|
 “I
am reminded just here of a situation that developed in the early
church. The number of disciples was multiplied, and there arose
complaint that some of the poor widows were being neglected.
When this matter was brought to the attention of the twelve,
they called the multitude of disciples unto them, and asked that
they look among themselves and select seven good, well prepared
men “whom we may appoint over this business.” This was a
matter of business, and as the record shows it was handled in a
businesslike way.
Since
we are followers of the early church in many other ways, may I
suggest that we take its lead in handling matters of business?
In this problem of education, which is one great problem of the
church and one upon which the vitality of the church depends,
could not those most vitally interested in Christian education
call “the multitude of disciples” together to agree upon
some plan of action? When the plan of selecting the seven was
made known, it “pleased the whole multitude.” Should not the
selection of a number of well—prepared members from among us
to attend to our educational business be pleasing to our entire
membership? Surely there can be found in the church not one
friend of education who would object. We would all not only be
glad but would rejoice to see business handled in such a
business—like way.
We
should then, at some early date have a general mass meeting
where our different educational problems could be presented.
Every factor that we have that is making for Christian education
should be present, and feel free to express its views. Each
|
|
representative should come remembering that he is representing that good,
whole- some Christian influence which is so common in his
community. At the close of such a meeting would be an ideal time
to select from our number those members whose duty it shall be
to attend to our business of education.
These
men appointed would be able in a short time to formulate plans
for our educational program, and in due time could correlate all
our efforts into one united power for the purpose of driving the
curse of ignorance from among us. They would give stability and
permanence to our educational efforts, and therefore, make
possible a large endowment, an essential factor in the success
of any Christian college. They could in the light of the wishes
of all the members lift the educational activities from the
realm of confusion and random movement up to the level of
rational, purposive conduct.”
**********************
From
pp. 73—74, Abilene Christian College Bible Lectures, 1919;
speaker was Joseph U. Yarbrough.
He
confused the local church (of Jerusalem, Acts 6:) with
the entire brotherhood or universal church. He assumed
that secular education (as is taught in “our” colleges) is
the work or obligation of either the local church or an
organized brotherhood. He asserts without proof that the
vitality of the church depends upon the college. His kind are
with us today!!
[Previous
Article] [Next
Article]
|
