This Issue...

• Evolution is Impossible — Tom House p.1
• Atheism #1 — Garland Robinson p.2
• Saved by Faith — Carl O. Cooper p.6
• Marriage is Not... #1 — Bill Boyd p.8

The concept of evolution is rejected on several fronts: it is impractical, it is unscientific, it is illogical, and it certainly does not fit the biblical model for the existence of all things.

        Charles Darwin (1809-1882) developed an early interest in nature which he never overcame. This infatuation became the catalyst for his departure from the study of medicine, and, as well, his studies in theology. His passion for natural science would eventually lead him to embark on a five-year voyage aboard the HMS Beagle, upon which he would research geological construction and wildlife. His research was much of the foundation of his famous work “The Origin of the Species,” in which he would allege that all species of life have developed over great spans of time from common ancestors. Darwin’s work has been highly lauded in the scientific community, and his theory of evolution has become the “standard” in much of the realm of science and academia.
        While his evolutionary theory has been given “legs” by vast numbers of those calling themselves “scientists,” the theory has by no means been accepted by all; and, his conclusions have been the subject of great debate among those who have accepted the theory in principle. This point is some note of significance since the “theory” has been elevated to be accepted as “fact.” How is it, incidentally, that an hypothesis, which has been argued as fact for a century and a half, now has come into doubt by those, who at some point, have argued on its behalf? Many of these who have been antagonistic to the concept of “creationism,” are finding upon continual research and honest appraisal, that the “logic“, which has been supporting evolution, has not been sound. Additionally, the conclusions and the methods of reaching the conclusions, has become the subject of substantive criticism.
        For those who are “true scientists,” i.e., those unfettered by evolutionary biases, and those who are Bible believers; the subject of evolution has always been viewed as a weak, pitiful, and unsustainable theory. In fact, it is viewed by this class of folks to be nothing more than a fanciful hoax. The concept is rejected on several fronts: it is impractical, it is unscientific, it is illogical, and it certainly does not fit the biblical model for the existence of all things. This writer makes no claim to be an expert on the “science” of creation but hopes to provide the reader with information from those who are known and respected for their expertise in this field. Perhaps the effort in this article will provide a short synopsis of why the “theory of evolution” is quite impossible.
        For one to come to any sound conclusion on any matter of significance, evidence will be required to weigh all sides of the issue. Where evidence is lacking, then the hypothesis should be tabled for the time until which evidence can be secured, or the matter should be shelved altogether. Where evidence is abundant, or substantive, such a position should be granted plausibility.
        In considering this matter from a practical standpoint, it will be imperative to note a couple of definitions of important terms.
        First, the word “science;” is defined as “a branch of knowledge or study dealing with a body of facts or truths systematically arranged and showing the operation of general laws.” Additionally, it is defined as the “systematic knowledge of the physical or material world gained through observation and experimentation” [e-dictionary]. Note please, for future reference, several terms in the definitions which are vital to understanding the study from a practical view: 1) “a body of facts or truths;” 2) “general laws;” 3) “knowledge gained through observation and experimentation.” For those who view matters in a practical manner, it is difficult to see how evolution can be viewed as a sound hypothesis, particularly when the conclusions are based upon conjecture and supposition. Evolutionists allege that present complex organisms, have, through time, evolved from a single organism, while some have argued all have come from various organisms. Yet the pressing inquiry is, has such a process been observed? If not, how is it that the evolutionary hypothesis is promoted as “fact” or “truth?”
        Secondly, consider the term “evidence.” As a noun, it is defined as “that which tends to prove or disprove something; ground for belief; something that makes plain or clear; an indication or sign; in law, it is the data presented to a court or jury in proof of the facts in issue and which may include the testimony of witnesses, record, documents, or objects” [e-dictionary]. Practically speaking, again observe the definition affirms that evidence will prove or disprove something. Clearly, if evidence is lacking, nothing is proven or disproven; depending upon the vantage point of the position being argued. For example, if it can be shown that there is no actual evidence to support evolution, how is it practical to argue for its credibility? For any hypothesis on the order of evolution (a theory which has been the subject of debate ever since its inception) to be considered as credible, should not the “evidence” be so compelling that all such debate be relegated to the realm of the ridiculous? But the debate continues. It seems that the so-called “evidence” for evolution is not so “plain or clear.” If the data on evolution is so substantive, would not the “jury” be in, and the verdict complete and concluded? Yet, for the practically minded, there is no compelling evidence for the case of evolution.

        Viewing the matter from another practical vantage point, consider the age-old question: “what does evolution need to be true?”
        First, it will require “pre-existing elements” to provide the building blocks of all existing organisms. The reader needs to remember that evolution is an hypothesis which alleges that all living organisms come from a singular organism, and some say from multiple simple organisms. It further alleges that the universe began from an explosion of cosmic particles which somehow crossed paths while floating through space. The evolutionary logic asserts that the cosmic particles were pre-existing elements, meaning the elements have always existed. If one is to consider the definition of the word “science,” how can such a position be asserted? “So-called” scientists, promote this claim as fact, but was it observed? Can such a position be affirmed in lieu of “experimentation?” Even practical observation demands that “nothing comes from nothing;” and “something must come from something.” It has been rightfully argued that “everything” must have some antecedent cause. If there were pre-existing cosmic particles, their existence demands a beginning. Particularly, if it is to be argued that these particles, upon collision with each other, were of such volatile nature, that the explosion which came as a result brought a perfectly ordered universe into being with existing life, still, the question is, from whence did the life originate? Also note, that if the particles were moving, something had to force the movement. What was the force?
        For evolution to be true, it will need the cosmic particles to somehow contain life or produce life. Aside from the origin of the cosmic particles, what elements of life were being transmitted to the particles, and more importantly, from whence did the living elements originate? Again, something cannot come from nothing! Furthermore, how is it “scientific” or “logical” to argue that a living, ordered universe, came into existence by random particles, carrying vestige of a life source, accidentally crossing paths in the vast space of the universe? And yet, in view of what at the least seems absurd, the evolutionists have the audacity to belittle someone for believing in “creation!” For evolution to be plausible, it requires evidence for the origin of life. But to this point, evolutionists are unable to provide logical or scientific evidence for their view of life’s origin. In fact, evolutionists have only been able to “speculate” life’s origin. Even from a scientific perspective, life requires certain criteria for its existence, particularly in respect of living animals.
        Consider:
        1. Living animals require oxygen. The elements which comprise oxygen are so precise, that if there is the slightest alteration of the elements, it becomes something else; and is therefore not the element needed to sustain life.
        2. Living animals also require other living organisms to sustain life. When a presumed “ameba” (a single-celled animal) crawled out of the “primordial soup,” upon what did it feed in order to live? Was it plant, animal, or chemical? If what was being eaten consisted of any of the afore mentioned elements, from whence did they originate?
        3. For any species to persist, it must reproduce. Consider, with what did the first life-bearing simple organism procreate? Evolutionists will argue that the organism was likely “asexual” (without sex); suggesting it reproduced itself. Grant the supposition, for sake of argument for the moment. When did the process of “asexuality” cease for the organisms, and why is it that all such living organisms (that had no sex) do not reproduce themselves now? Return to the earlier question, since the “ameba” must feed on other living organisms, upon what did it feed, and how long was the food available? If a second “ameba” crawled from the primordial soup, would not the first “ameba” seek it out to devour it? And if it did, what is going to be available for procreation to occur, apart from asexuality? The answers to these questions are paramount to the issue. One must remember that the food source must be as perpetual as the living organism feeding on it. Speculation as to reproduction will not suffice scientific scrutiny. To speculate in respect of what was necessary to sustain the living organism, even in its most primitive state, will not convince the analytical mind of evolution’s credibility.
        Additionally, the theory of evolution depends upon the concept of vast eons of time for the theory to have any hope of plausibility. Evolutionists are unwilling to grant the plausibility of all things being created by God and will only accept the notion that present, complex organisms exist as they do as a consequence of a slow, deliberate evolutionary process. The present-day estimation is the earth is somewhere between 3 to 7 billion years old (some even say 12 billion years or more). The reason for mentioning the present-day assessment is because the number has changed several times through the years! The number of years attributed to the earth’s existence by evolutionists will likewise not withstand scientific scrutiny and practical logic.
        Scientists know that the earth’s core serves as an electromagnet from which its magnetic field extends well beyond the surface of the earth. They have also discovered the strength of the magnetic field is decreasing. Dr. Basil Overton, (now deceased), did significant research in this field and the following paragraphs are from his book “Evolution in the Light of Scripture, Science, and Sense.” He writes:

“Karl Gouss invented an instrument to measure the rate of decrease of the strength of the earth’s magnetic field. The first use of this measuring device was in 1835, and it is reported this measuring has continued since then. Scientists agree that on the basis of the consistent decrease of the strength of the earth’s magnetic field since 1835, the strength of the field is only half what it was 1400 years ago. This also means that 1400 years ago the magnetic field was only half what it was 1400 years before that time. This all means that the younger the earth was, the stronger the magnetic field was.”

“What is named Joule heat is generated inside the earth by the free-flowing electricity that forms the electromagnet of the earth. (An English physicist named J. P. Joule devised the method of measuring this heat). Dr. Thomas Barnes says that in 20,000 B.C. the earth’s magnetic field would have been so strong that it is not plausible that the core of the earth could have stayed together with the Joule heat that would have been associated with the electric currents producing such a strong magnetic field.”

“Using the scientific data concerning the earth’s magnetic field, Dr. Barnes says we can conclude that the earth is less than 10,000 years old.” (Overton, pg. 88)

        The data in these quotes also correlates with the known “Second Law of Thermodynamics” which states that earth and its elements are breaking down, not evolving to greater complexity, and consequently will at some point, cease sustainability. Logically, if it is breaking down, at some point it had a beginning, meaning the universe and all its elements are not eternal, but were created. Brother Batsell Barrett Baxter quotes the mathematician and chemist, Dr. John Cleveland Cothran, who states: “at some rather definite time the material realm was created and ever since has been obeying law, not the dictates of chance.” (Baxter, “I Believe Because...” pg.56).
        If eons of time are needed to substantiate the claims evolution makes regarding the development of living species, then scientifically, it cannot be sustained. God did not need eons of time to create the earth, but by His power spoke it into existence in the matter of six 24 hour days (Gen. 1 & 2). As well, it is important to note when the earth was created, it was created full-grown or full-aged.
        Another one of the primary arguments made to uphold the evolutionary position, is based on the fossil records. Evolutionists have depended on their process of dating rocks and the fossilized remains of organisms discovered in the rocks in order to sustain the claim that living organisms have evolved from simple to complex organisms over the span of millions of years. For example, if a geologist discovers a fossil in stratum deep in the earth’s crust, then it is “presumed” to be much older than fossils found nearer the surface. It needs to be noted that there are several problems with this hypothesis.
        First, the fact that a fossil is found in deep strata or shallow does nothing to sustain the theory of evolution. What evolutionists fail to accept is the fact that the earth’s crust has, on occasion, been altered by earthquake, volcanoes, and other such natural phenomena. This means when such occurs, the stratum is moved. Sometimes the shallow stratum will sink as a result of an earthquake, also causing the deep stratum to rise. But when an evolutionists discovers a fossil in the deeper stratum, it is automatically dated as an older specimen, when in fact, it may have been moved from the shallower stratum to the deeper by the alteration of natural force. This method obviously generates misleading information, but is practiced repeatedly.
        Secondly, the fossils which have been found and presented to the public as evidences of the evolutionary theory, are fully developed organisms. While one obviously cannot deny the existence of the fossilized organism, what is needed to sustain evolution is the fossil of an organism “in the process of change.” This is something evolutionists have yet to provide. The advocates of this theory have argued, for example, that dinosaurs became extinct some 60 to 70 million years before man evolved. Yet Dr. Overton writes of the evidence showing man and dinosaur coexisting. He states: “in the Paluxy River bed near Glen Rose, Texas, dinosaur footprints and human footprints have been found together in the rock that has been discovered there.” “It is reported that one of the dinosaur tracks found in fossil form was imposed on top of a human footprint” (Overton, pg.76). This is but one of numerous examples illustrating the malicious fraud being advanced by evolutionists in the attempt to sustain the unsustainable. The questions regarding many of the fossils of various organisms found in various layers of stratum, including some aquatic species found on tops of mountains; the alterations of the earth’s crust and various other geological phenomena, can all be attributed to a single cataclysmic event in the earth’s history —the world-wide flood described in Genesis 6-9.
        Another question to ponder in respect of the issue of evolution is “how does one explain the existence of intelligence and design?” Bro. Brad Harrub, well known for his expertise in the field of neuro-biology and apologetics, wrote an article in “Reason and Revelation” a few years ago concerning the seat of intelligence, the human brain. Some of the following statements are either taken or based from that article. He noted that the human brain is approximately three pounds of matter consisting of billions of interconnected nerve cells. Bro. Harrub quoted from Eric Kandel’s work “Nerve Cells and Behavior,” stating the brain contains an estimated 100 billion neurons, each of which is a living unit within itself. He then quotes Dr. R. L. Wysong, who penned “The Creation —Evolution Controversy,” in which he notes each neuron is made up of 10 trillion macromolecules, which means that the human mind can store limitless information, millions of times greater than the information one gathers in an average lifetime. Bro. Harrub also quotes Robert Jastrow of Nasa, who said “among the organs of the human body, none is more difficult than the brain to explain by evolution. The powers that reside in the brain make a man a different animal from all other animals.” Scientists have discovered there is a vast difference in the number of cells and neurons between humans and other brains. One is compelled to conclude such is the case by design, not accident. If man is a “late-comer” to the chain of evolutionary life, how is it that he has become vastly superior in intellect? The biblical record helps one to understand when man was created, he was created full-grown, with the ability to hear, understand, reason, and communicate. Such ability could only derive from a source which could provide it, and that would be God! The fact that intelligence and the power of reasoning exist, would logically suggest and confirm the existence of an eternal, living, intelligent Being!
        Hence, the combination of the biblical evidence with true science and practical logic, provide sufficient reasoning to conclude the Genesis record of creation (Gen. 1-2) as true and relegates the theory of evolution to the realm of the ridiculous!
                PO Box 461
                Fulton, MS 38843
               


Table of Contents

        God made the world and all things therein (Acts 17:24). He laid the foundation of the earth. The heavens above are the work of his hands (Psalm 102:25). He created all things by Jesus Christ. “For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him” (Eph. 3:9; Col. 1:16). “All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made” (John 1:3).
        “O LORD, thou art our father; we are the clay ... we all are the work of thy hand” (Isa. 64:8). “Woe unto them that seek deep to hide their counsel from the Lord, and their works are in the dark, and they say, Who seeth us? And who knoweth us? Surely your turning of things upside down shall be esteemed as the potter’s clay: for shall the work say of him that made it, He made me not? Or shall the thing framed say of him that framed it, He had no understanding” (Isa. 29:16-17)? “Woe unto him that striveth with his Maker! ... Shall the clay say to him that fashioneth it, What makest thou? or thy work, He hath no hands? Woe unto him that saith unto his father, What begettest thou? or to the woman, What hast thou brought forth” (Isa. 45:9-10)? “Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, Why hast thou made me thus? Hath not the potter power over the clay...” (Rom. 9:20-21). No wonder we read the words of inspiration: “The fool hath said in his heart there is no God” (Psalm 14:1; 53:1).
        There are several terms and words we hear from time to time that need defining.
        Theism: “belief in the existence of a god or gods, especially belief in one god as creator of the universe, intervening in it and sustaining a personal relation to his creatures” (Oxford). “Belief in the existence of a god or gods. Belief in the existence of one God viewed as the creative source of the human race and the world who transcends yet is immanent in the world (Merriam Webster).
        Atheism: “disbelief or lack of belief in the existence of God or gods” (Oxford). “A lack of belief or a strong disbelief in the existence of a god or any gods. A philosophical or religious position characterized by disbelief in the existence of a god or any gods” (Merriam Webster). Note: The letter “a” is sometimes used as a prefix to a word giving it the meaning of “not,” “without” or “absence of.” For example: amorphous: without form; asymmetry: absence of symmetry; atypical: not typical; asymmetrical: not symmetrical; arrhythmia: without rhythm; asexual: without sex; amoral: not moral; asymptomatic: without symptoms; atheist: without or absence of belief.
        Monotheism: “the doctrine or belief that there is only one God.” The Israelites were unique in the world of their time because they believed in only one God. However, they often deviated from that knowledge and worshipped various gods like the nations around them. God warned them over and over that He was the only “living and true God” (cf. 1 Thess. 1:9; Jer. 10:10). “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is one Lord” (Duet. 6:4). “I am the Lord, and there is none else, there is no God beside me: ... there is none beside me. I am the Lord, and there is none else” (Isa. 45-46). “Unto thee it was shewed, that thou mightest know that the Lord he is God; there is none else beside him. Know therefore this day, and consider it in thine heart, that the Lord he is God in heaven above, and upon the earth beneath: there is none else” (Deut. 4:35,39).
        The first two of the ten commandments (which was given only to the Israelites when they were at Mt. Horeb/Sinai, Deut. 5:2-3; Nehemiah 9:13-14), made it very clear they could not serve other gods — “make-believe” gods which are no gods at all. “I am the Lord thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. Thou shalt have no other gods before me. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth: Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God” (Exodus 20:2-5).
        Polytheism: “the belief in or worship of more than one god.” Religions of the ancient past traditionally believed in multiple gods. They believed in gods of the sky, the trees, the water, the mountains, etc. etc. They had a god for literally everything, whether on earth or in the sky.
        ATHEISM defiantly claims there is no God —period! They claim they KNOW there is no God or a higher entity or supernatural being of any kind. They claim there is no such thing as a supreme consciousness or intelligence. They can claim all they want to claim, but atheists cannot know there is no God or that God does not exist. They affirm that belief in “god” (a supreme being) is simply the figment of the imagination of superstitious humans of ancient times. That’s an easy statement to make. But how do they know that? What evidence can they provide and point to that proves their position? All they can offer is their own assumptions, conjectures and fanciful, illogical, theories —all false to the core! They refuse to accept God’s counsel through the mounds of evidence —both biblical and scientific.
        It is not possible for humans to know everything there is to know, whether that be belief in God or any other matter; and, atheists admit it. In order for them to know God does not exist, they would have to be everywhere in the entire universe to see that God is not there. Obviously, it is not possible for humans to be everywhere in the universe at the same time. Therefore, it is not possible for humans to know there is no God! The very place where they are not, can very well be the place where God is! See how absurd this becomes?
        The existence of God is provable by the conclusive evidence that exists all around us. We must examine the evidence and reason to a logical conclusion. Tragically, so many turn a blind eye to the evidence because they don’t won’t to see it. They have their mind made up and they’re not going to believe —period! One can’t be prejudice against the evidence and dismiss it simply because they choose to not to believe it.
        The intricate balance of nature proves God exists. For example: Hundreds of animals and plants survive only because other animals and plants survive. They are dependent upon one another. So many plants, flowers and trees live only by cross pollination made possible by animals, insects and other plants. That means that all the animals, insects, and plants that depend upon each other would have to have evolved at exactly at the same time; otherwise, they could not have survived. By observing nature, we know God exists! “The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God” (Psalm 14:1).
        Atheists cannot prove the origin and existence of a single particle of physical “matter” in the universe. Matter is “physical substance in general, as distinct from mind and spirit; (in physics) that which occupies space and possesses mass, especially as distinct from energy.” Matter is simply material (rocks, dirt, etc.) out of which objects (everything) exists.
        Atheists cannot answer the simple question: “Where did matter come from?” Where did the printing press that produced the visible words you’re reading come from? Even a child will say, somebody made it. It had a designer and it had a builder. If we can understand that someone had to make the paper on which these words are printed, can’t we also understand this world and the entire universe had a designer and builder? The Lord God of heaven tells us very plainly that “Every house is builded by some man; but he that built all things is God” (Heb. 3:3-4).
        Who made your hands that are holding this paper or that is scrolling a computer screen that enables you to read this print? Who made your eyes that are reading these words? Who made the lens in your eyes that projects light onto the retina in the back of your eyes which in turn converts it into electrical signals? Who made the optic nerves that carry these signals to the brain? Who made your brain that sees upside-down images right-side up? Atheists can’t answer any of these questions. Actually, they believe our hands, eyes, brain (and all other things that exists) came about through multiplied countless random chances unrelated to each other and, that all these random illogical changes came about at exactly the same time to aid each other —all without any evidence whatsoever! The only thing they can offer is “that’s just what they believe!” In their mind, they have to start with the premise that there is no such thing as a supreme being who created it all. Again, without any evidence for their belief.
        Atheism says the multi-faceted design of eyesight had no designer or maker! They want us to believe that physical “matter“, that did not exist, miraculously became “matter” that does exist. And, this lifeless particle of matter became alive, and in a day’s time, made our hands, eyes and brain that make us able to hold this book (see this screen), read its words, and comprehend its meaning! “The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God” (Psalm 14:1).
        Of course, atheists do not believe that lifeless matter became life and then hands, eyes and brain in a day’s time. But, they do believe that lifeless matter became hands, eyes and brain over the time-span of billions of years. But, we must ask? Where’s the evidence? There is none! —Zero, Nil, Nada, Zilch. The absolute truth is that from nothing, matter came into existence. And then this lifeless matter (dirt) became hands, eyes and brain all on the same day! “And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul” (Gen. 2:7; cf. Gen. 1:26-31).
        “Time” is not mine to give, but we’ll be happy to allow atheists the billions of years they say they need —but the outcome will remain the same. “Matter” (substance, material) which does not exist, does not produce “matter” (stuff) that does exist. “Something” (no matter what it is, small or large) does not come from “nothing” —no matter how much time passes. Even if you start with existing matter, a rock for example, does not transform itself and become living matter. Give it trillions of years, give it infinity if you like, a rock will NEVER come to life, grow legs and walk away. While thinking of numbers, after billion comes trillion, followed by quadrillion, then quintillion, sextillion, septillion, octillion, nonillion, and decillion. Decillion is 10 raised to the 33rd power. That is 1 followed by 33 zeros. Do you believe there is no God? No wonder atheists keep adding billions of years to their made-up false theory of evolution. They KNOW life does not come from non-life! They refuse to believe in the God of the universe! “The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God” (Psalm 14:1).
        Atheism wants us to believe the universe came into existence as the result of a “big bang” in the neighborhood of 12 billion years ago (they keep increasing this number, groping for something they can hang on to, but it’s useless). They tell us that from a ball of matter as small as the head of a straight pin, all that exists in the universe came into being. After billions of years, some of this lifeless physical matter became alive; and, through countless random accidents over more multiplied billions of years, not only life, but intelligent life appeared!

        Part 1 of 3
               
               

Table of Contents

        Yes, it’s true. We are saved by faith. The Bible declares it in more than one place. Almost everyone who knows anything about the Bible can quote John 3:16. Look at verses 14 & 15 to understand the context. John 3:14-16, ”And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
        Now, what in the world does “Moses lifted up the serpent” have to do with the faith that saves us? How could lifting up the serpent save anyone? Well, before we go into that, let’s explore some other things that have saved people.
        Another common and well known Bible story is Noah and the ark. God destroyed the world by a great flood but Noah was saved. Look at these Scriptures. Genesis 6:13-14, “God said unto Noah, The end of all flesh is come before me; for the earth is filled with violence through them; and, behold, I will destroy them with the earth. Make thee an ark of gopher wood; rooms shalt thou make in the ark, and shalt pitch it within and without with pitch. ... v.18 But with thee will I establish my covenant; and thou shalt come into the ark, thou, and thy sons, and thy wife, and thy sons’ wives with thee. ... v.22 Thus did Noah; according to all that God commanded him, so did he.”
        So, Noah did all that God commanded him to do. He built the ark according to the pattern God gave him, and at the proper time he entered the ark. By doing all that God told him to do, he was saved.
        Now, tell me. Why did Noah build the ark? It took many years. Don’t you know this was asking a lot to have a man follow these complex directions year after year? Would it really sound reasonable that a great flood would come upon the earth and float a huge ship such as the one Noah built? So, why did Noah do it? We know the answer don’t we? It was faith. The only reason Noah followed God’s instructions was because he had enough faith to do so. We are not talking about “belief.” That type of faith is just not enough. Look at how James describes that type of faith. James 2:14, “What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him?”
        Be honest with yourself here. If Noah had refused to obey God and not build the ark, would he have been saved? Just suppose Noah had reasoned to himself that the ark was just too big, or suppose he decided that “cedar” was better than “gopher wood?” Would this have been enough faith to save Noah? No, Noah was saved because he had enough faith to obey God and do exactly what God told him to do.
        And then there was Abraham. There are several stories about Abraham. In every case recorded Abraham demonstrated great faith. Enough faith, in fact, to obey everything God told him to do without question. But look at the account of the time God told Abraham to kill his son Isaac and offer him as a sacrifice to God. Look again at what James has to say about Abraham’s faith. James 2:20-24, “But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead? Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar? Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect? And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God. Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.”
        So just like Noah, Abraham’s faith saved him. But also like Noah, would Abraham’s faith have been enough to save him if he had refused to obey God’s instructions about sacrificing his son? According to James it was Abraham’s faith that caused him to obey God. James says that this is the kind of faith it takes to save someone. It is a faith that is strong enough to obey whatever God tells you to do. You see, faith alone is not enough to save. James says the devil has that kind of faith, and that is just not enough to save. The kind of faith that is counted to us as righteousness is the kind of faith that Noah and Abraham had. It is the kind of faith that will cause us to obey anything God tells us to do.
        Now, fast forward to today. If faith alone will not save us, then what kind of faith will it take to save us? Has God given us any special instructions such as the instructions He gave Noah and Abraham? Well, yes He has. God told us to have faith, alright. But He told us He requires some other things to be saved as well. Do we have enough faith for our faith to be counted as righteousness, like Abraham and Noah?
        One other thing God told us to do is to “repent.” Look at Luke 13:3,5. Jesus said, “I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.” And then we read Acts 17:30, “And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent.”
        Any doubt about it? It is as clear as can be that repentance is required by God in order to be saved. Once again we see that James understood that “faith alone will not save.”
        But there is still more instructions from God about our salvation. Check this out. Romans 10:9-10, “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” Look also at Matthew 10:32. Jesus said, “Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven.”
        There is still more to the Gospel that saves than repentance and confession. We know that the type of faith that saves us and is counted to us as righteousness (like Abraham and Noah), is the kind of faith that does not refuse to obey anything God tells us to do.
        Look at these passages about baptism. Remember the type of faith that saves us. Acts 2:36-38, “Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ. Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.” Look at Acts 22:16: “And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.” Now, read 1 Peter 3:20-21: “Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water. The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.”
        So there you have it. What kind of faith saves us? You can see that it is the type of faith that Noah had. And it is the type of faith that Abraham had. It is the type of faith that causes us to obey anything God tells us to do. And, like Abraham, we don’t have to fully understand why God requires it. We just have to have the type of faith that causes us to obey God no matter what. This is the kind of faith that James describes and this is the kind of faith that is counted to us as righteousness.
        Now how about that story of the brass serpent that Moses made for the children of Israel? Look at the Scripture. Numbers 21:9, “And Moses made a serpent of brass, and put it upon a pole, and it came to pass, that if a serpent had bitten any man, when he beheld the serpent of brass, he lived.”
        What did it take for God to heal those who looked upon this brass serpent? Well, first it took the type of faith that would cause someone to look up at the brass snake. Faith alone would just not do the job. It took action on the part of the person who wanted to be saved. It was simple enough, but something besides faith was required. And as you can now clearly see, that has always been the way people have been saved by faith.
                221 Westbend School Rd.
                Lewisville, NC 27023
               


Table of Contents

        Marriage is not of man; it is of God. This is what we must remember. Those who forget this are those who are most ready to embrace all kinds of shameful and degrading perversions. When the “sons of God” got to thinking that marriage was for them to treat as they pleased, “they took them wives of all that they choose” (Gen. 6:2). Lamech did this; he “took unto him two wives” (Gen. 4:19). It did not make him a happy man. Lamech became vain and violent. He sang a song about himself: “Adah and Zillah, Hear my voice; ye wives of Lamech, hearken unto my speech: for I have slain a man to my wounding, and a young man to my hurt. If Cain shall be avenged sevenfold, truly Lamech seventy and sevenfold” (Gen. 4:23-24). Lamech sang about having two women, about fighting and killing, and about the hurt that he brought upon himself. This may be the first country music song.
        When Jesus was asked about marriage he said, “Have ye not read that he which made them at the beginning...” (Matt. 19:4), and for the standard he said, “from the beginning” (Matt. 19:8). Jesus did not say the sexes evolved into male and female over millions of years; God created them male and female at the beginning.
        God’s plan for marriage was from the beginning, therefore God’s plan for marriage is older than the Gospel, older than the Law of Moses, older than Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and older than Noah. To use a common cliché, marriage is older than Methuselah. In all seriousness, marriage is older than sin. Consider that for a moment. If it had not been for sin there would be no need for the cross, for the Gospel, or for the church, but there would still be a need for marriage. That is how fundamental marriage is to God’s plan.
        When Jesus was asked about marriage, he quoted from both Genesis 1 (Matt. 19:4; Gen. 1:17), and Genesis 2 (Matt. 19:5; Gen. 2:24). Jesus did not speak of them as though they were myths, fables, or allegories. Moses said that Adam spoke the words of Genesis 2:24, but Jesus attributed the words of Adam to God himself (see Matt. 19:4-5). Adam was speaking the words that were given to him of God. Jesus added, “What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder” (Matt. 19:6). Notice how Jesus called the married, “What...God hath joined together.” That is why we may boldly say, marriage is of God.
        The marriage covenant is not just a covenant between a man and a woman, it is also a covenant between both of them and God. Marriage is not just a civil union. It is a sacred spiritual covenant. God-approved matrimony is holy-matrimony. I have heard it said at weddings, “That was a marriage made in heaven.” In truth, every legitimate marriage is made in heaven, and every illegitimate marriage is made in hell. There are legitimate marriages, and there are illegitimate ones. Remember how John the Baptist said to Herod concerning Herodias, “It is not lawful for thee to have her” (Matt. 14:4). Herod’s marriage to Herodias was illegitimate; it was not lawful for him to keep having her.
        It is common for preachers to say in a marriage ceremony, “By the power invested in me by the State of _____, I now pronounce you husband and wife!” That is good enough for a civil union. It is broadly recognized that marriage is important to the well-being of a society. That is why there is a legitimate civil interest in a civil marriage. However, because Jesus referred to marriage as, “What...God hath joined together,” I use a different approach when officiating in a wedding, I explain to the bride, groom, and all others present, that since marriage is of God, then we will ask God himself to join them together in a prayer, and that when I say “Amen“, then in faith we will know that it is done. I do this because I want all in the assembly to know that marriage is not of man. Marriage is of God.
                wmhboyd@aol.com
                647 Finger Bluff Road
                Morrison, TN 37357


Table of Contents