Christian Fellowship
Malcolm L. Hill

Christian fellowship is a very important issue. I am afraid that it is more important than many members of the church of Christ realize. It has to do with our eternal destiny. Following the Lord’s plan for Christian fellowship is just as important as following His plan when it comes to water baptism or the Lord’s Supper. Christians cannot include those whom the Lord has excluded and they cannot exclude those whom the Lord has included. If a member of the Lord’s church should teach that the church of Christ should fellowship the Baptists, the Methodists, the Presbyterians, the Mormons, the Seventh-Day Adventists, and all other false religions, then, by the same reasoning, what would be wrong if members of the church of Christ should teach that one does not have to be baptized in water for or unto the remission sins? What would be wrong if members of the church of Christ should teach that we do not have to take the Lord’s Supper on the first day of the week? The same Bible addresses all of these issues and gives us God’s answer.

Not long ago I heard that a certain preacher said he was going to fellowship everyone that had “church of Christ” over the door. Now think about this statement. In other words, all that really matters with God is, “Does a congregation have the name ‘church of Christ’ over the door of the church building?” What a wild statement to make and, may I add, what a reckless statement to make. Will this brother fellowship the anti-individual communion cup congregations? Will he fellowship the churches of Christ that use instrumental music in their worship to God? Will he fellowship the anti-orphan home brethren? Will he fellowship the premillennial churches of Christ? Will he fellowship churches of Christ that teach there are saved people in all denominations? Will he fellowship the congregations that teach that all the Bible is not inspired? This kind of loose thinking is what has gotten the church in trouble.

Christian fellowship is based on God and His Word. Those God can fellowship, the Christian can fellowship and those whom God cannot fellowship, the Christian cannot fellowship. The Christian must fellowship those and only those who are walking in the light of God’s Word (I John 1:7). God’s faithful people have no right to reject those who are following the Bible and they have no right to accept those who are not following the Bible. We are to have no fellowship with the unrighteous (Eph. 5:11). God’s children are not to endorse and support those who are teaching and practicing false doctrine (II John 9-11). Congregations and individuals are to mark those who teach a perverted Gospel (Rom. 16:17-18). Not only is this so but they are to avoid them as well (Rom. 16:17).

Christian fellowship is not something that only takes place when we do things together. Christian fellowship can be a state in which congregations and individuals live (Gal. 2:9). It is clear from this passage that James, Cephas, and John were in fellowship with Paul and Barnabas even though they went in one direction and Paul and Barnabas in another. The church of which I am a member is in fellowship with every faithful church of Christ in the whole world and they are in fellowship with us.

Some are teaching that fellowship only takes place when we do things together and not when we are separated. Is a man living in the state of sin when he is an alien sinner or is he an alien sinner only when he is engaged in sin? Is a man a liar only when he is lying or can he live in the state of lying? Is a man only living in adultery when he has the marital relationship with a women who is not lawfully and scripturally his wife or can he be living in a state of adultery? The answers to these questions are very obvious. The same principle applies to Christian fellowship that applies to these things.

When are we having fellowship in religion? We are having fellowship: when we announce and encourage people to attend a Gospel meeting; when we participate in a Gospel meeting; when we announce and encourage a Vacation Bible School; when we teach in a Vacation Bible School; when we announce a religious lectureship; when we appear on a religious lectureship; when we announce and encourage a Ladies’ Day; when we invite Christians into our homes to eat together; when we ask a person to pray in public at a church assembly; when we ask a person to teach a Bible class at a church assembly; when we ask a person to pass the Lord’s Supper or serve at the table; when we ask a person to preach to a congregation; when we announce and support events like the Nashville Jubilee, the Tulsa Workshop, Winterfest, and all such gatherings; when we give to support a radio or TV program; when we send support for missionary work. We could go on with this but what we have said is sufficient.

For the past twenty years we have been fighting, step-by-step, the apostasy we find among brethren today. With every passing week it has gotten worse and worse. There are those who have become very bold in their liberalism. There are those who have straddled the fence. There are those who have stayed with the Bible doctrine on Christian fellowship. I contend and am ready to affirm that the preachers and teachers at Tennessee Bible College have followed the Bible doctrine on Christian fellowship.

In this issue of Living Oracles I am publishing some material I collected in 1997. I wrote to several men asking them to explain the passages you will see in this issue. The material you will read is self-explanatory. Please notice each man’s work on Christian fellowship is exactly what the preachers and teachers at Tennessee Bible College have been contending for all along the way. To God be the glory!

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2/20/97

Mr. Malcolm Hill, President
Tennessee Bible College
Cookeville, TN

Dear Malcolm,

I am enclosing what you requested of me. I hope that I have done what you wanted me to do. I hope the material will be of some value to you.

Faye and I send our very best wishes to you, your family, and your staff at Tennessee Bible College. I wish you the very best in all of your endeavors.

Brotherly yours,
/s/ Thos. B. Warren

To: Malcolm Hill, President
Tennessee Bible College
Cookeville, Tennessee 38503-0865

1. If a gospel preacher speaks on, say, a lectureship on which the Bible is to be preached (with, say, three speakers each evening), then, if one of those three preachers preaches false doctrine (doctrine which contradicts the Bible—that is, does not teach what the Bible teaches), then the faithful gospel preacher: (1) must plainly state that false doctrine has been preached by one of the three speakers, and (2) must oppose such with all of his ability to explain the truth which is taught by the Bible. This means that he must explain why that doctrine is false.
   
   No truly faithful preacher will preach on the same lectureship and leave the implication that the false doctrine which has been taught is true doctrine—that is, without the faithful gospel preacher making clear what the Bible really does teach on the matter under consideration.
2. If a false teacher (that is, one who teaches false doctrine) appears on a lectureship on which you are a speaker, then (1) you must explain the error (or errors) which he has made and (2) you must explain (by using statements from the Bible) what one must infer (from the Bible) what the truth is in regard to the question under consideration.
   
   The principles stated above are applicable to all similar situations throughout the Bible.

/s/ Thos. B. Warren
February 20, 1997

[Editor’s Note: What Brother Warren stated in his material is exactly what we have believed and taught all through the years at Tennessee Bible College. I place my hearty “amen” on what Brother Tom said. Was Brother Warren an extremist? Only an extremist would say he was.—MLH]

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January 13, 1997

Mr. Malcolm Hill, President
Tennessee Bible College
P. O. Box 865
Cookeville TN 38503-0865

Dear brother Hill:

Thanks for your letter of January 6, requesting how I would explain Eph. 5:11, Rom. 16:17-18, and II John 9-11. I consider it a privilege to offer what I believe the Bible teaches in these passages.

Ephesians 5:11. The apostle Paul says, “And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.”

In my judgment, the word, “fellowship” in this context means any cooperative activity, moral support or indication of tacit approval for their existence. This would apply to either a specific conduct or act (verb) or any entity (noun). The prohibition, “Have no,” would then mean that members of the church (to which this letter was written) would not be authorized by scripture to approve or participate in such activity or entity.

The term “unfruitful works of darkness” is the focal point of the passage. What constitutes such a thing? Again, in my judgment, “unfruitful” is an adjective describing “works” modified by the prepositional phrase, “of darkness.” That means there are works that are unfruitful in nature because of their source. Unlawful conduct: Murder, lying, cheating, dishonesty, adultery, fornication, stealing, cursing, unethical conduct, etc. (Gal. 5:19-21; Col. 3:5), would be acts which the Christian could not condone or participate in.

However, it is also my personal belief that the real import of this passage lies in connection with the Christian’s approval of any entity, or organization, not approved of God.

John 3:16-20 deals with the coming of Jesus to the world. In the context of this passage, John records the words of Jesus that God did not send Him into the world to condemn the world but that the world through Him might be saved. He explains that the world was already condemned through unbelief. Then, in verse 19, he defines the condemnation: “that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light because their deeds were evil.” The apostle John states, “If we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin” (I John 1:7). Jesus stated, “Upon this rock (the fact of His Deity) I will build my church (singular) (Matt. 16:18). Paul said, “That He might present it (the church) to Himself a glorious church. . .” (Eph. 5:27). “He became the author of eternal salvation to all them that obey Him” (Heb. 5:9). Jesus warned, “He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day” (John 12:48). Paul informed us, “For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ” (I Cor. 3:11), and, Jesus concluded, “But in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men” (Matt. 15:9).

In view of all of these passages, and others, it is obvious that the church which Jesus “purchased with His own blood,” (Acts 20:28) is the only church that is authorized by God in which man can “walk in the light.” The only conclusion to this observation is that every religious organization on the earth not meeting the standard so defined by the scriptures is an unfruitful work of darkness. This fact also necessitates refutation of the right for any religious organization not meeting the standard so defined by the scriptures to exist.

Romans 16:17-18. Paul’s admonition to the Romans concerning those who “cause division and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned” is preceded by the term “mark.” “Mark,” according to the English dictionary, is an Archaic, phrasal, intransitive verb meaning, “to pay attention; notice.” Although it certainly includes the attention and notice of the church toward those who cause division in the church, it seemingly necessitates a larger context of action. “Causing division and occasion of stumbling” (ASV 1901), is a very serious offence. The consequences of such action are severe. Therefore, it would seem that just to “keep an eye on” (NASV), or “watch out for” (NIV) such a person is not in harmony with the rest of the context. The action to be taken toward one who is so “marked” is to “avoid them.”

It is not possible to “Mark, pay attention to, notice, keep an eye on, watch out for, or avoid” one who is guilty of causing division in the church without publicly calling his/her name. The magnitude of the crime of dividing the body of Christ is magnified by the motive: self-service and deception. Serving the Lord is secondary to their own self satisfaction. The person who departs from serving the Lord is forced into, whether his intentions are noble or not, the unenviable position of “teaching for doctrine the commandments of men” (Matt, 15:9). This places him in the class with those who engage in the unfruitful works of darkness discussed above.

Therefore it is, in my judgment, just as heinous and intolerable for one to “cause division and offences contrary to the doctrine” (of Christ) as it is to “walk disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us.” Paul commanded that we withdraw ourselves from any brother who so walked (II Thess. 3:6). The commandment of Paul is no less requirement to withdraw ourselves from those who walk disorderly than to withdraw ourselves from those who cause division and offences contrary to the doctrine of Christ. Both are disorderly conduct and should be treated with the same severity.

Were it not for the sentence pronouced upon those who cause division (avoid them), it might be acceptable, as some want it to be, to just be wary of one who is a trouble maker. It is impossible to cause division within the body of Christ without violating some or all of the abominations Solomon records in Proverbs 6:16-19.

II John 9-11. The reader is first confronted with a condition that would result in the severance of fellowship with both God and Christ. The reason for that severance is he “goeth onward and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ.” Some contend that what John is saying refers to those who do not accept the incarnation of Jesus as the Son of God as opposed to the teaching of Christ. Much confusion is generated by that position. The following is my evaluation of why the inspired writer does not have in mind simply the incarnation of the Christ:

1. Every religious group who claims to be a part of so-called “Christendom” would fall into the category of those who have both the Father and the Son. If, indeed, every religious body that does not fit the Divine pattern of origin and practice is an “unfruitful work of darkness” as discussed above, then it would be impossible for them to have both the Father and the Son.
2. In each of the first four verses reference is made to “truth” as a matter of doctrine. Verse 1 speaks of those that “have known the truth.” Verse 2 refers to “the truth’s sake.” Verse 3 talks of grace being with you. . . “in truth and love.” Verse 4 speaks of “walking in truth.” Verse 5 refers to the “. . . (commandment) which we had from the beginning,” and verse 6 the commandment, “That, as ye have heard from the beginning, ye should walk in it.” All of these references to truth and commandments have to do with a system of doctrine that we should observe and obey. Verse 7 refers to the “antichrist” or “deceiver” who denies the coming of Jesus in the flesh. Of course, he who refuses to obey the truth and refuses to walk in the commandments of God denies the Deity of Jesus. The conclusion from the context of II John then is that those who go beyond the teaching which Christ taught, (not the doctrine regarding the Deity of Christ, or about Christ), are those who sin and who do not have the Father.
3. To take the position that the “doctrine of Christ” refers to the Deity of Jesus rather than His doctrine denies the very teaching of Christ which condemns the doctrines of men (Matt. 15:9). Every doctrine of denominationalism is a doctrine of man. Therefore, to claim II John 9 teaches that everyone who believes that Jesus came as the Son of God in the flesh has both the Father and the Son, and who also claims to believe Matthew 15:9 condemns denominationalism cannot be consistent.
4. Other similar grammatical constructions lean to the fact that John has reference to the doctrine which Christ taught. Revelation 2:15 speaks of the “doctrine of the Nicolaitanes.” This is certainly not the doctrine about the Nicolaitanes, but the doctrine the Nicolaitanes taught. Matthew 7:28 records, “. . .When Jesus ended these sayings, the people were astonished at His doctrine.” They were astonished at what He taught. Paul warned about “being carried about with every wind of doctrine” (Eph. 4:14). Titus 2:10 is even more conclusive: “Not purloining, but shewing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things.” This is a clear reference to Jesus as He is referred to as “our Saviour.” The doctrine we may adorn is the teaching of Jesus rather than the fact of His incarnation.
   

The teaching of II John 10 and 11 expands on verse 9. Anyone who may try to teach another doctrine (teaching, ASV) should not be received into fellowship. Anyone who does agree with error is as guilty as those who teach error. They are in violation of the clear teaching of Paul in Galatians 1:6-9.

Conclusion: With the clear and emphatic teaching of the Bible in regard to fellowship and the basis for this blessing, it is puzzling how faithful gospel preachers can participate in activities which are in direct contradiction to the principles of truth. The plea is made that our universities which have become liberal in their basic postures are not the church, therefore should not be governed by the the same doctrinal restrictions. This is strange in the light of the passages which we have discussed. This same argument could be made regarding the work place. If it is permitted and acceptable to encourage a university which is teaching full fellowship with denominational groups; which is teaching the direct operation of the Holy Spirit separate from the word of God; which is claiming the Bible to be errant and not all-sufficient; which is teaching the use of instrumental music in worship is optional and not sinful; which is teaching that women can have leading roles in the worship of God, and to the extent of tolerating a professor who teaches that the Mother of Jesus was just another sexually questionable woman, then it is just as acceptable and permissable to cheat, lie, steal, murder, commit fornication, be dishonest and unethical, etc. in private life, which actions are no more contrary to the teaching of the Bible than they are.

My personal position is, I believe based on the teaching of the Bible, that those preachers who participate in lectureships in places where liberal preachers prevail such as at the Jubilee, Tulsa Workshop, Pepperdine, Harding, David Lipscomb, Abilene Christian, or at any other setting, are giving lip-service to those organizations and are having fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness. They are certainly contributing to “causing division and offences contrary to the doctrine ye have learned,” and are being “partakers of their evil deeds.”

One thought more: If, indeed, a faithful gospel preacher is invited to appear on one of their programs and takes advantage of the opportunity to “reprove them” (Eph. 5:11), then he should do so. However, I would think that the likelihood of one who would do that being invited to appear would not be very probable.
Thanks for the opportunity to express my beliefs on these passages. I hope it is helpful.

Kindest regards,
/s/ Eddie Whitten
President, Firm Foundation

[Editor’s Note: Please notice Brother Whitten’s next to last paragraph which begins, “My personal position is. . . .” I could not have said it better or stronger than he said it and I “amen” it with all my being! This is what we have always taught and stood for at Tennessee Bible College. Yet I have a copy of a letter where Brother Eddie Whitten called those of us at Tennessee Bible College radical. If we are radical on the fellowship issue, then where does that place Brother Whitten since we agree with his material herein printed wholeheartedly?—MLH]

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January 10, 1997

Malcolm L. Hill
Tennessee Bible College
P. O. Box 865
Cookeville, TN 38503

Dear Brother Hill,

I have your letter in regard to preachers participating in what we consider to be liberal lectureships with preachers who may teach false doctrines, and if Eph. 5:11, Rom. 16:17-18, and II John 9 apply to such participation. These are hard questions. Some ideas have to do with matters of faith, and others of opinion. Some think to go to JUBILEE to see first hand and observe, as a visitor, is not wrong; whereas, others think to attend is to lend endorsement to what is being taught and done, and that it is wrong to go. Personally, I have never attended JUBILEE, and have no intention of ever going so long as the present system continues. I did visit Tulsa Workshop many years ago for a session or two, while visiting relatives in the city. I have never been asked to have any part in either of these programs. I do not think I would feel comfortable having a public part in either program. If I were invited to any of the colleges you mentioned, as a guest speaker, I think I would let it be known that I would preach the truth and not endorse any of the errors that might be taught. I think we are not to go along with religious errors and leave the impression on members of the church and denominational people that our differences in teaching and practice does not matter. This it seems is being done today on the part of some preachers in our brotherhood. I think that this is wrong, and the Scriptures you mentioned do apply. This is not the Lord’s way of having “unity.” It is compromise. It is breaking down the distinctive plea of going by the N.T. in all that we do and having the true, N.T. church. I have never done this and do not intend to.

Many years ago in my local work I was invited to come to a Methodist Church, where I was living, and talk to the young people about the church of Christ on a Sunday afternoon. I accepted the invitation gladly. I studied Leroy Brownlow’s tract (Sermon in the Methodist Church) and largely followed it. The young people listened as I told of the church and our plea for N.T. Christianity; that Campbell and others did not found a Church of Christ denomination, etc. I would do the same again if I had the opportunity. I think the early pioneers of the gospel did this many times as they went over the country preaching. To preach the truth in a denominational building does not make it wrong.

I do not think Bro. H. Leo Boles did wrong in going and speaking on the so-called “Unity Meeting” years ago. He taught the truth on what caused the division and how it could be restored. I would do the same today if I had the opportunity. However, if he had compromised and let it be known that instrumental music, etc., did not matter and that we ought to just accept everything and everybody, it would have been wrong and violated the Scriptures.

I am having some second thoughts now about having a part in some of our lectureships sponsored by local churches where error is being taught on the Holy Spirit, that the Spirit in some way, over and above and beyond the Word of God, leads, directs, etc., the Christian. They deny that this is a part of Calvinism, but it is. I do not think that this form of Pentecostalism (which it is) should be taught in what is considered sound, faithful lectureship. . .at least without it being answered. This movement is growing rapidly in the denominationalism world, in all countries. It is causing division in some places. Those who are promoting it seemingly do not want to publicly debate the issue. Too, I do not endorse the “Promise Keepers” movement. I do not think that Lispcomb, Boles, Hardeman, Wallace, and others would endorse such. The church today is being faced with some very serious problems in doctrine. If we fellowship the denominations in their false teaching, then soon, logically, we must fellowship the Moslems, Hindus and other false systems of religion. I am afraid that this is the way “Religion” is going in the world. Who knows, soon many will by saying that Christianity is just another religion and one system is as good as another and it makes no difference which religion we follow. Then what about John 14:6, Heb. 5:9, and many other statements of the Bible? Is the Koran to be accepted on the same basis as the Bible? This is why we cannot afford to compromise with what the Bible teaches and cooperate in any way with the religious errors and man-made systems, even though they may claim to follow the Bible, or believe in Jesus. Indeed, we are to do all that we can to teach others the truth, in love.

I want to thank you for your good work in faithfully teaching God’s Word there in the school. Please put me on your mailing list to receive your paper. I am enclosing a tract which I have recently written. If you want more I can send them. I trust some day that I may be able to visit the college and see your work. I am now slowing down some in my travels but still preaching in the states in meetings and lectureships as I have opportunity. It was good to see you for a few moments at East Hill in Pulaski, TN. recently. God bless you and your labors in every righteous way.

Sincerely in Christ,
/s/ Perry B. Cotham

[Editor’s Note: Brother Cotham is on the money with his remarks about Christian fellowship. If we follow his instructions, we will not appear on programs with unfaithful brethren without correcting and rebuking them. I pray Brother Cotham will check very carefully the programs he is asked to be on in the future and that he will stand up for Jesus when on those programs. Again, we at Tennessee Bible College have always followed the Lord’s teaching on Christian fellowship. —MLH]

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January 10, 1997

Malcom L. Hill, President
Tennessee Bible College
P.O. Box 865
Cookeville, Tennessee 38503-0865

Dear Malcom:

I will be brief and to the point. I assume that the exegesis of the passages you will do, or have someone to do. My understanding of these passages about individuals or groups of individuals is as follows: (1) Ephesians 5:11 forbids me to have fellowship with religious error and obligates me to reprove (correct or rebukes) the advocates. (2) Romans 16:17-18 requires that I mark those that teach false doctrine and to honor those who have marked the false teachers. (3) Second John 9-11 teaches me that if I go beyond what is written that I do not have the blessings of fellowship with the Christ or God. The same passage obligates me not to encourage those who have rejected the doctrine of Christ. I understand the doctrine of Christ to be more that his Deity and/or humanity.

I recognize that this may not always be easy to do. There may have been error in a congregation where I conduct a meeting or speak. In any such circumstance, I must be sure that my conduct does not promote evil but the good.

I trust this will suffice.

Sincerely,
/s/Jackie M. Stearsman

[Editor’s Note: We agree with Brother Stearsman with reference to what he says about the passages mentioned. He says a faithful Christian is obligated to reprove (correct or rebuke) the advocates of error. Tennessee Bible College teaches this and has taught it through the years. If we are extremists on the issue of Christian fellowship, then so would Brother Stearsman be. —MLH]

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January 14, 1997

Malcolm Hill
P.O. Box 865
Cookeville, TN 38503

Dear Malcolm:

I hope this information helps in your research on the subject of fellowship. There is no way that we can appear on lectureships, etc. with false teachers without letting the people to whom we are speaking know the truth. We have too many brethren who will speak anywhere, anytime. This would be all right if they would say what needed to be said.

If any honest person would answer the questions which are enclosed, I believe he could see that he cannot fellowship false doctrine and false teachers with God's approval. We must also remember that fellowship can only be extended to those who are in fellowship with God.

Some brethren seem to want to be popular with everyone. We must have the attitude that we want to please God. May God help us to have the courage to stand for Him.

In the Master's service,
/s/ Wesley Simons

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III. 2 John 9-11: Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.

1. Notice, that there is a relationship between abiding in the doctrine of Christ and having God. To put it another way, one cannot have God without abiding in the doctrine of Christ.
2. If one cannot have God without the doctrine of Christ, then we cannot bid God speed to those who teach a doctrine contrary to the doctrine of Christ.
   
3. We are not to receive a false teacher into our homes. That means we cannot bid them God speed.
4. One who comes with another doctrine is said to be involved with evil deeds.
5. Some have tried to get around Bible doctrine by saying the doctrine of Christ in these verses is the doctrine about Christ.
6. What about the doctrine of the Pharisees and Sadducees? Matthew 16:12: Then understood they how that he bade them not beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and Sadducees. (Was this just a teaching of what the Pharisees and Sadducees were like, or was it what they taught?)
7. 2 John 9: Whosoever goeth onward and abideth not in the teaching of Christ, hath not God: he that abideth in the teaching, the same hath both the Father and the Son (ASV).
8. Notice, one can go onward, or beyond the teaching of Christ.
9. Deuteronomy 4:2: Ye shall not add unto the word which I commond you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it, that ye may keep the commandments of the LORD your God which I command you. (Notice, that one is not to add or diminish from God's word that he might keep the commandments of God.)
10. When one adds to or diminishes from God's word, then it is no longer God's word.
11. We cannot fellowship those who do this.
    

IV. Questions for those who fellowship error and false teachers: (Answer all questions either true or false.)

_______	1.	God hates false doctrine.
_______	2.	We are to hate false doctrine.
_______	3.	God is in fellowship with false teachers.
_______	4.	We are to fellowship with false teachers.
_______	5.	All Christians who fellowship false teachers please God.
_______	6.	False doctrine is just as good as the doctrine of Christ.
_______	7.	We must teach against religious error.
_______	8.	It is consistent to teach against religious error, and then fellowship those who practice it.
_______	9.	It is truth that sets one free.
_______	10.	Error will set one free.
_______	11.	Man has a right to change God's will.
_______	12.	The creeds and doctrines of men are as good as the doctrine of Christ.
_______	13.	We must judge all teachings by the Bible.
_______	14.	there is such a thing as vain worship.
_______	15.	We can know the truth.
_______	16.	Truth is in the eyes of the beholder. (I can see it one way, you another.)
_______	17.	The Bible is a confusing book.
_______	18.	All who fellowship error sin in so doing.
_______	19.	Rubel Shelly is right in fellowshipping the Christian church.
_______	20.	All who fellowship the Christian church sin in so doing.
_______	21.	All who fellowship Rubel Shelly sin in so doing.
_______	22.	Truth is absolute and attainable.
_______	23.	Biblical love overlooks error.
_______	24.	It is unchristian to expose error.
_______	25.	God has a specific plan of salvation.
_______	26.	All who deviate from God's plan of salvation sin.
_______	27.	God has a specific plan of worship.
_______	28.	All who deviate from God's plan of worship sin.
_______	29.	God has a specific moral code taught in the word of God.
_______	30.	All who deviate from God's moral code sin.
_______	31.	We must follow God's will to get to heaven.
_______	32.	We can follow the part of the New Testament that we like and expect to get to heaven.
_______	33.	We can eliminate the Bible completely and still go to heaven.
_______	34.	One must obey God to be saved.
_______	35.	Obeying God is not important.
_______	36.	A manmade church is just as good as the Lord's church.
_______	37.	One can learn God's will only from the Bible.
_______	38.	To endorse a man teaching truth is to bid him God speed.
_______	39.	To endorse a man teaching error is to bid him God speed.
_______	40.	It is right to mix truth with error.
_______	41.	It is right to fellowship those who mix truth with error.
_______	42.	God is pleased with those who mix truth with error.
_______	43.	Truth and error are mutually exclusive.
_______	44.	God and error go hand and hand.
_______	45.	God and truth go hand and hand.
_______	46.	To endorse error is to endorse that which is against the nature of God.
_______	47.	There is a standard by which all men are to live.
_______	48.	The Koran is as truthful as the Bible.
_______	49.	The Book of Mormon is as truthful as the Bible.
_______	50.	Baptist doctrine is as truthful as the Bible.
_______	51.	I can fellowship those who endorse the Koran.
_______	52.	I can fellowship those who endorse the Book of Mormon.
_______	53.	I can fellowship those who endorse Baptist doctrine.
_______	54.	I can appear on a lecturehsip where the Koran is being endorsed (say nothing to expose it) and be right in the sight of God.
_______	55.	I can appear on a lectureship hosted by the Mormons (say nothing to expose their doctrine) and be right in the sight of God.
_______	56.	I can appear on a lectureship hosted by the Baptists (say nothing to expose their doctrine) and be right in the sight of God.
_______	57.	I can appear on a lectureship hosted by brethren that teach error (say nothing to expose their error) and be right in the sight of God.
_______	58.	It is possible to bid error God speed.
_______	59.	One must be concerned about what he endorses.
_______	60.	If God tells us not to bid God speed to error, He means it.
_______	61.	If God tells us to have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, He means it.
_______	62.	If God tells us to mark those who teach doctrines contrary to the doctrine of Christ, He means it.
_______	63.	If God tells us to avoid those who teach doctrines contrary to the doctrine of Christ, He means it.
_______	64.	I can fellowship anyone I so desire.
_______	65.	The lines of fellowship are determined by God.
_______	66.	All Christians must determine who they will fellowship.
_______	67.	All Christians must determine who they will fellowship based upon their own feelings.
_______	68.	All Christians must determine who they will fellowship based upon the teachings of the Bible
_______	69.	All who go beyond the fellowship boundaries of the Bible sin in so doing.
_______	70.	God does ot care who we fellowship.
_______	71.	Fellowship boundaries cannot be determined.
_______	72.	What one preaches and where he preaches is no one's business.
_______	73.	I can fellowship those who deny the Christ.
_______	74.	I can fellowship those who deny God.
_______	75.	I can fellowship those who deny there is one church.
_______	76.	I can fellowship those who deny baptism as being essential to salvation.
_______	77.	I can fellowship those who employ instrumental music in worship to God.
_______	78.	I can fellowship those who fellowship denominational churches.
_______	79.	God expects us to withdraw fellowship from those who walk disorderly.
_______	80.	The Bible teaches that fellowship can be extended to righteous people.
_______	81.	The Bible teaches that fellowship can be withdrawn from those who live ungodly.
_______	82.	The Bible teaches that fellowship can be withdrawn from those who teach false doctrine.
_______	83.	Christians can walk hand and hand with all religious people without committing sin.
_______	84.	One can walk with God and Satan at the same time.
_______	85.	One can fellowship God and Satan at the same time.
_______	86.	God is in fellowship with Satan.
_______	87.	God is in fellowship with those who live for Satan.
_______	88.	False doctrine is from Satan.
_______	89.	Those who endorse false doctrine endorse Satan.
_______	90.	Those who endorse those that teach false doctrine endorse Satan.
_______	91.	Satan loves truth.
_______	92.	Satan loves error.
_______	93.	Christians are to love error. (Give the Bible view.)
_______	94.	Christians are to love truth. (Give the bible view.)
_______	95.	A Christian can work for the Billy Graham campaign and be pleasing to God.
_______	96.	I want to stand before the Christ judgment day as one who endorsed error.
_______	97.	I want to stand before the Christ judgment day as one who endorsed those who taught error.
_______	98.	I want to stand before the Christ judgment day as one who endorsed truth and those who taught it.
_______	99.	All men will be judged by truth judgment day.
_______	100.	Who and what I fellowship determines whether I am in fellowship with God.

[Editor’s Note: Brother Wesley Simons has written a lengthy article about Christian fellowship as you can see. I started to drop some of it out but decided against it because it lets you see how strongly he is in writing against fellowshipping false teachers. I would encourage Brother Wesley to get more into the battle and not just write strongly. We agree with the thrust of his article. The teachers at Tennessee Bible College oppose openly and forthrightly false teachers and those who fellowship false teachers—the very thing Brother Wesley writes strongly about and in which he agrees with us even though he wrote a letter stating, “TBC has gone to the radical extreme.” We have followed the Bible doctrine of fellowship about which Brother Wesley Simons has written correctly yet he says we have gone to the radical extreme. How on earth can one get any sense out of this?—MLH]

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11 January 1997

Dear brother Malcolm,

Thanks for your good letter. I rejoice that you take every verse of the Bible seriously.

If Paul were here, I believe he would say that his explanation of Ephesians 5:11 and Romans 16:17-18 was given in 1 Timothy 1:19-20; 2 Timothy 2:16-18; 4;14.

If John were here, I believe he would say that his explanation of 2 John 9-11 was given in 3 John 9-10.

If one holds that “the doctrine of Christ” (2 John 9) is an objective genitive, “the doctrine about Christ,” misusing v. 7, he nullifies Matthew 7:21; Mark 8:38; Luke 6:46; and John 12:48. If one holds that “the doctrine of Christ” (2 John 9) is a subjective genitive, “the doctrine that Christ taught,” he makes all Bible verses harmonize.

I do not comprehend how faithful preachers would appear on lectureships with liberal preachers without sounding a protest both to the lectureship director and to the liberal preachers.

May the book you are writing strengthen both young and older gospel preachers.

Faithfully,
/s/ Hugo McCord

[Editor’s Note: Brother Hugo McCord’s answer to my request is a pearl of great price. It is a classic in its own right. I do not believe anyone can do a better job than Brother McCord did in his exegesis of these verses. I do not believe he is about right, I believe he is exactly right. Thanks, Brother McCord, for your great scholarship. We agree with you 100% about what you said on these verses. This is where the men at Tennessee Bible College stand.—MLH]

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January 16, 1997

Mr. Malcolm L. Hill
Tennessee Bible College
P. O. Box 865
Cookeville, TN 38503-0865

Dear Malcolm,

I am in receipt of your letter inquiring about several texts relating to fellowship and of another came a few days later concerning an article in Spiritual Sword.

As it happens I had responded to a question regarding II John 9-11 in a recent issue of Magnolia Messenger. I am including a copy and hope you find it helpful.

I personally believe that sound, faithful preachers ought to be on every lectureship in our brotherhood, particularly those where false teaching is espoused. I believe they should teach needed truths in opposition to any falsehoods being set forth. It is unlikely, of course, that many would be invited for that purpose but, if some would speak to the important issues and do so firmly but kindly and persuasively, it might happen.

That does not in any way, of course, excuse those who appear on such programs to promote erroneous ideas that are a basic part of the program, or to give approval to those who do so.

The point of the particular sentence you quoted in your letter is that the primary thrust of a man’s life and teaching ought to be considered as we evaluate what his likely purpose is in speaking at any specific event. I believe that is a valid point to make.

Sincerely,
/s/Cecil May Jr.

[Editor’s Note: Brother May is saying in the third paragraph of his letter what we have been teaching for several years. He sees clearly that false doctrine should be exposed on lectureships. I am for faithful preachers appearing on programs if they will expose false teachers and their false doctrine. Brother Cecil May has been on many lectureships where false teachers appeared and he said nothing to expose them. While he writes one thing, he practices something else. I can sincerely say that this is very sad to me. I can truly “amen” the third paragraph of his letter because it sets forth the truth.—MLH]

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January 7, 1997

Malcolm L. Hill
Tennessee Bible College
P. O. Box 865
Cookeville, TN 38503-0865

Dear Brother Hill:

In response to your letter of December 30 please note the following observations:

1. Ephesians 5:11 teaches that we are to have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather we are to reprove them.
2. Romans 16:17-18 teaches that we must mark and avoid false teachers.
3. II John 9-11 indicates that to give approval to those teaching false doctrine causes one to partake of the sins of the false teacher.
   

The above stated passages would indeed apply to liberal and apostate gatherings and lectureships such as Jubilee, Tulsa Workshop, Harding, Lipscomb, Pepperdine, and Abilene Universities, etc. Obviously biblical fellowship is joint-participation therefore speaking on such a lectureship and/or program would be sinful—II John 9-11.

There is an additional observation that I would also make. Ephesians 5:11 makes a distinction between fellowship and reproof. Obviously, if one entered into a public debate with a false teacher on the campus of Harding University no fellowship would take place. If one went to an apostate gathering to specifically and publicly confront error openly marking the false teacher and refuting his error no fellowship would take place. This, however, would not be the same as accepting an invitation to simply speak at one of the liberal lectureships or gatherings.

Faithfully,
/s/Kent Bailey

P.S. – The same principle would apply to the use of false teachers or those that fellowship them on sound lectureships—such would be sinful. Hope this has been a help to you. — KB

[Editor’s Note: I want to thank Brother Kent Bailey for being so honest in writing this material on fellowship. We agree with him 100%. However, Robert Taylor, William Woodson, James Watkins, and Wendell Winkler disagree, in practice, with him on the doctrine of Christian fellowship. They have fellowshipped knowingly and intentionally false teachers and those who have fellowshipped false teachers without saying anything to expose them. Brother Bailey is to be on a lectureship with these men in the near future. Will he call their names and expose them? Will he practice what he has written? We hope so!— MLH]

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In response to a letter from Malcolm Hill dated January 6, 1997 requesting views concerning Ephesians 5:11, Romans 16:17-18, and II John 9-11 and asking questions about appearing on programs such as Jubilee, Tulsa Workshop, David Lipscomb University, etc., with liberal preachers, the following brief note was received from E. Claude Gardner:

Malcolm,

My answer: a few years ago I was invited to speak on the lectureship of a college and I accepted. Later I read that Rubel was to speak also, and I then cancelled my engagement.

/s/ E. Claude Gardner

[Editor’s Note: Brother E. Claude Gardner’s short response to my request for him to tell us what II John 9-11, Ephesians 5:11, and Romans 16:17-18 teach is perhaps one of the clearest answers out of all the comments made on these passages. Brother Gardner knows that if one follows the Bible it is not right to be on a program with a man like Rubel Shelly without rebuking him. I agree that one may decline to be on such a program if he so wishes. Brother Gardner refused to be on a college lectureship program with Brother Shelly, but he does not refuse to be on Freed-Hardeman University’s lectures with some who are just about as bad or as bad as Brother Rubel Shelly without rebuking them. I have proof available! Freed-Hardeman is already in liberalism and they are continuing their march in that direction. I have proof available for this! Is Brother Gardner an extremist for refusing to be on a college lectureship program with Rubel Shelly? I think not. I express the feelings of all at Tennessee Bible College along this line.—MLH]

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February 12, 1997

Malcolm L. Hill
Tennessee Bible College
P. O. Box 865
Cookeville, TN 38503-0865

Dear brother Hill;

Sorry for the delay in returning a reply to you regarding the questions you asked. Your letter came around the time of my father-in-law’s passing and it was put aside. I had forgotten it and have just now run across it again and will seek to answer your questions.
You ask. . .

Would you explain Eph. 5:11; Rom. 16:17-18 and II John 9-11 for me? Do these passages have anything to do with faithful preachers being on a lectureship such as Jubilee, Tulsa Workshop, Pepperdine University, Harding University, David Lipscomb University, and Abilene University lectures with liberal preachers? If so, please explain and if not, please explain.

Ephesians 5:11, “And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.”

Romans 16:17-18, “Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.”

II John 9-11, “Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.”

All of these passages are very clear and precise. The Lord’s people, those who have been washed in the blood of the Lamb (Rev. 7:14) and walk after the Spirit (Rom. 8:1, 4), are not to associate with or otherwise be entangled with “works of darkness” and, those who engage in such works. The lectureships and workshops you have mentioned above have proven themselves through the years to be “hotbeds” of liberalism, compromise and digression. Not a one of them are contributing to the good fight of faith in combating error. If so, let them produce such evidence. The only thing they oppose is the Truth and the faithful men and women who uphold it. The only way a faithful Gospel preacher could entertain the thought of involving himself in such programs would be to do as Isaiah was told, “Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and shew my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins” (Isa. 58:1). Otherwise, his participation would be a compromise of the Truth and the right ways of the Lord. It would not be enough for him to simply say, “I preached the truth in my lesson(s).” One may preach the truth and nothing but the truth all his life, even practice what he preached, and still lose his soul because he failed to declare “the whole counsel of God” (Acts 20:26-27).

It is not enough for one to say, “I don’t teach false doctrine nor fellowship those who do.” Ephesians 5:11 makes it clear that the Christian’s duty is to go beyond simply “having no fellowship with” error and those who practice it, we must also REPROVE both the error and those who propagate it! It’s one thing to not fellowship error but quite another to aggressively oppose it. Some appear to be willing to do the one (not fellowship) but are unwilling to do the other (reprove those who do). For one to claim to not fellowship those in error is, in effect, to assist them when he sits idly by and does nothing to oppose, obstruct, expose, uncover and disclose their ungodly ways. That may be strong language for some, but the Lord used strong language when dealing with error (Matt. 23:13-39). Paul said Elymas the sorcerer was full of subtilty, mischief, an enemy of all righteousness and a child of the devil because he ceased not to pervert the rights ways of the Lord (Acts 13: 10). Such passages could be multiplied many times over.

It is high time that those who claim to be Christians would open their eyes to what’s going on throughout the brotherhood. It is time for them to objectively compare what is happening in those schools who claim association with brethren, with what the Bible says, and then follow the Bible, not the schools. Such institutions as named above are tearing down the very foundation of scriptural honesty, integrity, and doctrinal purity. They may cease to exist and the church would be none the worse. The Lord’s church is the “eternal purpose of God” (Eph. 3:10-11). It was founded in A.D. 33 and will continue until the Lord comes again. However, such schools were founded by men and are susceptible to “perish with the using” (Col. 2:22). They are largely dependent upon the support of brethren for both their students and finances. If the church ceased to exist, the schools would die. The church on the other hand, by no means, depends upon the schools. They would like us to believe that church is dependent upon them, but those who know and love the Truth know better.

The schools named in your question are leeches. They pilfer from brethren, many of whom, are unsuspecting. We need to work and pray that those who name the Lord’s name will come to the knowledge of the truth while they have time and repent of their support of aiding and abetting the “unfruitful works of error.”

For the Lord’s Cause
/s/Garland M. Robinson

[Editor’s Note: Brother Garland Robinson has written well about these verses and we agree with him. However, of late he has departed in some cases from what he has written. Has he decided he was wrong? Just what has happened? Maybe he can tell us in his Seek The Old Paths.—MLH]

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Mr. Malcolm Hill
P.O. Box 865
Cookeville, TN 38503

Dear Malcolm,

It was good to hear from you. I appreciate so much the good that I continue to see come out of TBC. Also am thankful that you are a president who still believes in getting into the classroom. I recall a conversation with bro. Dixon years ago at FHC and how he said that if he could not teach, he would not be at the school. It is so important that school men keep in touch with the reality of the lives of those they are training.

You asked about Eph. 5:11; Rom. 16:17-18, and II John 9-11. If the question is do they have anything to do with speaking on lectureships the answer is yes. However, if by this you mean should faithful preachers never appear/speak in such settings, the answer is no.

Look first at what is forbidden—Ephesians 5 forbids any fellowship with darkness. Romans 16:17 commands we mark and avoid them. II John 9-11 specifically mentions we must not receive them or bid them God’s speed. Anytime appearing on such lectureships involves fellowship, receiving, and bidding them God’s speed, such appearance is wrong.

On the other hand there are biblical examples of faithful brethren appearing “on the same platform” with false teachers where these verses were not violated. Those early Christian were “. . .continuing daily in the temple. . .” (Acts 2:46), and even used the temple porch (Acts 3:11), as a venue to teach the truth. The description later given is “. . .they were all with one accord in Solomon’s porch. . .” (Acts 5:12). When released from prison Peter was told, “Go stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life” (Acts 5:21). Keep in mind that these apostles were doing exactly what Jesus did, speaking of spiritual matters in the temple itself!

The impact of such is seen in the details about Stephen’s death. The Bible says that a “great company of the priests were obedient to the faith. . .” (Acts 6:7). Can anyone imagine that the preaching of the early church in the temple itself is not related to these conversions? The very trial of Stephen was before the council, where religious matters were discussed by the Jewish leaders (e.g. Gamiliel’s statement, “If it be of God. . .”).

Now look at the practice of Paul in the book of Acts. He preached in the synagogue in Damascus (9:20), Salamis (13:5), Antioch of Pisidia (13:14), Iconium (14:1), Thessalonica (17:1-2), Athens (17:17), and Corinth (18:4). Acts 17:2 sums it up best, “And Paul, as his manner was, went in unto them, and three sabbath days reasoned with them out of the scriptures.”

Look at how his actions did not violate the verses you asked about. He did not have fellowship with them, he did not receive them or bid them God’s speed! It is not the appearing at such gatherings that is of concern—it is the fact that almost always there is more involved than simply being there!

To see that his practice within the synagogues was the same practice he used in reference to false brethren, consider the council in Acts 15. The “circumcision brethren” were brethren, who came to Antioch, and began teaching false doctrine. These brethren parallel many who use Jubilee, Tulsa, etc. as an opportunity to restructure the church. The Bible shows that Paul and Barnabas “shared the pulpit with them,” and describes it in these words. “When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and disputation with them. . .” (Acts 15:2). When they came to Jerusalem the elders and the apostles came together, look at the results. “And when there had been much disputing. . .” (Acts 15:7). False brethren had their say, but it was dealt with immediately. In Galatians he faced this same doctrine, and wrote about the events of Acts 15. He explained his actions regarding Titus and then says, “And that because of false brethren unawares brought in, who come in privily to spy out our liberty. . .to whom we gave place by subjection, no, not for an hour; that the truth of the gospel might continue with you” (Gal. 2:4-5).

In view of this there is nothing inherently wrong with appearing at Jubilee provided that such appearance parallels the practice of Paul! However this is not the question that often is addressed! Would Paul appear at Jubilee, Tulsa, Pepperdine, Abilene, etc.? Absolutely! Would he be allowed to speak once they knew what he was about to say? The answer is obvious. Isn’t it ironic that these events never invite brethren known for their strong defense of truth to come! Think about it.

Can faithful brethren speak at these events? Yes, if they will do as Paul did. The real question is can they be counted faithful if they let opportunities to deal with real danger facing the church pass them by.

Having fellowship (Eph. 5:11) is to appear and leave behind the idea that whatever differences exist are small, and of little consequence. The Bible does not talk of limited fellowship, it speaks of no fellowship. Bidding them God’s speed is to appear with false brethren and leave the impression that their beliefs are no matter of great concern.

Look at the positive commands regarding our actions in such places. Ephesians 5:11 demands that those things we cannot fellowship must be reproved! This is the heart of the issue—not the appearance, but the absolute disdain by those who do appear to reprove wrong. Romans 16 gives positive instructions—mark them and avoid them! One could appear at such gatherings, preach no error, yet totally ignore what these verses teach about such brethren. If faithful preachers are those who mark and avoid such brethren, what description is there of those who appear but fail to mark and avoid such brethren? Finally look at direct commands given in II John. We cannot receive, bid God speed to anyone who comes and does not bring the doctrine of Christ.

Think again about the question you asked. Can faithful brethren speak at such places? He may be faithful when he goes, but if by going he bids God speed to error Gods says he is “partaker” (the word for fellowship) of the evil deeds of the false teacher. It is a stretch to understand how some brethren can acknowledge that false brethren are on these lectureships, then go and bid them God’s speed, and expect God to still consider them faithful! God says that he at such time “faithful brethren” fall into the same category with those they have acknowledged are not faithful brethren!

Hope this helps you. My spell checker is not working so please correct any spelling or grammatical errors you see. Thanks again for being what you are.

Brotherly,
/s/Dan Jenkins

[Editor’s Note: When all is said and done, Dan winds up where we are and have been all along the way with reference to Christian fellowship. We have never said it is wrong to go and speak out against error on any lectureship. The trouble is that brethren go and fellowship false teachers and those who fellowship false teachers and do not expose the false doctrines of those false teachers. Many have done this knowing they are on a program with a false teacher or those who fellowship false teachers. Thank you, Dan, for this material.—MLH]

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January 9, 1997

Malcolm L. Hill, President
Tennessee Bible College
P. O. Box 865
Cookeville, Tennessee 38503-0865

Dear brother Hill,

I want you to know how much I appreciate the work you all are doing. I have heard good and rejoice in it. I’m glad you are doing a book which refers to the passages you listed. Let me make a few comments on your letter.

One, I believe the verses you gave apply to all the institutions you mentioned. They are wrong, I sincerely believe, in fellowshipping known false teachers. Two, in doing so they promote false doctrine and endorse the false teacher. Three, if I spoke there, I would in a real way endorse them that teach and promote error. I could not do that for conscience’ sake. Four, however, if granted an opportunity to speak out and convict or debate those in error I would of course go anywhere. It seems to me that Abilene will use the name of a token conservative, and give him a placid, innocuous topic. They believe by such politics they gain ground or hold the aggressors at bay a little. I believe it never really works; it only appears deceptive and it hurts the artless preacher.

I have included a tract I recently wrote due to such attitudes in our area. I believe what scriptures and principles apply to the denominations would apply to false teachers in the church. You may use anything I write in any way you choose to help deter error. I am grateful for your efforts and concern.

In Christian love,
/s/Jerry Moffitt

[Editor’s Note: I appreciate Brother Jerry Moffitt’s letter so very much. He is on the money and we give a hearty “amen” to what he has said. The men at Tennessee Bible College practice what Brother Moffitt has written, not because he said it but because the Bible teaches it. Brother Moffitt, some want to label us as extremists because we practice what you have written about the Bible doctrine of Christian fellowship.—MLH]

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A Genuine Plea

Martin Luther once wrote:

When it comes to the Lord’s church and the Lord’s work, we should all say and really mean it: “Let good and kindred go, This mortal life also.” Whatever it takes to be faithful, loyal, and true to Christ, we should be willing to lay it on the altar for Him. The church is so divided today that it is deplorable. Why is it so? There are many reasons, all of which we may not know. Some are more loyal to friends than they are to the Word of God. Some have so much sinful pride that they cannot find it in themselves to say, “I have been wrong.” Many church leaders and preachers find their children have strayed away, and rather than being strong in the Lord and in the power of His might they are willing to let them glide into hell with little or no opposition to their non-biblical practices.

Many of the preachers know what is right. They are very aware of the liberalism that is among us. They know the Bible well enough to turn to the Word of the Lord and point out the wrong and the cure for it. But why do they not do so? Some of them are concerned about security and support for their bodily needs. They are afraid to speak up and stand up because they might be fired from their present employment. They fear this would mean no bread on their tables, no clothing on their backs, and no houses in which to live. A man who is so controlled by the material things of this life and who has such little faith in God to take care of him when he is striving for His cause should never get into the pulpit! Please let him not call himself a Gospel preacher and a man of God.

In the church of Christ today we have political machines. Believe me when I say that they are at work. Some will not stand up for Bible truth because they fear what will happen to them from these political outfits in the body of Christ. Are these political machines a new thing in the Lord’s church? Most certainly not. They have been in the church for ages and will be until Jesus comes. “You say it and do it our way or out you go” is their motto. Another way to say it would be that we have preachers’ unions. If one does not belong to a certain union he is black-balled and castigated. He cannot look for a place on the lectureship roll; he will not be used in certain Gospel meetings. He certainly is off of the University roll for speaking engagements.

Why cannot brethren be big enough to get rid of their carnal minds? Why care about who is going to be the greatest in the kingdom of God? Why not place the kindgom of God and the truth of God first (Matt. 6:33)? Why not meet and settle our issues based on the Bible? Surely God would be pleased with this kind of thing (Ps. 133:1). We stand ready and willing to meet with any reputable and sincere brother or group of brethren and settle any salvation issue in a Christlike sort of way. To refuse to do this is to pay the greatest price we shall ever know. Souls are at stake. Hell is burning and waiting for the rebellious. Eternity is unending. Let us unite as one man and build the cause of Christ as we did in the forties, fifties, and sixties. If I am wrong in Bible doctrine on the matter of fellowship, I am ready to make it right when I learn wherein I am wrong. I plead with every brother in Christ to examine himself in this matter. When we are united we can accomplish great things for the Lord. When we are divided the cause is weakened and suffers greatly. For the sake of Christ let us all do what is right.
—Malcolm L. Hill