The World Before Adam

Poverty Bay Herald, Volume LXIV, Issue 19503, 9 December 1937, Page 18

The World Before Adam

Sir,—ln the Herald of Monday last "Pax" writes further on the subject of "The World Before Adam" and asks what we are to believe if not the findings of the church councils, who in early times sat and considered matters of church doctrines, history, etc. They came to certain conclusions. Many of these can hardly be accepted in these days of further enlightenment, for new light is continually breaking forth from the word of God; also, explorers, archaeologists, and scientists have brought to light many important facts and much light has been shed on things that were a complete mystery to our forefathers. If such an ecclesiastical council were to sit to-day, it would have the privilege of studying and comparing a great number of ancient manuscripts and documents that were not available in their day and generation. I am sure that it is belter to go to the fountain head, the "oracles of God," than to rely on any man-made doctrine or conclusion arrived at by these men who sat on these church councils so long ago, as they, like ourselves, are but human, and we are all inclined to take note of the 'traditions of men.' and the inferences so formed in our minds affects our outlook in life; rather should we go with an open mind to that word of God which was written for our learning. Was it not that state of affairs that caused our Lord, when upon earth, to denounce the scribes and Pharisees in no uncertain terms, because their minds and actions were dominated by the "traditions of men," so that they could not discern the things of God when presented to them. If "Pax" is not prepared to admit that the Scriptures are divinely inspired and are given to us for our guidance that we might enjoy the revelation of the eternal purposes of God, it will not help us very much to go further in the discussion of the subject. There are many wonderful themes and subjects dealt with in Scripture to those who care to search with an open mind. Those things not revealed to us have to be. taken on faith, resting assured that a full and perfect revelation will come to us in the time appointed, which will be quite soon enough for me.—Yours, etc STUDENT.