Editorial: A Final Exchange with David Matthews

Last month’s issue of Watchman Magazine included a written exchange between myself and David Mathews. His article, entitled Slandering the Denominations, contained assertions I believe to be unsubstantiated and untrue. As a result, I wrote a rebuttal piece I titled Slandering the Brethren?

I would encourage the reader to read both of these articles before continuing with this exchange. If you are already familiar with them, then carefully read the following:

In my reply to Mathews, I used questions as a device to point out the inconsistencies and error of his article. The questions were rhetorical in the sense that those who accepted my argumentation would see his error through the questions posited. While not seeking to answer the arguments I made, David did choose to answer the questions. While this was a bit unexpected, we are grateful for his candor, as his answers serve to further expose the poverty of the position he advocates, and the falseness of the charges he makes. His answers are included below in green type, and my own comments follow. It is hoped that this format will be the most effective in presenting the final thoughts in our exchange.

Hello Stan Cox & the editors of Watchman magazine,

Here is a rough draft of my answers to the questions present in Stan Cox’s editorial regarding my essay “Slandering the Denominations.” Since the questions were posed to me, I expect that my answers will be included in next month’s issue of Watchman Magazine. I welcome any further comments or questions that Stan Cox or anyone else may have, and I find the present conversation intellectually stimulating and beneficial to everyone involved.

Thanks,

David Mathews

as is,

Watchman

Questions & Answers

Question 1: “However, I would be curious to know what part of ‘Christianity’ of these men we should progress beyond. Should we progress beyond an interpretation of the scriptures that recognizes the binding nature of God’s word, and that respects the silence of scriptures?” (from Stan’s rebuttal)

Answer 1: Regarding the teachings of Alexander Campbell and Barton W. Stone: If their message was limited to merely what is bound in God’s word and what God is silent about, no reason to progress would exist. If the Christianity which exists today was limited to merely what God commanded, and was silent regarding matters which God was silent, Alexander Campbell and Barton W. Stone would never be mentioned as possessing a pivotal role in restoring New Testament Christianity.

Question 2: “Should we progress beyond the divinely indicated hermeneutic of command, example and implication?” (from Stan’s rebuttal)

Answer 2: Evidence would indicate that we have already progressed beyond that point. For that reason, Christians are divided over numerous subjects and the leaven of division remains among us.

Question 3: “Should we progress beyond the call to reject creeds of men, and establish autonomous congregations of New Testament Christians?” (from Stan’s rebuttal)

Answer 3: A noble message is contained in the call to reject creeds of men. Christians would seem to have an unofficial creed, however — a creed which is built upon certain controversial questions which we use to test the orthodoxy of brethren. In the past, these creeds took the form of the Institutional Controversy. Today, Christians continue to use that test, and an additional creed is present among us: the Marriage-Divorce-Remarriage issue. Controversial issues serve a purpose as distinguishing groups of like-minded people from those that disagree, and a set of uniform answers to controversial questions differs very little from a creed.

Question 4: “I have always admired the devotion of such men as Campbell and Stone who zealously attempted to return to God’s word alone. I have mirrored that attitude in my life as a Christian, should I progress beyond that?” (from Stan’s rebuttal)

Answer 4: Yes, you should. Alexander Campbell and Barton W. Stone are not the only individuals who zealously attempted to return to God’s word. A more appropriate example and guide to mirror yourself after is Jesus Christ Himself.

The first four questions David answered had to do with his statement, “Those who proudly proclaim that they follow ‘first century Christianity’ often have not progressed beyond the 19th century Christianity of Alexander Campbell and Barton W. Stone.” It is becoming more popular these days to practice revisionist history, and belittle the accomplishments of the Christians who 150 years ago left denominational creeds to follow only the Lord. Whether David is willing to recognize it or not, he owes much to those who preceded him who sought to establish their faith from the scriptures alone. To denigrate this attempt as the “19th century Christianity of Alexander Campbell and Barton W. Stone” is disgraceful. These men would take great umbrage in such a characterization of their faith, and rightly so. While in no way perfect, they diligently sought to restore their faith to 1st century standards, not 19th century standards.

David’s answer to question one is completely untrue. It is precisely because they did seek to return to the old paths that Campbell, Stone and others are known today. What they did in exhibiting respect for the scriptures set the religious world on its ear. If they were guilty of progressing beyond revelation, David should have showed us where, rather than quibbling. After all, that was what the question was asking, and it remains unanswered.

David’s answer to number 2 is rather peculiar, and shows the inconsistency of his position. He advocates here that the reason for division among Christians today is a progression beyond the divinely indicated hermeneutic of command, example and implication. In this he is right. However, he complains when those who progress beyond that hermeneutic are admonished and exposed. He would rather that we be more reasonable with those in error. Listen closely to what they have to say, and treat them kindly. Those who are exposing the error of false teachers are criticized in David’s writings. Additionally, David shows his inconsistency in giving this answer, then stating later on in this article, “Who is teaching truth and who is teaching error in the above contentions? No one among us has the authority to arbitrate these controversies and place blame upon the guilty parties. Perhaps the attempt to assign blame and punish the offenders is a barrier to unity, agreement and understanding.” You can’t have it both ways David. If we are unable to arbitrate the issues that trouble us today; if we are unable to determine who is teaching truth and who is teaching error; if we are unable to place “blame upon the guilty parties”; then who are you to be critical of those who lived 150 years previous?

David is being disingenuous in his answer to question number three. And his arguement serves to prejudice his readers. Paul defended the truth against the Judaizing teachers of his day. In doing so, he did not establish a creed; he defended the truth. Peter refuted the Gnostics and in doing so had nothing to do with the establishment of a creed. When men today defend the truth of God against false teachers, they are not establishing a creed. They are defending the truth. It is amazing to me that those who hold the truth on the institutional issues are the ones today accused of creed making. It is the advocate of that false doctrine who has introduced a doctrine from man, not the defender of truth. The same is true for the marriage, divorce & remarriage issue. There is truth, and there is error. God’s word is knowable and understandable. To defend that truth against the false teacher is not equal to establishing a creed. I am offended by David’s intimation that there is an “unofficial creed” used to test the orthodoxy of brethren. In reality, there is the truth of the gospel that is used to test the faithfulness of every Christian. If David believes that Christians can hold to error and be acceptable to God, he should have given scripture to defend that position rather than denigrate the attempts of men to defend the truth.

Finally, David’s answer to number four intimates that I have an attitude that I expressly disavowed in my article. Read carefully my question. I was not advocating the blind following of Alexander Campbell and Barton Stone. In fact, in my article I said, “David knows that faithful Christians follow no man, only the Lord Jesus Christ.” He knows that my question dealt with their example in the specific area of devotion, as they “zealously attempted to return to God’s word alone.” I agree that Jesus is our ultimate example. David indicates that I should not look to Alexander Campbell and Barton Stone as examples. Yet scripture clearly reveals that such is not only acceptable, but laudable. Paul said, “Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1). Elijah, a man with a nature like ours, is esteemed as an example to us in prayer (cf. James 5:17). Paul exhorted Timothy to be an example to the believers (1 Timothy 4:12). To intimate that those who laud and follow the example of Campbell and Stone in their attempt to return to God’s word alone are in some way failing to emphasize the example of Christ is simply wrong, and David knows it.

Question 5: “However, what should our attitude be in light of those differences? Should we claim that since they exist we should recognize our ‘hypocrisy’, and start accepting others with whom we differ?” (from Stan’s rebuttal)

Answer 5: When differences exist, Christians ought to carefully examine their attitudes with those who differ. Christians ought to recognize their own hypocrisy and accept the criticism of others. Christians should accept those who are not in agreement — Jesus commanded that His followers love their enemy and love the stranger, so love to an opponent is a necessity.

Though only they know their hearts, I would submit that those David criticizes in their contentions with false teachers do indeed love their enemy, the stranger and their opponents. I would submit that their motivation is two-fold: 1) A love of truth; and 2) A love of souls, (both the soul of the false teacher, and the souls that might be unduly influenced by his teaching). They may not speak as meekly as David would like, (would David take issue with the mocking of Elijah on Mount Carmel [cf. 1 Kings 18:27], or his execution of the false prophets [cf. 18:40]?), but David has no way of examining their heart.

You might note that the differences mentioned in question number 5 are doctrinal in nature. David says, “Christians should accept those who are not in agreement.” He seems to equate acceptance with love. He knows that I intended from that term fellowship. Note the contrast between what David advocates, and what John teaches, “If anyone comes to you and does not bring this doctrine (the doctrine of Christ), do not receive him into your house nor greet him; for he who greets him shares in his evil deeds” (2 John 10-11). Those who accept those in error are not loving them. To express love is to “turn a sinner from the error of his way” (James 5:20).

Question 6: “Should we tolerate differences on important doctrinal and moral issues as some advocate today?” (from Stan’s rebuttal)

Answer 6: Who shall determine what is an “important” or an “insignificant” doctrinal or moral issue? The question above is necessarily subjective.

Given that Christians are prone to tolerate some degree of diversity of belief within a congregation, they should display an equal amount of tolerance toward those outside the congregation. Given that Christians are prone to disregard disagreements when they are among brethren in fellowship, an equal amount of favor should exist toward the stranger or opponent who disagrees.

Perhaps David is not aware of the fact that the wording “important doctrinal and moral issues” is the wording of those who advocate toleration of such error. It is not my wording. It is interesting that David uses the terms “diversity of belief” and “disagreements”. He does not use the terms “false doctrine” or “error”. The sentiment that David pronounces is less palatable when the euphemisms are removed. Notice the following: “Given that Christians are prone to tolerate some degree of error within a congregation, they should display an equal amount of tolerance toward those outside the congregation. Given that Christians are prone to disregard false teaching when they are among brethren in fellowship, an equal amount of favor should exist toward the stranger or opponent who disagrees.” This doesn’t sound quite as good, does it? In truth, all doctrinal matters and issues are important, and no false doctrine should be tolerated at all! (cf. 2 John 9-11).

Question 7: “Should we use the word of God to come to a ‘unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace’ (cf. Ephesians 4:3)?” (from Stan’s rebuttal)

Answer 7: Ideally, we would do so. At the present moment, Christian attitudes and behavior would indicate that such a unity will never exist.

As he here makes an observation based upon his view of present behavior among Christians, I will make a similar observation. I am very worried about a change in attitude among Christians toward the truth. I think that David is a very clear advocate of such dangerous attitudes. However, I believe that there are faithful bethren who are and will continue to, as I stated it, “use the word of God to come to a ‘unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace’…” And they do so with proper attitudes and behavior. The problem in not in the attitude of those who defend the truth, but rather in the admittedly changing attitude of David and those like him.

Question 8: “Here is an good example of where David is guilty of making an unsubstantiated and false charge. Is he talking about the education that he and others received at Florida College?” (from Stan’s rebuttal)

Answer 8: Yes, I am.

Question 9: “Though I am no fan of the institution, and am concerned with attitudes and teaching that is present there today, to say that two years of instruction there resulted in ‘almost total ignorance about God, the Bible, the truth and almost everything else’ is a gross misrepresentation.” (from Stan’s rebuttal)

Answer 9: Actually, it is not. God is a vast subject, not easily summarized within the confines of a two year course load at a college. Sufficient knowledge concerning the Bible and the Truth are not formed by two years of study as intellects and scholars have devoted millenniums to the study of each of these subjects. “Almost everything else” refers to all of the vital subjects which are not even mentioned at Florida College or receive only glancing mention.

The criticism of Florida College will apply with equal force to any course of study undertaken by an individual at colleges and universities, secular and theological.

Question 10: “Or is David talking about Bible classes in local congregations?”

Answer 10: The above will apply with equal force to Bible classes in local congregations: a mere hour and a half of study in the course of a 168 hour week cannot hope to develop a perfect understanding of the Bible, the Truth or God. For that reason, Bible classes are (more often than not) forums for spreading dogma rather than a search for the truth by informed and education Christians.

Again, the answers given from questions 8-10 are disingenuous. David’s initial statement is as follows, “‘Christian ‘ education revealed that two years of diligent study left the believers remaining in almost total ignorance about God, the Bible, the truth and almost everything else.” This was in the context of criticism not only of such education, but of attitudes, writings, and debating of Christians. To try to paint this as a commentary on the enormity of truth, rather than a criticism of Florida College and congregational Bible classes is not dealing honestly with what was written.

And I take issue with his statements. I do not deny that the subject of “God” necessitates a lifetime of study. However, two years of intensive study in an atmosphere such as that found at Florida College (if the truth is being taught), can accomplish much good. And I know from personal experience the value of Bible classes both on Sunday morning and Wednesday evening. To say that such efforts leave an individual almost completely ignorant is categorically untrue. Not to mention the inaccuracy of comparing 2 years with the “milleniums” that intellects and scholars have devoted to a study of these subjects. Unless he means that we have men walking around who are thousands of years old who have spent that time in study the comparison is completely invalid.

Question 11: “By the way, what is wrong with ‘challenging the denominations’? As denominationalism is steeped in doctrinal error, and we are to ‘contend earnestly’, and ‘convict the gainsayer’, I find it alarming that David takes issue with such challenges.” (from Stan’s rebuttal)

Answer 11: What is wrong with challenging the denominations is the attitude that Christians display in making such a challenge. Since Christians rarely speak or listen to the denominations, most of what Christians say regarding them is inaccurate. All conversations with the denominations are initiated with the conclusion already formed that they are steeped in doctrinal error. For that reason, Christian communication with the denominations usually takes the form of us making assertions against the denominations while we turn a deaf ear to whatever they may say in defense of their doctrines and practices.

Careful David, lest you be accused of judging hearts in your assessment of “attitudes” in controversy. Rather than turning a deaf ear, to successfully refute the false doctrines of the denominationalists, a defender of truth must become intimately familiar with them. That is the point. In so doing, they are able to expose the error for what it is! It is interesting that David claims “most of what Christians say” regarding denominational doctrine is inaccurate. In both of his articles, he never establishes one example of this. It is easy to make unsubstantiated claims.

Question 12: “I will not take the time to defend the writing done by faithful brethren in the past. Suffice it to say that any who are interested in learning the quality of such writing need only examine it to find how inaccurate David’s assessment is.” (from Stan’s rebuttal)

Answer 12: I have read the writings of brethren in the past and can say with confidence that they are incomplete and shallow. I have also read the writings of the denominations and the church fathers, and found them exceeding Christians in depth of knowledge regarding the Scriptures and love for the Scriptures.

Again, I will simply ask the reader to compare David’s writing with that of Benjamin Franklin elsewhere in this issue. Or any of the articles in this issue. Understand the comparison here made. He asserts that those who write for the denominations (advocates of false doctrine) exceed the writings of Christians both in depth of knowledge and in a love for the scriptures. David, you should be ashamed. And it is disturbing to many that you have no shame in stating this.

Question 13: “Tell us David, who has the greatest knowledge of truth on the subject of God’s grace, conservative brethren or denominations?” (from Stan’s rebuttal)

Answer 13: Since I do not recognize the “conservative” title as appropriate for Christians or as a mark of distinction and honor, the question is not valid. I will say that denominational authors have written eloquently about God’s grace, displaying a knowledge of that subject that few (if any) Christians can match.

Question 14: “How about the subject of Redemption? How about the nature of man? The nature of the covenants? The nature of God? The worship of God? The organization of the church? The establishment of the kingdom? The work of the Holy Spirit?” (from Stan’s rebuttal)

Answer 14: Denominational authors have written about all of these subjects with eloquence, knowledge and scholarship. I do not always see the same in the writings of Christians.

Question 15: “To this I would ask, ‘Have you read any debate books lately?’ and if so, ‘Which ones?'” (from Stan’s rebuttal)

Answer 15: It has been several years since I have read a debate book, and have neither the desire nor the interest in reading any debate books presently. My judgement is formed from reading the writings of the denominations. Scholars among the denominations have a knowledge of the Bible which rivals that of any Christian, and they are aware of the passages which we often quote in a formalistic manner when involved in a debate.

Question 16: “What arguments that we have espoused in controversy have the denominations answered?” (from Stan’s rebuttal)

Answer 16: Christians should devote some time to actually listening to the denominations and reading their scholarly writings to learn how they interpret the scriptures which we quote to them. These verses are not deleted from the denominations’ Bibles — theologians, scholars and teachers read them, quote them and attempt to include them within the doctrines and practices of their denominational affiliation.

Question 17: “We have affirmed to the Calvinists the possibility of apostasy, have they solved the problems posited by our arguments?” (from Stan’s rebuttal)

Answer 17: If the Calvinists remain in their opinion regarding apostasy, Christians may safely conclude that they have solved the problem posited by our arguments. Even if Christians disagree with the solution the Calvinists have reached, the existence of an explanation consistent with Calvinism is demonstrated. Have Christians made any effort to comprehend the Calvinistic interpretation of Scriptures that we deem as refuting of Calvinism?

Question 18: “We have affirmed to denominationalists the necessity of baptism for the remission of sins, have they solved that problem?” (from Stan’s rebuttal)

Answer 18: If the denominations continue in teaching that baptism is not essential, even after we have taught them otherwise, the presence of an explanation consistent with the denominational teaching is demonstrated. Have Christians made any attempt to learn how and why the denominations interpret the scriptures? Such an understanding is essential if Christians wish to convince anyone to change their beliefs and opinions.

Question 19: “How about the contention that the church of Christ is scriptural in name, doctrine and practice, do they have us on that one? How about the cessation of miraculous gifts, or the question of faith only? Have the institutional brethren solved our arguments regarding the sinfulness of the sponsoring church arrangement, or the church support of human institutions?” (from Stan’s rebuttal)

Answer 19: The same question receives the same answer.

Question 20: “If so, does that mean that they have the truth, and we are the ones in error?” (from Stan’s rebuttal)

Answer 20: It could very well mean that. Christians are potentially in error regarding any controversial or contentious subject.

Question 21: “If not, David, do you have better arguments based on a deeper understanding of ‘…God, the Bible, the truth and almost everything else…’?” (from Stan’s rebuttal)

Answer 21: I make no claim regarding the reliability, accuracy, depth or perfection of myself or my writings.

Question 22: “Personally, I find such an attitude from one who is ostensibly a conservative (non-institutional) gospel preacher alarming.” (from Stan’s rebuttal)

Answer 22: I do not assume any merit to the appellations “conservative” or “non-institutional.” As such, I will not apply those to myself or anyone else.

Question 23: “David seems to think that there is more righteousness, knowledge and charity among the denominations than there is among his brethren. David, if such is so why are you with ‘us’ instead of ‘them’?” (from Stan’s rebuttal)

Answer 23: Is the presence of righteousness, knowledge and charity among the denominations an offensive notion? I have witnessed members of denominations display righteousness and charity such that I wish to emulate. There is no question about the presence of extraordinary knowledge among the denominations, and for that reason you will find commentaries and Bible reference works written by members of denominations in the library of almost every Christian preacher.

Questions 13 through 23 deal with essentially the same subject, and were intended to be examples to show the lack of validity in David’s assertions. And so they did. But I was amazed at his responses. We will address these quickly. Before that, you might note that in response 13 and 22 he objects to the terms “conservative” and “non-institutional.” However, he used the term “conservative” himself in his first article. (see paragraph 2). And he used the term in the same way as me, simply as a means of identifying the reality of a condition which exists today. Rather than smugly disavowing such a description, he should have avoided the quibble and answered the question.

Question 24: “If that is so, then why does the same not apply to David and those who feel the same when they deal with their brethren?” (from Stan’s rebuttal)

Answer 24: My characterization of the behavior of myself and other fellow Christians is grounded in years of observation regarding their words and actions. I speak directly to those I criticize and allow them an opportunity to answer for themselves.

Again David, you miss the point. You criticize those who criticize others. You are doing the same thing. “Therefore you are inexcusable, O man, whoever you are who judge, for in whatever you judge another you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things” (Romans 2:1).

Question 25: “In the remainder of the article, David reveals a fundamental aversion to debate and controversy.” (from Stan’s rebuttal)

Answer 25: Such a characterization of my attitude is not accurate. I object to the manner that Christians debate and engage in controversy.

If that is so, then David should have given concrete examples and teaching concerning what is the “right way” of doing it. It is easy to be critical. I submit that no response to controversy, except for tolerance, would be acceptable to David. This is evident from his writings.

Question 26: “Really David, must I consider no Christian as being a reliable defender of the truth?” (from Stan’s rebuttal)

Answer 26: Yes, absolutely.

The final questions David answered are again simply numerous examples I used to show the invalid nature of David’s objections. I will answer them quickly in the remainder of this article. However, I want you to notice the amazing nature of David’s response to question 26. Either he does not understand what the word ‘reliable’ means, or he has no understanding of scripture. We recognize the need to compare all that is taught by the pattern found in scripture. This is what made the Bereans noble, (cf. Acts 17:11). However, to deny that brethren can be reliable is simply ridiculous. It makes nonsensical the Apostles’ instruction to Timothy, “And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also” (2 Timothy 2:2).

Question 27: “Am I wrong in seeking the wise counsel of men who have immersed themselves in the study of God’s word for many years?” (from Stan’s rebuttal)

Answer 27: Seeking wise counsel in a good act. Accepting counsel merely based upon a reputation or length of study is a different matter altogether.

Of course, I didn’t say that. But his statement that no man is a reliable defender of truth would make it unwise, and a “bad act” to seek counsel from anyone. Surely no one would consider it good to seek counsel from one who is unreliable!

Question 28: “Are elders in the local church not to be trusted?” (from Stan’s rebuttal)

(from Stan’s rebuttal)

Answer 28: Elders are humans, they may err. They do err. So a Christian should not accept the teachings of anyone based upon any position of authority they possess.

Again, that is not what I asked. No one advocates that counsel should be blindly accepted. David is the one who did that in his youth. I criticized him for that. Notice my statement in my first article, “David in his youth had a wrong attitude both toward his brethren and those in error. He trusted in men rather than God.” But the question was not answered. If no man is reliable, it would be inappropriate to trust an elder!

Question 29: “As editor of this magazine, should I refuse to publish articles from others because they can’t be trusted?” (from Stan’s rebuttal)

Answer 29: No, not in the least. In fact, you should seek an even broader representation in the authors which you publish. Accept articles written by “liberals” and members of the denominations. Let them speak without hindrance, and listen carefully to what they say.

We will from time to time accept articles from “liberals” (interesting he used the term when he does not recognize it), and members of the denominations. But when they teach error it will be refuted. But if no one is reliable in defending the truth, then I should not read articles written by anyone!

Question 30: “Perhaps David would rather read from John Calvin’s comments on Romans than Whiteside?” (from Stan’s rebuttal)

Answer 30: Christians should read John Calvin’s comments on Romans. I don’t know Whiteside and cannot regard him as any more accurate than John Calvin or other men.

David, I would like to introduce you to Robertson L. Whiteside. I would encourage you to secure a copy of his commentary of Romans, and read it carefully. It will clearly refute much of the teaching Calvin does in his works. I would also encourage you to be less critical of the Restoration Movement, since you have exhibited such a total ignorance of it. As for reading Calvin’s works? I would not encourage anyone to do so unless they are well established in the truth. I suppose David would also encourage throwing our children to the wolves!? No? Well, that is exactly what he does in giving a blanket encouragement to Christians to read from Calvin.

Question 31: “Should I order Bible class material for my children from a denominational source rather than the Guardian of Truth bookstore?” (from Stan’s rebuttal)

Answer 31: I find no distinction between the one source or the other. I do not regard the Guardian of Truth as an authority on the Bible or the truth.

That’s not what I said. But class material prepared by brethren is much more likely to be free from error than that found published by the denominations. If David advocates using denominational cirriculum, he is again “throwing our children to the wolves!”

Question 32: “How about reading information about the Holy Spirit from the Charismatics, or the Kingdom from the Premillennialists?” (from Stan’s rebuttal)

Answer 32: I would encourage you to read material from Charismatics and Premillennialists.

Children to the wolves, again! The Charismatics teach error concerning the Holy Spirit. Premillenialists claim that the Kingdom of God is physical, not spiritual. David, why would you want Christians to poison their minds with false doctrine? (That’s a rhetorical question, no need to answer it).

Question 33: “We are divided from the denominational world. Who is at fault for this?” (from Stan’s rebuttal)

Answer 33: Actually, Christians are divided over a myriad of issues. We are divided from the denominations, that is certain, but also among ourselves.

Yes, but the question was, “Who is at fault for this?”

Question 34: “Is it brethren who stand for the truth of God’s word, or those who are steeped in that denominational error?” (from Stan’s rebuttal)

Answer 34: The problem in the question is that it is formulated in a manner which precludes an objective answer. Given that brethren always teach truth and the denominations always teach error, the fault would undoubtedly lie with the teachers of error. If both assumptions are suspended and we must deal with the denominations as equals … the conclusion may differ dramatically.

That’s the problem with you David. You deal with the denominations as equals. Very simply… they are not. They are “without”. They preach “another gospel”. They are in “error” and “sin.” I do not mean to be flip, but the Bible very clearly indicates that Christians are to distinguish between those who are within and those who are without (cf. 1 Corinthians 5). David seeks to ignore those distinctions.

Question 35: “We are divided from those who support human institutions. Who is at fault for this?” (from Stan’s rebuttal)

Answer 35: Blame someone else for the division, it is always easier to blame someone else.

I was not assigning blame David, I was asking the question. There is fault. Someone is at fault. Sometimes blame is needed David. You can speak disparagingly about those who would “blame someone else.” Your brand of tolerance, however, has no scriptural basis. Someone is responsible for the division that exists. It very simply comes down to what the Bible teaches.

Question 36: “Is it brethren who stand for the truth of God’s word, or those who are supporting man-made institutions without authority from God’s word?”

Answer 36: Florida College is a man-made institution without authority from God’s word. If we find Florida College acceptable, no objections can exist against a man-made institution organized in a similar manner for the purpose of caring for orphans and the sick, or supporting missionary activity. Many different institutions exist among those who characterize themselves as “conservative” but they have not utilized these institutions in a consistent manner.

David, mentioned that he grew up listening to “conservative” preachers, and reading from periodicals such at the Guardian of Truth. Again, I do not mean to be unkind in pointing out his ignorance, but he exhibits it again in making a parallel between Florida College and the issues of the 1950’s. Could it be that he does not know of the difference between a human institution supported out of the treasury of the local church, and one that has no such affiliation? Could it be that David knows that distinction and decided to ignore it as it completely invalidates his parallel? I will repeat my above adomintion, ” I would also encourage you to be less critical of [the arguments of non-institutional brethren], since you have exhibited such a total ignorance of [them].”

Question 37: “We are presently experiencing troubles among brethren with regard to the questions on MDR, Fellowship, Deity/Humanity of Jesus, etc. Who is at fault for this? Is it brethren who stand for the truth of God’s word, or those who are voicing sounds of uncertainty and error?”

Answer 37: Who is teaching truth and who is teaching error in the above contentions? No one among us has the authority to arbitrate these controversies and place blame upon the guilty parties. Perhaps the attempt to assign blame and punish the offenders is a barrier to unity, agreement and understanding.

David’s contention that we can not know who is teaching truth and who is teaching error on such subjects as MDR, Fellowship, Deity/Humanity of Jesus, etc. is a slap in the face of the Almighty, intentional or not. God has revealed His will to us. It is understandable. When we defend it as we are exhorted to do, (cf. Jude 3), we are not in any way usurping God’s authority. Perhaps David’s aversion to “assign (-ing) blame and punish (-ing) the offenders is a barrier” to the unity he claims he so desparately wants!

Concluding ThoughtsThese remarks will serve to conclude the exchange David and I have had concerning proper attitudes toward truth and controversy. He has certainly fully established his contentions in this matter, and I am well satisfied with the response I have given him. All are encouraged to read carefully the entire exchange.David is very good at criticizing brethren, but like so many others has nothing of value to offer. The best he can do is encourage brethren to drink deeply from the font of denominational error. He casts aspersions on able defenders of truth, and encourages even those who may not have the ability to discern to drink from poisoned wells. It is my prayer that his attitude is rather rare. I am afraid it is not. However, if this exchange has served to open the eyes of any who may otherwise have been influenced by such rationalization, then it has been worth the effort in publishing the exchange.May God bless our readers with discernment in distinguishing truth from error.

Editorial: A Final Exchange with David Matthews

Author: Cox, Stan

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