Preface

Studying the Biblical view of mankind is a very worth-while endeavor. One of the greatest, though taxing, aspects of the editor’s work with the school is to edit this lectureship book. Much knowledge is gained through the diligent study and research that each of the writers has done. Since “faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Rom. 10:17), it is essential for all people to know and obey the truths set forth in God’s word concerning human nature and responsibility. Only then can sinful people become “the praise of the glory of his grace” (Eph. 1:6).

A project of this magnitude could not be completed without the blessings of God. The Almighty has blessed the editor with good physical and mental health that has enabled him to see the project through. The Lord has also blessed the editor with many hard working individuals who genuinely care about the Lord and His cause. Among those are the school’s board of directors and director, Jackie Stearsman. These men love the truth and are very encouraging to those who labor in the gospel. Thanks be to God!
Another group of people with whom the Lord has blessed the editor consists of the office staff: bettye bolding, Kathy Strickland, and, upon occasion, Dotty Gutzler. These sisters in Christ keep the office and bookkeeping running smoothly so that the editor can better focus on the production of the book.

To the reader, perhaps the most obvious people with whom the Lord has blessed the editor are the thirty-two writers whose manuscripts were turned in on time to be in the order they were intended. Their effort and reliability are much appreciated.

The Lord has also blessed the editor with skilled and reliable proofreaders: Rene Bingle, Jeanette Crawford, and Evelyn McAnally, all from the South Florida Avenue church of Christ. This was Rene’s first time proofreading. Ray Lloyd, who proofread for many years, went to be with the Lord on January 10, 2007.

The editor again thankfully acknowledges the blessings that God has provided through his family. God has truly provided a helpmeet in Amber, whose “price is far above rubies” (Pr. 31:10). God has provided a “heritage” in Rick and Autumn (Ps. 127:3), who “maketh a glad father” (Pr. 10:1).

Brian R. Kenyon, editor