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December 2011 Seek The Old Paths 89

Vol. 22, No. 12 December 2011

WHATISA CHRISTIANSRESPONSIBILITY

TOTHECIVILGOVERNMENT?Roger D. Campbell

Do you suppose there is a civilgovernment anywhere in theworld that has the exact struc-

tural arrangement and policies thatthe Roman Empire had in the days ofJesus and the first-century disciples?There may be some aspects of pres-ent-day governments that resemblethose of the ancient Roman Empirethat was in power in the Middle Eastwhen the New Testament was writ-ten, but the odds are extremely highthat no modern-day arrangement isa one-hundred-per-cent carbon copyof the Roman setup.

If that be the case, why should achild of God living in the 21st centu-ry even be concerned about what theNew Testament teaches about Chris-tians responsibility to their civil gov-ernment? The specifics may not beexactly the same, but the New Testa-ment principles still apply becausethey are a part of the teaching of theChrist that endures and lives forever

(1 Peter 1:23-25), being in force untilthe end of the age/world (Matt.28:20).

What does the New Testamentteach about my obligation to the gov-ernment under which I live? Thisgeneral instruction is found in Titus3:1: Put them in mind to be subject to

principalities and powers, to obeymagistrates, to be ready to every goodwork.That statement, coupled withmore extensive teaching recorded in1 Peter 2:13-17 and Romans 13:1-7,as well as other New Testament prin-

ciples, leads us to make the followingconclusions about our responsibilityto the civil government.

1) A Christian is to obey civilauthorities. First, the message ofTitus 3:1 is, ...obey magistrates.Second, the opening instruction ofRomans 13:1 is, Let every soul besubject to the higher powers. Third,Christians are further charged, Sub-mit yourselves to every ordinance ofman (1 Peter 2:13). The context ofthis last passage clearly shows thatthe expression ordinance of man isnot a reference to some man-madereligious regulation, but rather to thedecree of civil authorities, the kingand governors are noted (1 Peter2:13,14). When the Holy Spiritsinstruction is to obey, be subjectto, and submit to the laws of theland, that is a pretty plain message,would you not agree?

2)A Christian is to obey the civilgovernment for the Lords sake (1Peter 2:13). Because the powers thatbe are ordained of God (Rom. 13:1),resisting such authorities is equal toresisting Gods ordained authorityand arrangement (13:2). Obeyingcivil authorities is part of obeying theLord, For so is the will of God (1Peter 2:15).

3) A Christian is to obey everyaspect of civil law. Going back to 1Peter 2:13, we read, Submit your-selves to every ordinance of man forthe Lords sake.... Every ordinancewould include what the civil authori-

ties decree about building codes, lit-tering highways, tax obligations, thesize of passport photos, how far achurch building must sit away from astreet/road, and you name it. We maybe tempted to label certain laws asunreasonable, ridiculous, or eveninsane, but the law is the law. If Ihave the right to disregard a law thatI count as inconvenient, excessivelycostly, etc., then why would anotherperson not have the right to disre-gard a different law? What is it thatensues when people decide to usetheir own gut feelings to determinewith which government ordinancesthey will comply, and which they willdisregard? The word is chaos orlawlessness.

4) A Christian is to obey civilauthorities at all levels. Peters Spir-it-guided instruction to submit tocivil ordinances was, ...whether it beto the king, as supreme; Or unto gov-ernors, as unto them that are sent byhim for the punishment of evildoers... (1 Peter 2:13,14). Kings, gov-ernors, and delegated authority arementioned, indicating that allbranches and levels of civil govern-ment fall under the category of thepowers that be to whom we are tosubmit ourselves. In our country thatwould include national, state, dis-trict, county, and city laws.

5) A Christian is to obey civil

(Continued on page 95)

Christians Responsibility


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God is love (1 John 4:8). Hiscompassion and mercy isabundant (Psalm 100:5;

103:17; Matt. 14:14). Luke 19:10says, For the Son of man is come toseek and to save that which was lost.

As the people of God, we are toexhibit the same compassion and lov-ing kindness toward all. ...Be ye allof one mind, having compassion oneof another, love as brethren, be pitiful,

be courteous (1 Peter 3:8). Butwhoso hath this worlds good, andseeth his brother have need, and shut-teth up his bowels of compassion fromhim, how dwelleth the love of God inhim(1 John 3:17; cf. Jude 22)?

Because of Gods great love, Hisplan from the beginning has been tosave mankind from their sins. ...Hehath chosen us in him before the

foundation of the world, that weshould be holy and without blamebefore him in love (Eph. 1:4; cf. 1Peter 1:20).

Though the Old Testament Scrip-tures deal predominately with Godswatchful care over the Israelites andthen later the Jews, He also cared forthe Gentiles. He cared for people andnations before the children of Jacob(Israel) were born. When Adam andEve sinned, God promised redemp-tion (Gen. 3:15; cf. Rom. 5:14-18). Godgave instruction to Cain and Abelregarding righteous worship (Gen.4:3-8; cf. Rom. 10:17). Enoch walkedwith God (Gen. 5:22). Noah foundgrace in the eyes of the Lord (Gen.

6:8). Abraham became the father ofthe faithful but was not an Israelite(Rom. 4:1,12,16; James 2:21).Melchizedek was a priest of the mosthigh God (Gen. 14:18). Jethro, thefather-in-law of Moses, was the priestof Midian (Exodus 3:1; 18:1).

When the Israelites were passingthrough Moab, Balak, the king of theMoabites, summoned Balaam, aprophet from far-away Mesopotamia,to come and curse Israel (Num. 22).When Balaam inquired of God aboutit, he was forbidden to curse them.

He expressed a very noble statementwhen he responded to the summonsby saying, ...If Balak would give mehis house full of silver and gold, Icannot go beyond the word of theLORD my God, to do less or more(Num. 22:18; cf. 1 Peter 4:11). What ashame it was when he rebelled andrejected Gods Word (Num. 22:34).His name has become synonymouswith covetousness and rebellion (2Peter 2:15; Jude 1:11; Rev. 2:14).

God called upon several Israeliteprophets to prophesy regarding Gen-tile nations. Prophets such as Amos,Obadiah and Nahum foretold eventsamong the Gentiles. Because of Godsgreat love, He called upon Jonah topreach to the people of Nineveh toget them to repent.

The origin of Nineveh goes as farback as Genesis 10:6-12. It wasundoubtedly one of the oldest citiesin the world in Jonahs time. It ismentioned in the records of Ham-

murabi (1792-1750 B.C.). It is alsomentioned in Babylonian recordsthat extend back to the 21st centuryB.C.

Nineveh was a royal residence ofkings and served as the capital of

Assyria during the reign of Sargon II(722-705 B.C.). It was especiallyloved by Sennacherib (705-681 B.C.)who made it the chief city of hisempire (2 Kings 19:36). He construct-ed massive walls around it and builtthe oldest known aqueduct in historythat brought water into the city from

35 miles away.Regarding the people of Nineveh,God said ...their wickedness is comeup before me(Jonah 1:2). More thana hundred years later we read simi-lar words revealed through Nahumwho wrote that it was a bloody cityfull of lies and robbery (Nahum 3:1-7).

The people of Nineveh had trans-gressed Gods law for far too long.The time of their impending doomwas near as God was ready to destroythe entire city. However, one more

chance would be given for them torepent, turn themselves around andreverence Jehovah. Jonah was theman chosen to deliver the message.Now the word of the LORD cameunto Jonah...saying, Arise, go to Nin-

eveh, that great city, and cry againstit; for their wickedness is come upbefore me(Jonah 1:1-2).

Even with Jonahs attempt toescape the Lords command, Godmade good come from it. Themariners aboard the ship saw thegreat power and majesty of God andgave Him praise and honor. Where-

fore they cried unto the LORD, andsaid, We beseech thee, O LORD, webeseech thee, let us not perish for thismans life, and lay not upon us inno-cent blood: for thou, O LORD, hastdone as it pleased thee. So they tookup Jonah, and cast him forth into thesea: and the sea ceased from her rag-ing. Then the men feared theLORD exceedingly, and offered asacrifice unto the LORD, andmade vows(Jonah 1:14-16).

God rules in the kingdoms ofmen (Daniel 4:17,25,32; 5:21; cf.Jonah 1:17). He is able to use eventsin this world to work His eternal pur-pose (cf. Rom. 8:28). What menintend for evil, God can use for good(Gen. 50:20). The many persecutionsand atrocities that befell the apostle

Paul (2 Cor. 11:22-28) was used byGod to spread the Gospel into placesit would not have otherwise gone asquickly. Paul wrote to the church atPhilippi concerning this very thing:But I would ye should understand,brethren, that the things which hap-

pened unto me have fallen out ratherunto the furtherance of the gospel. Sothat my bonds in Christ are manifestin all the palace, and in all other

places; And many of the brethren inthe Lord, waxing confident by mybonds, are much more bold to speak

the word without fear(Phil. 1:12-14)Jonahs words to the people ofNineveh were very sharp and dis-tinct. Though his motive was notright, he cried aloud and did notspare. And Jonah began to enter intothe city a days journey, and he cried,and said, Yet forty days, and Nin-eveh shall be overthrown (Jonah3:4). The power of the word of Godbrought about conviction and repen-tance in the hearts of his hearers (cf.Rom. 1:16).

Theres no indication Jonahs

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JONAHANDNINEVEHGarland M. Robinson


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reluctance to preach as God directed(the first time he was given theorder) was due to fear on his part. Hedidnt fear the people, nor the job! Itwas rather due to the fact that Jonahdid not wish the people of Nineveh torepent and be spared of Gods wrath.When the people repented in sackcloth and ashes, Jonah said, ...wasnot this my saying, when I was yet inmy country? Therefore I fled beforeunto Tarshish: for I knew that thouart a gracious God, and merciful,slow to anger, and of great kindness,and repentest thee of the evil. There-

fore now, O LORD, take, I beseechthee, my life from me; for it is better

for me to die than to live(Jonah 4:2-3).

How tragic! How could it possiblybe that any of Gods people would notwant those who are lost to be saved?But, none the less, that was Jonahsdisgrace. He thought more for hisown comfort and a gourd that shadedhis head than the 120,000 who couldnot discern their right hand fromtheir left (Jonah 4:8-11). Shame,shame on Jonah! May we never trav-el that same road. God does notdesire that any perish. He wants allto come to the knowledge of the truthand repent (2 Peter 3:9; 1 Tim. 2:4).

John the Baptist had a stern andreproving message similar to

Jonahs. Matthew records: ...whenhe saw many of the Pharisees andSadducees come to his baptism, hesaid unto them, O generation ofvipers, who hath warned you toflee from the wrath to come? Bringforth therefore fruits meet for repen-tance (Matt. 3:7-8). His messageregarding the adultery of Herod andHerodias was plain, for John saidunto him, It is not lawful for thee tohave her (Matt. 14:3-4). WhenSalome, the daughter of Herodias,finished her lascivious performance

(dancing) before Herod, he was soexcited that he promised to give heranything she would ask. Her wickedmother had already conspired to askfor the head of John to be brought toher on a platter. Though Herod wassorry he had made such a rash vow,he yielded to their devious plans. Oh,what wicked devices men can weavewhen they depart from the livingGod and refuse to be restored inrepentance!

Our Lords preaching was likeJonahs. He preached the truth and

did not hold back. Then began he toupbraid the cities wherein most of hismighty works were done, because theyrepented not: Woe unto thee,Chorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaida!

for if the mighty works, which weredone in you, had been done in Tyreand Sidon, they would have repentedlong ago in sackcloth and ashes. But Isay unto you, It shall be more tolera-ble for Tyre and Sidon at the day of

judgment, than for you. And thou,Capernaum, which art exalted untoheaven, shalt be brought down to hell:

for if the mighty works, which havebeen done in thee, had been done in

Sodom, it would have remained untilthis day. But I say unto you, That itshall be more tolerable for the land of

Sodom in the day of judgment, thanfor thee(Matt. 11:20-24).

What Jonah preached was thecommand of God. He was only doingwhat God had ordered to be done.Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city,and cry against it (Jonah 1:1-2).He was told a second time, Arise, gounto Nineveh, that great city, andpreach unto it the preaching thatI bid thee (Jonah 3:2). This wasGods order and Jonah was not aboutto escape it though he tried desper-ately to do so. His preaching was nothis own words. It was the word ofGod!

The apostle Paul made clear tothose in the church at Corinth andfor all who would read his inspiredwords that the things he taught werethe commandments of the Lord (1Cor. 14:37; cf. 1 Thess. 2:13; 4:2). Hehad the gift of prophecy and used itto impart the divine will of God(1 Cor. 13:2). We are not inspired likeJonah and Paul, but when we preachthe inspired word, our preaching ispowerful and sharper than atwoedged sword (2 Tim. 4:2; Heb.4:12).

When Jonah repented of runningaway, God was merciful to him andgave him a second chance (Jonah 2:1-10). When he preached the whole cityof Nineveh would be overthrown bythe mighty hand of Jehovah, ...the

people of Nineveh believed God, andproclaimed a fast, and put on sack-cloth, from the greatest of them evento the least of them(3:5). This showsbeyond a doubt that God ...is long-suffering to us-ward, not willing thatany should perish, but that all shouldcome to repentance(2 Peter 3:9).

God was well aware of the ruth-lessness of Nineveh. He knew of theiridolatry, adultery, drunkenness andpride. He was witness to their witch-craft, robbery, lying and whoredoms.None-the-less, He was willing to for-give if they would repent and turn toHim. And, thats exactly what theydid. And God saw their works, thatthey turned from their evil way; andGod repented of the evil, that he hadsaid that he would do unto them; andhe did it not(Jonah 3:10).

Oh, how we all should work andpray that the wicked will repent andturn to God before its too late! Ourloving and merciful Father will abun-dantly pardon and the angels willrejoice (Luke 15:7,10). Let thewicked forsake his way, and theunrighteous man his thoughts: andlet him return unto the LORD, and hewill have mercy upon him; and to ourGod, for he will abundantly pardon(Isa. 55:7).


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CONFLICTS IN DOCTRINE BETWEEN

THE KORAN AND THE BIBLE

II. The Godhead (TriuneNature) and His Divine Charac-teristics

Koran: Denies the Godhead(5:72-74), and describes Allah as onewho does not love those who rejectfaith (30:44-45; 3:32; 40:35).

Bible: Defends the Godhead(Matt. 3:16-17; 1 John 5:7; Col. 2:9)and describes Jehovah as lovingeveryone, even while they are/werein sin (John 3:16; Rom. 5:8; 8:38-39; 1Tim. 2:6; Heb. 2:9; 1 John 2:2, 4:19).He does not forgive until they repent,but He loves them just the same.

III. Relationships of Muslimswith Others

1. Marriage:POLYGAMY

Koran: Allows for a man to haveup to four wives if he can afford them(4:3, 24-25; 23:6; 30:21). The onlyexception was Mohammed who couldhave more wives than any other man(33:50-53).

Bible: Though God may not haveimmediately punished polygamyunder the Old Law, this was neverHis desired system (Deut. 17:17;Matt. 19:3-5; 1 Cor. 7:2; 1 Tim. 3:2,12;5:9). God has never allowed aprophet or teacher to live differentlythan what he has preached and/or toexalt himself above the law (2 Thess.2:4; 1 Cor. 4:6; Rom. 2:21).

DIVORCE

Koran: A Muslim man candivorce for any reason (2:226-232;33:4,49; 58:2-4). Realistically, a Mus-

lim could have an unlimited amountof wives, all with the approval of God.Bible: God hates divorce

(Malachi 2:16) and only approves ofremarriage for the innocent party ifthe divorce was for fornication (Matt.5:32; 19:5-9) or death (1 Cor. 7:39).

CANDIDATES FOR AND CONDUCT

IN MARRIAGE

Koran: If there are no womenavailable, men were allowed to marryyoung girls (4:25) as Mohammed did.Husbands are allowed to beat theirwives (4:34).

Bible: The husband is to givehonor to the wife because she isweaker than him (1 Peter 3:7). He isto love her as Christ loved the church(Eph. 5:25).

VIOLENCE

Koran: Muslims should fightback against those who fight them(2:190) because persecution is worsethan slaughter (2:191,217). Allah isdescribed as loving those who fightfor him (61:4), which is why on occa-sion his followers are told to bearweapons while praying (4:102).

Bible: Christ taught His disci-ples they were not to fight back whenprovoked (Matt. 5:38-41; 26:52; John18:36), but should instead returngood for evil (Matt. 5:43-44; John15:20, 1 Thess. 5:15). Inspired apos-tles of Jesus Christ indicate the gov-ernment (Rom. 13:1-4), not we our-selves (12:19), is to be the distributorof punishment for evildoers; hence,we should not leave our sphere ofauthority to take away the realm ofauthority from the government (1Peter 2:13-14). Persecution for Chris-tians should be expected (John

15:20), not feared (Matt. 10:28); andendured (Rom. 12:14; 1 Cor. 4:12-13),not resisted. Jehovah does notapprove of (He in fact hates) thosewho are quick to shed blood (Prov.6:16-19).

CONFLICTS IN DOCTRINE BETWEEN

ISLAMIC HADITH AND THE BIBLE

III. Relationships of Muslimswith Others

1. WomenHadith: Women:

a. Are considered to have lessintelligence than men (1:301).b. Will be the majority of those in

hell (1:301, 8:555).c. Will represent such a large

number in hell because they are dis-obedient to husbands (1:28).

d. Can only travel with her hus-band or another man who she cannotmarry (4:250).

2. Other requirements andbeliefs

Hadith: Muslims:a. Are commanded to bathe on

Fridays (3:833).b. Are taught dogs are unclean

and not even angels can enter ahouse where there is a dog or evenpictures of a dog or other living crea-ture (4:448).

c. Believe pets can alert man tothe presence of either an angel or thedevil (4:522).

Bible: The Bible teaches womenare of great value to God (Exodus10:9-11; 1 Tim. 2:15; 1 Cor. 16:19;Rom. 16:6; Acts 16:13-14). Galatians3:28 declares there is no longer maleor female for we are one in ChristJesus. Though men and women havebeen given different roles in areassuch as the family or the church(Gen. 3:16; 1 Tim. 2:11-12), theirsouls have not been given differentvalues to God. Jesus does not specifywhat shall a man give in exchangefor a male soul? because all souls areequally valuable to God. While a lifeof disobedience to a husband canresult in eternal punishment (Eph.5:22,24), so can a life of mistreating awife (1 Peter 3:7). Holding the tradi-tions of man above the command-

ments of God make a religion and itsworship vain (Matt. 15:8-9).CREATION OF MAN

Koran: Speaks of two days ofcreation (41:9), followed by supplyinghills and mountains for four days(41:11), followed by two days for thecreation of the seven heavens (41:12),for a total of eight days of creation.While in other places it describes sixdays of creation (32:4). Man was cre-ated from blood (96:2), sperm (16:4),dust (3:59), mud (7:12), sticky clay(37:11), water (25:54), and nothing

(52:35). Allah also created man weakand imperfect (4:28).Bible: God created the world in

six days and rested on the seventh(Gen. 2:2). He created man of thedust of the ground (Gen. 2:7) andwoman of his rib (Gen. 2:21-22). Godcreated man wholly good (Gen. 1:31).

ANGELS

Koran: Tells angels to worshipman (15:26-35; 2:34; 7:11-12; 17:61;18:51).

Bible: Man is not to be wor-shiped (Acts 14:13-15; Matt. 4:10)

TAKINGTHEWORDOFGODTOISLAM#4John Hall


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Man was made a little lower than theangels (Psa. 8:4-5).

HEAVEN

Koran: There are seven heav-ens (2:29; 23:86-87; 17:44), one ofwhich is called paradise (76:11-22;55:46-78). All of these are describedin physical terms: a garden (76:12),bearing fruits of every kind (55:52),no heat nor cold (76:13), with silverand crystal goblets (76:15), with wineto drink (76:17), with many youthfulservants (6:19), and sleeping on softcarpets (55:54). For men, there willbe access to women with wide andlovely eyes (44:54), virgins who noman nor devil has touched (55:56),and they will be mens companions(55:72) who God Himself will wedthem to (44:54). Muslims achieveheaven by doing more good than bad(23:102-103).

Bible: There are three heavens(Gen. 1:20; 15:5; Matt. 5:16; 2 Cor.12:2), the third of which (the abodeof God) is not earned by good worksbut is a gift made possible throughJesus Christ (John 10:27-28; Rom.6:23). It is not a carnal place where

carnal activities continue such asthose carried out in marriage (Matt.22:30).

HELL

Koran: Hell is described as aplace of physical punishment, notspiritual torment. The unfaithful willbe dragged into fire upon their faces(54:48), dragged by their hair (70:16),with their faces blackened (39:60),subjected to hooked rods of iron(22:21), neither die nor live (87:12-13), drink and have boiling waterpoured on them (18:30), then beforced to drink extremely cold water(38:57-59), and eat bitter, thorny fruit(88:2-7). Malik is the primary angelin charge of hell, where he will be incharge of tormenting its inhabitants(43:74,77). The Koran refers to hell,doom, or fiery punishment in 92 of its114 chapters (80%).

Bible: In the New Testament,hell (gehenna) is mentioned a totalof 12 times. Hell is a spiritual deathor punishment because it is an eter-nal separation from God (Matt.25:41; 2 Peter 2:4; Rev. 20:10). It is aplace of everlasting punishment

(Matt. 25:46) that is compared to afire that will never be quenched(Mark 9:43-48), or a lake that burnswith fire and brimstone (Rev.20:14-15). It is where all sinners go(those on the left hand, the goats, thewicked; Matt. 25:30-46; Rev. 21:8).

Part 4 of 411914 State Hwy 30

College Station, TX 77845

[CORRECTION: In the firstinstallment of this series (page 67 ofthe September 2011 issue), I men-tioned that Saddam Hussein was amember of the Shiite party. A readerwrote me and pointed out that Sad-dam Hussein was not a Shiite. Ilooked up various sources, and thisappears to be the more commonstance. He was politically of theBaath party, but seemed to showmore allegiance to, or at least sympa-thy for, the Sunni sect than he didthe Shiite sect. My apologies for thatmistake. You know youve got a greatreadership when people are testingto make sure the information is accu-rate (cf. Acts 17:11).]

Philippians 3:2 states, Beware ofdogs, beware of evil workers,beware of the concision. The

apostle employs a trio of imperativesall translated beware from the sameword and grammatical form. Its repe-tition at the beginning of successiveclauses is a rhetorical device known asanaphora. It means a bringing back orrepeating over again. Scriptureabounds with this usage. It addsweight to many of its solemn state-

ments and arguments by directingattention to them (Bullinger, 199).Thus, the rapidity of thought in quicksuccession is designed for effect on thereader (Robertson, 1100). Paul uses ithere to underscore the significanceand perhaps urgency of what Godwants his people to know and do. Notonce, not twice, but three times in oneverse God calls upon us to BEWARE!

BEWARE!

Beware translates a term whichliterally means to see with the eye. In

this context, however, the meaningextends to embrace the connotationwatch out or notice carefully in thesense of paying attention or being onguard against dangers; with the impli-cation of preparedness in order torespond appropriately should the needarise (BDAG, 179; Louw/Nida, 333).Jesus uses the term in this sensewhen he warns: Take heed that noman lead you astray (Matt. 24:4,ASV). Paul employs the same when

encouraging saints to be vigilant con-cerning the potential dangers of apos-tasy: Wherefore let him that thinkethhe standeth take heed lest he fall (1Cor. 10:12). Then in a context wherethe apostle warns of being led astraythrough error dispensed by falseprophets: Take heed lest there shallbe any one that maketh spoil of youthrough his philosophy and vaindeceit, after the tradition of man, afterthe rudiments of the world, and notafter Christ (Col. 2:8). Not onlyshould one take heed to what they

hear (Mark 4:24) but even how theyhear it (Luke 8:18)! The term high-lights that responsibility of theredeemed to exercise watchfulness asit pertains to their spiritual welfare.More specifically, Gods people must bealert to the dangers of false teachersand sensitive to those doctrines whichare not in compliance with biblicaltruth.

THE IMPERATIVE

New Testament students havelong recognized that the verb occupiesan important place in the Greek lan-guage. The flexibility and range of ver-bal usage in Greek commends itself toa more in-depth analysis in order tobring out nuances not ordinarily con-veyed by translation. This is especial-ly true with regard to what are tradi-tionally called tense and mood. Thechoice of a particular verb, along withits specific verbal aspect (expressed inthe verb tense-form), resides with thelanguage user. It is from this perspec-

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tive that any grammatical analysis ofthe verb must begin in order to fullyappreciate what the speaker/writerwants to articulate (Porter, 20-21).Such interpretive efforts whichattempt to unpack the full significanceof the verbal usage pay great exegeti-cal dividends. Thus, two observationsare in order.

First, Paul places all three verbsin the imperative mood. Whereas theimperative has a variety of uses in theNew Testament (request, greetings,permission, etc.), the most commonusage expresses a command. For thisreason when grammarians cite cate-gories of usage they usually list firstthe imperative of command(Brooks/Winbery, 127). Thus, normallythe imperative addresses the volition.It appeals to the human will whenused to direct or demand the action ofanother; it imposes ones will uponanother. The idea of authority or rightto command is implied in the usage(Wallace, 446, 485). Contextual consid-erations make it obvious that this iswhy the apostle employs the impera-tive here. He issues an inspired direc-tive in an attempt to bring about adesired action. He commands theredeemed: Beware!... Beware!...

Beware!The imperative communicates the

divine command to be watchful

toward those who seek to lead Godspeople astray doctrinally. One linguistcalls it an imperative of warning(Young, 145). With the use of theimperative, God (through the apostle)imposes his will upon the church. Godcommands the saints to be on the lookout for false teachers and their hereti-cal views which pervert the Gospel.This is what the force of the impera-tive entails from the original lan-guage. For one to fail in this regardthrough the shirking of that obligationor complacency of disposition, equals

flagrant disobedience to the divinewill. The consequences of failure aretragic. It couldnt be any clearer.

PRESENT TENSE

Second, Paul places all three verbsin thepresent tense even though otheroptions were available. This choice oftense is significant because it relatesthe kind of action the apostle wants toportray with the verb. One of the mostimportant, but most misunderstood,concepts concerning the Greek verb isthat time is not the primary signifi-

cance of what is related by Greektense, and this is especially true in thenon-indicative moods such as theimperative. This may initially seemconfusing since in English, tenseconveys the time of action related bythe verb. But in Greek it is different.The basic genius of the Greek verb isnot its ability to indicate when theaction of the verb occurs but ratherthe type of action the writer wishes toportray. This is called aspect and itsimply relates the way in which thewriter perceives the verbal action tounfold (Mounce, 126; Porter, 20). Therelevance here is that by Paul usingthe imperative on the present tensestem he commands an ongoing processor continuous action which has theforce:I command you to continuouslybeware!

In light of the historical context,this grammatical structure may carrythe force to both begin and continue awatch of vigilance which stresses boththe inception and progress of theaction commanded. (Grammarianscall this the ingressive/progressiveimperative). Or, the emphasis may beto simply continue something thePhilippians were already in theprocess of doing. (This is called thecustomary imperative). In otherwords, Paul may be issuing a com-mand for action that may or may not

have already been implemented (Wal-lace, 721). The original recipients ofthe epistle would have known precise-ly what Paul was communicatingwhen they read the command in theirfirst century setting. The applicationfor twenty-first century churches ofChrist seems obvious: If we are notalready doing what inspiration hereinstructs, then we had better get start-ed; and, if we are already practicingthat vigilance which this divine direc-tive demands, then we must constant-ly remain diligent in the task!

What cannot be over emphasizedis that the present imperative carrieswith it a built-in action that demandsa progressive and ongoing response tothe divine decree. It must be appreci-ated by Christians today that the com-mand to beware is not something thatcan be obeyed with a one time or evensporadic occurrence. It must becomeour habitual and continuous practice.Because of the structured differencesin Greek and English it is often impos-sible to transfer this continuousaspect in translation without result-

ing in stilted English. Therefore it isnecessary for the preacher to articu-late this gem of truth to his presentday audience (Wuest, 39). One mayview with certainty that the divinemandate calls for a habitual and con-stant watchfulness on our part. Therewill never be a time this side of eter-nity wherein the Christian may sur-mise it is permissible to be lax in theart of vigilance in looking out for falseteachers. Our spiritual welfaredepends on it.

THE JUDAIZERS

Paul commands Christians to con-tinuously be on alert for brotherhoodagitators whom he describes withthree epithets: the dogs, the evil work-

ers, the concision. That the definitearticle precedes each of these threeexpressions points to the identity of awell-known class of first-centuryheretics (Vincent, 443; Lightfoot, 143).Further, just as all three clauses beginwith the thrice-repeated verbbeware, each of the verbs threedirect objects begins with a k soundin Greek. This repetition of sound is byliterary design, and not incidental(OBrien, 347). Through the figure ofspeech known as alliteration the apos-tles word choice is intended to stimu-late the attention of his reading audi-ence (Bullinger, 171). Of course, this

acoustic effect is virtually impossibleto preserve in English translation. ButPauls rhetoric may be illustrated, inpart, with a rendering which imitatesthe sounds of the original: Beware ofthe curs! Beware of the cut-throats!

Beware of the concision! (Thielman360).

By his use of the term dogs, theapostle refers not to the four-legged,canine kind. Rather, he employs aderogatory term in which he spares noimagery to stigmatize his hereticalopponents, the false brethren of his

day (Gal. 2:4). Dont miss the fact thatin ancient times a dog was viewed dif-ferently than our present day conceptof a pampered, domesticated pooch.The metaphor is soaked in the back-drop of ancient society where dogswere detested as low-life scavengersby Jew and Gentile alike (Fee, 295)The figure when applied to humansequals a classic insult. Thus, enemiesof the righteous are tagged as worth-less dogs (Psa. 22:16). Israels apos-tate leaders are dumb dogs (Isa56:10). Jesus counsels not to waste


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spiritual energy on despicable dogs,i.e., spiritual ingrates (Matt. 7:6). Thefalse teacher, once knowing the truth,but later an apostate to the divinewill, is the dog who has returned tohis own puke (2 Peter 2:20-22). Thesedogs are going to hell. God said so(Rev. 22:15). Its not a pretty picture.Sin never is.

Within the clause the evil work-ers,the adjective evil is in the firstattributive position. This pertains towhere the adjective is placed in rela-tion to the noun in Greek syntax. Thesignificance of this syntactical con-struction is that the adjective receivesgreater emphasis than the noun(Robertson, 776). This means thatPaul is not so much concerned withemphasizing these heretics as work-ers as he is in stressing that they areevil workers. In another place, theapostle styles this same factious cliqueas deceitful workers who, though inleague with Satan, sought to masquer-ade as loyalists to Christ (2 Cor. 11:13-15). The immediate context serves as acommentary on why the apostledescribes these asevil doers: they arethe enemies of the cross of Christ;whose end is perdition, whose god isthe belly, and whose glory is theirshame, who mind earthly things(Phil. 3:18-19). Many suppose that aslong as religious people are involved in

spiritual works that their effortsshould be considered good by society.Not so. There are those who professthat they know God, but by theirworks they deny him (Titus 1:16).

With mention of the concision,modern readers receive a clear clue asto the identity of the dogs and evilworkers whom Paul references. TheJudaizers conglomerated certainaspects of the Law of Moses with theGospel of Christ. They then sought tobind their new-fangled doctrine onGentile converts. Specifically, they

insisted circumcision was indispensa-ble to salvation (Acts 15:1). But thisperverted the Gospel resulting inapostasy for those who embraced it(Gal. 1:6-7; 5:4). This serves as thebackground for Paul sarcastically dub-bing these troublemakers the conci-sion, a term meaning mutilation an exaggerated allusion to circumci-sion (BDAG, 528; Louw/Nida, 225).This expression leads directly to thecontrast in Pauls next statement: forwe are the circumcision (v.3). Underthe New Testament, those genuinely

called the circumcision are the spiri-tual descendants of Abraham, faithfulmembers of the Lords church (Rom.2:28-29; Gal. 3:26-29; cf. Col. 2:11, thecircumcision of Christ). By contrast-ing the concision (katatome) withthe circumcision (peritome) the apos-tle employs wordplay called parono-masia. This is where an author usessimilar words in close proximity;words that are not the same but whichresemble one another in look andsound (Bullinger, 306). Thus, to thoseJudaizers who prided themselves asthe circumcision, Paul characterizesas the mutilation party who hadreduced that ancient sign of the oldcovenant to a mere laceration of theflesh devoid of any spiritual signifi-cance (Nicoll, 3:449). The apostles par-ody was like a well-placed dagger tothe heart of his opponents!

My translation of the verseattempts to reflect some of the gram-matical nuances discussed in this arti-cle: I command you to continuouslybeware of the dogs! I command you tocontinuously beware of the wickedworkers! I command you to continu-ously beware of the mutilation clique!

LESSONS LEARNED

1) Tragically, we live in a day andtime when far too many brethrenseem to have forfeited any sense of

responsibility for the command toremain alert to the potential dangersof false teachers. For many, such isnothing more than a forgotten relic ofour ancient past. Churches of Christtoday must learn not to be insensitiveto this God-given obligation. Any fail-ure in this regard equals rebellion tothe divine will. Brethren must foreverbe on the lookout for false teacherswho jeopardize the spiritual welfare ofthe redeemed. God repeatedly says so.Learn to be vigilant for the Cause ofChrist in this regard.

2) Squeamish brethren who deemthemselves among the politically cor-rect of a polite society may find theirsensitivities repulsed at Pauls polem-ical passion and choice of colorful lan-guage to describe the brotherhoodtroublemakers of his day. No sympa-thy, however, should be extended tothese modern day soft-shells whosecultured veneer of sophistication willnot allow them with bloodied sword tofight the good fight of the faith (1Tim. 6:12). God considers these naivebrethren odious to the Cause of Christ

for their breach of loyalty. At the ven-ture of offending God, learn not topacify these traitorous brethren.

For a list of Sources in writing thisarticle, see: seektheoldpaths.com/stopd11.htm#SOUR

105 East PlantersSan Augustine, TX 75972

authorities, regardless of the type ofgovernment under which he lives.This principle is tough for some toaccept willingly, but it is true. In theU.S., we are blessed to live in arepublic in which we are privilegedto vote and elect government officialswho are supposed to represent usand our best interests. Those towhom the apostles wrote inspiredmessages in the first century aboutobeying governmental powers werenot living in a republic or anythingakin to such. They lived in a daywhen kings, often ruthless, self-serv-ing men, reigned. Still, the messageof God was to submit to them. If theU.S. or some other nation shouldsome day, either by choice or by force,adopt a form of government that haslittle or no concern for the commonpeople, Gods charge to obey magis-trates would still be in force.

6) While Christians are obligatedto obey civil authorities, if there are

governmental regulations that arenot in harmony with Gods law,Christians must choose to obey whatGod says. Because Gods people areto act as obedient children at alltimes (1 Peter 1:14), if mans lawsare at odds with the teaching of theBible, Gods children are to obey theBible. Yes, in every situation, weought to obey God rather than men

(Acts 5:29). Remember, we are not atliberty to not submit to a govern-ment law simply because we do notlike it. A saints decision to not sub-mit to a civil law must be based on athus saith the Lord and not on hisown personal likes or preferences.

These half-dozen principles wehave noted are not based on culture.Rather, they are biblical truths thatapply in every society in every gen-eration.

120 Will Lewis Dr. SECleveland, TN 37323

Christians Responsibility(Continued from page 89)


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Ruby York, a very dear friend,sister in Christ and long time sup-porter of Seek The Old Pathspassed away on Dec. 3, 2011. Shewas a very good Bible student andsound in the faith. She was alwaysready unto every good work. Herattitude was, what can I do, wherecan I help. In recent years, she has

lived with her daughter in Memphis. Her family will certainly missher but also her friends and brethren in the Gospel will too. But, asthe good book says, she has gone on to her reward as multitudeshave before her. We look forward to that day when the redeemed ofthe ages will meet in that celestial home above ...Editor, GarlandRobinson. The CHURCH OF CHRIST in Doyle, Tennessee, isin need of a pulpit minister. Average attendance is about 80. If inter-ested, send resume to Doyle Church of Christ, PO Box 218,Doyle, TN 38559 or email at [email protected] ...Doyle Church of Christ. The LEAKESVILLECHURCH OF CHRIST in Leakesville, Mississippi, is in need of aGospel preacher. The Sunday morning attendance is about 25-30.We would very much like for someone to work with us. We can fur-nish a house and utilities. If you are interested or know someonewho is, please contact Ronald Byrd at 601-394-9565 (cowla-

[email protected]) or 22960 Hwy 42, Richton, MS 39476...Leakesville Church Of Christ. Please put me on your mailinglist. Thank you so much! ...Betty White, Fordyce, AR. Christiangreetings to all. I really appreciate your efforts to propagate theGospel of our almighty Lord Jesus Christ our God, our salvation andSaviour. I believe that all of you are doing the right and truly theGospel of God. Continue the good works. God will always be with youwith grace, mercy and love. Always include me on your mailing list.Thanks ...Corazon Santiago, Los Angeles, CA. We dearlyappreciate the paper Seek The Old Paths.Thank you. It is so des-perately needed in the church today. Please add this name to yourmailing list and enclose the September 2011 issue. I would like tohave six copies of this issue. Thank you so much ...Logan Lee,Bedford, IN. Dear East End Church of Christ. Ive been receivingthe monthly publication as a courtesy of the Crandull church of

Christ in Shady Valley, Tennessee where Tracy Dugger preaches.Since Tracy and I have been corresponding over the years, he hashelped me with materials needed for my study. I enjoySeek The Old

Paths and Ive learned a lot through continued study by soundteaching such as this. Thank you for your help in my continuedstudy ...Claude Mazza, Haynesville, VA. Please send to theseaddresses, students from our Tuesday night class ...B. A. Kincade,Wewoka, OK. I appreciate the paper you send every month. Godbless you for standing for the truth ...Thelma Clark, Mobile, AL.Some of our members have deceased at the Woodburn, Kentuckycongregation. Please reduce the amount of STOP youre sending us.We do appreciate receiving your paper and the fact that it is alltruth. God bless your work. Thank you ...A. R. Huffman, BowlingGreen, KY. Id like to get my apartment manager on your list. Hehas been the best apartment manager I have ever had in all the

apartments I have ever lived at. He is not just a good apartmentmanager, hes a friend to everyone that rents one of the apartmentsand watches out for everyone. Thank you for spreading the Word ofJesus Christ ...Linda Whitehurst, Cassville, MO. Thank you forthe STOP publication. We have recently moved and need a changeof address as we would like to continue receiving the publication...Dale Goggins, League City, TX. Would you please put our con-gregation, the Cubb Creek Church of Christ on your mailing listforSeek The Old Paths for a bundle of 50? I have been reading yourpublication for many years. May God bless you and your work. Wewill be looking for your papers ...Hubert Jones, Gainesboro, TN.Brother Garland, I hate to write this since our congregation hasquit picking up the new bulletins Ive been leaving at the meetinghouse. I had thought they would subscribe for them to be sent totheir home. Maybe though, Ill give them away to the community

sooner or later. I still enjoy them very much. Cut down my bundleand send to my address and Ill send a little money now and then tohelp pay for it. Thank you for your kind efforts. I still love readinganything from Gods word. Ive been a Christian since I was veryyoung and love every bit of being one. Im 88, a widow lady for sev-eral years. I raised 11 children ...Harrisburg, AR. Appreciate thepublication. Check is inclosed for support. The church at Bethany isreceiving two bundles. Please discontinue one of them. Thanks andGod bless ...Elders, Bethany church of Christ, McMinnville,TN. In the September 2011 issue ofSeek The Old Paths, the truthwas very well spoken about a person not being able to go to heavenwhen following the NIV (New International Version). In factmany of the modern versions will lead people astray when followedIts strange to me that some preachers/teachers will teach againstthe creeds of men, but when those creeds are added to (or takenfrom) the Bible, they still call it the word of God. What does James1:8 call this man? Keep up the good work of truthfulness ...JoeTurbeville, Dresden, TN. I am and have been receiving your pub-lication,Seek The Old Paths, which I find most helpful in my learn-ing and study of our Heavenly Fathers word. This was made possi-ble through my friend and brother Tracy Dugger who preaches atthe Crandull Church of Christ in Shady Valley, Tennessee. Howeversince I wrote you with my change of address, I have not received anyfrom July. In other words, I need for you if at all possible, to send me

the August and September issues. The October issue, I received lastnight is most interesting. However, I need Septembers so I can placethe topical study together, a two part study, and I do not have thefirst part. Thank you. Also, do you have any advanced Bible studycourses that can be taken by way of mail? Any help in this area willbe appreciated ...Claude Mazza, Haynesville, VA.

Seek The Old Paths is a monthly publication of the East EndChurch of Christ and is under the oversight of its elders. It is mailedFREE upon request. Its primary purpose and goal in publication canbe found in Jude 3; II Timothy 4:2; Titus 1:13; Titus 2:1; II Peter 1:12.All mail received may be published unless otherwise noted. Articlesare also welcomed.

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