Vol 3:8 (August 1957)
Editorial
“What have I to do any more with idols? I have heard Him and observed Him.” This saying, predicted of Ephraim, suggests the attractiveness of Christ to the heart, and His remarkable power to draw that heart, not only away from that which is degraded, but that which is degrading, to Himself.
The Apostle John writes, “And when I saw Him, I fell at His feet as dead. And He laid His right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the First and the Last.” This vision of Christ in His glory, not only humbled John, but taught him something of his own weakness.
Constant contemplation of Christ will always result in the acknowledgment of human weakness and worthlessness, and the loveliness and the magnetism of the Lord.
High esteem of self results in pride and arrogance which are ruinous to the believer’s spiritual joy and usefulness, and is most hurtful to his fellowship with Christ and with his fellow Christians.
George Pinches, out of his observation and knowledge contrasts, in his article in the Devotional Section, these two ideas and their result upon the inward peace and assurance of the believer. The secret of spiritual health and happiness is a “Looking unto Jesus the Author and Finisher of our Faith.”
In all things Christ must have the pre-eminence. The doctrine of Christ is by far the most important, but there are other Christian doctrines which also are very important. How significant is the doctrine of the Church. David Kirk has given us some weighty matter relative to the Church of God’s choice. This article should not only be read carefully and prayerfully, but Mr. Kirk’s many references to Scripture should be examined diligently.
John Bramhall continues his article on First Timothy. While especially for young believers, the message is one suitable for all, and merits an attentive reading.
That a sad decline early manifested itself within the Church is known to all. Christianity soon became Christendom, and Church testimony and order soon became lifeless and formal. Robert McClurkin teaches us that amidst such declension, in the very center of cold and formal Christendom, there is a true Church of Christ on earth, which, in spite of dreadful apostasy, will be preserved now and finally presented faultless before the Divine Presence with exceeding joy.
More letters have been received regarding the articles of our brother Tharp on Demonology. May the awakened interest lead to a more intelligent understanding of the power of the evil forces which are against us. Praise God, greater is He that is in us, than he that is in the world! Some of these letters will be forwarded to brother Tharp with the hope that he will be able to give further light on some of the specific problems which have caused concern.