Religious Discussion In Columbus, Ohio January 16-20, 1961
Final arrangements for the discussion between brother Clifton Inman and brother Emerson L. Flannery have been completed. At the invitation of the West Broad church, Columbus, Ohio, both men have agreed to have the discussion on the nights of January 16, 17, 19 and 20 (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday). It will be held in the auditorium of Starling Junior High School located at W. Town St. and Central Ave. This is a new auditorium seating between 500 and 600. There is adequate parking since the entire playground can be used for parking. It is centrally located and easy to find. We believe the location will be pleasing to everyone.
The two propositions to be discussed are as follows: "A church may scripturally, from its common treasury, give funds to a corporate body which has been organized to care for homeless children." Brother Inman affirms and brother Flannery denies. The second is: "It is unscriptural for a church to make a contract with a radio or T V network to televise or broadcast a program which will be heard nationwide and to receive funds from other churches to bear the portion of the expense of such broadcasting and televising as is beyond the power of the sponsoring church to pay." Brother Flannery affirms and brother Inman denies.
Two nights will be devoted to each subject, the affirmative speaking first each night. Each speaker will have one 30-minute, one 20-minute, and one 10-minute speech each night. This will make the session last a little over two hours. The beginning time will be 7:30 p. m.
The two propositions agreed upon set forth fairly clear the points of disagreement concerning church support of orphan homes and Herald of Truth. Both participants have expressed a keen desire to keep this discussion free from unnecessary personalities and to stick to the issues involved. We expect this discussion to be a Bible study and invite all brethren who can to plan on attending. We believe this will be a discussion worthy of Christians.
The West Broad church is paying the expenses of both brother Inman and brother Flannery and renting the auditorium. We are doing this in the interest of truth. We hope to see this same interest manifested by the brethren in this area, and expect to see large crowds at the sessions.
Brethren, pray that the cause of the Lord may be furthered in this discussion.