The question comes to me, “If we are not under the Old Testament, which includes the Ten Commandments, does that mean we are no longer under the Ten Commandments?” You might be shocked, but yes, it certainly does. Does that mean we can kill, steal, commit adultery, etc.? Certainly not, for laws about these are included in the New Testament, with the exception of one of the Ten Commandments –“Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy” (Exodus 20:8 NKJV). That is why Christians no longer worship on Saturday – the Sabbath – but on Sunday – the Lord’s Day, the first day of the week and the resurrection day of our Lord, in honor of Him who died for us. We have no command in the New Testament to obey the Sabbath Day and keep it holy, and yet, the other nine of the original Ten Commandments are there. This is no mistake, but instead, it is the will of God for man today. Remember the words of the apostle Paul in Romans 7:4, which inform us that we are “dead to the law through the body of Christ.” In other words, when Christ died on the cross, the Old Testament Law (including the Ten Commandments) was taken out of the way (Colossians 2:14). “We have been delivered from the law” (Romans 7:6). Should you follow a law from which Christ has discharged you? Certainly not, and that’s why we follow the New Testament of Jesus Christ. [Editor’s Note: It …

In Psalm 29:3-9, we read persistently about the voice of the Lord. What is the voice of the Lord? The voice of the Lord: Children of God, without hesitation, give glory and honour due to the wonderful name of God. “Give unto the Lord, O you mighty ones, give unto the Lord Glory and Strength. Give unto the Lord the glory due to His name; worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness” (v. 1-2). The Highest will hear our voice and shower His great blessings on us. The God, whose dwelling is in heaven and footstool is on earth, will be highly magnified in our lives. May God have mercy on us and answer our prayers. [Editor’s Note: While angels in Heaven and the children of God on earth willingly recognize the sovereignty, magnificence and powerfulness of Almighty God, the rest of mankind is reluctant to acknowledge His existence and certainly will not bend their wills to Him. While people ought to pause and recognize God in the created universe (Romans 1:19-20), no one can be oblivious to the voice of God resounding through roaring thunder and lightning strikes of a fierce storm. ~ Louis Rushmore, Editor]

“The heart of the wise teaches his mouth, And adds learning to his lips” (Proverbs 16:23 NKJV). Are you good at choosing your words wisely? Or, are you, like me, on the other end of the spectrum? When people hear your words, are they usually encouraged and built up by what you’ve said? Or, do you tend to tear people down with what comes from your mouth? I’m sure you don’t plan for your words to be received that way (I hope not!), but looking back, does it happen often? Today, will you promise to think about your words carefully? Will you be honest and wise as you speak? Will you try to build people up instead of wearing them down?

In the first chapter of the Gospel according to Mark, we find three references about Jesus Christ where it reads, “He came” (Mark 1:9, 14, 31). Of course, we know this means that Jesus came from one point or place to another. The coming of the Messiah or the Christ was of great interest to the Jews and others who had any knowledge of the Old Testament. Regarding Jesus of Nazareth, John the Baptist referred to Him time and time again (Matthew 3:11; John 1:27). Other New Testament passages also focus on the first coming of Christ (Hebrews 10:5-9). His coming has been anticipated by both the prophets and the people. Yes, we, too, see His coming on the pages of the Bible. Jesus Christ came with a message (Mark 1:14-15). His focus was on an opportunity. Jesus not only addressed time, but He spoke of the fullness of time. It was the right time (Galatians 4:4). The emphasis of our Lord’s message was the kingdom. We know which kingdom. We know whose kingdom. We know of its relationship to the Gospel. The nature of the kingdom is compelling, though, some things are demanded of those who would be subjects thereof. Jesus Christ came on a mission (Mark 1:16-20). He came to say some things and to do some things. Our Lord came to call men (Mark 1:16-17). Though men view themselves as busy, Jesus knew and knows what is best for mankind. He called and calls men to other priorities, which are …

Since “all Scripture is breathed out by God” (2 Timothy 3:16 ESV), God is Scripture’s ultimate Author. One may correctly say, “God said,” introducing a quote from Scripture. However, God allowed each human author to have his own distinct style and vocabulary. In some cases, different authors may use a word or phrase with their own distinct meaning. “Eternal life” in the synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark and Luke) and Paul’s epistles refers to life as in heaven (Mark 10:30). John, however, in his Gospel account and epistles, says, “We have eternal life” using “eternal life” as equivalent to forgiveness of sins. In Scripture, death is often “separation” from God. When our sins are forgiven, we have “life” again. The nature of that life is not physical but eternal – reconciliation to God.

As Christians, we are the servants of the Most High God. What an honor! The service we render ought to flow out of appreciation. Jesus’ sacrifice and our obedience to the Gospel bridges the great divide between our once lost state and our heavenly home. We do not have one ounce of hope without the blood of Christ. Once we commit one sin, we become morally bankrupt. Jesus put it this way. “Most assuredly, I say to you, whoever commits sin is a slave of sin” (John 8:34 NKJV). The longer we engage in sinful acts, the more natural that way of life becomes to us (Ephesians 2:3). However, salvation results from changing our mind about sin and obeying the Gospel through faith (2 Corinthians 7:10; Acts 2:38-39) – [an obedient faith (Romans 1:5; 16:26) rather than a dead faith (James 2:17, 20, 26), which leads to baptism for the remission or the forgiveness of sins (Mark 16:15-16; Acts 22:16). ~ Louis Rushmore, Editor]. Living by [obedient] faith gains us the victory over sin and death (1 John 5:3-5; Revelation 2:10). When we consider our past condition and our new hope, grace actually teaches us to live differently. Paul explained it thusly. “For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age” (Titus 2:11-12). The receipt of grace ought to humble us to the point that we change …

“Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, ‘I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life’” (John 8:12 NKJV). While listening to a song, I heard the question asked, “Where’s the light?” The singer then asked, “Could what I just heard be right? I’m the light, I’m the light?” May I suggest to you that the answer is, “Yes.” I am the light; you are the light; we all are the light. If we are truly followers of the Lord Jesus Christ, then, we are the light. Jesus not only said “I am the light,” but He stated that all who would follow Him will not walk in darkness but have the light of life. He has given us that light, and we are to go forth lighting this dark world. We must also light the world with our words and deeds. Our deeds speak even louder than our words. If we sit in our easy chair giving only lip service claiming to be a disciple of Jesus, then we have hidden our light under a bushel. It is then of no use to anyone. We must arise, go out and find the lost and the destitute. We must let them know that we bring light and life, as well as help them in whatever way we can. If consolation is needed, let us provide that. If strengthening of faith is the need, we must supply that. …

A renowned atheist, Stephen Jay Gould, as he was struggling with cancer, took it upon himself before he died to discover the real reason the world followed a seven-day week. He rejected outright the revelation of Genesis and sought what to him would be a reasonable alternative. He found none. However, since I heard of his fool’s errand, I also began to wonder, “Why seven days?” Certainly, God could have made the week as long as He chose, and seven is a number of perfection. Yet, there is always a solid rationale with God that He reveals to men, and now, I can share it with you. It takes seven days (one week) for the moon to get through one of its phases (new, waxing first quarter, full, waning third quarter). In four weeks, the moon completes its phase cycle (one month). In three completions of its cycle, a season is complete (validated by what constellation is visible in the night sky: Orion for winter, Leo for spring, Scorpius for summer, Andromeda for fall). After four seasons, the year is complete. There it is. Notice I did not say it was complicated. Frankly, from the beginning, men have had to hold to such knowledge for survival, especially in planting and harvesting. In addition, with what we know now of the stars and celestial mechanics, even more the majesty and intricacy of this grand creation are broadcast and shown to be for us here on earth. It all hinges on our seven-day week …

There are some things that an elder must know about himself, as well as knowing what the Bible teaches so he can be an effective elder. The Bible tells us the follow things that an elder must know. An elder must know himself. First Timothy 3, Titus 1 and 1 Peter 5:1-5 all teach that an elder must know himself. He must know how he relates to his wife, to his children and to the people in his community, as well as to the Christians in the congregation where he serves. An elder must show he is able to manage his life well by being mature in the faith (Hebrews 5:12-14). A man who is considered qualified for the position of elder needs to have spent time with his wife and family, and he continues to do so. Elders are men who lead their families in Christ and have managed them well; this is the main training ground for a man to be an elder. If a man cannot lead his family to Christ or manage them well, how can he expect to lead the lost to the Lord or to manage the local church? An elder must know the congregation in such a way that the elders move the congregation forward and closer to God. As has already been stated, the family is the training ground for one to be an elder. By learning to build good relationships in his home, he will be able to build relationships with the people …

A man was struggling. His doubt about his ability to endure was evident. He repeatedly suffered at the hand of his enemy. He longed for relief, for respite from the pain. He hoped for a solution. He turned to God. God said, “No.” One person might think this is amazing. Other people might see it as an opportunity to criticize God for allowing one to suffer while being able to remove that suffering. There is a mentality in our culture that longs for the ideal with no pain. The secularist ideal is that everyone should receive alleviation of pain. No one should suffer. Hardship should be removed. God, though, knows better. Is some suffering senseless? Yes. Are some suffering a result of evil men doing evil deeds? Certainly. Is all suffering, even that suffering, inherently evil? No. The apostle Paul desired for his thorn in the flesh to be removed. God refused. He refused because He offered something of more value than “absence of suffering.” God offered grace. Paul recounted God’s response as, “‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me” (2 Corinthians 12:9 NKJV). Isaiah prophesied this truth of God to Israel in Isaiah 40 when he wrote: Why do you say, O Jacob, And speak, O Israel: “My way is hidden from the Lord, And my just claim is passed over by my …

It is a sobering thought that in His death, Christ achieved more than all others achieved in their lives! He has conquered more hearts, been more loved and achieved more fame than any emperor, king, queen or president ever did! He split history into A.D. and B.C. His influence on civilization worldwide is undeniable. Neil Armstrong walked on the moon, but Christ Jesus made the moon that he walked on! He is King of kings and Lord of lords – the eternal Sovereign of an unending kingdom. Truly He is Lord! The word, “Lord” in the Greek, is “kurios,” and carries with it the idea of supreme authority. It is often overlooked, through our misunderstanding of the deeper meaning in the title, “Lord.” Now, “lord” can mean, as in Matthew 27:63, simply a respectful, “sir,” as when the false witnesses were brought before the Sanhedrin at the trial of Jesus or as Paul used it in Philippians 2:10-11. “That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Here Paul leaves no doubt as to the divine context of the title. In Revelation 19:16, Christ is referred to as, “King of Kings and Lord of Lords.” This title indicates a ruler of prestige. Common in the Middle East for centuries, it was a title fitting for Jesus the Messiah, …

The Bible not only teaches that God exists but that God exists in a triune nature. The triune nature of God is often described using terms like the Godhead or the trinity. The point is that there are three distinct individuals or beings who possess the divine nature. This doctrine is ignored by some, confusing to many and a challenge to all. The Bible says in several places that there is one God (Deuteronomy 6:4; 1 Corinthians 8:6). Yet, the Bible also teaches that within that oneness, there are three individuals: God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit. The oneness of God is not contradicted by the fact that three different beings possess a divine nature. There is an uncompromised unity among the three members of the Godhead, though each member contains His distinct individuality. We must humbly approach this subject, realizing that there are some things about God and His nature that we will not know on this side of eternity (Deuteronomy 29:29; Job 11:7). Nevertheless, we also must acknowledge that God has given us enough information in Scripture to speak with some definiteness on His triune nature. The triune nature of God is not a side issue that should only be engaged by specialists. The nature and identity of God is to be studied, known and appreciated by all of God’s people. In this article, I want to briefly point out some things about each member of the Godhead that will hopefully help us …

In simple terms, our courts of law consist of two sides. The prosecutor’s job is to prove to the jurors beyond a doubt that the accused is guilty of whatever he is accused. The other side is the defense attorney, whose job is to convince the jurors that the accused person is innocent of the accusation. If the accused has committed a heinous crime, we certainly want a prosecutor who will dedicate himself to the work at hand and come up with a conviction to keep the accused incarcerated or punished by death, if that is the case. We surely don’t want that person to be turned loose to go back to his old ways. Sometimes, rehabilitation is a great way of making productive citizens out of those convicted, but sometimes, not so much. On the other hand, if someone is accused of a crime that he didn’t commit, he wants the best defense attorney available. Oftentimes, people go to great lengths to hire someone who comes with a big price tag, hoping that the well-known defense attorney will live up to his established reputation of being successful at his job. People will go to great lengths to gain freedom from what they are accused, even if guilty. I couldn’t help but think of the fact that people worldwide have the best of both of these beings. Every one of us has a prosecutor because every one of us has “sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans …

I learned of a conversation some time ago in which a person who was down on his luck was arguing that “maybe your God answers your prayers, but my god doesn’t hear a thing I say.” Could this possibly be true? Why would a loving God turn His ears away from someone who was imploring Him for something? Could there be a reasonable explanation? Indeed! There is, and the Bible has the inspired answer. “Now we know that God does not hear sinners; but if anyone is a worshiper of God and does His will, He hears him” (John 9:31 NKJV). Let us also be wise enough to understand that there is only one God of Heaven (Ephesians 4:6) and “The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, And His ears are open to their cry” (Psalm 34:15). These verses, along with a myriad of others, define the condition of God hearing a person’s prayer. Look at the reason Israel was told that God wouldn’t listen to them. “But your iniquities have separated you from your God; And your sins have hidden His face from you, So that He will not hear” (Isaiah 59:2). One who chooses to live in disobedience to God can rest assured that his prayers will not be answered. At least they will not be answered in the way he wished. A righteous prayer will always get God’s attention. The Israelites suffered 400 years in Egyptian bondage, but when they cried unto God, their prayers were heard, …

With respect to doing good, attitudes within the body of Christ vary from member to member and from one subgroup to another. Everyone seems to understand that we all should be actively involved in doing of good, but some members’ heart condition may not be conducive to doing of good as fully as the Scriptures require. Accordingly, we ask, what spiritual principles, when adopted, will motivate us to be active in the doing of good? In answer to this timely question, we submit the follow biblical principles.

While meditating on how little I do for the Lord, I thought of 1 Corinthians 15:58, which says, “Wherefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” Since I did not seem to be abounding in the work of the Lord, I decided I would start by seeing what specific things God has revealed in which I should abound. I found that there are four words translated “abound” in the Authorized Version or King James Version, two of which are used as we are admonished to abound in various things. It is interesting to note that we are told to abound in love more times than any other thing. First Thessalonians 3:12 is a fair sample of that admonition. Verse 13 gives one of the primary reasons for it. “And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you: To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints.” Note that when we abound in love, the end result is that our hearts are established unblameable in holiness. This indicates why love is the most important thing in which we are to abound. It includes or touches all aspects of our lives, and when we abound in …

Sometimes couples wonder, “What went wrong in our relationship?” Perhaps the love birds in the Song of Solomon can offer a few tips. Just in chapter one we see how considerate they were of one another. Note these loving acts of consideration:

Life is filled with disappointment. Job said, “Man who is born of woman Is of few days and full of trouble” (Job 14:1). Disappointment comes in all shapes and sizes. Some we bring on ourselves; some is brought upon us by others; and some just results from events over which we have no control. How can we handle disappointments in life? John 14-16 contains the answer. In this section of Scripture, Jesus prepared the apostles for His departure. He had been with them for about three years. He had been their constant companion, but He was going to depart soon. The apostles were about to lose their best Friend, the one on Whom they had relied for so long. Imagine their disappointment! Although our disappointments may not involve the earthly loss of our best friends, they can come close to what the apostles were experiencing. The way Jesus prepared them for this potentially overwhelming disappointment can also give us strength to overcome our disappointments. Have Faith in God Faith in God will help us through disappointing times. Jesus began this section, “Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me” (John 14:1). Imagine if we were in the place of the apostles. Do we remember times in our lives when we lost someone on whom we depended so much, whether a best friend, a family member or even a spouse? Perhaps we remember when were children that our best friend moved away. Or, maybe church members …

Many mothers, maybe mine, have asked a child, “Did you hear me?” The question is often followed by an amazing answer that indicates the child heard every word. Mothers are thus frustrated knowing the child heard their words but did not act upon them. God’s Word is able to save the soul and should be received with humble submission. God seemingly has the same frustrations as some mothers, since people hear the Word without doing anything, making hearing the Word of God an act of futility. Our Lord’s half-brother wrote, “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves” (James 1:21-22). Guy N. Woods said the verb tense of the word “doers” denotes a continuous action. The same action is seen in Paul’s description of some of those who Christ will judge worthy of vengeance. That group will not keep on obeying the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ (2 Thessalonians 1:7-9). We are deceived when we think all that we have to do is hear the truth. Hearing must produce a faith that acts. Such faith is produced by hearing God’s Word, as well as believing He exists and will reward those who diligently seek him (Romans 10:17; Hebrews 11:6). James used a parable (James 1:23-25) to illustrate the point of verse 22. A person who looks in a mirror to check his appearance but goes away without correcting the problems he sees is like the one who hears but does nothing. The other character in the parable …

I remember a conversation years ago between two people. One asked, “I’m just curious, but do you have faith?” “Oh yes,” the other answered, “I have faith. I believe.” The first then asked, “Well, what is it you believe?” The answer was, “I believe what the church believes.” “Well,” the first person said, “What is it the church believes?” “Oh, the church believes what I believe,” was the answer. Still not satisfied, the first person pressed on. “Okay, but what is it that you both believe?” The response? “Oh well, you know, we both believe the same thing.” There are those who claim to believe but aren’t sure what it is they really believe. I’m sure in the Lord’s church there are those who genuinely and sincerely read the Bible daily and seek to take its principles and precepts to heart. They seek to allow God to work through His Word to transform their lives. How many, though, would reflect the attitude of culture, speaking reverently about Scripture but do not really know the transforming power of Scripture in their personal lives? How many believe but don’t know what it is they should believe or how they should respond to what they believe? The problem is not just a lack of knowledge of Scripture but a disconnect between what the Bible teaches and how a person goes about making the decisions that guide his or her actions in life. So, one must know what it says for there to be …