READERS' EXCHANGE

 

I am glad to see you come out for the correct use of commands and examples, saying that examples are binding only as they illustrate some command. There is no other way to avoid confusion but to believe this. We have no essential doctrine that depends solely upon either an example or a necessary inference. —F. L. Lemley, 128 N. Norwine, Bonne Terre, Mo. 63628

As to John the Baptist being "the greatest," remember that your Boss said "the least in the kingdom is greater than John." The question simply put is Are the gifts from God? If so, celebrate them, obviously not in place of or above the giver. 1 Cor. 14:1 is in somewhat the the nature of a command. Your article pays lip service to believing in them, but you're such a rationalist. I presume you're very uncomfortable with a God you can't paragraph and cit. He is Lord! And the word clearly states He gives gifts which He said for us to seek until He comes. You presume that signs and tongues are vs. the Word. Not so if from the Lord. If they aren't from Jesus forbid that any should exercise them. But if they are from the Lord and used under His authority and control, then Leroy, brother, relax and let Him decide who uses them and where. —John Acuff, Cookeville, Tennesse

(Ok, I'm relaxed, and if the Lord gives such gifts, I'm all for it, and I praise God too. And I'm not saying he doesn't. My article on John's ministry was to the effect that it was wonderfully great and was without miracles. At a time when so many seem to be "taken" by signs, I think it appropriate that we be reminded that a ministry can be great without them. Now don't put me on, John!)

Since our elders "banned" Restoration Review and Mission Messenger, more people want to know what you have to say, and of course I am anxious to share your good words with them to help them break out of the prison of the system and find a personal, full and rich relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. — name withheld

I appreciate your article "Is the Church Under Law?" It was clarified it so much. Many times I've heard it said that we are legalistic if we think we are now under law since "we are under grace." We are enjoying beautiful springtime when everything comes alive. It is a wonderful world God has given us to live in! — Grace Bailey, Chillicothe, Mo.