Restoration Review, Vol. 31, No. 9, November 1989

READERS' EXCHANGE

I appreciate your causing us to examine and re-examine what we believe and are being taught. Since "understanding" is a major factor in the parable of the sower, I will say with John, "This is the true God and eternal life." — II. Parsley, Greenville, Tx.

Your piece on the church as a halfway house is excellent. It is seemingly very difficult for many church members to take seriously our lord's parable about the Publican and the Pharisee. One of my greatest problems with my early years in the Church of Christ resulted from the fact that so many of the "pillars of the church" seemed to be more like the Pharisee than like the Publican. — Comer Shacklett, Westfield, NJ

I have lived more than half of my life in legalism and 12 years in grace. I have been cynical about the Church of Christ, but you say to me: Stand firm in the faith; you can do it, and it is worth the effort. IL is sad that so many give up the faith. God realizes that we need in each generation men of faith who will encourage us and show us the way. —Forrest Smith, Lubbock, Tx.

I appreciated your article concerning black churches. I hope and pray we can do more to break down racism and bring about a closer relationship between Christians and churches of all races. — Furman Kearly, Editor, Gospel Advocate, Nashville, Tn.

Your paper has influenced my thinking more than anything else that I have ever read except the Bible. I used to be so sectarian that it frightens me to think of it. I probably have a long way to go, though, before I will be where the Lord wants me to be. My biggest problem now is anger towards the "Church of Christ." I feel I have been lied to most of my life. But I know that I must forgive and move on and make a contribution in God's kingdom. With God's grace I will do this. I hope to continue the kind of work you are doing when it comes my turn. — a missionary in Europe

I will be eternally grateful to you and for Carl Ketcherside for the encouragement and inspiration I have received during this lifetime. If we are within shouting distance in heaven I will shout my gratitude! —C. M. Weinsheimer, Doylestown, Oh.

I had lunch and a good visit with Carl Ketcherside when he spoke at our chapel shortly before his death. He was well received by the students. I appreciate so much both your magnificent contribution to this ministry of healing and our continuing friend-ship through these years. —L. Hieronymus, Lincoln Christian College, Lincoln, II.

At one moment our son called to tell us he had received a promotion. At the next moment my wife goes to the mailbox where she found both The Spiritual Sword and Restoration Review. She commented that the sword on one cover and the three crosses on the other speak louder than words. I asked her if the mailbox was smoldering, and she said no but that the sword had turned green! Isn't the Christian life exciting! —Joe Bain, Decatur, AL

We are raising money for the restoration of the Campbell mansion. One couple gave $400,000. The Church of Christ is giving $150,000 and the Independent Christian Churches a like amount.—James Carty, Bethany College, Bethany, Va. 26032

(If you have it in your heart to make a donation to the complete renovation of the old home where Alexander Campbell lived for a half century, which is very expensive, you can send your check to Jim Carty at the address given. — Ed.)

I look forward to these next years as President of the World Convention of Churches of Christ and trust that you will be among those who will be helpful in making this a significant period for the Campbell-Stone movement. — Harold R. Watkins, Indianapolis, In.

(For some years I have served on the executive committee of the WCCC. It is the one convention that serves as a kind of umbrella gathering for all segments of our people. Harold Watkins is the new president. I was pleased to see him take office at the WCCC's gathering in New Zealand last year. He has a great spirit and is eager for Churches of Christ to become more involved in the WCCC, which is a world fellowship gathering for us all. — Ed.