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Circular Letter to the Georgia Baptist Association - Part 2
January 6, 2010
Yesterday, we began looking at some interesting findings from an 1832 letter to the Georgia Baptist Association. Today we will finish that letter by pointing out some interesting findings from the second portion of that letter.
Regarding Punctuality in Our Contracts:
It is rather interesting that in one section of the letter, the author mentioned that debt seemed to be in fashion in those days. I wonder what he would say about the climate of our culture today regarding debt?
He goes on to write:
"how many pitiful and unjustifiable excuses are made for want of punctuality by professing Christians. Our exhortation is that you fulfill your contracts. We think there is a great deal too much credit in our day, and if necessary should drive you to it, and you perceive that you cannot meet the demand when due, go to your creditor and obtain indulgence for further time. By this means you will save your character for honesty...It is better for you to sacrifice property than your Christian character."
Indeed the Bible is correct in stating that the borrower is slave to the lender. How is your witness being affected by your use of finances? Have you ever thought about the impact that finances have on your witness?
Regarding Observance of the Sabbath
The author has much to say about regard for the Sabbath. In one remark he says, "Where there is not much attention to the Sabbath, there is not much attention to religion. Recklessness of the one is generally the concomitant of recklessness of the other."
Wow! Have you ever thought about the connection between our treatment of the Sabbath and our worship? Do you think that it is possible that our careless view of the Sabbath might be affecting our worship? I believe so. We should have a high regard for the one day that God rested and called us to keep as holy.
I found this letter from ancient history, at least in terms of modern history, to be quite relevant to our society today. Perhaps we have failed to learn from the past. If so, we are bound to repeat its mistakes. Let's take a close look at our lives and see where we need to change some things!
