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 “A
circular rectangle.” Now, that has a nice scholarly ring to
it. It is even simple enough to say. Try to draw one! “Circle”
describes something absolutely different from the term “rectangle.”
The result of joining the words together is an impossible
contradiction of terms. It is gibberish. But so much for
geometry and verbal gymnastics.
A
young brother — just home from the University — in an air of
superior scholarship announces, “I believe the Genesis
account, but I also believe the theory of evolution. Hmmm. The
Bible teaches God formed man from dust (Gen. 2:7) and later
fashioned the woman from a rib taken from Adam’s side (Gen.
2:21,22). The theory of evolution claims man has evolved from
some ape-like animal over a period of millions of years. This
young brother believes BOTH the Bible and the evolution of the
species? I am confused; is that a circle or a rectangle?
Another
brother freely quotes, “We speak where the Bible speaks and we
are silent where it is silent.” I thought I understood him
until he explained a current practice with “Oh, we do many
things for which we have no scripture.” Another brother smiles
and confidently nods his head. “We do not need authority for
everything we do.” I am having trouble drawing this one.
Should I use a compass or a straight-edge?
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But
brethren are patient with me and continue to explain. “You
see, it does not really matter how you get the job done, just as
long as you do it. That is what counts.” And that is the same
fellow who said to me earlier, “We do Bible things in Bible
ways and call Bible Things by Bible names.” Is that an optical
illusion or does that rectangle actually have curved sides?
Obviously
it is not as difficult to find and repeat a good principle as it
is to apply it consistently in both speech and life. Also, it
does not take a genius to say an impossible thing nor a fool to
be inconsistent. Average folk like us easily do both. Joe Fitch
***********************
Word
from Robert is encouraging. He is holding up to the heavy work
load and good results are evident in the meetings. Several have
been baptized. Some contacts and studies with unbelievers leave
further work to be done and the results yet to be seen. Brethren
grow stronger, have deeper convictions, and firmer ties to both
God and each other. We rejoice over the good reports and look
forward to more details when Robert returns.
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