Will It Get Worse?
The aged Paul once wrote, "But know this, that in the last days grievous times shall come, (for men) shall be ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth... corrupted in mind, reprobate concerning the faith...but evil men and imposters shall wax worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived." (II Tim.3:1,7,8,13)
One is made to wonder just how much WORSE things will get after reading such comments as the following taken from the GERALDINE VOICE, bulletin of the 25th and Geraldine Church of Christ in Oklahoma City. This is the church that has taken upon itself the world-wide oversight of "Campaigns for Christ." I quote in part:
"Conversation In Hell Regarding Campaigning For Christ"
"Once upon a time Satan asked his helpers to propose ways and means of hindering the Campaign for Christ effort of the 25th and Geraldine Church of Christ in Oklahoma City.
One of Satan's helpers said, "I would tell the people there is no God, no devil, no heaven and no hell and that they should eat, drink, and be merry, for tomorrow they may die, therefore campaigning is a waste of time,"
Another said, "Let's tell them to argue over the Scripturalness of this effort."
Satan, the wisest of all in the realm said, "Why not tell them that the New Testament Commission does say, "Go," but it does not say, 'Go in a hurry. '"
With one accord the conference shouted, "Go, but hurry slow."
Notice the remark I have underlined. THESE MEN HAVE THE COOL IMPUDENCE TO SUGGEST THAT DISCUSSION CONCERNING THE SCRIPTURALNESS OF A MATTER ORIGINATED IN HELL!! God, have mercy on their souls!
What these men desire is for all others to accept their edicts "sans souci"--without care or concern. Don't argue about whether or not it is scriptural, for that just wastes time!
BUT WHAT SAITH THE SCRIPTURES? Luke, in commenting upon the Bereans, said, "Now these were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, examining the scriptures daily, whether these things were so." (Acts 17:11) Did anyone advise them, "Don't worry yourselves about the scripturalness of Paul's preaching. Just take his word for it."
Did Peter reply to Paul's rebuke (Gal. 2:11) by saying, "Oh, come on, Paul. Don't argue about the scripturalness of my actions. You're just standing in the way."
What do you suppose John meant when he wrote, "Prove the spirits whether they are of God, for many false prophets are gone out into the world." (I John 4:1) And was Paul one of the devil's helpers when he urged "Prove all things." (I Thess. 5:21)
No, the truth of the matter is that these human schemes and devices cannot be defended from the scriptures, and their inventors know it. So they invent "Conversations in Hell" to cover up their lack, and to further deceive, even as they have deceived themselves.
But it all serves to further confirm my faith in the Bible as being inspired of God. The word says that these men "shall wax worse and worse." And it's getting "worse and worse."
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