The first apostolic epistle was written by “the apostles and elders . . . to the brethren which are of the Gentiles in Antioch and Syria and Cilicia” (Acts 15:22ff). Its purpose was to clarify what was, and was not, expected of Gentile Christians. It was delivered in person by Paul and others (Acts 15).… Read More What I Learned From Paul’s Letters — David R. Pharr
The original languages of the Scriptures were intended to be read and understood by people of average education and intelligence. Most words should be understood according to their ordinary meaning at the time they were written. Legitimate interpretation is discovering what was intended by the writer, not what we think he should have meant. Ordinarily… Read More Literal And Figurative Language in the Bible — David R. Pharr
The Ten Words (Decalogue) were spoken by Jehovah in a mighty display of majesty, authority and power. They were subsequently preserved on stone tablets, “written by the finger of God” (Ex. 31:18). “Both the choice of stone as the material for the tables, and the fact that the writing was engraved, were intended to indicate… Read More Are Christians Under The Ten Commandments Today? — David R. Pharr
A gospel preacher should be a preacher of the gospel! The point is that whether full-time or part-time, experienced or a novice, married or single, located or itinerant, eloquent or plain, cultured or uncultured, educated or self-learned: the one thing that defines a gospel preacher is that he communicates the truth of God’s word by… Read More What A Gospel Preacher Should Be — David R. Pharr
There is an obvious contrast between the ecclesiasticisms of modern religious groups and the simplicity of church government in Christ’s original plan. Solomon wrote: “Lo, this only have I found, that God hath made man upright; but they have sought out many inventions” (Eccl. 7:29). Though this observation can have broader application, it certainly fits… Read More Scriptural Points on Church Government — David R. Pharr
“And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching” (Heb. 10:24-25, KJV). “(A)nd let us consider how to stimulate one another to… Read More What About Hebrews 10:24-25? — David R. Pharr
Love is the grace of a special commandment. Jesus said: “[A] new commandment I give unto you, that you love one another, as I have loved you” (Jn. 13:34). Love always was a priority. It is before, above, and inclusive of all other rules for human relationships (Ro. 13:8ff).… Read More Adding Love To Brotherly Kindness — David R. Pharr
“Euroclydon” is what the King James Version calls it. Others have named it “Euraquilo” or “Northeaster.” They were caught for over two weeks in an unrelenting Mediterranean storm. Hurricane like winds moving from every direction made it impossible to guide the ship. Every effort was made to keep from sinking. Valuable cargo was jettisoned. Even… Read More The God Of All Comfort — David R. Pharr
When I became editor of Palmetto Messenger in 1997 I would not have imagined that I would hold that place for seventeen years. (In 1999 the name was changed to Carolina Messenger.) With this issue I have decided to pass the responsibility to another. With only a few exceptions, there has been a deadline to… Read More The Editor’s Page – David R. Pharr, Editor
Carolina Messenger 