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Arthur Vess

Arthur Vess, born circa 1895, died circa 1970, was an American preacher and author whose ministry within the Holiness movement emphasized sanctification, holy living, and bold scriptural preaching during the mid-20th century. Likely born in the rural South—possibly Tennessee or a neighboring state, given the Holiness movement’s strong foothold there—Vess emerged as a voice for uncompromising faith, though precise details of his early life, such as exact birth date and family background, remain elusive due to limited documentation. His work suggests a modest upbringing, steeped in evangelical Christianity, leading him to a calling as an itinerant preacher and writer focused on equipping believers and ministers alike. Vess’ ministry centered on delivering practical, no-nonsense sermons and writings, many preserved through platforms like RaptureReady.com and oChristian.com, including titles such as How To Preach And Teach Holiness and Youth’s Three Great Choices. He pastored and preached across Holiness churches, advocating for a life of prayer, discipline, and separation from worldly compromise—themes evident in his exhortations to preachers to “live what they preach” and maintain “secret contact with God” for effective ministry. His booklets, like The Bible on the Tongues Doctrine, tackled contentious issues within Pentecostalism, reflecting his engagement with theological debates of his era.
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Arthur Vess addresses the issue of breaking vows made to God regarding tithing, emphasizing the importance of honoring commitments made in the presence of God and the church. He highlights the seriousness of neglecting tithing obligations and the sin of making false statements. Vess challenges the congregation to seek forgiveness if they have failed to fulfill their pledge and to uphold God's law by faithfully tithing. He questions whether individuals truly tithe in the sight of God, urging them to reflect on their actions and intentions.
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Honest With God?
Excuse Six: "Yes, I pledged myself to tithe when the others did, but I guess I won't payit," or "I'll make them think I pay it." (If church treasurers could only tell all they know). Is there anything in what you say? Do you make a solemn vow before God, in the light of his Word, in the house of prayer, and then regard it so lightly? If God and the Church cannot trust you, who then can trust you? You have committed a double sin: neglecting or refusing to obey the Law of tithing, and making false statement. If you did wrong in pledging to tithe, then you should ask God and the Church to forgive you. If you did right and intend to live right, you must live up to your pledge and God's law. Do you really tithe in the sight of God?
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Arthur Vess, born circa 1895, died circa 1970, was an American preacher and author whose ministry within the Holiness movement emphasized sanctification, holy living, and bold scriptural preaching during the mid-20th century. Likely born in the rural South—possibly Tennessee or a neighboring state, given the Holiness movement’s strong foothold there—Vess emerged as a voice for uncompromising faith, though precise details of his early life, such as exact birth date and family background, remain elusive due to limited documentation. His work suggests a modest upbringing, steeped in evangelical Christianity, leading him to a calling as an itinerant preacher and writer focused on equipping believers and ministers alike. Vess’ ministry centered on delivering practical, no-nonsense sermons and writings, many preserved through platforms like RaptureReady.com and oChristian.com, including titles such as How To Preach And Teach Holiness and Youth’s Three Great Choices. He pastored and preached across Holiness churches, advocating for a life of prayer, discipline, and separation from worldly compromise—themes evident in his exhortations to preachers to “live what they preach” and maintain “secret contact with God” for effective ministry. His booklets, like The Bible on the Tongues Doctrine, tackled contentious issues within Pentecostalism, reflecting his engagement with theological debates of his era.