Elder Osbourn - His Charge of Sabellianism Number 1

BROTHER BEEBE: - As the several pieces published in the SIGNS on the occasion of Elder James Osbourn’s charging the Old School Baptists of the West with Sabellianism, have raised quite a resentment against you and the SIGNS on account thereof, from certain quarters; and as I was the first to call this subject up to the notice of our brethren, I feel disposed to say something further on the matter. 

OBITUARY DEACON HUGH GURLEY

Brother Beebe

I send you the following notice of the death of our esteemed friend and brother, Deacon Hugh Gourley. If a more particular biography of him, has been prepared by anyone, this may be laid aside. What I have prepared, embraces a general notice of those circumstances in his religious life, which are peculiarly interesting to your readers, but it is from memory I have written, without having at hand those means of information which would enable me to be more particular as to age, dates Etcetera.

DISTINCTION BETWEEN TWO HEADS (TROTT)

As in the distinction between the two Heads, the first man and the second Man, so is the distinction between the two lives brought forth severally in these distinct Heads; consequently so is the distinction between the bonds of union by which each Head is united with its body and members.

DID CHRIST PURCHASE HEAVEN FOR HIS PEOPLE? (TROTT)

Brother Beebe: - I am aware that this, by many, may be considered as mere speculation; and it may not appear to any to have the same importance attached to it with some other subjects. There is, however, with me one consideration alone besides others which I shall notice, which renders it, I think, not an uninteresting nor an unimportant enquiry; that is, whether we as Old School Baptists will conscientiously carry out our professed stand by allowing the Scriptures to decide for us, on all points of doctrine, that is, receiving the doctrine as therein revealed, or whether, to carry out certain systems of the schools we will hold and contend for principles which subvert the plainest declarations of Scripture.

CONCERNING SIN (TROTT)

BROTHER JEWETT: - In reading certain communications on subjects which have been, for some time past, agitated in Old School periodicals, I have been struck with the diversity of opinion there appears to be on several general, leading principles. Hence the difference about sin, Satan &c. The principles to which I refer, and which it is my design to examine, may be embraced in the following heads: 1st Sin, 2nd Holiness, 3rd Election and Calling, 4th The ground of Christ’s glory as a Savior. These subjects would require, fully to illustrate them, the ample pages of a volume, instead of a few columns in a periodical; I shall of course but glance at them in these communications; though I may give a sketch of what I understand the Scriptures to reveal concerning them.

A CALM REPLY TO A COMMUNICATION OF ELD. JOHN CLARK

Before coming to Elder Clark's communication, there are two or three passages, in his letter to the Editor of the Primitive, introductory to his communication, which I wish to notice. On page 113, of the Primitive for April 30th, 1853, he says:

A Post From Elder John G. Crowley

[We introduce this fine short article from Elder John G.Crowley - ed]

THE NOBLA LECON (WALDENSES) 1100 AD

 

THE NOBLA LECON

(Noble Lesson)

The "Noble Lesson" was written in the Language of the ancient inhabitants of the Valleys (The Waldenses); in the Year 1100. Extracted from a most authentic manuscript, the true original is to be seen in the famous University of Cambridge public library. "The History of the Evangelical Churches of the Valleys of Piemont." by Samuel Morland. 1658. CHRAA. 1982. p.99 

THE ETERNITY OF GOD (ELDER DAN O'DELL)

[Here is another meddage from Elder Dan O'Dell from WElsh Tract Church - ed]

MESSAGE FROM AN OLD SCHOOL BAPTIST TO A BROTHER

[This is what we consider a well-balanced article explaining our Old School Baptist views on the subjects of "hypercalvinism" and "antinomianism", which terms we accept proudly whn correctly defined - ed]

THE QUALIFICATIONS OF THE MINISTRY

The qualifications for ministerial office are not mere suggestions but divine requirements, explicitly detailed in Holy Scripture. These prerequisites must be carefully examined and rigorously applied before any man is ordained to the ministerial office.

THE DESIRE OF THE MINISTRY

The question of desire in relation to the ministry requires careful biblical examination, as many have erred by making desire the primary qualification for pastoral office. While the Apostle Paul declares, "This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work" (1 Timothy 3:1), we must understand that mere desire does not qualify one for eldership.

THE CALLING OF THE MINISTRY

Much confusion surrounds the concept of ministerial calling, with many assuming it must involve some mystical experience or supernatural voice creating an overwhelming desire for the work. While such dramatic calls have occurred in Scripture, they are exceptional rather than normative.

THE GIFT OF THE MINISTRY

The ministry is not a human invention nor a mere profession—it is a divine gift bestowed by the victorious Christ upon His church. As proclaimed in Psalm 68:18 and confirmed in Ephesians 4:7-11, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men. Among these precious gifts were apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers.

THE PROBLEMS OF THE MINISTRY

The ministry is a noble calling, one that carries immense spiritual significance and the potential to profoundly impact lives. Yet, it is not without its unique challenges and burdens that are often not fully comprehended by the average church attendee. At the heart of pastoral ministry lies the weighty responsibility to rightly divide the word of God, to accurately preach and teach His truth. This task alone can be incredibly daunting, as it requires not just biblical knowledge, but the wisdom and the ability to apply truth to the complex realities of human experience. Ministers often find themselves wrestling with how to lovingly shepherd their flocks through the myriad of challenges that confront the church, from doctrinal misunderstandings to personal struggles, all while striving to remain faithful to their master, the Lord Jesus Christ. Yet, even amidst such trials, ministers must press on, fueled by their unwavering commitment to Christ and their love for His people. Despite the pressures and the pain, the joy of seeing lives transformed by the Gospel makes all the struggles of ministry worthwhile. Thus, while the problems of the ministry are very real, they do not diminish the incredible privilege it is to serve in this way, but rather highlight the deep well of grace and strength that ministers must continually tap into in order to fulfill their ministry.

THE WORK OF THE MINISTRY 3/3

The office of a minister is a position of profound responsibility and trust, ordained by God Himself. It encompasses the roles of ruler (bishop), peacemaker, example, shepherd (pastor), and intercessor. The minister is divinely tasked with leading the congregation in the ways of righteousness, resolving conflicts and restoring peace, demonstrating Christ-like character, watching over the souls of the flock, and praying fervently for the work of the ministry and the people of God.

THE WORK OF THE MINISTRY 2/3

The ministry is a vocation entrusted to those who would serve as stewards of the mysteries of God. It is a work of great honor and even greater responsibility, a labor that demands unwavering dedication, spiritual fortitude, and the willingness to endure hardship for the sake of the Gospel. At the heart of this calling is the command to "Preach the Word," a charge that encompasses the very essence of the minister's office. This is no mere public speaking, but a prophetic declaration of the truths of Scripture. In season and out, in times of joy and times of sorrow, the minister is called to herald the message of God's unfailing and unchanging truth.

THE WORK OF THE MINISTRY 1/3

The ministry is often romanticized as a life of ease and glory, a position of privilege and power. Yet, the Scriptures paint a starkly different picture. In his second letter to Timothy, the apostle Paul issues a solemn charge: "Preach the Word" (2 Tim 4:2).

TH PRESERVATION OF THE MINISTRY

The importance of preserving a godly ministry cannot be overstated. In a world filled with darkness and deception, the Church is called to be a beacon of truth and righteousness, for it is the pillar and ground of truth (1 Tim 3:15). At the heart of this duty is the ministry – those called by God to shepherd His flock. Yet, the effectiveness of the ministry is not solely the responsibility of pastors and leaders. Every member of the body of Christ plays a crucial role in preserving and strengthening the ministry. Let’s review the duties of obedience, prayer, and open communication in supporting those who have been entrusted with the care of our souls.

THE SUPPORT OF THE MINISTRY

The financial support of pastors is a clear biblical principle. From the earliest days of Israel to the apostolic era of the church, God's Word outlines the responsibility of His people to provide for those who He appoints to the ministry of the Word.

THE HONOR OF THE MINISTRY

The ministry is a high and noble calling, one entrusted with the weighty responsibilities of proclaiming God's Word, guiding His flock, and building His church. Ministers are not mere functionaries but ambassadors of Jesus Christ, appointed by God Himself to carry out this divine work. The Bible provides clear guidance on how believers should conduct themselves towards their spiritual leaders. Honoring those who minister among us is not only a matter of personal integrity but also a reflection of one's relationship with the Almighty.

THE INDEPENDENCE OF THE MINISTRY

The independence of the ministry is an important principle that safeguards the authority and integrity of the office of elder. It speaks of the authority relationship between elders. While some may argue for external oversight of ministers through church boards or denominations, Scripture teaches that a minister is accountable to no one but the Lord.

THE NAMES OF THE MINISTRY

[This is part 6 of the series by Brother Adam Wells on the Ministry - ed]

To properly understand the office of the ministry, one must be clear on the various names and titles that are used in Scripture to describe this role. While different titles may emphasize different aspects of the ministry, they ultimately refer to the same divinely ordained office. Much confusion exists among various denominations and religious groups, with some using one title and others using another. However, by returning to the teaching of Scripture, we can gain a clear understanding of the ministry and its various titles.

THE PLURALITY OF THE MINISTRY

[This is part 5 of Brother Adam Well's treatise on the Christian Minstry - ed]

THE AUTHORITY OF THE MINISTRY

[This part 4 of the Adam Well's series on the Ministry - ed]

THE OFFICE OF THE MINISTRY

[This is section 3 of Brother Adam Well's essay on the Ministry - ed]

THE HISTORY OF THE MINISTRY

[We present another section of Adam Well's thoughts on the Ministry- ed]

CHAPTER 1 THE IMPORTANCE OF THE MINISTRY

L

[We will be publishing a ten part series by our brother Adam Wells on the Christian Ministry - ed]

A BRIEF VIEW OF THE SEVERAL ANTICHRISTIAN BEASTS SPOKEN OF IN REVELATION 12-13,17 Concluded

[This was Trott's view of the future, as he saw it.  He appears to be a premillenialist - ed]