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 In
this issue we have dropped our usual format to present a “Special
Issue” on the subject of UNITY. All sorts of ideas about unity
are making the papers today — with some loosely worded
material that seems to offer a new definition for “fellowship”;
and some attacks on efforts made to reach erring brethren with
truth, that sound very far from the love and concern brethren
should have for one-another. It is evident that a sectarian “party”
spirit prevails among some, both among “liberals” and “conservatives”.
It
is difficult to keep one’s balance in such times. Differing
sections of the country are at different stages of development.
In one state the trend may be toward a com- promising spirit —
and good men there see any effort to discuss differences as an
invitation to “seek peace” at the price of truth. In another
state the feelings may run so bitter that equally good men may
see the need to recall brethren to sanity. Readers in either
section are likely to “read into” the articles from the “other”
area, something that was not meant.
I
am reasonably certain that this issue will be differently
interpreted by brethren; but I am equally certain that I must do
what I can to teach what I believe to be the truth — and a
two-sided, forked-tongue sort of “middle of the road”
approach is an abdication of
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responsibility. My temperament will color
how I say a thing, (as in all cases) but I must speak.
Before
we get to print, a friend has suggested that our point on the
“relative” nature of understanding (p.4) may cause some to
think I am saying truth is “relative”. Well, I DID
NOT say that — as this and many previous issues will testify.
Nor am I saying that “relative’ understanding removes
assurance, or makes compliance with God’s truth impossible.
Men have visited the moon, and “hit” Mars, with a “relative”
knowledge of God’s physical laws. The humble acknowledgement
that one may be wrong —-and the willingness to be questioned
and tested — does not keep one from steadfast continuance in
that which careful study has shown to be right.
“Quarantine”
— of conservatives OR OF LIBERALS — is a carnal procedure. I
have been the victim many times, as liberal brethren have
falsely charged me, misrepresented what I teach, and refused me
the opportunity of explanation and defense. But their conduct
does not justify my acting that way. Nor can I conclude that all
who differ with me are “dishonest”. SEEK THE TRUTH, AND GOD
WILL JUDGE THE HEARTS.
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