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  COLLECTED WORKS
  by Batsell Barrett Baxter
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The collected writings of Batsell Barrett Baxter, a prominent 20th-century
minister, educator, and television preacher in the Churches of Christ tradition.
His works address Christian doctrine, practical Christian living, and
evangelistic themes.

  Chapters: 5

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  TABLE OF CONTENTS
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    1. 01 Biography
    2. 2002-10 The Crucial Issue Of Authority
    3. 2004-02 To Each His Own
    4. 2005-01 A Leader Gone Astray
    5. Who are the churches of Christ

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  CHAPTER 1: 01 BIOGRAPHY
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Sketch On The Life Of B.B. Baxter

Batsell Barrett Baxter was born of Mr. and Mrs. Batsell Baxter September 23,
1916, at Cordell, Oklahoma. He was baptized by his father, Batsell Baxter, in
1925. On December 22, 1938, Batsell Barrett Baxter married Miss Wanda Roberts.
To this union three sons were born: Scott, Alan and John.

Baxter began preaching in 1933 at Nashville, Tennessee. He received his training
from David Lipscomb College, Abilene Christian College (B.A.), University of
Southern California (M.A., Ph.D.), Vanderbilt University (B.D.). While in
California he served two churches as minister: Whittier, 1938-42, and Burbank.
1942-45.

Baxter was well prepared to serve in any responsible position in aChristian
College, being the son of Batsell Baxter who served as president of three
Christian colleges: Abilene Christian College, David Lipscomb College and
Pepperdine College. When Baxter returned from California he was appointed head
of the Speech Department at David Lipscomb College. Later he was named to the
chairmanship of the Department of Bible upon the passing of his father, Dr.
Batsell Baxter, March 4, 1956.

Baxter preached for the Trinity Lane Church in Nashville from 1946-51. He served
the Hillsboro Church as its regular preacher from 1951 until his retirement in
1980.

He was an excellent and well-known writer. He wrote for theGospel Advocate,
Twentieth Century Christian,and other periodicals. He wrote a number of books:
"Heart of the Yale Lectures," "Preachers of Today" (with Norvel Young), Volumes
1, 2, 3, "Speaking for the Master," "If I Be Lifted Up," "Great Preachers of
Today," Volume 1, "Churches of Today" (with Norvel Young). Three of his most
recent publications were "The Family of God," "The Search for Happiness," and "A
Devotional Guide to the Bible Lands." This beloved gospel preacher was the first
preacher for the "Herald of Truth" television program in August, 1959. Later he
became a regular speaker for the radio series of "Herald of Truth." He produced
his last television program in October, 1981, and his last radio program in
December, 1981. At one time he served as an instructor at Pepperdine University
in California where his father was the founding president. In 1962, Baxter
received Abilene Christian’s Outstanding Alumnus of the Year award. In 1961, he
led a month-long evangelistic campaign in London, England. In November of 1978,
a program honoring Baxter at David Lipscomb College brought in contributions and
gifts totaling $101,669 to the College. This sincere Christian man will be
remembered as a Bible scholar, Christian educator and an eloquent gospel
preacher. He was the author of 18 books.

Those who knew Batsell Barrett Baxter loved him. They do not think of him just
as a national radio and television figure, but as a just, honorable, sincere,
warm-hearted, gentle, kind individual. In his passing the church has lost one of
its greatest preachers, teachers, leaders, influential men of the century.
Batsell Barrett Baxter died on Wednesday, March 31, 1982, in the Baptist
Hospital in Nashville, Tennessee. Funeral service was conducted at the Hillsboro
Church of Christ in Nashville, Tennessee, on Friday, April 2,Acts 10:00a.m. He
was survived by his wife, Mrs. Wanda (Roberts) Baxter; three sons: Scott and
John of Nashville. Tennessee, and Alan of Stark, Florida; and two grandchildren.
Brandon and Will.

Eddie Montgomery led the congregational singing for the service. Dan Harless,
long time associate of Baxter at Hillsboro, read appropriate Scriptures and led
in prayer. Talks were made by Harold Hazelip and Willard Collins. The final
prayer was led by Larry Van Steensburg, minister of the Hillsboro Church.

Baxter was 65 at the time of his passing. He fought a long battle with cancer.
He underwent surgery a number of times from 1977 until the time of his passing.
His great example and good works will live long to influence many to live close
to the Lord that we may be together in heaven.

-In Memoriam, Gussie Lambert, Shreveport, LA, page 20,21 Spring, 1982 Issue
ofRex A. Turner’sSound DoctrineRelating The Passing Of B.B. Baxter, Spring, 1982
Batsell Barrett Baxter Buried April 2, 1982

Willard Collins

Funeral services for Batsell Barrett Baxter were conducted at the Hillsboro
Church of Christ in Nashville on Friday, April 2,Acts 10:00a.m. Baxter died on
Wednesday, March 31 in Baptist Hospital. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Wanda
Roberts Baxter; three sons-Scott and John of Nashville, and Alan of Stark,
Florida; and two grandchildren, Brandon and Will.

Eddie Montgomery led the congregational singing for the service. Dan Harless,
long-time associate of Baxter’s at Hillsboro, read appropriate scriptures and
led in prayer. Talks were made by Harold Hazelip and Willard Collins. The final
prayer was led by Larry Van Steensburg, present minister of the Hillsboro
congregation.

Baxter was 65 years of age. He had fought a long battle with cancer. He
underwent his first surgery for this illness in 1964. He was admitted to the
hospital on February 24 of this year. He had undergone surgery a number of times
from 1977 until the present. This eloquent gospel preacher was appointed
chairman of the Bible department at David Lipscomb College in 1957. He came to
Lipscomb in 1945 as head of the Speech Department.

He was very interested in the work of the GOSPEL ADVOCATE. He worked as a member
of the Centennial Committee in 1955 withB. C. Goodpasture, and he was a member
of the 20th Century Committee withIra Northand Willard Collins for many years.

Baxter was educated at David Lipscomb College, Abilene Christian University, the
University of Southern California and Vanderbilt University. His father, Batsell
Baxter, was president of three Christian colleges: Abilene, Lipscomb and
Pepperdine, and was also a well-known gospel preacher.

Batsell Barrett Baxter preached for the congregation at Whittier , California
from 1938-41. He then served the congregation in North Hollywood, California
from 1941-45.

He became head of the speech department at David Lipscomb College and was later
named to the chairmanship of the department of Bible upon the passing of his
father.

He preached for the Trinity Lane church in Nashville from 1946-51, and served
the Hillsboro congregation as its regular preacher from 1951 until his
retirement in 1980. At the time of his death, he was an elder of the Hillsboro
church. This beloved gospel preacher appeared first as the preacher for the
television program "Herald of Truth" in August of 1959. Later he became a
regular speaker for the radio series of "Herald of Truth." He produced his last
television program last October and his last radio program last December. When
he came to Nashville in 1945, he preached for the Belmont congregation. He also
served at one time as an instructor at Pepperdine University in California where
his father was the founding president. Three of his most recent publications
were: The Family of God, The Search for Happiness and A Devotional Guide to the
Bible Lands. In 1962, Baxter received Abilene Christian’s Outstanding Alumnus of
the Year award. In 1961, he led a month-long evangelistic campaign in London,
England. In November of 1978, a program honoring Baxter at David Lipscomb
College brought in contributions and gifts totaling $101,669 to the institution.
This sincere Christian man will be remembered as a Bible scholar, Christian
educator and an eloquent gospel preacher. He was the author of 18 books.

I do not think of our friend Batsell Barrett Baxter just as a national radio and
television figure, but as a warm-hearted, gentle and kind person!

David Lipscomb College has lost its most widely known and best-loved
administrator and faculty member.

Tom McMeen, chairman of the Board of Directors at David Lipscomb College and an
elder of the Hillsboro congregation in Nashville, said of his friend: "Batsell
was one of the most loved and respected men I have ever known. He was one of the
easiest to work with as a member of the faculty at Lipscomb, as a minister and
as a fellow elder."

–Gospel Advocate Articles – Vol. CXXIV No. 8 April 15, 1982 pages 228,229, 242
The Influence Of Batsell Barrett Baxter Flows On Like A Mighty River

Ira North On Wednesday morning, March 31, the beloved Batsell Barrett Baxter
crossed Jordan. We knew him well and loved him much. We had taught with him for
eighteen years at David Lipscomb College. We had served with him on the 20th
Century Committee of the GOSPEL ADVOCATE for a quarter of a century. We had
lunch with Batsell Barrett on a regular basis for thirty years. The last few
years Avon and I met once each month with Willard and Ruth Collins, and Wanda
and Batsell and to enjoy a period of fellowship. We referred to our meetings as
a "Crisis Luncheon," because we discussed the various crises in our brotherhood,
in our church work and in Christian education. We feel a great sense of personal
loss in the passing of this noble, gentle and faithful gospel preacher. We shall
miss his fellowship, his counsel, and his unstinted friendship. The Power and
Importance of a Good Family Background When we think of Batsell Barrett Baxter,
we think of the power and importance of a good family background. Batsell
Barrett’s father was a distinguished preacher and educator. He was President of
David Lipscomb College, Harding College, and Pepperdine. His mother was a godly
woman, who dedicated him from the womb to the work of the Lord. Batsell Barrett
was blessed with a gracious and charming Christian woman for a wife. No wife
could have stood by more faithfully and loyally and devotedly than she has since
the malignancy was first discovered nearly eighteen years ago. Brother Baxter
lived in a modest home and always on a modest salary compared to his great
talents, and yet if he had had $10,000,000, he could not have bought the love
and care and the concern that he received from the woman he loved. To have a
great man we must start with his grandfather and grandmother. We ask all young
married couples to begin now to plan to give their children a strong family
background. Give them a father and a mother who are loyal and faithful to the
church and who respect the dignity and the sanctity of marriage. The last speech
we heard Batsell Barrett make was in the chapel assembly at David Lipscomb when
we presented him with the Couple of the Year Award from the GOSPEL ADVOCATE. He
told those young people that those who follow the path of free sex and serial
marriage could never have what he and Wanda had and what Ruth and Willard
Collins have and what Ira and Avon North have. He urged them to accept the
Biblical principles of the dignity and sanctity and permanence of Christian
marriage. The Power and Importance of Preparation When we think of Batsell
Barrett Baxter, we think of the great power and importance of preparation. After
graduating from high school, he paid the price for a college education at
Abilene Christian University. He then went on for the Masters degree and the
Ph.D. degree in Speech at Southern California. And although he had family
responsibilities and responsibilities at Lipscomb, he went on for another
graduate degree at Vanderbilt, in order that Lipscomb might be fully accredited
for its Bible work with the Southern Association.

Years of preparation require strength of character, and sometimes it is easy to
give up. Moses prepared for eighty years for the great task of leading the
children of Israel out of bondage. Our blessed Lord prepared thirty years for
his three years of public ministry. If Batsell Barrett Baxter had not been
willing to spend many years in diligent study and preparation, he could never
have wielded the great influence in our brotherhood and reached the thousands of
people for good that he did. He was willing to pay the price, and God used him
mightily. The Power and Importance of A Good Example When we think of Batsell
Barrett Baxter, we think of the power and importance of a good example. He lived
so close to the Lord, that when you followed Batsell Barrett, you were following
Jesus. It was not only his excellent gift of speech and his ability to
communicate that endeared him to thousands of students and to our brotherhood,
it was the good example that he set. This endeared him to the members of the
church at Hillsboro, to his vast television and radio audience, and to the
students who sat at his feet. The Power and Importance of a Meek and Humble
Spirit When we think of Batsell Barrett Baxter, we think of the power and
importance of a meek and humble spirit. Brother Willard Collins was at his best
when he delivered the tribute at the funeral service and pointed to 1
Corinthians 13, and stated that he believed the real secret of Batsell’s success
was found in that 13th verse, "And now abideth faith, hope, love, these three;
but the greatest of these is love." The Power and Importance of Overcoming Evil
with Good When we think of Batsell Barrett Baxter, we think of the power and
importance of overcoming evil with good. Some thirty years ago, Brother Willard
Collins, Batsell Barrett Baxter, and this writer were meeting, as was our custom
each week, to work on the circulation of the GOSPEL ADVOCATE. Brother Collins
that day had received a paper from Lufkin, Texas. It was ugly and critical of
Batsell Barrett Baxter. When I walked in and read it, I could feel my blood
pressure rising, and within I felt anger and hostility. When Brother Batsell
Barrett Baxter came in, Willard Collins said, "Read this and see what they think
about you in Lufkin, Texas." Brother Baxter carefully read the article, and
about that time they brought our food and Willard asked Batsell Barrett to give
thanks for the food. He bowed his head and prayed the most sincere prayer for
the man who had written the article. He called his name and the name of his
family, and prayed that God would bless them with good health and happiness and
would use them for the spread of the Kingdom and for the good of the work of the
Lord. I could feel the hostility lifting from my own soul, and when he said
Amen, I said to myself, "There is indeed an Israelite in whom there is no
guile."

We wish that everyone in our brotherhood could have attended the funeral service
of Batsell Barrett Baxter. It was more like a graduating exercise than a
funeral. Brother Baxter himself had planned the service. The congregational
singing was superb as the auditorium and balcony of the Hillsboro church were
filled to overflowing. We sang "When We Walk With the Lord," "Oh To Be Like
Thee," "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God," and "My Faith Looks Up To Thee." We all
left rejoicing in the faith in which he had lived and now the glorious hope of
the resurrection in which he fell asleep. We are thankful to the Heavenly Father
that for sixty-five years he gave us Batsell Barrett Baxter. His influence rolls
on like a mighty river, and heaven will be sweeter because of this gentle, kind,
faithful and loyal servant of our blessed Lord. We believe we speak for millions
when we say to Brother Baxter: "Christian soldier, well done. The battle is
over, the victory is won.”

–Gospel Advocate Articles – Vol. CXXIV No. 8 April 15, 1982 pages 229, 242
Location Of The Grave Of Batsell Barrett Baxter

Batsell Barrett Baxter is buried in the Woodlawn Memorial Park Cemetery In
Nashville, Tennessee. The Cemetery is located behind the 100 Oaks Shopping
Center that faces I-65 just before the I-440 Interchange. From 100 Oaks travel
east on Thompson Lane and turn left into the main entrance of the Woodlawn
Cemetery. Take your first left and travel up the hill. Note that Fountain View C
& D will be on your left. At the top of the hill you will see a fountain area.
Turn to the right and pull off to the left. You should be in front of a sign
saying, "Fountain Lawn A." Between the sign and a sidewalk you will see a little
pole with a flag facing west. Go in from that flag about three or four rows. In
that area you should find the grave of Batsell Barrett Baxter. The stone is
facing east.

Section Fountain Lawn A - Lot 61 #2 GPS N 36º 06’ 49.4" x WO 86º 45’ 41.1"
Accuracy to within 20ft.


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  CHAPTER 2: 2002-10 THE CRUCIAL ISSUE OF AUTHORITY
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http://www.gospelpreceptor.com/BaxterB1.htm The Crucial Issue Of Authority
Batsell Barrett Baxter

Every thinking person realizes that authority plays a very significant role in
all of our lives. Before we may drive a car, we must have the authority of a
license. A doctor must have a diploma from a reputable medical school before he
can practice. A policeman must have a badge which authorizes him to carry out
his duties. To get married, we must have a license. There is little that we can
do in life without proper authorization.

Especially in the realm of religion must we have proper authority for all that
we do. In the worship and service of God we must do that which we are authorized
to do and nothing else.

The question Jesus once faced, "By what authority doest thou these things? and
who gave thee this authority?" (Matthew 21:23) is a good one for all of us.

Possible Sources Of Authority

Final or ultimate authority in religion rests in one of three possible sources.
First of all, there are those who believe that final authority rests in the
church. Councils, conclaves, and synods meet and make decisions. From these
human deliberations such doctrines as purgatory, the adoration of Mary, the
seven sacraments, papal infallibility and others have come.

It was Martin Luther who pointed out the problem of such human authority when he
said, "...I cannot trust either the decisions of Councils, or of Popes, for it
is plain that they have not only erred but have contradicted each other..."
(Friedenthal, Luther: His Life and Times, p. 278).

Second, others conceive final authority to rest in the reasoning power of men.
One’s own conscience, inner feelings, or reason is the final arbiter. Saul of
Tarsus demonstrated this view to be erroneous. In spite of his honesty of
purpose and intensity of zeal, he was wrong. Many a person, guided by his own
inner feelings, believes and practices what is contrary to the will of God.

The whole blight of denominationalism is a result of man’s trusting his own
views, rather than conforming his convictions to God’s teaching. Liberalism
makes the mistake of thinking that man’s reason is the infallible authority in
religion.

The third possibility, as the absolute source of authority, is the Bible, the
inspired word of God. God the creator of the universe and of man is the only
ultimate, final source of authority. He has spoken in his word. It is our
responsibility to read the scriptures, understand them and obey them. Let us
say, as Samuel did, "Speak, Lord, for thy servant heareth." (1 Samuel 3:10).

Never With Men

Authority always rests with divinity. "In the beginning God created the heavens
and the earth" (Genesis 1:1), and in so doing established his ultimate supreme
authority. Later, when Jesus was upon the earth he said, "All authority hath
been given unto me in heaven and on earth." (Matthew 28:18). He further
announced to his apostles that when he left the earth, the Holy Spirit would
come in his place and "...shall guide you into all truth." (John 16:13).
Authority has always rested with the Godhead, and never with men. The prophets,
the apostles, and others miraculously guided by God were simply spokesmen. God’s
word has always been the final authority among men. Our Only Guide

The Bible is our guide — our only guide. For this reason, it is encouraging to
hear people say, "Let us have a ’thus saith the Lord’ for all that we do in our
religious faith and practice." Still, another way of saying it is "Let us speak
where the scriptures speak, and be silent where the scriptures are silent." Each
of these is a statement indicating the acceptance of the authority of the
scriptures.

At this point let us examine two opposite positions on the matter of the
authority of the scriptures. Martin Luther championed the idea that, "Whatever
is not expressly prohibited in the scriptures is permissible." (History of the
Great Reformation of the Sixteenth Century, by D’Aubigne, Book II, p. 297).
Luther’s view opens the door to all kinds of innovations, such as the burning of
incense, the lighting of candles, the use of images, instrumental music, and
even adding other elements to the Lord’s Supper.

Huldrich Zwingli championed the second view which said, "Whatever is not
expressly authorized in the scriptures is prohibited." (History of the Christian
Church, by W. Walker, 1959, p. 322). This is the view set forth in the
scriptures themselves. In Galatians 1:8, Paul wrote, "But though we, or an angel
from heaven, should preach unto you any gospel other than that which we preached
unto you, let him be anathema." The apostle John said the same thing in these
words: "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." (2 John 1:9).

Three Avenues In determining what the scriptures authorize, there are three
avenues through which we may receive guidance. First, there are direct commands,
such as Acts 2:38. In the second place, there are approved apostolic examples,
such as the apostle Paul’s eating of the Lord’s Supper on the first day of the
week. (Acts 20:7). And, finally, there is necessary inference. Each command of
God authorizes whatever is necessary to carry it out. When the Lord commanded
Christians to meet for worship, he necessarily authorized the providing of a
place for Christians to assemble for worship.

Our religion — our relationship to God — is our most important relationship. We
must be absolutely certain about everything that we believe and practice.


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  CHAPTER 3: 2004-02 TO EACH HIS OWN
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http://www.gospelpreceptor.com/BaxterB2.htm "To Each His Own"

Batsell B. Baxter

How we do like to have our own way! We certainly do hold ourselves in high
esteem. Instead of praying as the Saviour did, "Not my will, but thine, be
done," it is hard for us to keep from having this spirit: "Not thy will, but
mine, be done." Somehow there is too much selfishness and egotism in the hearts
of all of us.

Men are perfectly willing for the Lord to provide for salvation. They even
emphasize the fact that He bought the church with His blood. They like to think
of His glorious promises. Many religious leaders like to "strut in borrowed
finery." They revel in the glory which the character and religion of Jesus
Christ have reflected upon His disciples, and yet they are not willing to be His
disciples. They are willing neither to learn nor to follow. They must run
anything religious with which they are connected, and so they get them up a
church to suit them. Those of us who cannot fellowship their getup are called
"narrow and unchristian."

A semblance of unity is being provided by religious leaders after this method:
"Every one of us will recognize everybody else as a child of God, provided he
does not question anything we do or teach as religion." Some of these men are
getting so "broad" that they even take in Buddhism and Mohammedanism. It is hard
to see how anybody can call such a mess "unity in Christ." Turning The Lord Out

Why try to do a thing in a way that is absolutely contrary to the spirit of that
thing? Why try to accomplish unity by the road of division? Why attempt to honor
Christ by stripping Him of His authority? Why call Him "Lord" and do not the
things which He says? We have read of puppet kings and puppet emperors in
history. Somebody wants to rule, but so strong is a certain sentiment that he
cannot do it; so he puts up a figurehead ruler and manages the government
through him.

Christ prayed for His followers to be one, but He did not pray for that to be
accomplished by deposing Him as the head of our spiritual government. And yet,
that is the way men are trying to bring about modern religious unity. The slogan
is, "You in your way, and me in mine." This leaves out God’s way altogether. It
turns Christ out into the cold. It does not recognize Him as our Prophet,
Priest, or King. These folks talk about the church as if it were some sort of
plastic thing like clay, the broken pieces of which they could bring together
and mold after their own fashion. It all resolves itself down to this: Who is
the ruler in the kingdom of Christ? Whose church is it? It Is Christ’s Church

Jesus said, "Upon this rock I will build my church..." (Matthew 16:18). It is
Christ’s church. It belongs to Him. He made the laws by which men can become
members of it. He made the rules by which it shall be governed. We have no right
to change any of these laws or rules. Jesus made them the way He wanted them to
be.

If we had built a church, then we could make any kind of laws we wished, and we
could change these laws as often as our fancy suited. We could do any way we
wanted with our church. As it was ours, no one could object to the way we would
manage it. But our church would not be worth anything in saving men from sin.
The Scripture says that we must all stand before the judgment seat of Christ
that everyone may give an account of his deeds done in the body (2 Corinthians
5:10). We must obey the commands of Christ (Matthew 7:24-27).

If we had a church of our own, how much liberty we would have! If anybody did
not do to suit us, we would let him start himself a church and run it to suit
himself. Then if his rules and way of doing did not suit some of his members,
they could start themselves a church and fix a plan that suited themselves. They
could all just agree to disagree and everybody have a religion and a church to
suit him. But the trouble about such an arrangement would be that God has not
promised to have anything to do with it except to root it up. "Every plant which
my heavenly Father hath not planted shall be rooted up." (Matthew 15:13).

The only safe way is to belong to the church that Jesus built, abide by the laws
He has given, and trust Him for the promises. Paul said, "I know him whom I have
believed, and I am persuaded that he is able to guard that which I have
committed unto him against that day." (2 Timothy 1:12ASV). That way is right and
cannot be wrong. That way shows respect for the Lord, who died to provide the
church for us. We are baptized into that church by being baptized into Christ
(Galatians 3:27).


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  CHAPTER 4: 2005-01 A LEADER GONE ASTRAY
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http://www.gospelpreceptor.com/BaxterB3.htm A Leader Gone Astray Batsell Barrett
Baxter

"But there was none like unto Ahab, who did sell himself to do that which was
evil in the sight of Jehovah, whom Jezebel his wife stirred up" (1 Kings
21:25ASV).

Leaders have a great responsibility, because they have a great deal of power.
Ahab, the king of Israel, began his reign with very little conviction in his
heart. His wife was Jezebel, a foreign woman who worshipped idols. When she came
to Samaria, she brought her idol worship with her. Ahab’s religion meant very
little to him, so it was not much of a sacrifice of conviction for him to give
up the worship of God and worship Baal along with his strong minded wife. She
ruled Ahab and Ahab ruled the nation.

The religion of Baal became the dominating religion of the kingdom. All the
court lords and ladies followed the lead of the king and queen, and all the
people who loved to be in style — and that was most of them — followed the lead
of the king and court. Of course they all knew that the religion of Jehovah was
the true religion, but it was not the style any more to worship God. So nearly
all of them went the popular way.

The Stubborn Prophet

Elijah was not a crank. He was not stubborn for the mere sake of being different
or odd. He was not anxious to stir up trouble. He loved peace and harmony, but
he loved God more. His conscience would not allow him to forsake Jehovah.

His courage led him to stick by his convictions, even though it meant a break
with the king and even though it made him a social outcast. He had sense enough
to look beyond the authority and demands of an earthly king to the authority and
will of the King of the universe. He had discernment enough to see through the
glamour and show of unthinking multitudes to the real principles of conduct and
teaching. He could see the paltriness and emptiness of Baal’s religion in
contrast with the genuineness and abiding quality of the religion of Jehovah. To
Elijah, persecution and even death were minor things as contrasted with loyalty
to God.

Misrepresentation And Ill Treatment Of course Elijah was misrepresented. At
court he was spoken of as, "the troubler of Israel." He was so hated by the
queen that she planned constantly for some means to get him out of the way. At
times it was necessary for him to flee for his life; but while that was
extremely discouraging, it did not take away his loyalty to God.

He preferred to eat the scraps of the ravens’ food in the dark canyon near the
Dead Sea than to sit as a liveried nothing in the palace of Ahab in Samaria. He
chose rather to hear the voice of Jehovah in the lonely mountain cave than to
listen to the empty jabber of Queen Jezebel.

It cost Elijah just about everything that flesh holds dear to maintain his
religious and moral integrity, but he knew that the reward was worth far more
than the price he had to pay. Every age has its Elijahs, unpopular,
misrepresented, and abused while they lived, but the foundation stones upon
which humanity has been enabled to step across one swirling crosscurrent after
another down through the stream of time.

The Real Test

Pomp and pageantry and show are not a test of principles, but they do command a
big following. What is in style and what is right are often two different
things. The real test is the will of God! Just as the Rock of Gibraltar still
stands, though it has been obscured by many a cloud and lashed by many a storm,
so the will of God is supreme and eternal, though often clouded and lashed by
the conflicting currents of earthly leadership and popular clamor.

Ahab and Jezebel were drunk with power. The nation reeled like a drunken man in
the intoxication and revelry of Baal worship. But out on Mount Carmel one day
the proud king and his clamoring followers saw Baal’s worship go down in defeat
(1 Ki. 18). They saw the prophets of Baal — 400 of them — work themselves up in
an all-day frenzy of pleading and shouting and bodily mutilation, but no answer
came from their idol.

Then in the evening they heard the prayer of faith borne from the heart of
Elijah to the throne of God. They saw the answer of Jehovah as the fire fell and
consumed the sacrifice, the altar of stone, and even the water in the trenches.
Fallen to the earth in penitence and humility, the people acknowledged their
wrong. From their hearts went up the cry, "Jehovah, he is God" (1 Kings
18:39ASV).

A Modern Application

Baal is abroad in the land today — not the old fish god of the Philistines and
Sidonians, but the god of human exaltation and lust of the flesh. His religion
is voiced in the maxim, "Whatever is, is right." It is further explained in the
teaching, "Follow the earthly great and powerful, no matter what they do. Do not
be out of style." This is the philosophy of "Political Correctness."

This god has all but taken possession of even the religion that claims to be
Christian. He has branded the God of the Bible as "out of date" and fit only for
the age of superstition. He is proclaiming from the ivy towers of educational
institutions and from the centers of social prominence that to be religious in
the Bible way is a matter of ignorance and lack of sense. Like the Pied Piper of
Hamlin, he plays his tune in the halls of colleges, in the pulpits of fine
churches, and echoes his claims from the lips of the prominent and powerful
among religious denominations.

But men and women of Elijah’s type will fear God and keep His commandments,
though ostracized socially and belittled religiously. We must not think that
days like Elijah’s are gone. There is plenty of opposition now, and
discouragement and persecution for people who love the Lord and are willing to
serve Him. It takes different forms, but it is just as effective and deadly.

A good old song says,

"Am I a soldier of the cross,

A follower of the Lamb;

And shall I fear to own His cause,

Or blush to speak His name?"

The Lord Himself has issued this challenge: "For whosoever shall be ashamed of
me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of man also
shall be ashamed of him, when he cometh in the glory of his Father with the holy
angels" (Mark 8:38ASV).


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  CHAPTER 5: WHO ARE THE CHURCHES OF CHRIST
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Who are the churches of Christ and what do they believe in?

By: Batsell Barrett Baxter What is the distinctive plea of the church of Christ?

It is primarily a plea for religious unity based upon the Bible. In a divided
religious world it is believed that the Bible is the only possible common
denominator upon which most, if not all, of the God-fearing people of the land
can unite. This is an appeal to go back to the Bible. It is a plea to speak
where the Bible speak and to remain silent where the Bible is silent in all
matters that pertain to religion. It further emphasizes that in everything
religious there must be a "Thus saith the Lord" for all that is done. The
objective is religious unity of all believers in Christ. The basis is the New
Testament. The method is the restoration of New Testament Christianity. The
Historical background of the Restoration Movement

One of the earliest advocates of the return to New Testament Christianity, as a
means of achieving unity of all believers in Christ, was James O’Kelly of the
Methodist Episcopal Church. In 1793 he withdrew from the Baltimore conference of
his church and called upon others to join him in taking the Bible as the only
creed. His influence was largely felt in Virginia and North Carolina where
history records that some seven thousand communicants followed his leadership
toward a return to primitive New Testament Christianity. In 1802 a similar
movement among the Baptists in New England was led by Abner Jones and Elias
Smith. They were concerned about "denominational names and creeds" and decided
to wear only the name Christian, taking Bible as their only guide. In 1804, in
the western frontier state of Kentucky, Barton W. Stone and several other
Presbyterian preachers took similar action declaring that they would take the
Bible as the "only sure guide to heaven." Thomas Campbell, and his illustrious
son, Alexander Campbell, took similar steps in the year 1809 in what is now the
state of West Virginia. They contended that nothing should be bound upon
Christians as a matter of doctrine which is not as old as the New Testament.
Although these four movements were completely independent in their beginnings
eventually they became one strong restoration movement because of their common
purpose and plea. These men did not advocate the starting of a new church, but
rather a return to Christ’s church as described in the Bible.

Members of the church of Christ do not conceive of themselves as a new church
started near the beginning of the 19th century. Rather, the whole movement is
designed to reproduce in contemporary times the church originally established on
Pentecost, A.D. 30. The strength of the appeal lies in the restoration of
Christ’s original church.

How many churches of Christ are there? The most recent dependable estimate lists
more than 15,000 individual churches of Christ. The "Christian Herald," a
general religious publication which presents statistics concerning all the
churches, estimates that the total membership of the churches of Christ is now
2,000,000. There are more than 7000 men who preach publicly. Membership of the
church is heaviest in the southern states of the United States, particularly
Tennessee and Texas, though congregations exist in each of the fifty states and
in more than eighty foreign countries. Missionary expansion has been most
extensive since the second World War in Europe, Asia and Africa. More than 450
full time workers are supported in foreign countries. The churches of Christ now
have five times as many members as were reported in the U.S. Religious Census of
1936.

How are the churches organizationally connected?

Following the plan of organization found in the New Testament, churches of
Christ are autonomous. Their common faith in the Bible and adherence to its
teachings are the chief ties which bind them together. There is no central
headquarters of the church, and no organization superior to the elders of each
local congregation. Congregations do cooperate voluntarily in supporting the
orphans and the aged, in preaching the gospel in new fields, and in other
similar works.

Members of the church of Christ conduct forty colleges and secondary schools, as
well as seventy-five orphanages and homes for the aged. There are approximately
40 magazines and other periodicals published by individual members of the
church. A nationwide radio and television program, known as "The Herald of
Truth" is sponsored by the Highland Avenue church in Abilene, Texas. Much of its
annual budget of $1,200,000 is contributed on a free-will basis by other
churches of Christ. The radio program is currently heard on more than 800 radio
stations, while the television program is now appearing on more than 150
stations. Another extensive radio effort known as "World Radio" owns a network
of 28 stations in Brazil alone, and is operating effectively in the United
States and a number of other foreign countries, and is being produced in 14
languages. An extensive advertising program in leading national magazines began
in November 1955.

There are no conventions, annual meetings, or official publications. The "tie
that binds" is a common loyalty to the principles of the restoration of New
Testament Christianity.

How are the churches of Christ governed? In each congregation, which has existed
long enough to become fully organized, there is a plurality of elders or
presbyters who serve as the governing body. These men are selected by the local
congregations on the basis of qualifications set down in the scriptures (1
Timothy 3:1-8). Serving under the elders are deacons, teachers, and evangelists
or ministers. The latter do not have the authority equal to or superior to the
elders. The elders are shepherds or overseers who serve under the headship of
Christ according to the New Testament, which is a kind of constitution. There is
no earthly authority superior to the elders of the local church.

What does the church of Christ believe about the Bible? The original autographs
of the sixty six books which make up the Bible are considered to have been
divinely inspired, by which it is meant that they are infallible and
authoritative. Reference to the scriptures is made in settling every religious
question. A pronouncement from the scripture is considered the final word. The
basic textbook of the church and the basis for all preaching is the Bible. Do
members of the churches of Christ believe in the virgin birth?

Yes. The statement in Isaiah 7:14 is taken as a prophecy of the virgin birth of
Christ. New Testament passages such as Matthew 1:20, 25, are accepted at face
value as declarations of the virgin birth. Christ is accepted as the only
begotten Son of God, uniting in his person perfect divinity and perfect manhood.
Does the church of Christ believe in predestination?

Only in the sense that God predestines the righteous to be eternally saved and
the unrighteous to be eternally lost. The statement of the apostle Peter, "Of a
truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons, but in every nation he
that feareth him and worketh righteousness is acceptable unto him" (Acts
10:34-35.) is taken as an evidence that God did not predestine individuals to be
eternally saved or lost, but that each man determines his own destiny.

Why does the church of Christ baptize only by immersion? The word baptize comes
from the Greek word "baptizo" and literally means, "to dip, to immerse, to
plunge." In addition to the literal meaning of the word, immersion is practiced
because it was the practice of the church in apostolic times. Still further,
only immersion conforms to the description of baptisms as given by the apostle
Paul in Romans 6:3-5 where he speaks of it as a burial and resurrection. Is
infant baptism practiced?

No. Only those who have reached the "age of accountability" are accepted for
baptisms. It is pointed out that the examples given in the New Testament are
always of those who have heard the gospel preached and have believed it. Faith
must always precede baptism, so only those old enough to understand and believe
the gospel are considered fit subjects for baptism. Do ministers of the church
hear confession?

No. Ministers or evangelists of the church have no special prerogatives. They do
not wear the title of Reverend or Father, but are addressed simply by the term
Brother as are all other men of the church. Along with elders and others they do
counsel and advise those seeking help. Are prayers addressed to the saints?

No. God the Father is considered the only one to whom the prayers may be
addressed. It is further understood that Christ stands in a mediatorial position
between God and man (Hebrews 7:25). All prayers are therefore offered through
Christ, or in the name of Christ (John 16:23-26).

How often is the Lord’s supper eaten?

It is expected that every member of the church will assemble for worship on each
Lord’s day. A central part of the worship is the eating of the Lord’s supper
(Acts 20:7). Unless providentially hindered, each member considers this weekly
appointment as binding. In many instances, as in the case of illness, the Lord’s
supper is carried to those who are hindered from attending the worship.

What kind of music is used in the worship? As a result of the distinctive plea
of the church - a return to New Testament Faith and practice - acappella singing
is the only music used in the worship. This singing, unaccompanied by mechanical
instruments of music, conforms to the music used in the apostolic church and for
several centuries thereafter (Ephesians 5:19). It is felt that there is no
authority for engaging in acts of worship not found in the New Testament. This
principle eliminates the use of instrumental music, along with the use of
candles, incense, and other similar elements. Does the church of Christ believe
in heaven and hell?

Yes. The statement of Christ in Matthew 25, and elsewhere, are taken at face
value. It is believed that after death each man must come before God in judgment
and that he will be judged according to the deeds done while he lived (Hebrews
9:27). After judgment is pronounced he will spend eternity either in heaven or
hell. Does the church of Christ believe in purgatory?

No. The absence of any reference in the scriptures to the temporary place of
punishment from which the soul will eventually be released into heaven prevents
the acceptance of the doctrine of purgatory. By what means does the church
secure financial support?

Each first day of the week the members of the church "lay by in store as they
have been prospered" (1 Corinthians 16:2). The amount of any individual gift is
generally known only to the one who gave it and to the Lord. This free-will
offering is the only call which the church makes. NO assessments or other levies
are made. No money-making activities, such as bazaars or suppers, are engaged
in. A total if approximately $200,000,000 is given on this basis each year. Does
the church of Christ have a creed?

No. At least, there is no creed in the usual sense of the word. The belief of
the church is stated fully and completely in the Bible. There is no other manual
or discipline to which the members of the church of Christ give their
allegiance. The Bible is considered as the only infallible guide to heaven.

How does one become a member of the church of Christ? In the salvation of man’s
soul there are 2 necessary parts: God’s part and man’s part. God’s part is the
big part, "For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of
yourselves, it is the gift if God; not of works, that no man should glory"
(Ephesians 2:8-9). The love which God felt for man led him to send Christ into
the world to redeem man. The life and teaching of Jesus, the sacrifice on the
cross, and the proclaiming of the gospel to men constitute God’s part in
salvation.

Though God’s part is the big part, man’s part is also necessary if man is to
reach heaven. Man must comply with the conditions of pardon which the Lord has
announced. Man’s part can clearly set forth in the following steps:

Hear the Gospel. "How shall they call on him whom they have not believed? and
how shall they believe him whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear
without a preacher?" (Romans 10:14).

Believe. "And without faith it is impossible to be well pleasing unto him; for
he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them
that seek after him" (Hebrews 11:6).

Repent of past sins. "The times of ignorance therefore God overlooked; but now
he commandeth men that they should all everywhere repent" (Acts 17:30).

Confess Jesus as Lord. "Behold here is water; What doth hinder me to be baptized
? And Philip said, if thou believeth with all thy heart thou mayest. And he
answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God" (Acts
8:36-37). Be baptized for the remission of sins. "And Peter said unto them,
Repent ye, and be baptized everyone of you in the name of Jesus Christ unto the
remission of your sins and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit" (Acts
2:38).

Live a Christian life. "Ye are an elect race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation,
a people for God’s own possession, that ye may show forth the excellencies of
him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light" (1 Peter 2:9).

OPEN INVITATION

Now that you are aware of a church in the 20th century which is built according
to the blue prints of Christ’s original church, why not become a member of it?
In becoming a member of it, you will be called upon to do nothing which you
cannot read in the New Testament. You will then live and worship just as the
apostle-guided Christians of the first century did. Not only is this return to
New Testament Christianity a wonderful basis upon which all believers in Christ
can unite, it is absolutely solid ground. If we do just what our Lord commanded
we know that our salvation is certain. Come with us as we go back to the Bible,
back to Christ and his church!

If you need help in locating a congregation of the churches of Christ nearest to
you, please e-mail us at garcia@church-of-christ.org, and we will be more than
happy to help you find one. No one from the church will call without your
consent. Please come by and visit us soon. We care about you and your family.

"Who are the churches of Christand what do they believe in?" was written by
Batsell Barrett Baxter


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Source: https://sermonindex.net/books/baxter-batsell-barrett-collected-works/
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