Devoted to the Propagation and Defense of New Testament Christianity
VOLUME 3
April 24, 1952
NUMBER 50, PAGE 3b

Ye Observe Days

Kenneth H. Shehi, Delhi, California

Throughout the past few decades we have heard much about "days." During Israel's history we learn that they "observed days, and months, and seasons, and years." This God authorized for Israel. But, in Christ Jesus these observances were broken down. The apostle Paul says, Col. 2:16, "Let no man therefore judge you ... in respect of a feast day or a new moon or a sabbath day."

Many churches today have drifted into the observance of "days." Examples are numerous. Frequently it is announced that such and such a date is our "homecoming day"; "we will send for brother Joe Blow to come and be with us, and deliver the message, as he was 'our' preacher when we instituted this day." Hence, "ye observe days."

Again for example, "October 12 is the day when we completed and dedicated our building. Brother Jim Doe was here and helped us formulate the plans. We will make this an annual affair, and offer it as a standing invitation to brother Doe to come and deliver us a message on this the second Sunday of October of every years." Many exalt the building above Jesus Christ and are wholly ignorant of Paul's sermon in Acts 17. "The God that made the world and all things therein . . . dwelleth not in temples made with hands." (vs. 24) Hence, "ye observe years."

Again, it is stated: "Brother and sister Brownwhite have been with us nearly fifty years. Two weeks from today, the last Sunday in July, will mark their "golden anniversary" with the church which meets at the corner of Dogpath and Horsebridle streets. This day will be devoted to the honor of brother and sister Brownwhite. Brother Brownwhite will tell about the beginning and history of the church which meets here. Let us make this day the most glorious one in the history of the church thus far." Hence, "ye observe seasons."

Does the reader fear that the picture has been over-exaggerated? These things are common with many churches, and the nauseating thing about it is that many preachers who know no better, but, should learn better, are encouraging the brethren in it. Many preachers need a general education in New Testament doctrine along with the rebukes and chastenings of the Lord. The church of Christ thrives only on "sound doctrine," and not the things afore mentioned. Why is it that the crowds are always larger on such days as we have mentioned? Here is the answer: The members know that on such occasions there will be no reproofs, rebukes, and chastenings. Then does it not follow as certain as the night follows the day that "the time will (has) come when they will not endure the sound doctrine; but having itching ears, will heap to themselves teachers after their own lusts; and will turn away their ears from the truth, and turn aside unto fables." (2 Tim. 4:3, 4)

Such things as "homecoming days," "dedication days," "anniversary days," etc., fostered by some of the churches make good medicine for ears that must be scratched. But, the medicine prescribed by the Great Physician is "preach the word; be urgent in season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching." (2 Tim. 4:2) The Lord knew what it would take to save the soul, let us heed it.

"Ye observe days, and months, and seasons, and years, I am afraid of you, lest by any means I have bestowed labor upon you in vain." (Gal. 4:10, 11)