by Mark Mayberry
Synopsis: In his editorial, Mark offers an introduction to the monthly theme section, "Growing from Genesis," and shares additional information on the topics and speakers of the upcoming 2018 Truth Lectures.
The theme section of this issue of Truth Magazine is entitled, "Growing from Genesis." Many great lessons are contained in the biblical book of beginnings. Such stories not only stir the heart, but also challenge the mind.
As is evident from the Table of Contents (see p. 3), we discuss the different dispensations of God's dealings with mankind (i.e., Patriarchal, Mosaic, and Christian), consider the consequences of Adam's transgression, and reflect upon how the choices of Abraham and Lot impacted their respective families. Delving deeper, we explore the parallels between Melchizedek and Jesus Christ, weigh extra-biblical evidence of Joseph and Israel in Egypt and, finally, we ponder Paul's statement of the enduring value of Sacred Scripture.
As you read these articles, we also encourage you to consider attending the 2018 Truth Lectures, that will be held at the Athens Bible School in Athens, AL from June 25-28. Entitled "In the Beginning… Studies from Genesis," these lectures will offer something for believers of all ages. See the adjacent full page schedule of the lecture presentations.
Since Genesis has long been a battleground of faith, we are devoting the lectures that begin at 8 a.m. to a discussion of relevant controversies. Many Bible students are familiar with Julias Wellhausen's documentary hypothesis regarding the Pentateuch, but are you aware of the current trends in scholarly circles regarding the issue of biblical minimalism vs. acceptance of scriptural validity? Since the days of Darwin, the integrity of the creation account has been questioned. How should believers understand the days of creation? What is the role of archaeology? Does it support or undermine confidence in the biblical text?
Today many Christians have traveled to the Middle East, and visited sites where the biblical story unfolded. During the 9 a.m. hour, we are fortunate to have speakers who can share their understanding of Mesopotamia, Canaan, and Egypt.
In the 10 a.m. time-slot, attention is given to ancient failures, i.e., the sin of Adam and Eve, the wickedness of the antediluvian world, and the moral corruption of the cities of the plains, and the subsequent judgments that fell upon each. Human nature does not change; the same issues that brought condemnation upon the ancients (i.e., disobedience to divine decrees, pervasive violence, and cultural corruptions, along with moral degeneration and sexual depravity) continue to curse our contemporary culture.
During the 11 a.m. time-period, we divide into separate men's and women's tracks, with each focusing upon families of faith, but from different perspectives. The evening lectures focus on eternal questions: Who is God, what is man, and why do we need a Savior?
In these presentations that will span Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, the men will consider the families of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, while the women will contemplate Sarah, Rebekah, and the troubled relationship of Rachel and Leah.
Folks, this is excellent material: informative, edifying, and faith-building. Kyle Pope adds, "I am very excited about this year's lectures. They promise to be a wonderful blend of practical devotional studies that touch the heart, along with in-depth studies of important issues to feed the mind."
Please plan to visit Athens, Alabama, during the fourth week of June. Listen and learn from this unique series of lectures. Be encouraged and exhorted and uplifted in your faith. Lift your voices in praise to God. Renew relationships. Meet new friends. Strengthen the blessed tie that binds our hearts in Christian love.
Enjoy good ole Southern hospitality. Visit our CEI Bookstore that is located just off the square of historic downtown Athens. Meet our great staff: Lance, Tammy, Herbert, Joan, Jonathan, Kerri, and Rebekah, and also Olivia, Jeremy, and Connor. Hope to see you there!
Author Bio: Mark and Sherelyn have labored with the Adoue Street church of Christ in Alvin, TX since 1998, where he serves as the evangelist and an elder. The church website is ascoc.org. His Bible study website is markmayberry.net. His personal website is markmayberry.org. He can be reached at mark@truthpublications.com.
