some problems affecting the church here in the Ohio Valley. It is our great concern that
many things are occurring that are completely foreign to the New Testament pattern of the
work and worship of the church. Because of space, we are devoting most of this issue to
one particular problem. This problem rests in the ever increasing number of “Schools of
Preaching,” and in particular the West Virginia School Of Preaching (WVSOP) located in
Moundsville, WV.
Before we go any further, I want all to be aware that those involved with the WVSOP
were invited to participate in a discussion/debate over these issues. In a conversation with
Emanuel Daugherty, who serves as the Director of the school, and Denver Cooper, who is
the located preacher for the Hillview Terrace church of Chirst, (where the school is located)
an offer was made to discuss these things publicly either in an oral or written format. Both
offers were turned down. After that conversation a letter was sent to Denver Cooper
offering the written debate in “Voice Of The Valley,” no response to this date has been
given to that letter. These things are stated, not to place motive or intent behind their
decline of our offer, but to simply make our readers aware that we are not writing this issue
without offering them an opportunity to be involved. In fact, if they wish to respond after
this issue begins to circulate, we are still willing to participate in a written discussion over
these matters.
Some may find it curious as to why I would be opposed to the training of preachers.
The fact of the matter is that I am not opposed to the training of preachers. Paul was very
clear with young Timothy that he was to share his knowledge with others that they may be
able to teach as well (2 Timothy 2:2). It is the manner in which the WVSOP goes about
this work that I believe violates scripture. Our fundamental disagreement resides in the
issue of whether or not the WVSOP is a separate institution from the local church. All
parties (to my knowledge) agree that it would be in error to turn over the work of teaching
the scriptures, whether it be for preachers or for anyone, to an organization other than the
church. Paul stated that the church is the “pillar and ground of the truth” (1 Timothy 3:15).
It is my contention that several factors will illustrate that it is a separate organization.
I have been told that the school is nothing more than an extension of their Bible class
system and therefore falls under the work of the local church at Hillview Terrace and under
the oversight of their elders. There are several factors that do not seem to be consistent
with that thought. 1) The school wears a different name. 2) Different rules apply to the
students of the school that would not apply to other members. 3) Money is received from
other churches to fund the school but my understanding is that that would not be done for
their other Bible classes. 4) It uses a separate treasury. 5) It’s facility includes a
“fellowship hall” where ice cream socials and other social events have been conducted.
Certainly not a work of a “Bible” class. (Editors Note: I still am in search for an answer
as to what this fellowship hall has to do with educating preachers. As well I am curious as
to why many churches who have stood against “church sponsored recreation” are
contributing to the school.) This list is not exhaustive but I believe it is enough to prove the
point. One might argue that standing alone each point may not prove anything, but added
together I believe there is no denying that this is a separate institution.
There are other questions that will be addressed in other articles. Whether or not an
eldership can oversee a separate institution? Does the New Testament pattern allow for
churches to receive funds from other churches to do this kind of work? I am sure that this
article and this issue of “Voice Of The Valley” will suffer the usual emotional criticism.
Statements such as, “I can’t believe you are against such a good work,” “What do you have against educating preachers,” and the common challenges that we are being mean spirited,
will certainly surface. Please rest assured that our intent is to address what the scriptures
teach on these matters. Emotions must be set aside, and the scriptures must be allowed to
speak on this and all issues. We hope that you will examine the materials carefully and we
pray that all that is taught will be found accurate according to God’s Word.
