Harper And Otey
In his preface to E. R. Harper's article, Gospel Guardian, December 23, Brother Tant states clearly my sole reason for wanting the list of contributors to the Herald of Truth fund. I wanted to print 1,000 tracts of the material that appeared in three articles in the Gospel Guardian last August, and send a tract FREE to the elders of each contributing congregation. I mailed signed checks twice to the Highland elders, asking them to send me the list of contributors, and fill in the blank checks for whatever expense they might incur in having the lists typed off. I estimated it would cost me at least $250.00 to have the tracts printed; and I had not the least thought of ever receiving one cent in return.
I received no reply to my two letters until after Brother Tant stated that my articles would appear in the columns of the Gospel Guardian. Then they wrote me refusing to furnish the list.
I am wondering if the Highland elders have read and endorsed the material (as well as the manner and spirit) of Brother Harper's article about this matter — as well as all other articles from him in recent months. Harper declares they do read and endorse everything he sends to the papers. Many brethren have believed the Highland elders were men of integrity and Christian dignity. Until they publicly disavow their approval and endorsement of Harper's articles, they must be held as men of the same spirit and attitude as Harper. Is it possible for such articles to enhance the esteem in which devout Christians would like to regard them? Would it not serve to clarify their position if they would simply state that they DO, or do NOT, endorse Harper's wild and undignified tirades?
In order to arrange a dignified investigation of the questions at issue, Brother Tant has made concessions beyond all rules of fairness in his kind, patient efforts to bring about a study of these matters now troubling the peace and unity of the church. Great numbers of devout Christians are deeply concerned. But I predict (and mark well the prediction!) that the Highland elders will never permit a discussion between Tant and Harper, or any other two men, on any proposition that affirms scriptural authority for the Herald of Truth set-up. If they do, I will make a public apology.
The first missionary society was formed in 1849. it was not until 1908 — fifty-nine years later — that J. B. Briney was tortured into a public debate in defense of such societies. Instrumental music was first used in 1867. It was in 1908 that Briney was literally driven to attempt a defense of it in a public debate. Even then he would only debate the question when I agreed to affirm a negative. It is universally held that in all matters of teaching and practice, every man shall affirm his teaching and practice. The debate with Briney marked the turning point in the battle with innovators. Others soon followed Briney's example, and the forces of error began to retreat. Error can not stand the light of fair public discussion. I shall now make another prediction. I may not be here to see if it proves true, but I ask young men to note it:
Not in twenty-five years will any man of note publicly affirm scriptural authority for the Herald of Truth, or for the "Lubbock plan" of church cooperation.
It is now more than 66 years since I first began to battle in defense of the New Testament pattern of things. Though now nearing my 88th milestone, I feel as vigorous as I have in many years. How soon He whom I have so imperfectly served will say, "It is enough; lay your armor down," I know not. But until he does, I shall continue to contend for the Lord's blood-bought church, as revealed in his word, and in opposition to the hand of unbelief that would mutilate the perfection and tarnish the glory of the last and greatest gift of God to fallen man — the spiritual body of the Lord's Anointed.