January 1979

Dear Brethren:

          In previous letters, we have discussed the subjects of doctrine, administration, abuses of government, and the fact that government is of God. For this month, we are left with one basic and very vital subject to explain. All the technical and explanatory information contained in the previous letters will be of little value unless we thoroughly evaluate and make understandable its total application to our times.

          What Is Correct Application of Doctrine, Government, and Administration?

          To set the stage for a comprehensive evaluation, let us review briefly the concepts of doctrine and administration. A proper understanding of these factors must be kept in mind. They will be critical to an intelligent grasp of the whole subject.

Review of Doctrine

          Both government and administration are absolutely impossible without basic doctrine. Doctrine is the basis of belief and practice. It is foundational.

          Doctrine—which means teaching, word, or instruction—is the fabric of a system, plan, or way. For instance, the doctrines of democracy, Marxism, and fascism are nothing more than the verbalizing of principles by which these governmental concepts are practiced and administered. The doctrine of God is the codification (written form) of the spiritual principles of God's government. The difference between the concepts of men and those of God lies in the fact that God has all power and authority and can carry out His plans and purposes. Whereas, the concepts of men are human—subject to the ever-changing nature of man—and are dependent upon willing acceptance or rejection by the masses. Human governments can be overthrown. The form, shape, or administrative dimension of any human plan, system, government, or organization changes on the basis of time, conditions, and circumstances. God's government (doctrine or word in practice) is consistent, eternal. It is absolute. It is perfection in action.

          Though that way of life—the very Word of God—was given to the first man, Adam, he was not created with a nature which was subject to spiritual concepts. His nature was that of defiance and rebellion against the way of God. Mankind, following in the footsteps of Adam, authored various human forms of government by which he purposed to be ruled. But, true to human nature, he could not be consistent. In time, those not in power gained the ascendancy and overthrew those who had power and responsibility. Then another form of government was tried—eventually destined to failure, comparable to its predecessors. Man's existence has been a chronicle of changes, down to the present. Today we are no different. Our present governments will eventually deteriorate and be discarded in favor of others. This cycle will continue until genocide occurs—or until, as the Bible reveals, there is a favorable intervention on the part of a much greater power. Such is the inevitable fate of the doctrines and decrees of men. What man teaches is subject to change and eventual rejection. What a contrast with the way of God—a way based on doctrines and teachings which are eternal! Those doctrines are unchanging and absolute. Therefore, even though the first man and all of his human progeny—as well as the nation of Israel—could not obey the spiritual concepts of an everlasting form of government, a provision was made whereby man could develop the character and nature to implicitly obey and serve his Creator. That provision was not an afterthought on the part of the Creator God. It was a part of His plan from the very beginning—prior to the creation of man. In that plan was an eternal provision for the creation of obedience to God's government (doctrine—the Word of God).

          In order for man to obey the true doctrine—the eternal Word of God—it was first necessary for God to reveal the truth to man. Then, He had to set the correct example and provide for the necessary power to obey. How was this given? Who set the example and made it possible for us to have the power and capability of obedience?

          Christ was a part of the Godhead. He was eternal with the Father. All things were created by and through Him. But according to the plan blueprinted from the beginning, He was to come to the earth and become a sacrifice for humankind. Prior to this required death in our stead, He was commissioned to bring to light the true doctrine of the Father. He not only came to live it; He was the doctrine in the flesh—He was the Word of God, living in human form. What He taught, by virtue of His commission, He taught as the Word of God. He was the true doctrine, personified. And that which He taught, He received from the Father. What Christ was, in the flesh, was the manifestation of absolutes—of divine perfection. He is the Word which cannot be changed or altered. No wonder Paul was inspired to write that Christ was the same yesterday, today, and forever! For, in Him there is not even the shadow—hint—of turning (changing).

          God's unalterable way forms the basis of all things. His whole plan and purpose hinges upon the certainty of that way—the Word or doctrine. If there is any interruption, the purpose of God cannot stand. Is it any wonder that Satan has continually tried to destroy the continuity of God and His way (government)? Of course, Satan cannot succeed in changing or altering the plan and purpose of God. But, he attempts to indirectly accomplish his mission by convincing men that God does change and that He is not the same yesterday, today, and forever. Tragically, except for the conviction of a tiny handful of chosen servants, he has nearly destroyed loyalty and obedience to that revealed, absolute way of life. In reality, those who now reject the revealed way of life no longer believe in the veracity of government. For, all government and authority proceed from the Father, and the predication of that government is the Word (doctrine) of God. If we are not obedient to the source of government, we cannot be spiritually responsive to any segment of it. We most certainly will fail to respect that power and authority which God has vested in human beings for the purpose of preaching the spiritually blueprinted plan from the foundation of the world.

          The Bible is a long chronicle of human disobedience to that revealed way of life. Despite man's record of disobedience, the validity of the unalterable way of life—truth—has existed from Adam to the present. Truth cannot change. What Adam and his progeny, for approximately 4,000 years, failed to loyally obey, Christ, the second Adam, came to obey perfectly. The only changes Christ instituted were in administration, a facet of government which will be discussed later. There is no concept of Christ which stands out in sharper relief than the fact that He changed nothing and that He implicitly obeyed the instructions of the Father.

          Prior to the death, burial, resurrection, and ascension of Christ, He commissioned chosen ministers to continue to proclaim that way of life. There is not one shred of evidence that what Christ commissioned His chosen ministers to proclaim, until His own Second Coming, was any different from that which His Father had sent Him to proclaim. On the contrary, all the evidence is that the ministry of reconciliation is to preach exactly the same gospel which was taught to ancient Israel and that which Christ Himself taught during His three-and-a-half-year ministry here on the earth.

          The only changes which Christ instituted during His earthly ministry were administrative. For, administration today is of the spirit—of the heart—and not merely of the letter, as it was under the terms of the Old Covenant. As we analyze the subject of administration, these factors will become more clear and understandable.

          The way of God—laws, statutes, judgments, and commandments—has never changed. It is of God. It is perfect. It cannot change. That way is the express nature and character of the Father. To change or abrogate that way is tantamount to changing or destroying God. How is such a consideration even remotely possible? The called and chosen servants of God know that there has never been, and never will be, any change in that way. This is the manifested evidence of conversion.

          As the true doctrine of God, it is received by the chosen ministry as a divine revelation. Then, it is carefully and faithfully proclaimed, in accordance with the commission given. Therefore, the obvious manifestation of the true ministry is the simple fact that those chosen of God are proclaiming the same message as that given, from the beginning of time, in the recorded history of God's dealing with man. Any hint of change or transition is ample evidence that the one proclaiming the change is not of God.

          On the other hand, the only human beings who can receive the message and comprehend it are those chosen by God. For, only the called can understand and live the requirements of the New Covenant.

          The Kingdom is God's. As owner and possessor of that kingdom, He has the right of choosing and training whom He pleases. The full volition and purpose of man is applicable only after God tenders a call. After that call, we are held accountable for positively accepting and living up to the conditions and terms of it. For the sake of emphasis, let me once again state: The terms are exactly the same as those given to every other called and chosen servant, regardless of the time and era of that call. The terms of the contract have never changed. Only the principals who are involved differ, over the years.

          The contract is a spiritual one. Spiritual things are not tangibly seen by human beings. They can be spiritually comprehended, only. Therefore, since the conditions—the laws and ways of God—are not physical but spiritual, opportunities for the development of deception, perversion, hypocrisy, and unfounded claims (in the form of change) have presented themselves. And man—created with a nature which is not, and cannot be, subject to the Law of God—came under the very adverse influence of an archenemy, Satan the Devil. Satan is opposed to God and His way of life. And, he is opposed to all men called and chosen of God to fulfill His purpose. Satan is very subtle in effecting his adverse influence in the lives of human beings.

          What are the results of man's living in this adverse environment? Remember, even his own nature is against him! How does he cope with his unusual problem? How does he avoid self-condemnation?

          To live with himself, man has created a world of religions. He refuses to live in a state of condemnation. To assuage this element of conscience, he chooses the church of his choice. And, of course, the church of his choice will always be one which allows him the liberty and license to do what he pleases. In this way, he "kids" himself that he is fulfilling his spiritual obligation to "God" while, at the time, making little if any real sacrifice in the physical domain. The result of all this cunning of man and of his major influence, Satan, is the creation of a host of doctrines which are the fabrications of men and demons. Since the truth can be understood only by the called, there is no way to effect a "scientific" evaluation or test by which one way or the other can be physically substantiated. Therefore, mankind in general continues a life of smug confidence and ignorance. For, though the called know, they cannot convince the uncalled. God alone can call and make His way known to men.

          The priceless gift of God to any man is a spiritual call. For, by that call, man can understand and live a way of life totally beyond the grasp of all other human beings. The called can KNOW the truth. They are called and have become the recipients of that confidence and assurance. It is the faith once delivered. When lost, through apathy and indifference or trial, it cannot be regained.

          The greatest trial of man is to remain faithful to the original faith—the doctrine of life. As Jesus said, you are His disciples if you continue in His doctrine. It is not a matter of how a man begins his life, but, rather, how he concludes it. If we endure the trials of our faith until the Second Coming of Jesus Christ, we shall receive our reward—a place in the Kingdom of God.

          The doctrine of God has never changed. But, there was a change in the administration of that doctrine. What was the change? How does administration affect us today? And, how have administrative difficulties rendered the Church of God in our day vulnerable to the attacks of Satan and man? These are vital questions and must be understood.

Review of Administration

          "Administer" is a verb of action. It means to execute a charge or office. It is the carrying out of responsibility. It means to mete out or dispense an item—though, at times, that item may be intangible.

          In no way does the concept of administration equal that which is administered. For instance, the administration of law in the framework of our constitutional democracy changes from time to time. But, such a change does not alter or abrogate the law. The only change is that of the "how." The laws and the Constitution remain the same.

          This principle applies to the change of administration from the old to the new. The manner of administering or dispensing justice changed.

          The laws and statutes of God have never changed—and, indeed, never will. It is this change, from the old administration to the new dispensation of the laws of God, which we must understand.

          Under the terms of the Old Covenant, the Children of Israel—as a physical people—were required to obey the letter of the Law. They were not held accountable for intent of heart and mind. If they failed to live up to the physical requirement, the usual penalty was death. The penalty for the following sins was immediate death—no mercy or forgiveness was afforded:

Assumption of spiritual office or responsibility (Ex. 19:12–13; Num. 3:10, 38; 18:7).

Any and all Sabbath-breaking (Ex. 31:14–15; 35:2; Num. 15:32–35).

All murders (Ex. 21:12–14; Lev. 24:17).

Adultery (Lev. 20:10–12).

Disrespect toward parents (Ex. 21:15; 21:17; Lev. 20:9).

Homosexuality (Lev. 20:13).

Kidnapping (Ex. 21:16).

Incest (Lev. 20:17).

Divers sexual sins (Lev. 20:18–21; Deut. 22:13–30).

Blasphemy (Lev. 24:16).

Idolatry—departure from truth which God had given (Ex. 22:20; Lev. 20:2–5; Deut. 13:6–11).

Bestiality (Ex. 22:19; Lev. 20:15–16).

Witchcraft (Ex. 22:18; Lev. 20:6, 27).

Arrogancy of spirit (Num. 15:30–31).

Rebellion of children (Deut. 21:18–21).

Manslaughter—some cases (Num. 35:6–34; Deut. 19:4–13).

Violation of office or responsibility (Deut. 13:1–5).

False witnessing—where the intent was to destroy another party (Deut. 19:16–19).

          In many other ways and for various reasons, the death penalty was exacted for national sins. Suffice it to say here that, in nearly all cases of failure to respond to the spiritual requirements imposed by God, the penalty was death. For instance, to break any of God's Holy Days was to suffer the immediate consequence of being cut off from Israel—meaning death.

          Besides administering the death penalty, those responsible for the administration of justice were held accountable for making diligent inquiry—judicial investigation—into the allegations of sin in the camp of Israel. They were required to diligently seek out all sinners and apply the appropriate penalties (Deut. 17:2–13; 19:15; 2 1:22–23; 24:16).

          In many cases, the penalty was not death. There was the whole system of sacrifices, washings, and other ordinances. These sacrifices were very costly in both time and money. They were a very weighty burden which our forefathers could not bear. However, they were a true representation of the terrible weight of sacrifice and payment which Christ had to make for us.

          Then besides the death penalty, sacrifices, washings, and carnal ordinances, there was the system of "tooth for tooth and eye for eye" which had to be administered for varying reasons (Ex. 21:23–26; Lev. 24:18–22; Deut. 19:16–21). To say the least, this system of justice was a very exacting one. It had the effect, if Israel had ever really practiced it, of creating a healthy fear on the part of all who lived in the bounds of the nation of Israel. If one sinned, he was found guilty and faced the exaction of the law—whatever that requirement might be. There was absolutely no mercy. If a mistake was made, the price had to be paid. Indeed, a very heavy burden.

          History reveals the fact that Israel never really obeyed God or practiced His way of life. Why not? With the threat of death or some other very exacting requirement held over the heads of the people, it would seem that an outward carnal obedience would exist. However, the facts show that such obedience is not possible.

          The Children of Israel had been privileged to see many of the most miraculous events ever to transpire. Their separation and expulsion from the land of Egypt was a miracle of major magnitude. To soften the rulers and people of Egypt, God made them experience ten plagues of awesome proportions—miracles which should have horrified any human being. They were: Waters turned to blood; frogs; lice; flies; murrain of beasts; boils and blains; hail; locusts; darkness; and the killing of Egypt's firstborn.

          Who could fail to be cognizant that some great intervention had occurred? The eyes of all the Israelites had seen these things come to pass. Could they ever forget what happened?

          Once they had begun their journey out of the land of Egypt, they encountered situation after situation which required the intervention of God. The Children of Israel were led by a cloud during the day and by a pillar of fire during the night. And just when all looked hopeless, God intervened and opened up the mighty Red Sea so the Israelites could walk across the bed of the sea on dry ground. Then, who could forget the journey through the wilds of the Sinai Peninsula? The journey, itself, is a major miracle in its own right. There was the miraculous healing of the waters at Marah. Manna dropped from the heavens for many years—the only food by which their lives could be sustained. And on occasion, when gratitude failed and complaining was rampant, God sent innumerable quail. Then there was the significant miracle by which water rushed from the rock to assuage their thirst in the parched desert. God marvelously intervened when Israel was confronted by the hostile Amalekites—the time when Aaron and Hur had to uphold the arms of Moses to insure victory over these assailants. And, what an emotional impact to personally hear the voice of God proceed from the top of Mount Horeb—uttering into codified law the Ten Commandments! There was the burning judgment of God against the two Sons of Aaron who were not faithful and honorable in the discharge of their responsibilities. What miracles! What awesome intervention by God! Surely, no one could have doubted the validity of the instructions which the Children of Israel had received. Yet, history reveals total intransigence on the part of the people. What was wrong? Why could they not obey their God?

          God had, Himself, stated that the Israelites were honest in their affirmative response to the covenant agreement. The problem was not the initial intent and purpose. The people wanted to obey God—probably for the purpose of receiving the rewards offered for obedience. Regardless of the motive, they wanted to obey. Yet, they did not.

          The answer to the above problem lies in the fact that their nature would not allow them to obey. The carnal mind is not subject to the Law of God. It cannot obey the spiritual intent and purpose of that perfect law. At the very time of their offer to obey and honor God, He said: "O that there were such an heart in them, that they would fear me, and keep all my commandments always, that it might be well with them, and with their children for ever!" (Deut. 5:29).

          Therefore, even the dread and fear of the uncompromising penal system—a system of death and grievous works—was inadequate to keep the carnal Israelites in conformity to the Law. History proves this very fact. For, the Children of Israel sinned from the time of the Old Covenant ratification to the coming of Jesus Christ. Consider the multiple thousands of Israelites who died as a result of sins—at times, 50 to 100 thousand died. Yet, they continued to sin.

          Perfection was not possible under the conditions of the Old Covenant. And since the Law is eternal, it cannot change. Some other provision had to be made in order to bring human beings to perfection and fulfill the purpose for which they were created. That provision was instituted under the terms of the New Covenant.

          Immediate death was the fate of all who sinned a sin of death, under the Old Covenant. There was no mercy extended (Heb. 10:28). Death was inevitable. Now, since man's nature is contrary to the intent of the Law and God's spiritual way of life—and since the fabric created by human beings (that is, our society), as well as a host of supernatural beings (fallen angels), are all against us—what hope do we have?

          Salvation was not offered under the Old Covenant. Israel received the Law and paid the terrible price of disobedience to write lessons for you and me. The letter-of-the-law administration could not produce spiritual results. To resort to ANY form of letter obedience, under the assumption it is a part of spiritual administration, is to grievously misunderstand the transition from the old to the new.

          What was physically administered, under the conditions of the Old Covenant? The Bible plainly reveals that God gave them His laws, statutes, and way of life. It was the Law which God had codified and given to Israel as their national constitution. Those very laws are spirit and life. They existed from the beginning. But as spiritual laws—codified for ancient Israel—they could not be observed by carnal, fleshly beings. Israel repeatedly trampled upon the Law of God! They paid a tragic price for that disobedience.

          If the old administration was letter-of-the-law obedience to the laws and statutes of God, what is the new administration? How does it differ from the old?

          Christ introduced the new administration. He is the perfect example of the new administration in action. We shall see, shortly, how Christ carried out the principles of the new.

          The new administration is of the spirit. Of course, letter observance of the Law is essential. As faith without works is dead, so is an intangible concept of obedience without letter obedience. In other words, tangible obedience is required. And tangible things can be seen. Therefore, obedience to the spiritual intent of the Sabbath is manifested by literal, physical obedience to the fourth command.

          Spiritual observance is an expansion of the letter. Christ made it very clear that He did not come to destroy or annul the Law. He came to live it—to obey, from the heart and mind, the concepts of the Law. And He is our perfect example. We must walk in His very footsteps.

          Christ made it abundantly clear what He meant by the addition of a spiritual dimension to the Law. It was not abrogated but, rather, expanded. For, He said that murder was no longer a matter of physically killing someone. Under the conditions of the spiritual intent of the Law, to hate anyone is murder (Matt. 5:21–22). Spiritual adultery is not merely the physical act between consenting parties. It is any physical lust after a woman—or man (Matt. 5:27–28). Under the terms of the New Covenant administration, we must not swear. Swearing was permissible under the conditions of the old. As a physical nation, Israel was required to act in a legal manner. But, as indicated earlier, this physical relationship never kept the Children of Israel from sinning. And finally, letter responsibility required the employment of the principle of "eye for eye and tooth for tooth" (Matt. 5:38–39). But the new administration requires love at all times. We are to suffer wrong and not retaliate. We must patiently wait for the intervention of God. Vengeance is His, we are told. And herein lies the basic difference between the old and new administrations.

          Under the conditions of the old administration, punishment was meted out speedily. It usually required death. There was no mercy or forgiveness. But under the terms of the new administration, mercy was granted. Punishment was postponed. There is no question: Punishment will come, but it is not meted out immediately. Time and space for repentance are granted to offenders. It is in this context we are informed that grace (unmerited pardon) and truth came through Jesus Christ. By His death, burial, and resurrection, He paid the penalty for us. And by the power of the Holy Spirit, Christ now lives in us—fulfilling all the requirements of the Law, as He did in His own flesh body. The laws and statutes are not abrogated. They are eternal and binding upon all men, regardless of the time in which they live. But we now have the power to live the intent and purpose of that spiritual Law—obedience which was not possible when we had no help.

          Ultimate punishment is inevitable for those who reject God's way. The severity of it will far exceed that which was administered under the conditions of the old administration. Why? Because we will have done despite to the spirit of grace, if we disobey and willfully sin. God views this as an act of intentional sin, because we are afforded the power of the Holy Spirit to overcome our carnal natures and to resist the influences of Satan and his cohorts. Those who reject God's way of life will have deliberately trampled upon the shed blood of Jesus Christ (Heb. 10:26–31).

          The old administration required death, there was no mercy, and even letter obedience was difficult. The new administration requires spiritual intent, affords grace (unmerited pardon), gives life, and grants time for repentance and change. The contrast is awesome.

          How did Jesus Christ carry out the principles of the new administration in His day? He is our perfect example. And since we must walk in His footsteps, it is imperative that we understand just how He conducted Himself as the first-begotten Son of God and as the true Shepherd. He is an example for us all, regardless of station or responsibility.

          In His personal life, He became an example: He became poor, though He had been rich (2 Cor. 8:9). He completely emptied out Himself (Ph'p. 2:1–8). Physical achievement was not His objective in this life. He came to become a complete sacrifice for the people He would serve. In other words, He gave of Himself completely. He did not take advantage of position or power.

          With respect to the terms of the new administration, the conditions became more exacting. He said our obedience had to exceed the letter-of-the-law obedience of the Pharisees (Matt. 5:20). Love of friends, only, was insufficient (Matt. 5:43–47; Luke 6:27–35). Christians are now obligated to love and do good to those whom they may consider enemies. He expanded the basic requirement of spiritual perfection (Matt. 5:48). Complete spiritual orientation is essential (Matt. 6:30–34). Under the old administration, the judicious care of self was acceptable—sufficient. But under the administration instituted by Christ, purpose has to transcend the physical. In the new administration, the golden rule is critical. We cannot react in a purely physical manner. On the contrary, we must now perform or live in accordance with the intent or expectation of our hearts (Matt. 7:12). The "tooth for tooth" concept is no longer applicable. We must suffer wrong without the desire for retaliation.

          Christ taught the necessity of covering sin—not exposing it as a witness (which was required in the letter application). He stressed the new command to avoid judgment of others (Matt. 7:1–5). Rather than exacting the letter penalty, the need now is to forgive and forget (Luke 6:36–37). The new administration, under the direction of Christ, is a time for mercy and compassion. It is not a time in which a physical sacrifice is demanded (Matt. 9:13).

          The administration of grace is effective only by personal introspection, honest volition, and total determination. We must come to recognize the source of problems and offenses (Matt. 15:7–8, 16–20; Mark 7:18–23). Personal obligation requires mastery and overcoming. Sin is still sin. Paul was inspired to write that, under the condition of grace, sin becomes exceedingly sinful. But spiritual obedience, with the help of God and Christ though the power of the Holy Spirit, is easy and not cumbersome (Matt. 11:28–30). To manifest a complete attitude of forgiveness, compassion, and mercy is far less demanding than the Old Covenant requirement of witnessing. And the scope of that attitude of forgiveness is to be almost unlimited, according to the teaching of Jesus Christ (Matt. 18:21–22). Spiritual administration, however, goes beyond the need of continual forgiveness. If at all possible, we must—according to the instructions of Christ—avoid all offense (Matt. 17:27; 5:39–42; 18:6).

          Under the conditions of the new administration, the ministry does not exercise the responsibility of judgment and execution of any required penalty. Jesus set an example for the true ministry, as well as an example of how all Christians should live. He came to serve, not to be served (Matt. 14:14; 20:28; 23:1–12). He gave His life for mankind. In a sense, we—as ministers of Jesus Christ—must give our lives for the people, on a daily basis.

          How did Jesus handle His responsibility as the commissioned minister of God? The manner in which He handled Himself is a classic example.

          He manifested a complete and genuine interest in teaching all who were interested in the truth which He brought (Mark 6:32–34). The weightier matters of the Law—intent and purpose—were stressed, not just technical obedience to the letter-of-the-law requirement (Matt. 23:23). Of course, de-emphasis of letter-of-the-law application does not abrogate technical or letter obedience in any spiritual matter.

          Jesus did not become involved in the incessant need to resolve disputes between men (Luke 12:13–15; Matt. 18:15–17). As a court of last resort in disputes among church brethren, the ministers—representatives of the church—were sought out, and the decision reached was final and bound by God (Matt. 18:18). Such decisions, however, do not involve the laws and statutes of God—relative to their validity or binding nature in the lives of all human beings. The decisions involved in Matthew 18 are those which affect our human relationships, only.

          Mercy and compassion were the characteristic behavioral traits of Jesus Christ. He did not condemn the adulteress who had been caught in the very act. On the other hand, He did not condone her action. He said: "Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more" (John 8:11). He fulfilled two responsibilities, here. He manifested kindness and compassion; yet, at the same time, He fulfilled His responsibility to teach the truth.

          Christ did not allow the legal and technical requirements of the Law to supersede the spiritual requirement of loving and manifesting concern for human beings. He healed the infirm on the Sabbath (Mark 3:1–5). Did this abrogate the letter requirement of obedience? Absolutely not!

          All through His personal ministry, Jesus kept the Sabbath. This is ample proof that His acts of kindness on the Sabbath did not change the need for physical obedience to the fourth command.

          Latitude for compassion, mercy, and forgiveness is not condonation of sin. Many texts in the Bible make it quite clear that since the days of Jesus Christ, people have indeed frustrated the intent and meaning of grace and forgiveness. Paul wrote to the Hebrews—probably the church in Jerusalem—that grace and mercy, in effect, magnify the severity of punishment yet to be meted out for disobedience. At the same time, Paul was indicating that mercy and compassion have definite time limits. There is an appointed day of judgment. At that time, the penalty—which has been held in abeyance for many years—will be administered. The new administration affords time for change—not a change of doctrine which defines sin, but a change of attitude and spirit in relationship to the truth. When the penalty for disobedience is meted out under the conditions of the new administration, there will be no eluding it (Heb. 10:26–31). In Old Covenant times, the result of disobedience was physical death. It was the basic penalty for sin. But, such death was the mere loss of physical life. Under the considerations of the new administration, when the death penalty—requirement for disobedience to the conditions of the New Covenant—is exacted, there will be no resurrection. That death will be the second death. It is permanent, final! As Paul said, it is much more severe.

          Why such an interruption of time, today, for the fulfillment of the penalty which was immediately required under the old administration? Because it is the only means by which space and time can be granted for man to recognize the enormity of his sin, change his spirit and attitude, and repent and develop a posture of spiritual obedience to the laws and statutes of God. Yet, under the influence of Satan, man has perverted the intent and purpose of this delay as ordained by God (Rom. 3:5–8; Jude 3–4; Gal. 2:16–21).

          Until the appointed time when Christ will execute all judgment, the wheat (Christians) and tares (false brethren) will dwell together. To take any definitive action, today, against a calloused and perverted individual—as was required under the Old Testament administration—would most surely injure the true Christian in some way. For the sake of those who are truly called and chosen of God, we are not presuming to exercise judgment now (Matt. 13:33–43).

          How did Jesus respect His trainees during His earthly ministry? He gave them the message which they were to teach. He gave them power and authority to carry out that commission. And He backed them up. He supported them in the fulfillment of the commission at that very time. But, more importantly, He will completely back them up in the future judgment (Matt. 10:13–15). What assurance and confidence those young disciples had!

          Despite Christ's example, it was not uncommon to see an opposite relationship develop in the church of the last days. Young trainees were subjected to peculiar and ridiculous situations and activities to "test their attitudes." In the latter years of the church, people could by-pass the ministry and go directly to someone at "Headquarters"—where the member was usually believed and the minister was impugned. This is not to say that there were not situations where the "Headquarters" decision was right. But, logic should tell us that no one side could always be correct.

          The life and ministry of Christ is the perfect example for us to follow. How merciful and compassionate He was! Yet, how powerful and straightforward He was in proclaiming the truth which the Father had given Him! Today, we must proclaim the truth and take the oversight of the church for its own good. The church must be protected from the wiles of Satan and any men who are under his influence. But, much mercy and compassion must be administered to those who are trying but need help and time to overcome. Their judgment will be finalized at the appointed time—and by the responsible One.

Problems of Administration—Last Days

          From the prophecies which were quoted in earlier letters, it is clear there were to be major administrative problems in the Church of God during the last days. Those problems involved abuses in areas of finances, service, and responsibility. Many of God's people were taken advantage of for personal gain.

          The big question: What was the premise for the development of these administrative failures? How could such abuse and failure gain acceptance—even from those who were the recipients of the injurious and restrictive effects?

          The motive and purpose of the past administration was not evil. The intent could be considered honorable. There was an intense desire to keep the church clean and pure, to resist the incursion of error and individualization. But what became apparent—from the actual, historical facts—was quite different from the initial anticipation. The very conditions Jesus Christ instituted—conditions and circumstances by which character is developed—were frustrated, altered, and rejected altogether. How?

          In the intense desire to keep the church unified and untainted, there was an overt attempt to apply the Old Covenant judicial system. Judgments were rendered. Hearts and minds were not read. The actual, physical facts became the basis of that judgment. Weaknesses were not countenanced. Though the death penalty was not administered, its counterpart—excommunication from the corporate body—was religiously carried out. Little, if any, real mercy and compassion were evidenced in the dealings of the ministry with the laity.

          In an overall evaluation of the past, the following definitely apply. Variations which existed were the result of the individualization of the ministry. No two ministers necessarily carried out responsibilities in exactly the same way.

          First: There was a very strong intent on the part of many, primarily emanating from the administrative responsibility of Pasadena, to apply all the letter requirements of the Old Covenant administration. Second: There existed a spirit and grace—versus letter—administration of responsibility. Third: As would naturally be expected, there was a vast sphere in which a confusion of the letter and spirit applications prevailed. Fourth: Not without historical precedent, there prevailed a spiritual administration tainted by human carnality—often resulting in dereliction of responsibility, arrogancy and conceit, wrong motives, and failure to recognize personal liability. The church membership was made the scapegoat for all difficulties and problems. Fifth: Due to the greed and lusts of the natural self, the letter application was often tainted and corrupted. Yet, even a pure and uncorrupted letter administration would have had physical acceptance by God.

          It was failure to comprehend the purpose for personal liberty, freedom of expression, and action—coupled with inability to recognize the pitfalls of the various forms of administration—that led the early New Testament ministry, following the apostles, to develop administrative deviations which parallel those we experienced in the church during the past several years. There is abundant historical proof that the corporate body of the first-century Church of God became the Catholic Church. For the very reasons employed by administrative personnel in the church of our days, the early Catholic Church attempted to regulate and rule the churches of the first, second, and third centuries. But, as history reveals, they soon recognized the unique problems involved in the development of a hierarchical administrative system and its accompanying philosophy of rule. They came to recognize there was no way by which they could keep the physical church pure and untainted. For considerable historical information related to this concept, please refer to the book-length article: "God's Church—Revelation to Apostasy," chapter four, section entitled "Development of Hierarchical System," pages 66–73 [Contemporary Caveat: Subsequent to the time of this letter, some have attempted to apply a definition of the term "hierarchy" that differs significantly from that to which Mr. Cole is here, and elsewhere, referring—as the context demonstrates. For further clarification see the June 2001 Monthly Letter by Mr. Jon Brisby entitled, Church Government and Delegation, under the section "Hierarchy—A Dirty Word?"].

          There is, in reality, no way to control rebellious man. He must become converted and act on the Word of God. When he is converted, and then only, He will fear God and His Word. He will then obey from the heart, changing his natural life. His mind will be attuned to the spiritual. And when this condition prevails, there is no need for physical application of administrative control. He censors himself. Daily, he is crucifying the flesh and all its natural proclivities.

          Historically, the lessons written by Israel were recorded for our admonition and learning. But what must we learn from them? In an overall sense, the lesson we should derive from all those examples is this: Fleshly obedience, derived from fear of penalty, will not—indeed, cannot—change the heart and mind. Real character, that which is essential for the inheritance of everlasting life, is produced in the heart and mind. It is not the result of physical obedience accomplished through fear and coercion. Real oneness and accord are achieved, by all called and chosen of God, when they divest themselves of natural inclinations and, from the heart and mind, will to obey perfectly. To achieve this kind of perfection requires the latitude and freedom Christ instituted under the terms of the new administration. Thus, the applicable penalties for disobedience will be administered only at the appointed time of judgment.

          The list of abuses, evidenced in all relationships of human beings, encompasses the whole domain of authority and responsibility. Are there any abuses in the husband-wife relationship? Have all parents handled their responsibility toward children perfectly? What about leaders in the domain of human government? Is their conduct honorable and above reproach? What about employer-employee relationships? Have difficulties arisen from this human relationship?

          To any thinking mind, the answers to the above questions are obvious. In every area, major problems have developed. Did the responsibility borne by the employer, the authority of the husband, the charge of parents, or the office of national administrative jurisdiction come to a conclusion because abuses existed in those areas of responsibility? Of course not! Why, then, do we attempt to justify any concept which would eliminate all responsibility and authority from the ministry? Jesus Christ came in the power and authority of God the Father. He was given total control over the operation of God, here on this earth. And Christ gave all needed authority and rule to His commissioned servants who were held accountable for proclaiming the revealed way of life. That authority is no more abrogated than is the authority of the husband or the parents. Satan, the rebel—rebellious against all authority and control—has deceived man into believing that all authority and control no longer apply.

          Abuses and dereliction of responsibility do not render government and authority null and void. On the contrary, that is the why of all Christian activity. True Christians are qualifying to replace all rebels in the future Kingdom of God. To do away with authority and government is tantamount to a rejection of the Kingdom of God. Satan is the author of any such concept.

          What are the consequences of abusing government and authority? The normal human reaction? To understand this is to understand our thinking and attitude, if we are sufficiently objective to evaluate properly.

Emotional Reactions of Abused People

          In the awakened moments of a major crisis—such as the sinking of a ship, an impending accident, saddening news—people react completely emotionally. Reason is abdicated. Careful analysis and thoughtful evaluation are forgotten. The same is true in the mental world. When mental concepts are abruptly changed or dropped, when confidences are shattered, when "convictions" are found to be foundationless, the people involved react in bizarre ways—crazed, violent, vindictive, hateful, resentful, and individually defensive. It is a pattern which has been repeated thousands of times in the history of human beings.

          Order, control, authority, and government—of whatever the nature—are categorically rejected. The only perceptive meeting ground is negative in nature—the obvious opportunity to vent feelings, contempt, disbelief, hate, and all other volatile human reactions. Since there are only two possible spheres of influence—that of Satan, as the god of this world, and that of the true God, to those called and chosen of Him—these emotional ventings, which are not a part of the influence of the Holy Spirit, must proceed from the influence of Satan, man's adversary. But, little does the emotionally charged man realize the nature of his influence and very probably could care less at that point in his life. For, the appeal to his own vanity and nature is extremely great. He wants the opportunity to vent his feelings.

          In such crises, the troubled man forgets the initial purpose of his belief or actions. He forgets that the basis of his trauma—the behavior or change of another—should not (indeed, cannot) change the reasons for his initial beliefs or the beliefs themselves. And because of the heat of wrath, he sets about to create concepts of self-justification which are acceptable—to him, at least. If troubled, he refuses to evaluate rationally the situation at hand.

          Since we are specifically dealing with a traumatic religious situation, the emotional responses will affect one's present beliefs. Why did people reject their past convictions? What beliefs, at the present time, will justify their feelings of abhorrence, contempt and resentment toward those whom they feel adversely touched their lives? They now feel they can trust themselves, only. Their religion becomes a "one-on-one" contact with God. They feel no need to be taught. After all, they can read the Bible for themselves. Inadvertently, they reject the authority of God's Word. The natural follow-up to this rejection is the creation of beliefs and practices which cater to the whimsical nature of the individual. These people will not be ruled by man or concept. For, when rejecting the truth they initially accepted, they deceived themselves into believing they rejected only the man who proclaimed it.

          With the rejection of the authoritative dimension of truth, and by relegating it to the personal philosophy of the man or men who proclaimed it, the distressed are consciously able to construct a total defense of belief and practice—or lack of it. The avenue for this operation brings up the "who" and "what" questions. What is the truth? Who are Christians? What is the Church? What is required, really, for salvation? What did Jesus abrogate by His death? When did the New Testament church begin? What did the apostles believe and practice?

          By rejecting divine revelation, the people now feel free to argue—to advance their own beliefs (After all, are not their arguments just as valid as those of any other human beings?). And by the rejection of revelation, troubled members are able to circumvent any authority—which begins with God and His Word—and thereby convince themselves that there is no government and control necessary. God, they believe, no longer uses other human beings to teach and instruct. In a word, there is no valid ministry.

          Academically, arguments are advanced to justify the spiritual stance which they have assumed. Yet, in reality, their arguments and subsequent behavior belie what proceeds from their lips. Why are they so intensely troubled? Why do they not just disappear into anonymity? Why do they not assume the same unemotional stance which was assumed when they left other organizations? Why is there a consistent attempt to remain knowledgeable about happenings in the organization from which they have departed? Why are there consistent attempts to justify themselves for the doctrines and actions which they now hold? Do not all these activities indicate a deeper, inner fear and doubt?

          What, then, was the real problem? As a result of counseling and careful evaluation—regarding beliefs advanced in much literature, written by those emotionally troubled people—it becomes plainly obvious that the real difficulties are not those found in the explanations of self-justification for departure from the church. First: It is obvious there was a total loss of faith. Is it possible for them to ever again give heart, mind, and body for belief or conviction? Second: There was no longer any confidence in a call from God, the miracle of conversion, or the revelation of divine truth. Far too many people actually allowed themselves to believe that their entire past commitment came as a result of a "hard-sell" job by a man of enormous charisma. The very leading and inspiration of the Holy Spirit was now attributed to the deceptive charisma of a personality. And yet, there are men in the world of much greater power, influence, and charisma, to which these people never gave a moment's attention. How is it possible for them to explain this paradox? Third: By total denial of past conviction and belief, which included acceptance of divinely revealed truth—and by the now-assumed stance of a mobile, flexible, and self-oriented concept—these people were left without a real premise for evaluation. Friend turned against friend—merely because one failed to accept the same concept as the other. People were left bewildered and confused. How could a situation of this dimension and severity have possibly developed? Fourth: Because of emotional concepts and beliefs, these people came to deny both past and present fruits. They now believe no good ever came to them as a result of obedience to the way of life to which they were called. In fact, great effort is now exerted to produce evidence that they actually were cursed and sustained loss and difficulty because of their beliefs and practices. Also, their present conduct is completely justified, regardless of what they now experience. But, time and chance happen to all! We must recognize we are merely experiencing the aftermath of what happened in our former affiliation. The very people who once spoke confidently of their great blessings, and of the joy which was theirs due to obedience to God, will now deny it unequivocably. As God said: ". . . evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived" (2 Tim. 3:13). Honest appraisal is no longer considered important. Fifth: Seizing the opportunity—condition of unrest, faithlessness, and resentment—Satan broadcasts his propaganda: concepts which cater entirely to individual whims. After all, who does not enjoy his own ideas and concepts? Only those who accept revealed truth can come to abhor the self and to love and respect the commands and rule of God.

          Today, there is a worldwide cry against government. Almost with one voice, troubled dissidents manifest contempt for government. It is oftentimes considered the sole problem encountered within the Church of God. It is viewed as the basis of all difficulty. Why is there such volatile objection to rule—government?

          1) Rejection of government is a necessary justification for the rejection of truth. God's ways are commandments! Absolutes! Imperative dictates! Therefore, resorting to "individualism" allows one to reinterpret commands, doctrine, or the entirety of the Bible, to his own liking. But revealed truth is authoritative! It allows for no flexible ("I think" or "I believe") premise. It is absolute. But, such a premise is not acceptable to carnality (Rom. 8:7)—especially to those who were once converted and have turned back to the ways of the flesh.

          2) Satan rebelled against God. He willed not to be ruled or to come under any authority but his own. He was not teachable and subservient. He hates the government of God. Since he is the god—one who exerts the principal influence—of this world, is it strange that those who turn from the government of God—manifested in the absolutes of the revealed doctrine—should hate government, also? Of course, all peoples are really unaware of what forces actually influence them—above and beyond the visible and tangible—in their behavioral patterns. They do not know why they think as they do. And they have no conception of why they react as they do. Yet, regardless of their ignorance of such an influence, the Bible plainly reveals that all—outside of that small, rejected, and persecuted group called of God, enlightened by the Holy Spirit, and possessing of the mind of Christ—are mentally manipulated and controlled by the god of this world. The Body of Christ is one. God's mind is one. He is not divided and confused. That oneness is primarily of the mind—of the doctrine, belief, and practices. It has very little to do with the physical. The physical body can degenerate and ultimately break apart, as did the first-century Church of God; yet the spiritual, with a mind of doctrine and belief, can remain viable and strong—even though there may be a greatly reduced number of people remaining faithful to the perfect way of life. Only those called will KNOW WHO THEY ARE. Others will either live in initial darkness—never having received the light of God's Truth—or they will revert to darkness because of physical appeal, dislike for the truth, or fear of the physical dimension (excommunication, persecution, etc.).

          3) God's way is authoritative! His Word is absolute, unchanging. He gave commands! But to be authoritative, absolute, and inflexible is contrary to human nature. For, the nature of man is a nature of rebellion. It has the tendency to rebel against all constituted authority! God, the Word of God, national rule, local rule, rule of a husband, rule of parents, any and all rule. Therefore, it is not strange that even some of God's chosen people should rebel against the truth those authoritative absolutes once accepted in faith—when a crisis develops and rewards of a significant nature are promised.

          4) Revolt is the means of breaking the shackles of control—once accepted in faith, but now resented and hated. It is the means of securing independence for self. Standing in one's own right. In the ultimate analysis, it is a demanded freedom to do whatever one pleases, while not existing with a stricken conscience. For, when one presumes to know what is right in the sight of God, he has figured it out by his own rationale and study.

          In contrast, God's way is not freedom of self, but self-control. It is the ability to control emotions, intents, and purposes. It is the way of character.

          I am sure there are other methods by which those who turn from the Truth of God justify themselves. But the above is sufficient to show the depth of deception and the imperative need to safeguard the self against such carnal rationale. Let us now turn our attention to the results of this assumed "new freedom."

          It is openly expressed in contempt for government! It is a demand for absolute personal freedom—freedom from any and all control, or rule. Both Jude and Peter wrote of this "latter-day" problem.

          Jude records: "Likewise also these filthy dreamers defile the flesh, despise dominion [rule, government], and speak evil of dignities [men in office or responsibility]" (Jude 8). These rebels of the last days (verse 18) are within the church—not outside (verse 12). And this very fact attests to the development of some very evil condition within the church! How could people, called to the truth and responsive to the rule of God—obedient to the doctrine—turn to contempt and rebellion? Only because they did not really love the truth and could not retain that love through the trial of their faith. (2 Thess. 2:10–11; 1 Peter 1:7).

          The author of rebellion (rebellion is possible only if there exists an absolute standard, authority, rule)—Satan—sways this world. He is the god of this world. But, coincidentally, when God's chosen servants rebel against His rule—going contrary to the revealed way of life—they revert to the same mind and spirit which dominates the world. And usually, their demeanor is worse than the behavior of those who never saw or understood the truth (2 Pet. 2:21–22; Rom. 1:20–32; Eph. 4:17–21; 1 John 2:3–11).

          Picking up the same thought, Peter wrote:

But chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and DESPISE GOVERNMENT. Presumptuous are they, selfwilled, they are NOT afraid to speak evil of dignities. Whereas angels, which are greater in power and might, bring not railing accusation against them before the Lord. But these, as natural brute beasts, made to be taken and destroyed, speak evil of the things that they understand not; and shall utterly perish in their own corruption (2 Pet. 2:10–12) [emphasis mine].

          This chapter is a prophecy for the last days. And, as indicated earlier, it is written about people who once knew and understood the truth (verses 20–22).

          God is the author of government! It must be respected. And, those who occupy an office must be respected until removed by God (Jude 8–9).

          What are the consequences of rebellion against rule, authority, and government as established by God (Jude 8–13)? Jesus Christ made it clear that all rule and government is by the express permission of God the Father (John 19:10–11).

          Another consequence of rebellion against rule is a tendency toward the eventual total breakdown of all constituted authority and responsibility. Citizens against established rule, employee against employer, one segment of society against another, poor against successful, wife against husband, children against parents and adults in general. The results? Society torn asunder! Family breakdown! Homes devastated! Tyrannical government emerges! Creation of a welfare state. Joblessness! The whole fabric of society is ravaged. As the physical goes, so goes the spiritual—unless true Christians endure the trial of faith—amidst ridicule, slander, and eventual persecution—and continue in the unalterable way of rule, government, and authority as established by God. By continuity of belief, faith, and practice, we shall prove our worthiness—by the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit—to be the RULERS in the Kingdom of God.

          By their fruits shall all men be known. In this regard, only the faithful are responsive to the instructions of 2 Timothy 3:16. By rationalization, all others will rebel against the rule of God—the authority and force of the Word of God. True Christians must always LOVE that WORD! Humbling the SELF—bringing the natural mind into captivity to Christ—is imperative.

          Finally, revolt against God manifests itself in total individualization. Each begins to trust himself, only. He becomes the discerner of all truth. In order to make the Bible fit his subconscious conclusions, he will emphasize certain texts—usually out of context—and completely overlook all others which seem to be contradictory to his pet conception. He refuses to manifest confidence in any other human being or organization. He trusts his own mind, alone, to ferret out "truth." By his own study and reason, he determines what he "thinks" is right. Therefore, he does that which is right in his own eyes.

          The past, present, and future are therefore interpreted in the light of his own thinking. Revelation of all absolutes is categorically rejected. He attempts to hide in uncertainty and doubt. Irrelevancy is the order of the day. Each does that which seems right to him. Apparently, many now feel they can appeal to the mercy of Christ in the day of His return. Little does it dawn on them that those called of God, in the last days, had the TRUTH revealed. Whoever are those servants of God, they once existed in unity, accord, and agreement. Subsequently, apostasy occurred. As a result, people became troubled and confused. Why? Because they did not hold to the faith once given to them. God is not responsible for their failure! When He called them, He made the truth known. Those called of God KNEW THE TRUTH. The just shall live by faith—the faith once delivered. Christians can build up faith through study and prayer; but it will never be given again to those who lose it due to human failure. Therefore, it is our daily responsibility to keep that FAITH alive and vibrant in our lives—even in the times of severe trial. We cannot hide in doubt and uncertainty. Such actions will not be acceptable in the day of judgment.

          Hold to the body of faith—the truth which God gave to you initially (Heb. 3:6–15; 1 John 2:24–27).

          Do not individualize. Such behavior is not of God. We are called to be ONE—one in the mind (truth) of Christ and God.

People Have Always Rebelled Against Rule!

          The Bible is a long chronicle of human rebellion and its accompanying sordid behavior. It is only an insignificant minority who have been faithful to any God-given responsibility. Such continuity of faith and conviction always bears an incredibly high price tag. Most faithful Christians were brutally persecuted, tortured, socially rejected. Paul was inspired to write of them: "Of whom the world was not worthy" (Heb. 11:38). They are people who counted it an honor to bear the marks and sufferings of their Captain, Jesus Christ. They are servants who found it more honorable to obey God than to obey man.

          But, most of God's people rebelled. Rebellion can only transpire when the truth is previously known. These are people who knew—people who understood. Who are they? Why did they rebel? And what is the purpose of recording all these events for those upon whom the ends of the world are come?

          Light is synonymous with truth. Lucifer was called the "light-bringer." He was a high-ranking angel who knew the truth. One whom God had given awesome responsibility and power. But he did not elect to abide in the truth (John 8:44). He rebelled against God (was not faithful to the truth which had been given him) and became the adversary of all righteousness. He was not content to abide by himself in his defiance and rebellion. As is characteristic of all revolutionaries, he sought those who would agree with his opinions. He immediately set about deluding and deceiving his peers. As a result, one third of the angels followed in his rebellion. That rebellion was not defiance against organizational structure within the ranks of the angels. The Bible makes it abundantly clear that the rebellion was against the truth which God had given to them. It is amazing how men follow Satan and invariably transfer spiritual things to the physical. Once respect for the absolute truth is lost, all efforts of men are devoted to areas of self-justification. Of course, in Satan's rebellion, areas of spiritual responsibility were disrupted. Satan had decided to rebel against God. But, one must ask, did the angels who remained faithful to God rebel against the government of God when they refused to subscribe to the mutiny advocated by Satan? Remember, he was their spirit leader. If they did not rebel against God in resisting the intent of Satan, then obviously there is a duty which is superior to loyalty or faithfulness to a physical or spiritual head. That obligation is the necessity of obeying God first. How? By faithfulness to the unalterable truth. For, in that truth is the expression or manifestation of the character and purpose of God. It is the unchanging nature of the Eternal God—the irrevocability of His way. For, Christ is the Way and He does not change.

          Supernatural beings existed in the very presence of God, possessing awesome knowledge—yet, many of them rebelled against the one and only perfect way of life. How could this be? Are not human beings now struggling—as manifested in personal mastery—to qualify to enter the Kingdom of God, where that way of life will be lived and practiced for all eternity? What a paradox! Knowledgeable spiritual beings revolted against the truth which they possessed and lived. Should it seem strange that mere human beings—regardless of station, call, or responsibility—should also lose sight of the perfect way of life and turn from it because of vanity, prestige, assumption, or other human foibles?

          Following Satan's rebellion—in due process of time—man was created and placed on the earth, the domain of the angelic beings who had turned from the truth to a way of error and ultimate hurt. Man was instructed in the perfect ways of God. He had a perfect teacher—God—and was afforded the knowledge of happiness, joy, abundance, and every good thing. As the created of God, Adam and Eve did not painstakingly discover the way of life. It was revealed to them by a most benevolent God. Once they became possessors of that perfect way of life, God wanted them to love and cherish that way of life. He wanted them to resist all outside temptations and pulls which compromise that marvelous way of life. But, as history shows, Eve yielded to temptation, listening to the voice which appealed to her own vanity and desires. She, in turn, used all her inherent powers of persuasion on her husband, Adam, and he succumbed. Thus, the first human beings placed on this earth unitedly rebelled against God, their Creator and Sustainer. They were so blinded by their own carnal desires and expectations that they lost all knowledge of God's promises and blessings for continued obedience to the one and only way of life. What a tragedy! It seems almost incredible to believe that a human family that was instructed directly by its Creator could rebel against God! Christians are expected to believe and subscribe to, in faith, the truth which has been taught. Yet, here is an example of people taught directly by God. What a deceptive force exists within our make-up! Most assuredly, none of us should ever take the capability of human rationalization and self-justification lightly! We are prey to our own selves unless we can sustain faith and honor God in continuity of belief and practice. Human beings need to forsake the tendency to deprecate Adam and Eve, instead concentrating upon their own potential for error—wickedness, self-justification, and above all the uncanny way of turning from spiritual responsibility. Too many human beings see this physical life and all its glitter, only. Things eternal—spiritual in nature—are not seen with the physical eye. They must be accepted on faith. But, this faith must be nourished and sustained by consistent contact with God.

          If Adam and Eve had truly believed God's instructions, surely they would not have departed from the way which He gave to them. But, they had been led to rationalize in their own minds that there were grave and serious questions about the validity of that way and about the One who had taught it. The practice is no different today. It is a repetition of what transpired in the days of the apostles. The voice of defiance is exactly the same. The problem is that most people cannot read the evidences of Satan's power, intent, and purpose. For, his way seems too appealing and acceptable to man, who is being deceived.

          Many hundreds of years later, God called and established a nation—according to a blueprint consideration designed from the foundation of the world (Acts 17:26; Deut. 32:8). To that nation He gave His eternal, spiritual way of life (Heb. 4:2). Israel was miraculously and benevolently guided and sustained by direct intervention from that very God. Israel saw such miracles and spontaneous intervention that it would seem no human being could deny the verity and validity of that way of life given to them. They heard the very voice of God—as He uttered into codified form the TEN GREAT LAWS. They saw God's chosen servant Moses sustained, time after time. How could it have been possible for them to reject him (Moses)?

          Enemies of Israel were extirpated. Its borders were miraculously protected. They were promised peace from outside intrusion—if they would be faithful to the truth which they had been given. They did not have to worry about their possessions while they were in attendance at the great feasts. For, God assured them that the neighboring countries would not desire their possessions.

          According to the instructions of God, Israel's leaders had to qualify under severe proving. They had to hate every evil way. They were required to be servants of the people—without ambition of personal gain. They were to rule and administer the perfect laws of God, in kindness and consideration.

          Yet, despite this awesome beginning, it was not long before misgiving, distrust, and outright rebellion characterized human nature. They rebelled against Moses, asserting that they could not prove whether he was the true servant of God (Acts 7:34–39). They rebelled against God, feeling that their resistence was only against assumed interpretations of those whom God had placed in responsible positions. Of course, not one Israelite believed—in his own mind—that he was rebelling against God. His objections were against the "assumptions" of men who had "assumed" office.

          All human beings are able to read history—to whatever extent seems necessary to them. But few, if any, have been able to read the present and ascertain the future. Moses was rejected in his day. The prophets were rejected in their respective days. Christ was rejected in His day—by all but a tiny handful. The apostles were eventually rejected—even by many of those who initially accepted the truth through their preaching. Is it any wonder that the people called and chosen of God, today, are rejecting not only the truth but also the fact that there was a servant called to preach it? Time has not changed the nature of man. Man is the same carnal being that he was from the beginning.

          From all observations, it would seem that the nation of Israel had everything working for them. It seems utterly preposterous that they could have rebelled against God and against His chosen servant, Moses. Yet, history is plain! Israel was the recipient of the TRUTH. They had experienced the awesome intervention of God, time after time. They had been sustained when it appeared that all hope was lost. Could more have been done for them (Isa. 1:2–6; 5:1–7)?

          Those terrible and costly experiences of ancient Israel—lessons for today—were written for you and me. We are the recipients of the object lessons which were taught. Lessons which tell us that we must be faithful to the truth given us (Rom. 15:4; 1 Cor. 10:6, 11).

          In due time, God sent His own Son into the world. His Son, Jesus Christ, was the Word made flesh. He came to live the perfect way of life and to set an example for us. The Word which had been given to Israel, and which they had rebelled against, was now sent in the flesh—in the life of Jesus Christ—and was authoritatively proclaimed by that wise and perfect servant of God. It was the unchanging Word—the Word which Satan once knew and understood, the Word which God had taught to Adam and Eve, the Word which had been miraculously given to Israel through Moses, the Word which God had now commissioned Christ to proclaim.

          In the life of Christ was found perfection, in every sense of the word. There was absolutely no justifiable reason to reject Him. And yet, He was spurned and rejected by all except a mere handful—approximately 120, at the time His work was completed.

          Human beings are no different today than they were in the day of Christ, or in times past. They are rebellious against God—not subject to the laws or ways of God. They possess their own minds—minds of independence of thought and conviction. They are not subject to God and His ways. The word "SUBJECT" inherently carries with it the conception of voluntary submission. "Not subject to" means that there is open hostility toward, and rejection of, the ways of God. Man's nature is a nature of defiance and rebellion—yet, at the same time, a nature which completely deceives itself, exonerating every action and belief. The outside influence of God's Spirit must be exerted against this nature, in order to produce conversion—a change of heart and mind. But that conversion is not absolute, at this time. For, the process of conversion is like every other natural conversion process in nature—there is the constant tendency to revert to the natural state of equilibrium. That is, the tendency to seek normalcy once again. Unless the ingredients of conversion are kept active, this reversion is inevitable. Daily prayer and study is a necessity—a required activity. The tendency to return to the natural impulses will continue until a great, miraculous change transpires—a change from the natural state to the spiritual. At that time, the spiritual state will be the normal one.

          Therefore, it should not be surprising that the people rejected Christ as the very living Word of God, just as much as they had rejected all the other servants of God who proclaimed the true way of life—the spiritual way, which is totally contrary to the flesh (Gal. 5:17).

          Christ had come to live the way of God perfectly—to set us an example. At the same time, He had come to establish a church—a spiritual body into which we could be inducted by meeting necessary requirements. He also called and trained disciples, who were later to be commissioned to preach the message which He had taught them—the same message which had existed from the beginning. The commission given to the twelve apostles was the beginning of the New Testament ministry—a ministry which must continue to the day of His (Christ's) return.

          The results of the apostolic preaching were significant. Thousands of people turned to the way of life which these men taught. The converts were welded into the oneness of the Body of Christ—the Church. The church grew mightily for a number of years under the preaching of the original twelve apostles, aided greatly with the added power and conviction of the Apostle Paul. The scope of the church and its activities engulfed the known world.

          But, the force and deception of human nature began to assert itself before the death of the original apostles. Lack of conviction and purpose became evident. The people had begun to accept personalities—instead of "the faith" which the apostles taught. From within, ministers and lay members began to espouse heresy. Larger and larger numbers of the people began to accept these strange new concepts—believing them to be the Truth of God. Then, after only about forty years of truly proclaiming the truth, the church almost totally apostatized from the truth. By the time of the waning years of the Apostle John, the church had lost its direction, even expelling the true servants of God. Before this happened, however, the faithful servants of God were warning the people to withdraw from every brother who walked disorderly and did not live according to the revealed truth which God had given and which they had taught the people. Faith in the way of God, which He had given through the called and trained ministry, was all but lost. Sometime near the end of the original apostles' ministry, Jude was inspired to write that it was necessary for the true brethren to contend for the faith which was first given.

          Human nature had asserted itself again. This period of human history was no different than all others which preceded it. And, man's nature has not inherently changed. Only by willful subjugation—on the part of those individuals involved (in conversion)—can that nature be changed. That is the purpose of our call and conversion. The continuation of that process is entirely dependent upon the retention of faith and conviction—a real and genuine love for the truth. Otherwise, the truth will be changed and the nature of man will justify it. It is a process as old as man.

          Yes, mankind has always rebelled. It makes little difference what the circumstances are. To summarize: Every conceivable arrangement existed whereby men and angels could be tried—tested with respect to the truth. And the only consistency which we shall see is that of carnality. We can count on it to be evil, rebellious, and indifferent—regardless of circumstances or conditions.

          First, Satan is living proof that character is the vital ingredient to perfect existence in God's way of life. Merely being a spirit being of power and might is insufficient. Satan was "perfect in his ways." But he lacked character—character which can be developed only by the crucible of trial and experience. Without that significant ingredient of character, not even spirit beings remain faithful to the truth. Lucifer lacked character and a real, genuine love of the truth with which he was entrusted from the beginning. He allowed jealousy, greed, resentment, and contempt for authority to destroy his purpose and direction.

          Second, Adam and Eve were not tainted by society, nor were they required to accept the Truth of God secondhand. They were the only two human beings on the face of the earth. Their teacher was their Creator. They were given the undiluted, perfect way of life. They were not frustrated by degeneration of flesh, ill health, or other physical weaknesses. They were physically perfect. Yet, in this condition they rebelled against God, listening to their own desires and to the subtle voice of Satan, archenemy of God and archenemy of all truth. They believed Satan, the adversary. They thought God was unfair. They rebelled against government—the authority and control of God. They desired freedom to do as they thought—to live up to their own concepts and ways. Therefore, even with a perfect beginning and under perfect conditions, human beings cannot obey God. People today assume that they would listen to God, if only He would appear to them directly. The example of Adam and Eve proves, beyond doubt, the fallacy of this rationalization. Carnality is in opposition to God. It is imperative that we recognize this fact and admit it. Jesus said, if we can accept those sent by God—the basis being acceptance of the Word of God—then we can accept Him. On the other hand, if we will not accept the messenger of God—who bears the true and unalterable way of life—we will not accept Christ. Why? Because He was and is that true way of life, personified in the flesh: During His existence on this earth, He personified that way in His own life; and presently, He manifests it in the spiritual body of the Church—the continued embodiment of the Truth.

          Third, Israel was formed into a nation. They were established as a total society. Their boundaries were protected by God. And they were given the perfect way of life as a constitution for their nation. Circumstances could not have been better for any group or people. The society created was that of God's way of life. No one would have been penalized for obedience to the truth. There would have been no stigma for perfect obedience. Their government would not have hindered them. There would have been no false churches—churches espousing heresy and contempt for God's Law. Employers would have been in accord and agreement with the employees, in their desire to obey God. Yet, even in such a society, human nature could not obey or honor the government of God. The nation of Israel rebelled against God in ways which were to their own detriment. Therefore, a perfect human society and protected boundaries, as well as direct intervention by God, did not assure perfect obedience.

          Fourth, Christ came and lived the perfect life in the flesh. He set us an example to follow. He was the very Truth, living and moving here on the earth. He was God's way of life in action. Surely no one could require a greater revelation and substantiation of the true way of life! Yet, of those called—those who knew and understood—only a very few remained faithful. The very Son of God, living and walking with them, did not enhance their obedience—faithfulness to the truth which they had been given. One must accept the authority and control of the truth, and bring his own life into total obedience thereto, before he can remain faithful to it. Those who feel that they would spontaneously follow (obey) God or His Son, Jesus Christ, if He were to live here, indicate by the very concept that they do not understand the validity of history. Such circumstances have already existed. And the called and chosen of God, for the most part, rebelled against the truth. Why? Because the problem is not by whom we are taught, but the very fact that human nature is opposed to the government of God—the authority of the truth—and is by its very nature unalterable. The Truth of God is absolute. Human beings do not like absolutes, because by accepting them they are rendered unable to flex the licentious desires of their own minds.

          Fifth, Jesus Christ established a church. He came to call and train a nucleus of servants, for the purpose of proclaiming the message given and establishing a body of believers. To that church was given the spiritual responsibility of preserving the truth. That responsibility was borne by both the ministry and the laity. Yet, just as the physical nation of Israel rebelled against the truth, so the spiritual body of the church departed from the truth. Even within the confines of the church to whom had been given the truth and the Holy Spirit, human nature asserted itself in defiance and rebellion against God. The church was not a haven or sanctuary from the adversities of human nature.

          All the optimum conditions and circumstances possible will not guarantee obedience on the part of human beings. In the final analysis, it is only character and genuine love for the truth which enables Christians to remain faithful. Those ingredients are found in continuity of belief: the manifestation of absolute faith—faith in the truth which was initially given. The manifestation of that faith and continuity is found in the abhorrence of self and the genuine acceptance of the government of God. God's way is absolute. It is the basis of government. That government is distributed according to the will and purpose of God. To reject it, in any of its applications, is to reject the authority and purpose of God.

Basis of Revolution

          The whole history of man—approximately 6,000 years—is a sordid experience. People have murdered one another, individually. Nations have gruesomely fought and annihilated one another. In the name of political philosophies, peoples have tortured one another. Bizarre and wild religious concepts have enthralled millions.

          Why?

          In a word, humanity has always rebelled against the authority of God—the controlling tool of order, stability, and government. Standards of control—absolutes or otherwise—are categorically rejected. Individualization reigns supreme. This is not as quickly recognized or comprehended in the realm of governments—due to sheer size, numbers of people involved, diversity of responsibility, and length of time taken to accomplish. In families, the breakdown is quick and alarming. The results are seen within a single lifetime—children rebelling against parents and wives rebelling against husbands. Likewise, employees rebelling against employers. Nations go the same route. The family breakdown represents what will happen to the nation, except that it requires a much longer period of time.

          The very concept of "revolution" demands rejection of a time in which absolutes existed. From that point in time, revolution took its diverse turns. This is because revolt against absolutes precipitates subsequent rebellion, which in turn generates still more violent revolt. It is a vicious cycle. Given enough time, due to the natural tendency toward degradation, the human family would sink into total individualization (with its resulting anarchical terrorism, indescribable fears, and finally genocide).

          Although man is inherently (by nature) defiant and rebellious, the agitator of this weird internal conflict is man's archenemy, the god of this world—Satan the Devil. He rebelled against God and has duped man into pursuing his natural tendencies for doing the same thing. Therefore, the salvation of man can come only through the reestablishment of perfect rule (based on perfect laws which were initially rejected), as well as the elimination of that nature which tends to rebel. This is the Biblical process called conversion. Conversion is the call from God to reject "individualization," which is manifested by a willingness to accept rule. For that reason, the called of God respect all rule and authority—for it comes from God. But they always obey God first because He is the source of all authority and government.

Can't Avoid Rule

          There are only two ways of living: either in accord with the plan and purpose of God, or by subscribing to the way of the flesh—a way which is as diverse and multifaceted as humanity itself. Despite the variety and complexity of the way of the flesh, it has one common characteristic—the need to satisfy self.

          The paradox of it all is that man wants to subscribe to the ways which are naturally appealing to him, while at the same time deceiving himself into believing that he is doing the will of God. This factor, alone, attests to the need for honesty and character in evaluating oneself. It further demonstrates the need for an absolute standard—a standard which never changes—by which flexible humanity can correctly judge its own direction.

          Rule is inevitable—inescapable. We are ruled either by whimsical self or by God. This determination is easy, providing we are honest, objective, and knowledgeable—and take the necessary time to evaluate seriously what we think, believe, and practice.

          We need not exist in doubt. We need not second-guess. We can KNOW, if we will perform the necessary proving required. For, by the fruits borne we are able to determine clearly which direction we follow.

          What are the respective fruits—the ways by which we can know?

          First, if we are following the rule of God—if we are obedient to Him, being ruled by His Word—we are in complete harmony with the Word of God. That word cannot be known until it is revealed. The Bible clearly states that the truth was revealed to the chosen of God in these last days. Therefore, the proof of our being ruled by God is faithfulness to the revealed truth. Obedience is not possible, except through the indwelling Spirit of God. That Spirit is a force of good, oneness, and love. If hate or contempt exists, it is evident that people thus dominated are not ruled by God. If we tend to individualize, we are not ruled by the power and authority of God. The proof of God is love, oneness, and a spirit of love and concern.

          Second, the proof of carnality is an implicit trust of the self. It is characterized by individualization. It basks in an aura of distrust toward everyone. It rebels against all rule and authority ordained of God—family, parents, civil law, ministry, etc. It gropes for answers, in a state of uncertainty&