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 With
hydrogen bombs perched in the nose of complex inter-continental
missiles, waiting the final push of the switch that will send
them coursing swiftly to the total destruction of whole cities
— even involve countries — one man with vengeful heart, may
control almost inconceivable force.
The
gospel of Christ has the power to stay his hand — teach him to
live peaceably with his neighbors.
After
all, “Guns Do Not Kill People; People Kill People!” That is
a very good slogan to remember.
We
can spend our time and talents thinking up ways and means of
overcoming people, or of saving people; of whipping them down,
or lifting them up; of magnifying their error, or teaching them
truth. God’s power, in our hearts, makes the difference.
This
is not to say that error must not be fought, that discipline
must not be exercised, that false doctrine must not be exposed.
I believe in PLAIN TALK: in clearly and forcibly “reproving,
rebuking” as well as “exhorting” — with the power
of God. When we act in
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keeping with the gospel of
Christ, our action is motivated by love for souls, and a sincere
desire to pull out of the fire those spotted by the flesh. I
feel it necessary to warn, however, lest we confuse zeal to
teach and save, with vindictive feelings that easily accompany
discussion of differences.
The
power of God is inseparable from the spirit
of God. Christ overcame Satan, not by adopting Satan’s evil
ways, and beating Him at that game; but by maintaining
God-likeness (doing the will of the Father). Being God, though
He “reviled not again” He “led captivity captive” by His
inherent power.
The
apostles knew that the power must be of God, and not of
themselves. (1 Cor. 2:1-5; 2 Cor. 4:7) The gospel is God’s
power (dynamite) unto salvation. (Rom. 1:16) The power to cast
down strongholds, human reasonings and to capture hearts for
Christ, is at our disposal. (2 Cor. 10:3-5) IF WE REALLY BELIEVE
IN THE POWER OF GOD, WHAT OTHER COULD WE DESIRE ??
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vol. 5, no. 12, p. 8]
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