How to solve church problems

PREFACEThe purpose of this little book may be stated in a few The author hopes to meet a general need through simple practical teaching.(a) Lack of literature. Authors who are members of the churches of Christ have been prolific in their writings on denominational errors, baptism, worship, the church, etc. I am glad that this is true. It was and still is needed. However, while browsing through "our books" and old periodicals, I have been amazed at the dearth of material dealing with such root sins as pride, jealousy, envy, obstinacy, hypocrisy, meddling, etc. One day, after thinking at length along this line, I exclaimed to myself almost out "No wonder there is so much wrangling, bitterness, backbiting, selfishness, worldliness, and indifference in the church today!"(b) A general condition. The contents of this book are not based upon my experience and observation in working with any one congregation, but draw upon my experience and observation with many churches for many years in many places—from Florida to Michigan, from Texas to Long Island. There is nothing personal about anything I say except as some person may see himself as in a mirror. I have learned the existing needs in the Brotherhood, not from one, but from the mistakes of many elders, deacons, preachers (including the author), songleaders, and other members of the church. Two preachers, with a wide background of experience of thirty-five years, have read this manuscript. Both have expressed confidence that this material will meet an urgent, long-felt need in churches all over the land. Their encouragement is gratifying. It is the earnest prayer of the author that they are correct in their evaluation.(c) The problems dealt with have been discussed over a period of years with numbers of faithful brethren, more than a score of books have been read or scanned in search of ideas. To these brethren and to these authors, I am truly grateful.The Author