Question Corner

Pacific Press Publishing Company · Oakland, California · May 25, 1904

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 30, No. 21.

1504.—“Captivity Captive.” Eph. 4: 8.

Who were those led captive by Christ? Eph. 4: 8. I. C.

Evidently they were those who had been held captive by the grave, and were raised at the resurrection of Christ. See Matt. 27: 52, 53. This resurrection and glorious ascension with Christ the Conqueror, was predicted in the last part of Psalm 24.

1505.—To W. P. and Many Others. 2 Corinthians 3.

We wish to say to all who are troubled over this passage of Scripture, or who may not be able to explain it to others, that their difficulties have been anticipated. Let them send for Bible Students’ Library, No. 149, entitled, “From Glory to Glory.” It gives an exposition of the chapter and much more information. Its price is only 2 cents, post-paid; one hundred for $1.00. Address, Pacific Press, Oakland, Cal.

1506.—The Holy Scriptures.

Will you kindly inform me what part, or how much, of the Bible (as we have it) may be considered the Holy Scriptures? How can one search the Scriptures advisedly unless he knows what they are, and where they are to be found? W. H. F.

The whole Bible. The Old Testament was the Scriptures Jesus and the apostles used. Both internal and external evidences show us that all of the New Testament is of the same character, and was so received by the apostolic church. See Bible Students’ Library, No. 27, “The Bible; Its Inspiration and Importance.” By mail 2 cents.

1507.—Origin of Easter.

What is the origin of Easter? E. C. D.

The word comes from a goddess of spring, worshiped by our Anglo-Saxon ancestors, and variously spelled, Easter, Eastre. The pagans held a festival to her in the spring, and brought flowers and garlands in her honor. The egg and other things symbolized reproduction, life in nature, etc., and were connected with sun-worship. More or less licentiousness was involved in her worship. Coming as it did about the time of the Passover, and the resurrection of Christ, and hoping better to convert the pagans, the heathen feast was, to a great extent, brought over into the Christian Church.

1508.—The Holy Catholic Church.

What is the meaning of the “Holy Catholic Church”? and can we, as Protestants, believe in it?

The meaning of “holy” is, consecrated to God, made holy by Him; the meaning of “catholic” is, universal; the meaning of “church” is, called-out ones, those whom God has called out, who believe in Him. Therefore, in its literal sense, the expression means the universal body of believers in whatsoever fold they dwell. In that sense Protestants may believe in it. No denomination has a right to arrogate to itself the name until that body includes in itself all true believers in all parts of the world.

1509.—Attending Other Meetings.

Is it right to attend meetings of other denominations? A.

The question is a very broad one, and might well be answered by yes and no. It depends on two things, our purpose and the denomination. If our purpose is to witness to our Lord if opportunity offers, to get good, to do others good, if the Lord so direct, go. If our purpose is to criticize, if it is likely to lead us to compromise truth or violate our conscience, do not go. As to the place. There are some so-called religious bodies which we know would be of no help scripturally or spiritually. They do not believe the Bible or preach the Bible. No word we could say would be welcome without compromise of truth or seeming indorsement of error. Let them alone. With these principles in mind, obedient to our Lord, having a burden for other souls, seek Him as to duty. He will make it plain. And if He says, Go, go, and take Him with you. If He says, Stay, obey His voice. “He that winneth souls is wise.”