By Stephen Solomon White
Significant additions to literature on the subject of scriptural holiness, or entire sanctification, have not been numerous in recent years. Thus, the appearance of this book, providing subject matter of such fundamental value, and presented by an unusually competent author, is a source of blessing and satisfaction to all who love this vital truth and who enjoy this blessed experience. As to subject matter, it is a clear, discriminating, scriptural presentation of the meaning of eradication as applied to spiritual experience. The use of this term by the proponents of entire sanctification as a second definite work of divine grace is adequately defined and fully justified. At the same time, the false, illogical, and unscriptural criticism of the opponents of this experience, particularly as directed against the term eradication, is also met with effectiveness. With respect to competent authorship, the record of Dr. Stephen S. White speaks for itself. A graduate of Peniel College, Texas (now Bethany-Peniel College, Oklahoma), he received the Bachelor of Divinity degree from Drew Theological Seminary, the Master of Arts degree from Brown University, and the University of Chicago conferred on him the degree, Doctor of Philosophy. The honorary degree, Doctor of Divinity, was conferred on him by Olivet Nazarene College, Illinois. Ordained in 1914, Dr. White has served as pastor, educator, and Christian journalist in the Church of the Nazarene for more than thirty-five years. In 1945 he was elected professor of theology at Nazarene Theological Seminary, and in 1948 he became editor of the Herald of Holiness, official publication of the Church of the Nazarene. Characteristically, Dr. White, in this book, has moved from the narrow confines of defense of a term out into the broad field of aggressive propagation of the great truth of heart holiness as attainable "in this present world." In the midst of subtle temptations to evade some of the more strenuous terms associated with the preaching of scriptural holiness, and attempts to find a more palatable phraseology for this doctrine and experience, it is refreshing and heartening to read this straightforward declaration of the right and responsibility of those who adhere to the Wesleyan interpretation of this truth to use, without apology, this strong, applicable, appropriate, scriptural word -- eradication. May this book serve not only to clarify the immediate issue but, as well, to strengthen the moral and spiritual backbone of the holiness ministry. Hugh C. Benner, General Superintendent, Church of the Nazarene February 9, 1954 |
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