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 “In
the early 40s some of the first “Teacher Training” classes
were being conducted in churches of Christ; and I believe much
good has come of efforts to develop genuine teaching situations
— suiting material to pupil, and stressing the need for more
thoroughly prepared teachers. But we turned, naturally to
secular educators as instructors in these schools, and they
brought the “whole man” concept with them. The “Ideal
Educational Situation” included social and recreational
facilities, provided by the church.
I
asked an A.C.C. lecturer for Bible authority for such, (an
old-time “Anti” practice) and he cited Lu. 2:52 and then
closed the discussion period (an old-time liberal practice). The
scripture cited (and used today) says Jesus grew in wisdom,
stature, and in favor with God and man. So, there are mental,
physical, spiritual and social aspects to man’s development.
Neither this passage or any other make this development the
function of the church. But promoters are not bothered by a
little detail like the fallacy of “non sequitur” — it does
not follow.
The
Donelson church, Nashville, Tenn., is now building a gymnasium
— although they will not call it that. Their bulletin says,
“It will be adjacent to the present Bible School wing and
contain four classrooms’ for teenage classes, a lounge
reception room, a kitchen, and a large area which may be used
for banquets, basketball games, or provide area for teacher
training sessions, mission forums, youth rallies, etc.”
“The
Christian Activities Center evidences
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a depth of insight in the leadership of the Donelson congregation. It
evidences an understanding of Christianity that reaches to the
whole life of the individual rather than considering the only
legitimate activities of the church as being worshipping and
preaching.”
The
church as a spiritual institution, to administer to spiritual
needs, is a concept long forsaken by this church. And you may as
well call their new building a gymnasium — its spiritual (?)
significance will fade.
Negative
journalism? Maybe so, but the church-social promoters did not
like it any better when we begged them, 20 years ago, to join us
in a positive study of the church and her God-ordained work. We
pick up such items as the above, now and then, not because it
delights us, but as object lessons to those today who are just
starting down such a path, and think they can go a short way and
no more.
I
believe Christianity affects the “whole life of the
individual.” Eating, or refusing to eat certain meat at the
feast of the unbeliever should be done “to the glory of God.”
(1 Cor. 10:31) Domestic and business relations have “Christian”
significance (Col. 3:17-25) but this does not involve the church
in banqueting or secular business, except as we teach God’s
truth on these matters. Rom. 13: does nor authorize “church
politics.”
Basketball
challenges “worshipping and preaching” — it is enough to
make the “whole man” cry.
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