Truth Magazine

By Steve Willis

Israel’s King Hoshea’s Name Found on an Ancient Seal

Remember your memorized Old Testament dates? 722 B.C. come to mind? The … Captivity . . . of . . . Israel by the . . . Assyrians? OK who was Northern Israel’s last king? Hoshea! He reigned circa 731 to 722 B.C. when his nation fell. You can read about that in 2 Kings 17, and it took place during the times of Isaiah, Hosea, and Micah, who also speak of northern Israel’s sin and captivity.

2700 Years Later

Recently a seal, used to stamp official documents, came to auction at Sotheby’s in New York. In the “Antiquities and Islamic Works of Art,” it was dated to the ninth to seventh centuries B.C. It was also there misidentified as Phoenician and estimated to bring $1200 to $1800 at auction. The pictures in the catalog were clear enough to bring more, for it was actually purchased for $80,000 in December 1993. Shlomo Moussaieff, an Israeli collector from London, had purchased it.

What did he get? The royal seal of King Hoshea’s servant Abdi’  whose longer name was probably Obadiah (not the prophet). In this case “servant” would be like “minister” in many governments, or “secretary of . . .” in the U.S. This seal is from that 732-722 B.C. time period. It would be used to establish something as official from the king or his servant by pressing their seal into soft clay or wax. This would leave an official impression, similar in purpose as a notary’s stamp does for us today.

The seal was described by Andre Lemaire in the Biblical Archaeology Review: “The seal is translucent and brown carnelian  or rather orange chalcedony according to an expert gemologist  scaraboid in shape [like a scarab beetle  spw] and perforated from top to bottom so that it might eventually be work around the neck on a string or mounted. It is one inch high, slightly over one-half inch wide and one-third inch thick” (November/December 1995, 49). There is a picture of a man walking, with his face at a profile. He is wearing a long kilt, and a short wig, and holds a scepter identified as a papyrus scepter. There are a few Egyptian-style marks, popular on many things in antiquity; notably a winged-sun where the name would normally have been. Perhaps this was especially used to curry favor with the Egyptians when Israel was trying to avoid becoming a vessel to Assyria (see 2 Kings 17:4 and Hos. 7:11).

The wording, which identifies it as relating to Bible times is on both sides of the man. It reads: L’BDY `BD HWSH’, “Belonging to Abdi servant of Hoshea.” The style of lettering is Old Hebrew (paleo-Hebrew) and matches this period of time, as it can be compared with other inscriptions, such as the Siloam tunnel inscription in the time of Judah’s king Hezekiah. In addition to God’s providence, it was probably this tunnel that saved Jerusalem from Assyrian capture at the same time of Israel’s fall (see 2 Kings 18: 17, 27, 31; 19:23-24; 20:20).

A couple of other archaeological points. One, though the seal did have one at auction, the new owner also obtained a housing for seals, and it is believed that this may be the very housing box for the Abdi’ seal. It was a 2-inch wide gold mounting that would hold the seal when in use. Both seal and housing are pictured on the cover of BAR.

Secondly, Lemaire wrote of other seals in the article. One from the eighth century B.C., and was made of amethyst, and the owner’s name was Habli. This Habli-seal has enough points comparison to make Lemaire think both seals were made in the very same workshop, and possibly even by the same artist. Lemaire suggested it was a shop in Samaria.

Ultimately, Samaria which had become the capital of northern Israel fell to the Assyrians. Many were taken away to other lands. People from other lands were moved to Israel. Those left in the land became known as the Samaritans, and would become enemies to Judah and the Jews, even to the time of Jesus. And though history can bring us this “remnant” from the past, the Lord would pre-serve his remnant from “all Israel”  such as Paul was  in Christ (see Rom. 11:1-5).

Guardian of Truth XL: 6 p. 21
March 21, 1996

By Mike Willis

Sometimes the preaching is boring. Even Babe Ruth did not hit a home run every time he batted! Sometimes a person is tired and fights sleep  I’ve been there too! Consequently, everyone is not totally edified by every sermon that is preached and some sermons are not as beneficial to a person as another might be.

But this is not what this article is discussing. This article wants to address that kind of listening that tolerates the preacher saying some-thing but has no intention of changing one’s conduct. The Scriptures describe some who had this attitude toward preaching. God described Israel’s attitude toward Ezekiel’s preaching. He said,

And they come unto thee as the people cometh, and they sit before thee as my people, and they hear thy words, but they will not do them: for with their mouth they show much love, but their heart goeth after their covetousness. And, lo, thou art unto them as a very lovely song of one that hath a pleasant voice, and can play well on an instrument: for they hear thy words, but they do them not (33:31-32).

Do these words describe our attitudes toward preaching?

We come out of worship and comment, “That was such a good sermon, preacher.” We comment about his ability, “He is such a good preacher.” But what do we do about what is preached? Try these examples on for size:

1. Modest dress. Nearly every year, I preach a sermon on modest dress because we come to that time of the year when many take off most of their clothes and go swimming in public swimming pools, beaches, and water theme parks. Many go out in public wearing shorts that cover not nearly enough of the body. Some go to church and listen to a sermon on immodest dress, but go ahead and dress like we want to. This makes me think of God’s words to Ezekiel: “thou art unto them as a very lovely song of one that hath a pleasant voice, and can play well on an instrument: for they hear thy words, but they do them not.” Is that what is going on in this case?

2. Being on time. From time to time we stop to comment on the need for us to be conscious of our time. There are times when there are more Christians standing in the hall while the opening song for Sunday morning worship is being sung than there are inside the auditorium. We all agree that the first song and prayer are just as important as any other; we all agree that the coming in late disrupts our classes. But what do we do about it? This makes me think of God’s words to Ezekiel: “thou art unto them as a very lovely song of one that hath a pleasant voice, and can play well on an instrument: for they hear thy words, but they do them not.” Is that what is going on in this case?

3. Attending the business meetings. Everyone agrees that the church functions best when we have all involved in the local work. When men choose not to attend business meetings, the church suffers because: (a) there is a segment of men who are not giving us the benefit of their judgment; (b) there is a segment of men who do not volunteer to carry a share of the load of work. Sometimes business meetings discuss important issues and men of strong conviction some-times have different judgment about those issues. The Lord willed that we have discussions that sort out what the truth is. The wise man said, “Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend” (Prov. 27:17). There have been many times that I have gone into meetings strongly committed to one point of view and seen my view change as I listened to what others have to say. This is how the Lord wishes us to help one another.

I also confess that business meetings do not move as fast as I sometimes wish. Sometimes there is long and drawn out discussion about relatively insignificant issues. Usually this happens because the one chairing the meeting wants to give everyone opportunity to be heard and does not wish to leave an impression that anyone’s point of view is unimportant. These are commendable attitudes and we should be able to see through the minor aggravation to appreciate the brotherly spirit behind it.

Having admitted that these things are so and that occasion-ally some words are spoken in a business meeting that do not need to be said or said in the tone that it was said, nevertheless we recognize that, in the absence of elders, this is the most effective way to carry on our business. Is the church’s business important enough to take an extra 1 ‘h to 2 hours every month to discuss how to improve our service?

We recognize the truthfulness in what is stated, but what do we do about it? Do we arrange our schedules so that we can be there? Do we thicken our sensitive skin so that we are not so easily irritated? Do we think about ways to improve the Lord’s work at this place and then join hands with others who also are interested? Or, do we sit back and listen to another exhortation and go ahead and do what we want to do anyway? This makes me think of God’s words to Ezekiel: “thou art unto them as a very lovely song of one that hath a pleasant voice, and can play well on an instrument: for they hear thy words, but they do them not.” Is that what is going on in this case?

Let’s be careful to avoid that kind of listening that tolerates a person telling us what we know is true but then doing nothing to change our conduct. Sometimes I get the feeling that brethren come to church to get their weekly scolding for misconduct and then go away and live like they wish for another week, returning on Sunday to go through the same thing all over again. This is not healthy. Not all preaching needs to be scolding and what deserves to be scolded needs to be changed. We can do better.

Guardian of Truth XL: 7 p. 2
April 4, 1996

By Johnny Stringer

Introduction

“Behold, how good and how pleas-ant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity” (Ps. 133:1). Unity is surely to be desired, but differences arise and interfere with unity among brethren. This article will discuss the various categories of differences and the scriptural ways of handling them.

Differences in Matters Pertaining

to Congregational Activity

We must agree to the point that we can worship and work together in the local church. Paul instructed the Corinthians that they were to have no divisions but be joined in the same mind and judgment (1 Cor. 1:10). He did not mean that they could have no disagreement about anything. Romans 14 shows that there is room for some differences within limitations. Paul was condemning the divisions among the Corinthians. He was requiring them to agree, therefore, to the point that they could avoid division, worshiping and working together in harmony. Similarly, the Philippians were required to strive together as one in furthering the gospel (Phil. 1:27).

Such agreement is possible when brethren look to the same authority to guide them (2 John 9; 2 Tim. 3:16-17; Col. 3:17). If it were not possible, God would not require it, for God does not demand anything beyond our abilities.

There are two kinds of differences involving congregational activity:

1. Differences that arise because some will not be guided by the Scriptures. Some, for example, may insist that the congregation engage in an unscriptural practice. In that case, we must not yield to the advocates of error in order to have peace and unity. Truth must not be sacrificed or compromised (Prov. 23:23; Jude 3; John 8:32).

2. Differences in matters of personal judgment. In carrying out scriptural mandates, congregations must make decisions regarding specific details that the Scriptures have not spelled out. For example, in carrying out the command to assemble, decisions must be made as to the times the congregation will meet. Such decisions are matters of judgment. In making such judgments, meekness and the de-sire for peace must prevail (Eph. 4:1-3; Gal. 5:22-23; Heb. 12:14; Jas. 3:17). If it does, brethren will be willing to yield to the judgment of others rather than press their own judgment to the point of causing strife.

Differences in Private,

Personal Matters

There are four kinds of differences in this category:

1. Differences of opinion about matters not vital to salvation. For ex-ample, some brethren have wasted their time arguing over what Paul’s thorn in the flesh was. Such questions are of no consequence and should not be a source of strife. Brethren should heed 2 Timothy 2:23.

2. Differences in matters of judgment regarding one’s personal service to the Lord. As they planned a second journey, Paul and Barnabas had a disagreement over whether they should take John Mark. This was a matter on which God had not revealed the truth; it was a matter of personal judgment. The disagreement resulted in each preacher acting in accordance with his own judgment. They separated, Paul taking Silas and Barnabas taking Mark. This was not a disagreement that affected whether they could worship in the same congregation. We have already seen that in judgments regarding congregational matters, there must be compromise, for without it, peace in the congregation cannot be preserved. In private matters, how-ever, each one may practice what he believes to be best without disturbing congregational unity. For example, one couple may think it best to home school their children and may try to persuade another couple to do so. The other couple may judge such not to be best. These couples may strongly disagree, and each couple may act in accordance with its judgment; but each couple continues to love the other couple and worship and work with them in the congregation.

3. Disagreements with brethren because they are teaching or practicing things that are clearly sinful. The congregation must not tolerate sinful conduct or teaching among its members (Eph. 5:11; 1 Cor. 5; Tit. 2:10; 2 Thess. 3:6-15). Romans 14 does not deal with things that are clearly sinful. If it did, it would contradict the above passages.

4. Disagreements with brethren regarding practices that are questionable. The practices discussed in Romans 14 were not condemned; yet some could not engage in them with a clear con-science. There are things some Christians today cannot do in good conscience; yet, there is no clear-cut condemnation of those practices in the Scriptures.

Some, for example cannot in good conscience observe Christmas, even in a non-religious way; some cannot in good conscience serve as policemen; some cannot in good conscience play cards even when no gambling is involved. Most brethren who cannot do these things, however, do not consider the scriptural teaching to be so cut-and-dried that they can bind their conclusions on others. We must recognize a distinction between cases of clear-cut sin and cases that are not so cut-and-dried. Certain scriptural principles may be clear as a bell, but devoted Christians may reach different conclusions regarding the application of these principles in all the varied circumstances of life. We must make allowances for differences in such matters.

Here is where Romans 14 must be applied. When practices are involved that are not clear-cut cases of sin, let each individual act according to his conscience, not condemning those who differ. Otherwise, the church will be endlessly splintered. If brethren get to the point that no brother can ever worship or have fellowship with anyone who can engage in a practice in which he cannot engage, enormous problems will ensue. We simply must recognize, whether we like it or not, that there are practices in the questionable category.

A question arises at this point. We have said that when the Scriptures clearly condemn a practice, we must not tolerate it, but when the matter is not so clear-cut, we must allow for differences. The question: Who decides whether a matter is clear cut or not? Is someone going to provide a list for us? No list is needed. Discipline is exercised on the congregational level. When a situation arises within a congregation, the brethren in that congregation must decide whether it is a matter of unquestionable sin that cannot be tolerated or whether it is not. It is the business of the congregation to deal with such situations to the best of its ability in the light of scriptural teaching.

What about the divorce and remarriage question? There has been much discussion lately as to whether the principles of Romans 14 should be applied when those who have unscripturally divorced and remarried seek acceptance in a congregation. I believe that as brethren in any congregation make this decision, they should consider the clarity of New Testament teaching. Matthew 19:9 and Romans 7:1-3 clearly teach that if one did not put away his first mate for the cause of fornication, his second marriage is adulterous. There is another point that cries out for consideration: In view of the seriousness and magnitude of the problem of divorce and remarriage in our society, it is vital that God’s people take a firm stand against unscriptural divorces. But how can a congregation exert a strong influence for truth on this matter if there are people in the congregation who are clearly living in adulterous marriages?

It should be pointed out, however, that the question of whether the first mate was put away for fornication is not always cut-and-dried. Some-times, when there is some doubt regarding that question, we must al-low an individual to act according to his conscience; we must leave the matter between him and God.

The fact is that if the truth about divorce is firmly preached in a congregation, it is unlikely that it will be necessary for that congregation to decide whether or not to accept those who are in adulterous marriages. Usually, when the truth is preached strongly and forthrightly, those in adulterous marriages will either repent or leave because they find the preaching intolerable.

Conclusion

I do not claim to have all the answers to all the questions that arise regarding fellowship and Romans 14. I only hope that this contribution to the discussion will be helpful.

Guardian of Truth XL: 7 p. 6-7
April 4, 1996

On December 24, 1995 I concluded my work with the Westwood Church of Christ, after thirty years and six months. The following is an abbreviated form, with a few additional thoughts, of my farewell remarks on that date.

Some folks will little note nor long remember the remarks that I make here tonight However, the work that I have endeavored to do among you, will endure both time and eternity. It belongs to the nature of things that cannot be erased or removed by the passing of time, nor the forgetfulness of men.

The world has turned over many times since that warm June day in 1965 when Aurelia and I, along with our three children, pulled into Tullahoma, even before day began to dawn. Our furniture was en route but we were pulling a two-wheeled trailer with a few items we did not send on the truck. When it was light enough to unhitch the trailer, I began to look for something with which to block up the trailer. As I did, a snake slithered off into the weeds and grass. I recall remarking to Aurelia, “Well, the Old Serpent has served notice on us that he intends to oppose us for every inch and foot of ground we undertake to retake for the Master.” Now, I did not actually take that to be an omen or divine warning of some kind. However my assessment of what lay ahead of us, was right on target. Being aware that such is true, helps us to be alert and aware of his many devices, as he operates even as an angel of light, and his ministers as ministers of righteousness.

Nevertheless, God has dealt graciously with me. The good has far outweighed the evil that has come our way. Our blessings have been innumerable, and immeasurable. Our true and trusted friends outnumber by far our foes. God, the giver of all good things, has more than supplied our necessary food, raiment, and other material needs. Spiritually, he has blessed us above all we could ask or think. My heart rejoices beyond expression. By his marvelous grace, we are his and he is ours. What is there more important than this?

Additionally, God has given us children’s children, and memories that fill our cup to the overflowing. I am eternally grateful that God has seen fit to so use me here in this work. And my prayer is that my labor here is accepted in his sight.

My sentiments, as I bring to a close thirty years and then some with this congregation, are not easy to express either by pen or by tongue. The nearest language that fits the occasion can be found in the “Farewells” of the apostle Paul. Five times in his epistles, Paul came to say “Finally brethren.”

The term “finally” carries with the idea of concluding something. In the context of my use of it, it carries the idea of ending my thirty years and six month work with this church. As you think of that, be reminded that we are all also terminal. The time will come when you will end, in one way or another, your labors and work with this congregation.

Before, looking at some admonitions I want to make from Paul’s farewells, I want to take a glance backward for a few moments.

It has been in round numbers 1600 Sundays ago that Aurelia and I came here in answer to our “Macedonian call.” In December of 1964, a group of truth loving, dedicated brethren began to meet down on South Polk Street in what had been a dirty, greasy, abandoned restaurant building. There were just 23 people in the first gathering, including several small children, some of whom are here tonight with their own families. They formed the South Polk Street Church of Christ, because there was not an-other congregation in the town that had not embraced digressive practices. They stated that they wanted to build all things according to the pattern in God’s revealed word. In this they spoke the language that I spoke and under-stood well. With great anticipation and enthusiasm I accepted the challenge and came fully determined that in those goals I would give them all the help and aid I had the power and ability to provide. I was determined to know nothing but “Jesus Christ and Him Crucified” (1 Cor. 2:2). To the best of my ability, I have not swerved from that purpose. Such has been my constant theme. Some who were there in the beginning, have departed the faith and some who came after them stated that they were sick of “Bible authority.” Nevertheless, to that commitment I have remained steadfast and unmoveable thru all these years of labor.

Tonight, I come to turn in to him who gives the talents and the pounds, who opens doors of opportunity, my report on those 30 years and then some. He is the one who knows our abilities, and our failings. He knows our real motives from the asserted ones. He knows where we are lacking and why. He knows when our heart has pained and when we have not found sleep because of the sheep that were discontent either with food or fold. He knows the difference in caring shepherds and mere hirelings. It is into his hands that I place my report which he already knows perfectly.

However, as my work with the congregation is brought to an end so does the report of each of you go into the same hands of the perfect record keeper. We have professed to be “workers together with God,” for the advancement of the greatest work on earth, the only enduring work. He knows when we have been workers and when we have been shirkers. He knows when we have been backers and when we have been blockers. He knows the difference in mere rhyme and reason. So, we are each and everyone turning in our own report tonight on a work to which each of us committed our pledge to God to give him our all. Only eternity will fully reveal how well we have performed in our respective roles. These matters are not matters we can dismiss with a wave of the hand or shrug of the shoulder. We are men and women accountable to God above. I come now to make a few final admonitions to you.

Be strong in the lord and in the power of his might” (Eph.6:10f).

A. What will make you strong in the Lord.

1. Being in every way a Scriptural church.

a. Scripturally organized (Phil.1:1).

b. Scripturally functioning (Eph. 4:11-12).

c. Taking orders from Christ the head (Eph. 1:22-23).

2. Being a church composed of true believers (Acts 4:4).

3. Deep convictions, willing to suffer (Acts 8:4); sharing prayerful (Acts 6:6-7); walking in the fear of the Lord, and comfort of the Holy Spirit (Acts 9:31).

4. Strength is not to be confused with size.

B. You will have issues to face that will require the best in all of you.

1. Issues on marriage, divorce and remarriage.

2. Issues involving dress and conduct.

3. Perhaps sooner than you think you will have to deal with issues involving the role of women in the church.

C. Only by being strong in the Lord will you be able to handle successfully these and others is-sues.

II. Finally, brethren rejoice in the lord (Phil.3:1).

A. There is much joy and rejoicing for the people of God.

1. Romans 14:17.

2. Joy in Christian association (Phil.1:3).

3. Joy in worship (Psa.122:1).

4. Joy in seeing people obey the gospel (Acts 8:5-8; 3 John 3, 4).

B. Brethren, if your service to God is boring and you cannot find joy in it, heaven will not be for you.

III. Finally brethren, think on things true, honest, just, pure, lovely and of good report (Phil. 4:8).

IV. “Finally, brethren, farewell, be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the god of love and peace shall be with you” (2 Cor. 13:11). Whether I come and be with you or else be absent, I want to hear of your affairs (Phil.1:27). Like Paul, I want to hear that you are standing as a solid phalanx of committed men and women committed to the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth.

Don’t be terrified by your adversaries. They will think that your standing for the truth is a token of your damnation, but you know that it is a token of salvation and that of God.

Sometimes men and women in the church get so careless and loose in their conduct and in business affairs that even the world would blush with shame. Let me say that if members of the church stand fore square upon the truth, and conduct themselves in a way that adorns the gospel, there is not a force in the whole world that can stop or hinder their onward march for the Lord, for He has promised never to leave or forsake such (Heb.13:5). This church will live or die, survive or vanish, according to the character of those on the inside. The enemy without can do but little harm and that only due to our own failings within. It is my honest conviction that we are our own worst enemy! I want to hear of unity in truth, soundness in faith, steadfastness in labor, purity in life, and untiring efforts in Christ.

V. My final “finally” is found in 2 Thessalonians 3:1. “Finally brethren pray for us.” Paul wanted the prayers of his brethren, and so do I. He was not asking that they pray for his ease and comfort. He was asking that they pray for him that the word preached by him might have free course and be glorified. He was asking to be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men. Those are my sentiments tonight as I leave you. Pray for me, that the word of God might have free course. Pray that I may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men. My heart and soul is wrapped up in the desire to preach his word, to saving of souls and up building of his cause and Kingdom. Pray that hindrances may be minimal. Pray for our strength and continued good health to that end. Pray that the Lord’s will may be done in all my undertakings.

I placed on the bulletin board a statement which can never fully express the bounty of thanksgiving and gratitude which Aurelia and I have for our years in your midst. We feel richly blessed. And I close with the admonition: “Therefore My be-loved brethren, be steadfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” (1 Cor.15:58). “And now brethren, I commend you to God and to the word of His grace which is able to build you up and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified” (Acts 20:32).

Guardian of Truth XL: 6 p. 22-24
March 21, 1996