend or neighbor. There are Christians of other races than our own who are living among us, and they are to be recognized as such. Then, why should we brand them as unworthy of the Christian courtesies, and pronounce them guilty of the foul deeds of their own race back at home? It ill becomes Christians to think of such in that light. In like manner, the Christian Americans laboring abroad for the spreading of God's kingdom should not be thought of by those races of people, in this great world-crisis, as enemies of mankind. What right have those races, among whom they are working for the glory of God, to blame them for this world- upheaval? What right have they to t eek to do them any harm? God does not hate the Japanese people because
(See Editorial on page 6)
4
THE FREE WILL BAPTIST
c5Hessage to ^outhful ^Readers
By Rev. C. J. Harris
Text : "Remember now thy Cre- ator in the days of thy youth" (Eccl. 12: 1).
Devout habits are the golden chain of life. In every age and in every condition of life, the influence of de- votion is highly needful and signifi- cant. The adoration of the great Source of all enjoyment, by whose bountiful providence all exist, and from whose kindness all derive the comfort of their lives, is an employ- ment worthy of the human faculties. It is reasonable in itself, and should be productive of the most excellent dispositions, for the good of all de- votional habits should rule supreme- ly.
In the day of prosperity, What is more natural or becoming than the lagnuage of praise and thanksgiv- ing at the throne of God? And in the hour of adversity, What is more suitable or consoling than the expres- sion of confidence and trust in the divine government, and the Spirit that devotion breathes, "Father, not my will, but thine be done"? In the the whole conduce of life, in all the events of these perilous times, What is more likely to keep the mind in a calm and tranquil state, or to render the present moral discipline effi- cacious in preparing for future emi- nence and glory than the habit of hav- ing devout intercouse with the great Father of our spirits? Indeed, it is a glorious privilege.
A practice so excellent in matur- er life is recommended to youth by reasons peculiarly forcible. Piety, a crown of glory to the hoary head, is an ornament of peculiar beauty upon that which has not seen many year.s. That religion and its duties are not suited to the innocent gayety of youth, it is the language of most absurb and fatal folly. It is absurd to say that devotion belong only to those who. have passed that youthful stage; and that it will be sufficient for the
youth to think of preparation for a future state when they begin to lose their relish for the present.
Such sentiments as these are not, I hope, adopted by any of the young people who may chance to read these lines. The reverse are such as they ought to maintain; such as alone are worthy of rational mind. It is not reasonble, my young friends, that, living as you do upon the bounty of of divine Providence, you should feel no gratitude, nor express any thanks for its bounties. And that, depend- ent as you are upon God for life, and health, and all things, you should live without any regard for your increas- ing Benefactor, and think yourselves improperly employed when celebrat- ing His praise? Are the blessings which you receive undeserving of your thankfulness? Are you insens- ible of the value of kind relations, judicious friends, and wise instruct- ors? Do you appreciate your bodily strength and activity, your cheerful- ness of mind, and all the numberless means by which life is only support- ed, but rendered happy in His serv- ice? It is possible that you should not see and feel the ingratitude of employing best days, and your most vigorous powers without one thought of God, and of contenting yourselves with the resolution of devoting to His service the imbecility of old age?
With so many monuments of death around you, with so many awful warnings of the uncertainty of life, Is it not the height of presumption and folly to defer the formation of a religious and devotional temper to a period which it is probable, or at least is possible, may never come? Have you seen so little of life as not to know that the feeling and conduct of maturer years, and of old age are almost invariably marked by the character which distinguished the youth ; that the man who neglected God and religious duties, when young, becomes more averse from them as he
advances in life? Can you see how he leaves the world with the same irreligious temper with which he en- tered upon it, unimproved by the events that happened to him, bearing no similitude to God, and unprepar- ed for the joys of His presence? Is this the happy end to which you as- pire? Is such the life you wish to live, or such the death you hope to die? "Be sure your sins will find you out."
My young readers, let not any evil suggestions enslave you and prevent you from pursuing that conduct in life which reason and Scripture pro- nounce to be honorable and perfect- ly safe. If it be an awful thing to die without hope of future happiness, it is an awful thing to live every mo- ment liable to death without those dispositions which, by the wise ap- pointments of God, are necessary to obtain the blessedness of the world to come.
The formation of devotional habits in one's youthful days is a matter of no small importance. Piety is the best preparation for the duties of life. He who has grown in grace and truth at a very tender age has a claim on the blessings so beautifully spoken of in the first Psalm of David : "Bless- ed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, not standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful: But his de- light is in the law of the Lord; and in His law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season, his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper." . . . "For the Lord knoweth the way of the righteous."
The purpose of religion to the young- is great and far reaching in its scope and reward. "Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His right- eousness, and all these things shall be
1
added unto you." Again, "Those that seek me early shall find me." And again, "I will come in and sup with him, and he shall sup with me." Any- one who has such communion with God is in line to share those wonder- ful blessings so richly described in the 133rd Psalm. Where David speaks of brethren who "dwell to- gether in unity," "It is like the prec- ious ointment upon the head, that ran down the beard, even Aaron's beard; that went down to the skirts of his garments; As the dew of Her- mon, and as the dew that descended upon ^he mountain of Zion : for there the Lord commanded the blessing, even life for evermore."
To the wise and good thinking youth, who have been taught of the Lord, religion comes with all its beau- ty, charm and power to save. God is ready to reveal himself to youthful souls, just as He did to the infant Samuel, and the youthful David. Let, therefore, devotion teach you her se- cret pleasures, and let your soul humble itself in adoration before the Hand which made it. Embrace the token of God's love, and walk with Him in glory of His path, then you will know the Shepherd of your soul. It is so graciously and lovingly des- cribed in the 23rd Psalm : "The Lord is my shepher : I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pas- tures: He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in the paths of righteous- ness for his names' sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the sha- dow of death, I will fear no evil; for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou prepar- est a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever."
And these, the final faithful ones, will be permitted to kneel at Jesus' feet and be ever with the Lord. Fin- ally, let these things be the medita- tions in which your youthful days may be engaged and renounce them
THE FREE WILL BAPTIST
not, for all that life can offer you in exchange cannot compare with these solitary joys. The world which is before you, to which your imagina- tion points in such brightness, has no pleasure to bestow that can com- pare with these heavenly joys. And all that its boasted wisdom can pro- duce has nothing acceptable in the sight of heaven as this pure offering of thy infant soul.
'^m>
He Can!
'*He * * * hangeth the earth upon nothing" (Job 26: 7).
In looking to God for deliverance of any kind, we are prone to try to discover what material He has on hand to work on in coming to our relief. If we are praymg for finan- cial help we are apt to look over the community to see if we can think of any one whom the Lord might influ- ence to lend us some money. If there are no apparent probabilities in that direction we find it difficult to be- lieve for "hard cash."
If it is employment we need in or- der to insure the continuance of our bread and butter, we make diligent inquiries in the industrial centers, and if we find that the shops, stores, and factories are more than full handed, it is pretty hard work to be hopeful that we are going to obtain work.
If we are ill and our physician is at a loss to know what next to try in order to alleviate us, it is not at all easy to convince ourselves that we are going speedily to recover.
It is so human to look and crave for something in sight that will help the Lord out. In time of need, if we can only find a little something for God to begin on, we seem so much better satisfied. To need a sum of money and not to be able to think of a friend, a man, or a monied institu- tion from which it might be obtain- ed, gives a dark background to the scene.
To need work and to find that throngs of others as needy as your-
self are also idle, makes the human outlook very dark. To be in bed day after day, feeling no better, but rather worse, the doctor's bill increas- ing, business suffering and patience giving out, make a situation in which ■ lelief does not seem very probable. The trouble is, there does not appear I to be a single human prospect to be- gin on. The outlook is all liabilities, with no resources to help out. \
Now, to God's child, what is the | real situation? Is there nothing but
liabilities? Much every way. Are \
there no resources? Yea, thousands, i
millions, billions, trillions! Where j
are they? Above you, below you, '
around you. Earth and air are full |
of wealth untold. Can t you see it? \
You don't need to see it. Keep your I
eye on Him ! ,
Just think a moment! It is not at all necessary for you to see any help , in sight, nor is it really necessary for ; God to have any relief on hand. He | does not need anything to begin on. ! In the beginning God created the ! heaven and the earth. What did He i make them out of? Nothing, abso- i lutely nothing! When the earth was made, what did He hang it on? Noth- ing! Pretty satisfactory earth to be made of nothing, eh? Remember, not a scrap of anything was used to ' make it. "He * * * hangeth the e-'irth upon nothing."
It hangs all right, doesn't it? Very well, then. A God who can make an earth, a sun, a moon and stars out of ' nothing, and keep them hanging on nothing, can supply all