Torch, Spring 1996

"offense" mean? Does it mean that we must always acquiesce to the viewpoints of those with whom we disagree? Did Jesus Christ do it? Absolutely not. He upheld His actions and those of His disciples when they were unjustly accused of violating the Sabbath by the religious leaders . Instead, He rebuked His critics and justified His proper interpretation and application of the Law. He countercharged: "Why do you also transgress the commandment of God because of your tradition?" (Matthew 15:3) Unfortunately, contemporary religionists teach "as doctrines the commandments of men" (Matthew 15 :9) . In genuine spiritual offense, we hurt a believer with a weak conscience when we cause that brother to do something which he deems to be sinful, even though in reality, it is not (1 Corinthians 8: 10). This brother needs to grow in his understanding of his full liberty in Christ (Galatians 5:1). We must not sin because Christ set us free from the penalty of sin. We must love and edify one another. However, we must not submit to the pressure of legalists who would impose their personal preferences upon us, passing them off as moral mandates. Rather, we must distinguish between living under the standard of divine grace and living under the standard of man-made restrictions. Will you be a son or a daughter of Issachar? Will you have understanding of our contemporary culture? Will you know what to do? Dr. Robert Gromacki, Distinguished Professor of Bible and Greek, has been teaching at Cedarville College since 1960. He is a graduate of Baptist Bible Seminary, Dallas Theological Seminary, and Grace Theological Seminary. The author of 14 books, over 100 articles on biblical themes, and numerous Sunday school materials, Dr. Gromacki is a popular speaker for Bible conferences and lectureships. He also pastors Grace Community Baptist Church in Washington Court House, Ohio. ... . . ........ . ... .. ... ....... .. .. ... . .............••..••.....•............................. Bring your youth group to see CEDARVILLE COLLEGE CC Summer Previews '96 er P cvicws, you will: Tour the campus Talk to an admissions counselor Use our athletic facilities and enjoy a day at Kings Island! June 17·19 July 11·13 July 15-17 August 1·3 Explore God's Word with a college professor Eat breakfast in the cafeteria " ..... . . . ~ ~ j Enjoy Kings Island Spend two nights in our residence halls JONGS ISIANJt Just p er on covers everything, including your Kings Island ticket! To request registration information, call • 0 ·CEDARVILLE P.O. Box 601, Cedarville, Ohio 45314 Yellow Jacket Sports Camps Schedule Boys Basketball Grades 5-12 5-9 yr. olds (9-12 daily) Varsity Team Camp Father/Son Camp Cross Country Grades 9-12 (Girls) Grades 9-12 (Boys) Boys Soccer July 15-19 June 10-14 June 17-19 June 20-22 July 19-21 June 24-28 July 8-12 Grades 7-12 July 1-5 Boys/Girls Soccer Grades 4-6 (9-4 daily) July 1-5 Girls Basketball Grades 7-12 June 24-28 (Teams Welcome) Girls Volleyball Grades 7-12 (Teams Welcome) July 22-26 For a free brochure, call: 513-766-7755 or 766-7788 Torch 9