At all times and before all people, the believer's conversation, conduct, and attitude ought to be glorifying to God and in keeping with the principles of holiness and grace! But especially should we be careful and cautious in the presence of young Christians and unbelievers lest we give offense and mislead them. “Walk in wisdom toward them that are without (non-Christians), redeeming the time (making the most of every opportunity to point them to the Redeemer).
“Let your conversation be always with grace, seasoned with salt” (Col. 4:5-6). Be careful not to flaunt your liberty in the presence of one who will not understand and may be offended without saying as much. I'm sure you wish to let them know that you are human, a regular fellow, and that you are desirous to identify with them as much as possible. But “let not your good be evil spoken of” by one who is still bound by traditions, customs, and human righteousness. Curb your light-heartedness, dispense with too much idle talk, and never give the impression that you are not much burdened for their spiritual welfare. You may reply, “But I must be myself; I must speak what I feel and enjoy my freedom in Christ.” You have opportunity enough to be yourself around mature members of the body of Christ (in a way that will edify and encourage them in the walk of faith); but walk in wisdom, restraint, and in a demonstration of piety and seriousness toward men who either do not know Christ or who are just now showing an interest in the gospel. You brought your children up delicately and carefully; be as sensitive with God's babes and little children.
About Henry Mahan
Henry T. Mahan was born in Birmingham, Alabama in August 1926. He joined the United States Navy in 1944 and served as a signalman on an L.S.T. in the Pacific during World War II. In 1946, he married his wife Doris, and the Lord blessed them with four children.
At the age of 21, he entered the pastoral ministry and gained broad experience as a pastor, teacher, conference speaker, and evangelist. In 1950, through the preaching of evangelist Rolfe Barnard, God was pleased to establish Henry in sovereign free grace teaching. At that time, he was serving as an assistant pastor at Pollard Baptist Church (off of Blackburn ave.) in Ashland, Kentucky.
In 1955, Thirteenth Street Baptist Church was formed in Ashland, Kentucky, and Henry was called to be its pastor. He faithfully served that congregation for more than 50 years, continuing in the same message throughout his ministry. His preaching was centered on the Lord Jesus Christ and Him crucified, in full accord with the Scriptures. He consistently proclaimed God’s sovereign purpose in salvation and the glory of Christ in redeeming sinners through His blood and righteousness.
Henry T. Mahan also traveled widely, preaching in conferences and churches across the United States and beyond. His ministry was marked by a clear and unwavering emphasis on Christ, not the preacher, but the One preached. Those who heard him recognized that his sermons honored the Savior and exalted the name of the Lord Jesus Christ above all.
Henry T. Mahan served as pastor and teacher of Thirteenth Street Baptist Church in Ashland, Kentucky for over half a century. His life and ministry were devoted to proclaiming the sovereign grace of God and directing sinners to the finished work of Christ. He entered into the presence of the Lord in 2019, leaving behind a lasting testimony to the gospel he faithfully preached.
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