Coming Under Fire

[Page 190]

     In the September issue of Searching the Scriptures, our brother in Christ, H. E. Phillips, has the following editorial attack upon me and my work:

     "In the February 1972 issue of this paper appeared the first of what was to be a series of three articles showing the devious, subtle appeal W. Carl Ketcherside makes across this country, sowing discord and alienating brethren. He is heralded as a healer of the 'fragmented segments of the heirs of the Reformation.' He is a self acclaimed example of that spiritual maturity that gives him insight into the meaning of 'unity of the Spirit' that most of the rest of us do not possess. The fact is that Carl Ketcherside is one of the most prominent promoters of discord in America today. More division of churches of Christ follows in his wake than any other one man in religious circles today. Most all of his divisive work is done by 'good words and fair speeches' which deceive the untaught (Rom. 15:17)."

     I think our good brother is too generous in his assessment of my influence, but what he writes is really a disguised compliment. His paper is a propaganda journalistic organ for our brethren who have created a test of union and communion out of what they refer to as "institutionalism." They have spawned a party of exclusivism dedicated especially to aggressively assailing another party upholding a certain method of support for Herald of Truth radio and television coverage, and for orphan homes and kindred works.

     I belong to neither sect, but am free in Christ to love them all in spite of their attitudes, temperaments, opinions, deductions and hangups. I receive those in both parties and welcome a great many more brethren whom neither group will receive. I am simply joined to Jesus through the indwelling Spirit and allow all of my brethren to stand or fall to their own Master. I am resolved never to negate the relationship created by humble acceptance of Jesus as the Truth, by imposition of my view concerning any secondary truth, regardless of its appeal to me.

     The leaven of this thinking is affecting brilliant and erudite young men and women in all areas, and factional leaders are becoming frantic. Our brethren no longer "lie down and play dead" when the whip cracks. We are all throwing off our sectarian shackles and ridding ourselves of partisan politics. I solicit your prayers for men like Brother Phillips, brethren who think they best serve the Father by attacking his other children. You may secure his paper by addressing P. O. Box 17244, Tampa, Florida 33612.