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 The
preacher reads the scriptures, and points out some positive
teaching clearly set forth. The hearers nod their understanding
and approval. The principle stated is so right, so very true, so
obviously scriptural.
Then
the preacher makes an application of the accepted truth to some
actual situation — some obscure and little known error, so far
as the audience is concerned, but an example that demonstrates
clearly a violation of the gospel truth. The hearers are shocked
that anyone could be so blind to the plain truth, or so
calloused as to ignore it.
And
then the preacher gives other examples of this same error, with
accurate details, that do everything except call the name of the
offender. The audience is with him — maturing in their
understanding of the scriptural principle as its truth is
contrasted with obvious error, and completely sympathetic with
the preachers desire to correct the wrong.
So,
the preacher calls the name of the offender, or makes specific
reference to that which he has correctly described — maybe
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he says, “Baptist” or “Herald of
Truth,” or (do you suppose he would dare?) he says, “Thou
art the man!” (2 Sam. 12:7)
The
hearers are stunned! They give one another that “who does he
think he is” look, and (almost literally) they hit the
ceiling.
“What
right have you to judge?” “Why don’t you preach the gospel
and let other people alone?” “If you had the right spirit
you would LOVE the ones you talk about!” “Shame on you for
being against the care of poor little orphans.” “Anti —
everything, and never want to do anything!” Wow!!
What
happened to that scriptural principle to which all agreed? Where
are those sympathetic “Amen’s!” as we were urged to do
Bible things in Bible ways? How has the wrong of some faraway or
despised sect become so right, now that we see we are guilty?
Are
we really listening to what God’s word says; swallowing our
pride to become His honest servants???
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