Body, Soul and Spirit

I have been told that man has three distinct features, body, soul, and spirit. If this is true, where will they go upon death and at the second  coming of Christ? Willie Moore, Sylvania Heights Church of Christ The short answer is that when a threesome, “body” represents the physical nature of mankind (also shared by the animal world), “soul” represents the breath of life (also shared by the animal world) and “spirit” represents the immortal nature of humanity (resembling the spiritual nature of God and not shared by the animal world). Upon death, the body returns to the earth and the spirit returns to the custody of God: “Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it” (Ecclesiastes 12:7). Of course, the breath of life ceases when one dies. Upon the resurrection at the Second Coming of Jesus Christ, bodies of the righteous dead will be resurrected, changed for an immortal, eternal dwelling with God in heaven and joined by their immortal spirits: “And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the …

Manic Depression

I am writing to ask you about manic depression. I am wondering if it is sin to have manic depression? I heard that it can caused by chemical imbalance in the brain that you cant help it. Will you be able to help with this question? Manic depression is still the object of scientific investigation and subsequent definition. “The causes of bipolar disorder have not yet been precisely determined…” (Bipolar Focus). Apparently, manic depression is thought to be at least partially linked to genes, but not entirely since identical twins (sharing the same genes) may manifest one manic depressive and one not (National Institute of Mental Health). The Mayo Clinic reports concerning manic depression or bipolar disorder: Doctors and researchers don’t know exactly what causes bipolar disorder. But a variety of biologic, genetic and environmental factors seem to be involved in causing and triggering episodes of this illness. Evidence indicates that differences in the chemical messengers between nerve cells in the brain (neurotransmitters) occur in people who have bipolar disorder. In many cases, people with a bipolar disorder may have a genetic disposition for the disorder. The abnormality may be in genes that regulate neurotransmitters. However, not everyone with a family member who has bipolar disorder will develop the disease. Factors that may contribute to or trigger episodes of bipolar disorder include drug abuse and stressful or psychologically traumatic events. (MayoClinic.com) Literature and studies conclude that manic depressives have a tendency internally that may be triggered externally. “Bipolar disorder is …

The Lord’s Supper

The Lord’s Supper, or communion, is partaking of our Lord’s body and blood that he shed, gave, on the cross of Calvary, the perfect sacrifice for our sins. It is a commemoration of his death on the cross, and a reminder of what Christians are about. Jesus established it just before his death on the cross. “And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body. And He took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; For this is my blood of the New Testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins” (Matthew 26:26-28). The apostle Paul said, “For I have received of the Lord that which I also delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread: And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me. After the same manner also he took the cup, when He had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me. For as oft as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do show the Lord’s death till He come” (1 Corinthians 11:23-36). How often is “as oft”? Jesus …

An Action Noun

Excuse me English teachers, but I contend that “Christian” is an action noun. I know, normally it is an “action verb,” but I stand by my contention. “Christian” is an action noun because it means I am a believer. “Believing” is an action that I take. It means that I make an active decision to believe. It is a “work of faith” (2 Thessalonians. 1:11). It is a commanded action (Mark 16:16). “Christian” is an action noun because it means I am obedient to God. Hebrews 5:8-9, Matthew 7:21, Romans 6:18 and many other passages show that we must be obedient to God if we are Christians. Jesus said, “If you love me keep my commandments.” “Christian” is an action noun because it means I am walking with God. I am walking “in the spirit” (Galatians 6:16), “in faith” (Romans 4:12; 2 Corinthians 5:7), “in the light” (1 John 1:7) and “worthy of the Lord” (Colossians 1:10; 1 Thessalonians 2:12). “Christian” is an action noun because if I am not active I am lost. I am on sinking sand (Matthew 7:24-27) if I am not active. I am lost if I do not obey (2 Thessalonians 1:8). I have only a dead faith (James 2:26) that cannot save me. If you don’t believe that and act like “Christian” is an action noun, it will cost you an eternity. When you read or hear the word “Christian” from now on, remember that it is an action noun, and live like you …

Are You “Picking” at God’s Prepared Feast?

From time to time we read in newspapers or magazines, or we see on the news that someone has died from starvation. What makes this a newsworthy event is the person died rich! Often times, hundreds or sometimes thousands and thousands of dollars are discovered where they lived and in their bank accounts. With people dying all around the world from starvation, we naturally wonder how anyone would allow himself to die in such a way when it was all so unnecessary! We have questions such as, “Were they mentally ill?” “Were they being forced to live that way against their will?” “Were they gripped by some fear of ending up in object poverty?” Whatever their “reason,” sometimes it still leaves us wondering about their rationale. When God brought the Israelites out of Egyptian bondage, he gave them commandments, instructions, guidelines, rules and laws to govern their lives and behavior. In Deuteronomy Chapter Four, Moses gives them a summary of God’s covenant. “Surely I have taught you statutes and judgments, just as the Lord my God commanded me, that you should act according to them in the land which you go to possess” (Deuteronomy 4:5). “And what great nation is there that has such statutes and righteous judgments as are in all this law which I set before you this day? Only take heed to yourself, and diligently keep yourself, lest you forget the things your eyes have seen, and lest they depart from your heart all the days of …

Man’s Objections to God’s Standard of Modesty

The “New Testament Doesn’t Tell Us What Is Modest” Argument It’s true that God does not tell us in the New Testament which parts of the body must be covered in order to be modest in his eyes. He does tell us in the New Testament that we must be chaste (Titus 2:4-5) and not be a stumbling block to others (1 John 2:10). In order for our clothing to meet these New Testament requirements, it must cover our bodies from shoulders to knees. How do I know this? The same way advertisers know it. Sex sells and bare thighs, cleavage and skin tight clothing are regularly used to attract attention in advertisements. The same way prostitutes know it who advertise their sexuality with bare thighs, bare shoulders, bare backs, low cut tops, skin tight clothing and see through clothing. The same way the Director of Education, Sibusiso Mkhonda, in Swaziland, Africa knows it, who banned miniskirts in school there to minimize the fornication between students and teachers. Mkhonda states, “If you are exposing your thighs some people may get attracted to that and make advances” (BBC News, July 19, 2000). The same way Vice Chancellor Vijay Khole of Bombay University in India knows it who decided to ban women students from wearing miniskirts, shorts and tight tops in order to reduce rape. Khole made this statement to reporters, “An attire should be such that it should not be offensive or cause distraction to fellow students and lecturers” (Press Trust …

The Divine Creed

Our English word “creed” comes into our language from the Latin word “credo” meaning, “I believe.” When we speak of one’s creed we are simply referring to what he believes religiously, politically, economically or in any other area of life. The “planks” making up a political party’s platform summarize its creed, or what the majority of its members  believe on certain political issues such as taxes, etc. No organized body of people can exist without some sort of a creed, either written or oral. Standard dictionaries define the word as a definite summary of what is believed. Churches of Christ are no exception to this rule. While we have no manmade creed  set forth by any kind of conference, council or synod, it must be freely admitted that we certainly have a creed–a statement of what we believe. The difference between churches of Christ and other religious bodies is that the church  had no part in writing her creed in any way, shape or form. We were not asked about it; we were not asked to contribute to it; we were not asked to either approve or disapprove of the things found in it. The creed was written by God, without counsel from man. God is not a man that he needs the approval of man regarding anything that he does, including the writing of his creed for the church. From time to time we read of various churches in what is commonly called “Christendom” revising their creeds. They meet …

Give the Spirit to Those Who Ask

We find in Luke 11:13, “If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?” Have you ever asked God for the Holy Spirit? If so, did you get that gift in answer to your prayer? Since we do not recall ever having read any sound scholarly exegesis of this passage, we shall try to make some observations about it from our own limited knowledge and viewpoint. We checked more than a dozen comments from people like Adam Clarke, Albert Barnes, Charles Spurgeon and various others from many denominations, but none of them addressed and answered such questions as these: Who is promised the gift of the Holy Spirit in Acts 2:38? Does “those who ask” include everyone, Christian and sinner? If every child of God gets the gift of the Spirit when he becomes a child of God (Romans 8:9), why does he need to pray for it? One commentator suggested that the promise was universal–to all that might ask, whether regenerate or unregenerate. He did not bother to explain how a child of the devil would receive the Holy Spirit in answer to prayer. Neither H. Leo Boles nor Burton Coffman in their commentaries on Luke give any significant insight into the passage. Coffman says something like, “It is evident that we should pray for that which was promised in Acts 2:38.” But why we should pray for …

Do Works Have Any Role in Salvation?

It is frequently suggested that man cannot do anything–other than believe, in terms of his salvation,1 that “works” are the natural consequence of salvation, but they do not have any role in securing or receiving salvation. Is this popular doctrine in harmony with the revealed will of God? Consider what the Bible has to say: Faith is a work. John recorded, “Then they said to Him, ‘What shall we do, that we may work the works of God?’ Jesus answered and said to them, ‘This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He sent’” (John 6:28-29). The disciples asked, “What shall we do…?” In his response, the Lord neither corrected nor condemned them for their sincere inquiry. He did not say, “Do? Beloved, you cannot do anything pertaining to your salvation.” On the contrary, Jesus said, “This is the work of [from] God2 that you believe.” If all works are excluded from the plan of salvation as some allege, then faith itself is eliminated because Jesus clearly identified it as a work. Circle the word “work” in your New Testament and then make an arrow to the phrase “that you believe.” Then in the margin write, “Faith is a work” (cf. Romans 1:5; 16:26). Repentance is a work. Jesus said, “The men of Nineveh will rise up in the judgment with this generation and condemn it, because they repented at the preaching of Jonah…” (Matthew 12:41). Circle the phrase “they repented” in your New Testament and then cross-reference it to Jonah 3:10. There …

Left to Tell

A friend recently shared a book entitled Left to Tell by Immaculee Ilibagiza, a survivor of the 1994 Rwandan genocide. In her heartrending story, Immaculee gives an account of her horrific experiences and those of her family, friends and tribesmen during those 100 days when about 1 million Tutsis (including nearly all of her family and friends) were being massacred by the Hutus. Survivors were few and far between. Some were able to get out of the country and join others who were refugees from previous conflicts decades earlier. Some hid in the woods, eating leaves and grass or whatever they could find. A few were able to find refuge as they were hidden and provided for by moderate Hutus who disagreed with all the killing being prompted by the government in Kigali. For the few who were willing to do so, to hide Tutsis put themselves and their own families at incredible risk. This is how Immaculee was able to survive as she and a few other ladies were stowed away in a small concealed bathroom for three months by a preacher near her town. The militia (whether by tens or hundreds) came unannounced to the preacher’s house any hour of the day or night in effort to find Immaculee (as they called out her name) and other Tutsis they believed were hidden there. It is hard for us to comprehend such egregious behavior, the ferocious, animal-like actions produced by ill-will and deep-seated hatred that can find its place in the …

A Proper Balance

In many relationships in life, extremes can be detrimental to one’s happiness. The writer of Proverbs petitioned God to prevent him from two opposites in life, riches and poverty. He knew that there were dangers involved in both extremes such as forgetting God and/or stealing and profaning the name of God (Proverbs 30:7-9). The homemaker has a very difficult task in planning and preparing a balanced diet of food for the family. She knows that such is needful for good health. Our public institutions of education emphasize the need of physical exercise along with the academics to meet the needs of both the mind and the body. In our Christian schools, the Word of God is taught in order that the young person may also become even better suited for life (1 Timothy 4:7-8). This type of instruction makes for a complete person, balanced in every respect (Luke 2:52). I can remember very well a statement made by the late Rex A. Turner as he remarked to a class of young men “that preachers should retain a proper balance in their teaching of the Bible.” He would also say that “every man needs a balance wheel.” There is a tendency to overreact to the erroneous teachings and habits of others. There are many individuals and even congregations that seemingly cannot keep a good and proper balance in the teaching of doctrinal and moral matters. Some congregations are very strong in preaching against denominationalism but are lacking in love. But on …

What Makes a Marriage

On the sixth day of creation God made man and woman, not like beast, but spirit beings in his own image and likeness (Genesis 1:26-27), for God is Spirit (John 4:24). These new spirit creatures he clothed with flesh (see Genesis 2:7). Centuries later Jesus asked the Pharisees, “Have you not read that He who made them at the beginning made them male and female and said For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.” Jesus then affirmed, “They are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate” (Matthew 19:4-6). This was Jesus’ law based on the original law. God was the Creator of man and woman, and “the Creator” of marriage. It is appropriate, therefore, that we understand the biblical rules for marriage. This needs to be done in order to know what God sanctions as marriage. The Holy Spirit declared, “marriage is honorable among all, and the bed undefiled; but fornicators and adulterers God will judge” (Hebrews 13:4 NKJV). Marriage is approved of God (cf., Genesis 2:24), and the bed of marriage is right, pure and holy among all people on this planet. Singles who simply live together are committing sexual immorality (fornication). An individual who goes away from his or her own spouse to the bed of another is also committing sexual immorality (adultery). Since God affirms that marriage among all is honorable, …

The Name Christian

What is your name? Is it Susan? Is it Trevor? Is it Igor? Is it Ludmilla? Does your name mean something to you? Would you want someone to call you by a different name? In the Bible, names were very important at times. We first read about Abram and Sarai in Genesis Chapter Twelve. In Genesis 17, God changes Abram’s name to Abraham, which means “for a father of many nations have I made thee.” Sarai becomes Sarah, because “she shall be the mother of nations.” Jacob, the grandson of Abraham, had his name changed to Israel, because “as a prince hast thou power with God and with men, and hast prevailed” (Genesis 32:28). The followers of Jesus have a name. It was prophesied that they would have name. In Isaiah 56:5, it is stated, “I will give them an everlasting name, that shall not be cut off.” Notice that the name would be given by God. In Isaiah 56:4, it is said that the eunuchs would also be included in this new name and that the name would be “better than sons and of daughters.” Then in Isaiah 62:2, we read, “…and thou shalt be called by a new name, which the mouth of the Lord shall name.” In Acts 11:26, we read, “And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.” Notice that the disciples of Jesus are named after him. There is no other name under heaven by which we can be saved (Acts 4:12). We are …

Our Benevolent Sovereign

The Emperor Titus, who was naturally of the most benevolent disposition, was styled the darling and delight of the human race. It was a principle of his not to send away without hope any one who came to him. When those about him cautioned him against making more promises than he would be able to perform, he replied, “No one ought to go away in sorrow from an interview with his sovereign.” Moreover on one occasion remembering at supper time that he had done nothing for any one the whole day, he uttered that memorable expression, worthy of all praise, “My friends, this day have I lost a day!” (Short Tales and Anecdotes From Ancient History by William Smith, 1866, p.22) The Emperor Titus was a very benevolent man. Benevolent means giving someone what they need. Titus cared for people and was willing to do all that he could for those who came to him. But Titus was limited in what he could do. He was willing to give promises but at times was not able to keep those promises. The people looked to him as their sovereign. This means that they considered him the one with all authority. If he promised to give them something, they believed he had the power and authority to do it. We have a Sovereign who is able to keep all promises. We have a Sovereign who wants us to ask him for what we need. We have a Sovereign who wants to give us what we need. Our Sovereign …

Abraham: Father of Nations, Man of Faith

The man called Abraham is truly one of the most fascinating characters found in the Book of Beginnings. Blessed of God and father of the Hebrew nation, within the story of Abraham we can see the plan of our own salvation begin to unfold, thus making the account of his life of utmost importance to us all. Abraham’s faith and obedience continues to echo throughout New Testament teaching and is best summarized by the writer of the Hebrew letter when he penned, “By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to the place which he would receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going. By faith he dwelt in the land of promise as in a foreign country, dwelling in tents with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise; for he waited for the city which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God” (Hebrews 11:8-10). Yet, as you explore the life of this great man, his apparent humanity is crystal clear. In two separate occasions we can see how Abraham used a lie to avoid trouble (Genesis 12:11-13; 20:2) and through the persuasion of his wife, Sarai, interfered with the plan that God had laid out for their lives (Genesis 16). Originally named Abram (exalted father, Nelson’s) by his father Terah, Abram was a descendent of Shem, the first of Noah’s three sons (Genesis 10:1). In biblical times, names were of much importance. The name given at …

What Saves Us?

Salvation! That wonderful word of comfort, hope and eternal life! Most people think of salvation in terms on one single source: “faith only,” “grace only,” “Christ only” or “works only.” The reasonable Bible student knows that salvation is not from any single source alone. He does not accept a few selected verses or ideas and attempt to build a religious system of salvation upon them. Some will single out passages on faith and preach a “faith only” salvation. Some will single out passages on grace and preach a “grace only” salvation. Some will single out passages on works and preach a “works only” salvation. What saves us? God saves us (Titus 3:4-5; 1 Timothy 4:10; 2 Timothy 1:9). Jesus Christ saves us (Matthew 1:21; Luke 19:10; 1 Timothy 1:15). We are saved by his life (Romans 5:10). We are saved by his death/blood (Matthew 26:28; Titus 2:13-14). We are saved by his resurrection from the dead (1 Peter 3:21). We are saved by his name (Acts 4:12). We are saved by his grace (2 Corinthians 8:9). The Holy Spirit saves us (John 3:5-6; 1 Corinthians 6:11). The Gospel saves us (Acts 20:32; Romans 1:16; James 1:21). The grace of God saves us (Ephesians 2:8-9). Faith saves us (Ephesians 2:8; Romans 10:17; Hebrews 11:6). Obedience saves us (Hebrews 5:9; James 2:18, 26). Baptism saves us (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; 1 Peter 3:21). We save ourselves (Acts 2:40; Philippians 2:12). How Are We Saved? God (the Father) is the ultimate source of …

Where Are You?

“Elijah then came near to all the people, and said, ‘How long will you go limping with two different opinions? If the Lord is God, follow Him; but if Baal, then follow him’” (1 Kings 18:21). What a victory Elijah had over the prophets of Baal! The contest on Mt. Carmel revealed, without a doubt, that “The Lord indeed is God” (1 Kings 18:39), as he consumed the sacrifice Elijah offered. On the heels of victory, though, came discouragement, in the form of Jezebel. She was so upset over the death of her false prophets, she threatened to either kill Elijah or be killed in the process (1 Kings 19:2). Elijah was frightened and traveled for 40 days to escape her wrath. It was while he sought refuge in a cave at Horeb that God asked him, “What are you doing here, Elijah?” (19:9). Good question. Elijah was to be God’s spokesman to the people of Israel, not to scorpions and snakes in the desert. He was not where he needed to be. He needed to realize what God expected of him. He needed to realize how many people were still trying to live godly lives in ungodly Israel, and how they depended on his example (19:15-18). He needed to trust in the God who gave him victory, and to recognize the strength he provided. The question God asked was intended to get Elijah back where he belonged. That question needs to be answered by us as well. Where are …

Having Food and Clothing Therewith Be Content

From time to time, elders, preachers, teachers and parents need to emphasize that our material priorities ought to be modest, especially contrasted with our pursuit of godliness. “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these [material] things [of the preceding verses] shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33). The word in 1 Timothy 6:8 translated “raiment” in the KJV, “covering” in the ASV and “clothing” in the NKJV “means house or lodging, as well as clothing” (Clarke; see also Bauer, Gingrich and Danker). “Food, clothing and shelter are the three basic needs of mankind; and all three are included here” (Coffman). According to divine inspiration, human contentment ought to manifest itself when one’s needs are met, as opposed to his mere wants and desires that exceed need. First Timothy 6:8 would have Christians to be content with the basic necessities of life (cf. Hebrews 13:5 NKJV). Contentment means to “be satisfied” (Bauer, Gingrich and Danker). “[I]f we have food and clothes, that should be enough for us” (Louw and Nida). “What we eat and what we wear is all the material good we get out of riches. (What else may be granted should be received with thanksgiving. Still it is not absolutely necessary, and the earnest and devout Christian will be satisfied when his actual needs are supplied.)” (Lipscomb and Shepherd). Determining to set as one’s chief goal in life the acquisition of much more than one’s needs invites soul-injuring greed (1 Timothy 6:9-10). The apostle Paul simply …

The Beautiful Feet that Bring Good Tidings

In ancient times in some nations there were messengers that would run to  take their messages. In Palestine there were messenger teams. One messenger would run a distance and then hand off the message to another runner. There  were different teams for different messages. There was a good message team and a bad  message team. The watchmen on the walls of Jerusalem knew the runners that always ran the last leg to Jerusalem. Thus, when the runner was approaching the city,  the watchmen could already yell to let people know what kind of message was coming.  People would gather to greet the runner with good news. They looked forward to  hearing the joyous information he was bringing. Because Palestine is very hilly, the runners were required to run through the mountains. In Isaiah 52:7, we read, “How beautiful upon the  mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that  bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth!” This verse is a prophecy of the Gospel age. We know this because Paul  uses it in Romans 10:15 to say that preachers and teachers are needed to spread  the Gospel. According to God, it is a wonderful thing to bring the good news of his  salvation to people. People need the good news of salvation. Do you tell people about God, Jesus, the Bible and the church? Do you  obey God in all things? You need to study the Bible …

Types of Christ

Can you tell me what characters in the Bible were simular to Christ? Lovada K. Washington To my surprise when I looked, the first definition in Merriam Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary for the word “type” is: “a person or thing (as in the Old Testament) believed to foreshadow another (as in the New Testament).” Through “types,” some biblical characters and Jesus Christ shared some similarities. The high priest under Judaism was a type of Jesus Christ who is the High Priest under Christianity (Hebrews 3:1 9:6-12, 25). Melchizedek, the high priest under Patriarchy, was also a type of Jesus Christ who is the High Priest under Christianity (Hebrews 5:10; 6:20). Melchizedek is further identified through his Patriarchal priesthood generally as a type of Jesus Christ (Hebrews 7:15-17). The Passover lamb under Judaism commemorating God’s determination to bring death to the first born throughout Egypt prior to the Exodus, but passing over the Israelites, was a type of Jesus Christ our sacrificial Lamb under Christianity (John 1:29, 36; 1 Corinthians 5:7; 1 Peter 1:19). The annual sacrifices  (animals) under Judaism for atonement typified the sacrifice of Jesus Christ once for the remission of sins under Christianity (Hebrews 10:1-4, 10). Adam was a type of Christ, Adam bringing sin into the world among humanity and Jesus Christ taking sin away (Romans 5:14; 1 Corinthians 15:45). Moses, the lawgiver of Judaism and prophet, was a type of Jesus Christ (Deuteronomy 18:15-18; Acts 3:20, 22; 7:37; Hebrews 3:2-6). David as king and ancestor of Jesus Christ typified our Lord (Ezekiel 37:24; Acts 2:29-31; 13:22-23). Jonah typified Jesus Christ as well (Jonah 1:17; Matthew 12:40). …

Is Giving Limited to the Lord’s Day?

…But one of the statements in that article did cause me to do a double-take. The statement was this: “The only act of worship limited to the first day of the week in the church’s assembly is observance of the Lord’s Supper (Acts 20:7). Each of the other four acts of worship may also occur on other days of the week: giving (Acts 4:32-36; 5:1-10).” My question is this: How can one believe the idea that the act of worship known as “giving,” or “the collection of the saints,” or “laying by in store,” can be carried out on any other day of the week, after you read I Corinthians 16:2, where Paul specifically says that the collection is to take place “Upon the first day of the week”? I have a hard time reconciling those two opposing schools of thought. Again, I look forward to hearing from you whenever you get a chance. Thanks. Josh At least some preachers, who I respect as students of the Bible, adamantly declare that the church can only receive funds on the first day of the week in the collection during the public worship. Though neither adamant nor dogmatic, I sincerely believe they are mistaken, and that Scripture does not substantiate that doctrinal posture. The question is essentially that if 1 Corinthians 16:1-2 authorizes a collection in the Lord’s Day public assembly (and it does), how, then, can a collection be taken or given on any day in addition to the Lord’s Day? …

Prayer

There are two settings for prayer; private and public. Prayer is speaking to God through Jesus Christ, for he is our Mediator with God (Hebrews 12:24) and our High Priest (Hebrews 9:11; 8:1). Private, individual, prayer is encouraged by Jesus. “But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut the door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly” (Matthew 6:6). Jesus often prayed in private. “And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when evening was come, he was there alone” (Matthew 14:25). Jesus found that being alone with God had rewards, and took of them often. Shouldn’t we? Surely. For this is a time when we can relate our every care to God, including those cares that we would not speak of in public. God is there and he listens when we pray through Christ. Private prayer is private, and remains so unless God has answered prayer in an obvious manner, or the one praying relates it to others. The apostle Peter said, “Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you” (1 Peter 5:7). God does care about his people. The apostle Paul stated, “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts …

Satan’s Greatest Weapon

Satan has a large arsenal of weapons with which he attacks humanity in order to try to bring about its destruction. Which of these weapons, however, is his most powerful and ultimately successful? 1. How about the society around us? There is no doubt that society as a whole is used by Satan to draw us away from God, the church, the Bible and the truth as a whole. Society tends to call the bad good, and the good bad. Society is going to push evils, such as abortion and homosexuality on us at every turn. But society is not Satan’s greatest weapon. 2. How about humanism and organic evolutionary theory? These two philosophies, which tend to go hand-in-hand, are very effective in destroying the faith of many people. They are Godless, evil and patently false. It almost amuses me, if it were not so serious, that these theories combined teach that we are nothing but glorified apes, and yet we are the ultimate of all that exists. A built-in oxymoron. I submit, however that these two extraordinarily dangerous dogmas are not Satan’s greatest weapon. 3. How about our educational system? Sadly, I am convinced that Satan is making the best use for his purposes that he could of our educational system. That is not a condemnation of the good, solid and often Christian teachers in the public schools. It is a fact, however, that many of the major thrusts of education for a long time now have been anti-God, …

Our Only Limitation: The Size of Our Faith

We as Christians are very aware of the fact that our faith and obedience to God is our lifeline to him. First John 5:4 says, “For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world–our faith.” However, there are times when we act like God is no longer on the throne and in complete control of everything and everybody! How do we know he is in total control? “The earth is the Lord’s and all its fullness, the world and those who dwell therein” (Psalm 24:1). “If I were hungry, I would not tell you; for the world is Mine, and all its fullness” (Psalm 50:12). Our problems come and overwhelm us when we begin to doubt who God is and what he can do! In David’s confrontation with Goliath, Goliath cursed David by his gods. David said to Goliath, “You come to me with a sword, with a spear, and with a javelin. But I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the Lord will deliver you into my hand, and I will strike you and take your head from you. And this day I will give the carcasses of the camp of the Philistines to the birds of the air and the wild beasts of the earth, that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel” (1 Samuel …

Myth: The Church of Christ Doesn’t Believe in Miracles

The truth of the matter is that the church of Christ is the only church that has ever been able to perform miracles. We definitely do believe in God’s power to perform any feat he chooses that is so far beyond man’s abilities, that it is undeniably a miracle. Some who accuse us of not believing in miracles are still trying to speak in tongues and perform miraculous healings today. A sincere look at the miracles recorded in the Bible reveals a characteristic that is absent with these modern day “miracles.” A true miracle is undeniable. When the horrible lesions of leprosy are instantly replaced by skin as soft and fresh as a little child’s (2 Kings 5:14), no one can honestly deny that a miracle has occurred. If you know someone who from birth has been lame, lying down in public places, begging in order to survive and is suddenly able to walk and leap (Acts 3:2-8), you can not honestly deny that a miracle has occurred. But I can easily and honestly deny that anything miraculous has happened when I see modern day events that some claim to be miracles. In fact, most anyone who doesn’t want to believe in such events will have no trouble dismissing them as fake. That is not the case with the miracles we read of in God’s Word. Even the men who wanted Jesus dead, believed his miracles were genuine (John 11:47-53), not because they wanted to believe, but because his miracles …

Demons Today?

Recently, we received an inquiry which said in part, “Do demons really inhabit people today as they did in the days when Jesus lived on the earth?” The person asking the question explained that he had been in a discussion with a person who held that such illnesses as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, various psychoses and other life-threatening illnesses were nothing more than demons living within our bodies and when the demons were cast out by someone claiming to be a faith healer, the illnesses would go away. My first response was diabetes was not really a demon, it just seems that way! But we will do well to take a serious look at whether demons possess people today as they did in the days when our Lord was on the earth. Firstly, we would point out that if the Bible is true, and it is, demons did indeed inhabit human bodies in the days when Jesus lived on the earth. But to the best of our recollection they were never associated with physical illnesses such as leprosy, palsy, various paralyses and things of that nature. It is true that demons did give a person the appearance of being psychotic, and after at least one “casting out of demons,” the Bible described the recipient of this blessing as sitting at the feet of Jesus, clothed and in his right mind (Luke 8:35). However, psychoses are today treated with various medications and there is no hint that there is a connection …

Soul and Spirit

We tend to agree with our esteemed brother, David Lipscomb, when he said, “You have a pretty tough and gristly piece of meat for a babe to masticate and digest if you undertake to define the difference between soul and spirit.” However, every sincere Bible student surely wants to know whatever the Bible does teach on this and every other subject. Most of us are accustomed to picking up expressions like “the immortality of the soul” and assuming that most everyone understands what we mean by them. We presume that the average person means that after the resurrection each of us will exist somewhere. But the average person might think it would make good sense to ask, “Does the soul (psyche) of man die?” but could see no sense in the question, “Does the life (psyche) of man die?” Thayer says on page 520, with regard to the spirit: “the vital principle by which the body is animated.” We presume he means, “That which gives the body its life (psyche).” He also says, “協or the most part the words pneuma and psyche are used indiscriminately.” It is true that the words are used interchangeably in this sense: If we should say, “Remove all the furniture from this room,” then say in another context, “We said to remove all the chairs from the room,” and in another context, “We said to remove all the desks from the room,” we are using the words “chairs,” “desks” and “furniture” indiscriminately. That is, they may be practically synonymous in some contexts. That …

Where Are the Seventeen?

It was in the early morning hours of September 8. Eyewitnesses say that it was a stormy evening on Lake Michigan. Nighttime navigation was always difficult in 1860, but especially so on this occasion. Gale-force winds made the trip all the more perilous. Passengers were nervous and with good reason. Around 2:30 a.m., about twelve miles off the Illinois coast, the steamboat “Lady Elgin” was suddenly rammed by a large, wooden schooner. The “Augusta” had been laboring under the tempest and collided with her on the port side, just aft of her paddlewheel. Lady Elgin’s crew attempted to plug the hole in the hull with a mattress, but to no avail. The breach simply could not be repaired and pounding waves quickly forced water into her oak-framed body. Edward Spencer was on board the Lady Elgin when the accident occurred. He was a student from nearby Northwestern University and decided to help. Oblivious to the storm and its attendant dangers, Edward plunged into the icy waters and began rescuing fellow passengers. There had been approximately 485 patrons on board (the ship was rated to carry only 300 people); about 380 of them drowned on that awful day. Edward lived–and so did seventeen other people whom he had saved during the deluge. However, the strain of the occasion exacted its toll on his young body. The nerves in his legs had been irreparably damaged during the mishap, and doctors were forced to confine him to a wheelchair for the rest of …

Where in the Christian Walk Are You?

The Holy Scriptures are replete with lessons concerning the way of Christian living, and many are drawn from the analogy of walking. On one occasion Jesus pronounced, “I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life” (John 8:12). Those who have put to death the “old man” having been crucified with Christ, then buried together with him in the water of baptism are risen together with Christ to “walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:4). The word of Christ teaches us to “walk after the Spirit” and to “walk by faith.” We’re not to walk as the Gentiles walk “in the vanity of their mind” but rather to “walk worthy” of our calling and as “children of light.” We are to “walk in love,” just as Jesus walked (1 John 2:6). There are men, women and young people at various stages of development in their Christian walk. There are some walking at a brisk pace. They’re out in front and swiftly approaching the finish line. These are leaders, strong and mature. They have cultivated the Christian graces (2 Peter 1:5-7), and still continue to press toward the mark of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus (Philippians 3:14). They will not let up until they have drawn their last breath and are ushered into “Abraham’s bosom.” There are some who are just beginning their Christian walk. They have been “born again” and are feeding upon …

This Globe Is Not So Golden

The world in itself and of itself is not getting any better. The truth of the matter is mankind, without God, is becoming worse. God’s wonderful creation, the human race, had lost its golden glow with the introduction of sin into the world. With the passing of time, it repented God that he had made man in his image because of the terrible blight of sin that had tarnished the golden innocence of his creation (Genesis 6-7). Think about it, only eight souls were saved from the vast multitude of people who lived on this globe when God deluged the earth with water. There was a new beginning but it was not long before the sins of those who lived in Sodom and Gomorrah were guilty of sexual perversions caused God to destroy those cities with fire and brimstone (Genesis 19). Societies over the centuries that have forgotten God have suffered the inevitable consequences. The Psalmist wrote, “The wicked shall be turned to hell, and all the nations that forget God.” The populace of our great nation has not learned the lesson that we eventually reap as we have sown in moral issues (Galatians 6:6-7). The devil has an agenda and it is slowly but surely being carried out by influential individuals and organizations. In fact the television and movie industries are doing what they can to influence the citizens of our country to accept the lifestyle of the homosexual, bi-sexual and transsexual. I might also mention that many major …

What Can I Do Today?

God “knew” Jeremiah (1:5) before he was born (c. 642 B.C.) and had something he wanted Jeremiah to do all of his life, even in his old age. Admirably the “weeping prophet” (Jeremiah 9:1) kept “nothing back” in his preaching “the word of Yahweh” (Jeremiah 42:7-10), but his listeners did not like his preaching. The listeners kidnapped him, and forced him to accompany them to Egypt (Jeremiah 43:1-7). There, “according to Christian tradition, he met a martyr’s death, being stoned by the Jews, who resented his faithful reproofs” (J.R. Dummelow, A Commentary on the Holy Bible, p. 454). Yes, even on the last day of his life, with rocks coming from angry people, Jeremiah showed that he believed the Lord has something for every faithful person to do, even to his last breath. Paul, like Jeremiah, though he was a prisoner under house arrest “for two whole years” (A.D. 61-62, Acts 28:30-31), with the left hand of a soldier chained to his right hand (Conybeare and Howson, Life of Paul, II, p. 394; Ephesians 6:20), knew that Lord had something for him to do every day: “I face a dilemma, desiring to depart and be with Christ, which is far better, but to remain in the flesh is more pressing” (Philippians 1:23-24). Later, on death row in Mamertine Prison in Rome (A.D. 67-68), Paul still knew that he should be busy every day in the Lord’s work. There he wrote a letter to “Timothy, my beloved child” (2 Timothy 1:2). I know …

Nonaligned

Merriam Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary defines the word “nonaligned” thus: “not allied with other nations and especially with either the Communist or the non-Communist blocs.” Religiously and as a Christian, I am aligned with Jesus Christ who said, “Follow me” (Matt. 4:19; 8:22; 9:9; 16:24; 19:21). Period! Religiously and as a Christian, I am not aligned with manmade religions, either denominations or so-called other world religions. Religiously and as a Christian, I am not aligned with man-altered, God-given religions, such as the warped Judaism of the first century that Jesus condemned in some of its proponents (Matt. 15:9, 13), or contemporary churches of Christ that have strayed from biblical authority by doing something as unscriptural as adding instrumental music to worship (Eph. 5:19). Religiously and as a Christian, I am not aligned even with God-given religions that have since been replaced with Christianity, namely Patriarchy and Judaism (Eph. 2:11-22). I am aligned with Jesus Christ–period! Religiously and as a Christian, I am not aligned with subsets within the Lord’s church either; I am aligned with Jesus Christ–period! For instance, though I graduated from Memphis School of Preaching and for 10 years taught at West Virginia School of Preaching or though my daughter graduated from Freed-Hardeman University, I am not aligned with any school, even if administrated by Christians and associated with the Lord’s church. I am aligned with Jesus Christ–period! Though my religious articles have appeared in numerous Gospel journals, such as Gospel Advocate, Firm foundation, West Virginia Christian, Christian Bible Teacher, Therefore Stand, Power plus others, I am …

Tis the Season

It’s that time of year again, the “Holiday Season,” and as we begin the usual activities of this time of year we should take a little time to reflect on just how this “season of giving” affects our Christian life. The world around us begins to seem like a friendlier place for some reason; various organizations have food drives, offer holiday meals to the needy and spend countless hours in front of department stores ringing bells while folks walk by, throwing a handful of change into a black pot. People spend literally billions of dollars on gifts for family and friends. Yes, it’s time for the holidays! But as the world shifts into the “giving spirit,” life for the Christian should really see no significant change. What? You mean to say that we shouldn’t participate in all of the holiday cheer? Not at all. We are so blessed to live in a free land where we can celebrate traditional holidays as we please and the Christian is also free to join into this festive season. But the Christian’s life should be a shining example of the “giving spirit” all year long, not just for a couple of weeks or months. People in the world should be able to see the unselfish nature of the child of God at any time. Jesus said, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). The key point here is …

Good News, Bad News

Do you prefer to hear good news as opposed to bad news? Most, if not all, of us do. But, what we are willing to pay for tells a different story, and the news media knows it. I remember a television news program in the middle 1980’s that was solely dedicated to reporting good news. It lasted only a few months. In Sacramento, California a tabloid called The Good Newspaper had a short life of thirty-six months until it went bankrupt. The good news that people say that they want to hear and read they are not willing to support financially. As consumers of the news we don’t want to read about the rich celebrity who is healthy and happily married. But, we are eager to learn every sordid detail when he finds himself divorced, diseased and destroyed financially. Noisy news sells! Bad news pays! On August 31, 1997 Chicago Tribune sales soared due to the tragic death of Princess Diana. Time and Newsweek broke sales records on September 8th and 15th, 1997 for the same reason. For a month after the crash, Britain’s biggest newspapers gave thirty-five percent of their total news coverage to the death of the Princess. Paul Harvey said, “Not even the end of World War II got this much ink.” Noise makes news! One gunshot gets more attention than a thousand prayers. That doesn’t mean that the gunshot is more important–it just sells more newspapers. What is the best news that you have ever heard? Would the Gospel qualify? The word Gospel means good news …

Going Through the Garbage

Have you ever accidentally thrown something important away, and then had to spend time going through the garbage to find it? When it was all over, you probably showed the marks of where you have been. Either on your hands, or clothes, or by the aroma you now carried, where you were is clear. Even after going through all that, you may not find what it was you were looking for. It was this way for King Saul of Israel. God, through his prophet Samuel, had told Saul to destroy the Amalekites. Instead, Saul kept the best of the spoils of war, and spared the life of Agag, their king. Samuel told Saul, “Has the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to listen than the fat of rams ” (1 Samuel 15:22). Because Saul had rejected God by his sin, God rejected Saul as king (15:23). Saul had tried to find something good in doing evil, but only came out stained by sin. The effects of sin would ultimately lead to his demise (1 Samuel 28:15-19). It can be the same for us, as well. We can’t become involved in sin without the contamination of sin clinging to us. If we fill our minds only with what is in today’s books, television, music or philosophy, we will sooner or later reflect it, in our thoughts, speech and actions. We should cultivate …

The Chief Duty of Every Child of God

The biblical material under consideration herein is the most important ever contained in any sermon or Bible class lesson. The reader will never encounter a more important lesson from the Bible, irrespective of the venue or the presenter. The significance of the topic herein is neither owing to any special ability that I have as a preacher nor to any special insight that I might have as a longtime student of the Bible. This article, though, has life-changing power owing exclusively to the biblical material under consideration. Let’s get to the heart of such an all important biblical study immediately. There is nothing–I repeat and emphasize, nothing–any more important for the child of God today to master than the realization that his chief duty in this life is to glorify God. “…whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31 emphasis added). The Greek noun doxa and the Greek verb doxazo both are sometimes translated “honor.” W.E. Vine defines doxazo including “to magnify, extol, praise.” There are a number of ways that one can honor God, or on the other hand, dishonor God. Just how important is it to honor or glorify God? Glorifying God is more important than lessons about salvation! Glorifying God is more important than lessons about how God wants to be worshipped. Glorifying God is more important than lessons about church attendance, Christian living and Christian service. Glorifying God is more important than lessons about what we usually cite as the mission of the church–evangelism, edification and benevolence. The reason …

It Is Difficult for Me to Believe That God Wants…

When I was 16 yrs old, I got married. That was about 40 yrs ago. After about four months of marriage, my husband left. I tried to reconcile, but to no avail. As far as I know there was no other woman involved. He divorced me. I finished high school and met my current husband and we married. Now 38 yrs, two grown married daughters, four grandchildren and one on the way, my husband’s plans on divorcing me because he says we were never married and that I am still married to my first husband (who is remarried and has a family also). He gave me your name to contact and said you would stand by his position. Is this correct? I need an answer. I am devastated. Our children have severed their relationship with him. He has not left our home yet because I have been ill. I would appreciate any info you can give me on this. I’ve read the scriptures on this but it is difficult for me to believe that God wants my husband to walk out on his family. Respectfully, Patricia I feel for your circumstances, including whatever present illness you may be experiencing. Especially with only encapsulated or minimal information, I am hardly in a position to make definitive, forever life-altering decisions for you or anyone else. Further, of course, it is not my prerogative to enforce God’s laws on others; we have a lawgiver for that, who lest we fool ourselves will certainly …

Persecution of Christians

Brother Rushmore, An teacher in my bible class was trying to parallel between early Christian suffering and today’s Christians, when a member in my church asked the following  question, “Because I became a Christian, am I going to suffer?” Willie Moore Fortunately, at this time in many places in the world, including the United States of America, a Christian is not likely to suffer for no other reason than that he or she is a Christian, in any way comparable to the suffering endured by Christians in the first century (and following centuries) Roman Empire. In some places in our contemporary world, though, even now one who professes to be a Christian may suffer severe repercussion, including death. As Islam continues to exert itself with warlike ferocity, anyone professing to be a Christian nearly anywhere on the planet is a potential victim of either organized or disorganized fanatical Moslem zeal. Secondly, the ongoing efforts within western civilization to secularize itself to the expulsion of God from every public venue is setting the stage for incrementally heightened degrees of opposition and punishment of anyone either professing to be a Christian or attempting to act out Christian values in his life (including interaction with others); for instance, the transformation of homosexuality from psychological defect (secularly) and sinfulness (spiritually) to a legally protected and socially accepted minority category has profound ramifications (e.g., hate speech laws [Bible preaching and teaching], non-discrimination laws [housing, employment and benefits], etc.). However, more directly to the question posed, there is …

Bible Study

Bible classes scheduled at church came about under the idea of expediency, a license used by church leaders. Scheduled Bible study classes are a good key function of the church to increase knowledge of God’s Word, for growth of the members into more mature Christians, to train teachers, preachers and to train for evangelistic work for Christ, all of which is good for individual Christians and for the church as a group. God wants, godly, alert and dedicated elders who function as shepherds for the church. Bible classes are a good function to achieve that responsibility. It is a good place to bring members into knowing who it is that they believe, what they believe, namely God and his Word, and to come to love God and serve him. Thus Bible classes are a good place to more thoroughly teach God’s Word. Bible classes are also a good place to reveal false teachings, where teachers who do not fully support what they are teaching from the Bible, or who distort God’s Word, can be stopped. It is also a good place to show that such things as instant change, effortless change, tapping the subconscious, eliminating all fear and others like things are false. Of a salesman such idea would be called snake oil. Paul stated, “Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: so do” (1 Timothy 1:4). Surely The DaVinci Code and the Left Behind series, and other …

Do We Remember How to Cry?

I heard a song the other day about a daddy and his daughter who is about to get married. It said something like, “Remember that I loved her first.” I have to admit that song made me cry. Someone sent me a patriotic email of a reading by Johnny Cash that he had written about the American Flag. It made tears well up in my eyes as I listened. I have been known to have a tear drip down my cheek when I am watching the sad part of a movie. I know that it does not sound very “macho” and “manly” to admit that, but I am not ashamed of it. I am glad that I have not forgotten how to cry. We need to be able to cry because we have hearts that are touched by a care and concern of others. Our hearts should grieve with those who are suffering and in pain. We should feel compassion when others face disaster, disease and death. Too often it seems that when calamity and struggles come to those around us, we tend to rejoice in seeing the problems of others. It is easy to become smug in our own lack of troubles, and to assume that others’ problems are their own fault. Jesus said that we should mourn with those that mourn (Luke 6:25). I would hope that we will never loose the ability to cry for those around us who are suffering. We need to be able to …

Call Upon the Name of the Lord

What does it mean to call on the Lord’s name? If we are to come to a scriptural answer, then we must search the Scriptures for it (Acts 17:11). Let us lay aside human tradition and go in search of the Lord’s way. Jesus taught his disciples, “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 7:21). Again, Jesus said, “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” (Luke 6:46). Therefore, calling on the Lord’s name is not merely acknowledging his authority, but submitting to his authority. Rather than pick and choose what we will, let us do “the will of God” (1 John 2:17). On the day of Pentecost, Peter quoted the prophet Joel in his sermon (Acts 2:16-21; Joel 2:28-32). The last part of the quotation reads, “And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved” (Acts 2:21). In the book of Joel, “shall be saved” is rendered “shall be delivered” (Joel 2:32, KJV). Someone might ask, “From what shall we be saved or delivered?” As revealed by the angel of the Lord, “he [Jesus] shall save his people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21). Peter said, “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). However, …

The Beauty of Good Leadership

I just finished reading a great old book entitled Gospel Lessons and Life History by the late renowned E.G. Sewell. He was probably not known to many in the Ohio Valley since he spent the most of his life in the middle and east Tennessee areas. For forty years or more, he was a close friend and confidant to brother David Lipscomb, as well as co-editor of the Gospel Advocate. Though brother Sewell did attend Burritt College in Spencer, TN for two and a half years and one ten month term at brother Tolbert Fanning’s Franklin College, he was for the most part a self-taught man. His courses in these two colleges were in mathematics, Greek and Hebrew, as well as a course in Latin  as I recall. He learned to read the Bible in what he called, “their native languages.” In that respect he was, even by today’s standards (he died in 1924), quite a scholar! Brother Sewell was preeminently a man of the Book. He pored over his Bible closely every day of his adult life, from age nineteen onward, and did his best to apply everything he learned to his own life first. Reading his own sketch of his life sent me to my meager library to learn more about him and I found other material in several books. Unfortunately, I did not find all that I would like to know about this great soldier of the cross, but I did find a comment made about his leadership as an …

Glorifying God

Most of my preaching life, especially as I have been involved in personal evangelism, I have asked the question, “What is the most important thing in the world?” in order to elicit the answer, “My salvation,” or its equivalent. Or I would ask, “What is the most important question in the world?” in order to get a discussion started around the topic, “What must I do to be saved?” In my later years, I have become convinced that as important as those things are, they are actually secondary. It is my opinion that a great deal of damage may be done, when and if we substitute the good for the better and the better for the best. This is an easy thing to do when we are trying so hard to push what we think is the most important job of the church, or of the individual Christian. As a result, we have an unbalanced religion, perhaps becoming denominational or cultish in our tendencies, depending on how far we take the matter. The Crossroads and Boston movements resulted, not only from the indifference of the average congregations to the value of personal evangelism, but from the unbalanced emphasis that was given to that as THE standard by which our Christianity could be measured. The most important thing in the world is to glorify God, and one of the reasons we have done no more damage than we have by teaching that the most important thing in the world is the …

Not Growing?

Question: “I’m ashamed to admit it, but I’ve stopped growing spiritually… What can I do to start maturing again?” Answer: Spiritual development is important (2 Peter 3:18). Let me commend you for your desire to reinitiate this process. Here are a few suggestions: 1. Eat a steady diet of healthy food. “As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that you may grow thereby” (1 Peter 2:2). “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4; cf. Hebrews 5:14; Jeremiah 15:16). Set aside a regular time each day to study your Bible. When would be a good time for you to study? In the morning? At your lunch break? In the evening before bed? Devote 15-30 minutes to reading, study and meditation. 2. Develop a regular program of exercise. “For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come” (1 Timothy 4:8). Involve yourself in the work of the church (1 Corinthians 15:58; Titus 2:14). Look for opportunities to minister to those who are in need (Galatians 6:10; James 1:27). Attend worship services on a regular basis (Hebrews 10:25). Pray regularly (1 Thessalonians 5:17; Colossians 4:2). 3. Rid your system of disease. “Therefore, laying aside all malice, all guile, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking” (1 Peter 2:1). Repent of the sin in your life (Acts 8:22). Ask for God’s forgiveness (1 John 1:9). Reconcile …

The Church Is the Kingdom of Heaven

The term “church” is used to refer to those who are “called out” for a special purpose. It is used as a term of distinction and separation. Jesus of Nazareth promised to build his church when he was among his disciples at Caesarea Philippi (Matthew 16:18-19). His purpose was clear and resolute: “I will build my church and the gates of hell [hades] shall not prevail against it.” Nearly in the same breath he said he would give the keys of the kingdom of heaven to Peter. On the first Pentecost day after the crucifixion, resurrection and Ascension of Jesus (events recorded in Acts 2), Peter and the other apostles gave access into the kingdom as they preached the Gospel of the kingdom. The text says, “And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved” (Acts 2:47). God wanted to reveal to King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon things that would transpire in the future. God gave him a dream wherein he saw a terrible image. Ultimately, God provided to the king the details of his dream and the interpretation through one of his servants by the name of Daniel. Daniel identified King Nebuchadnezzar as being the head of gold and three successive kingdoms that would be inferior to his. Of the fourth kingdom, that is, the Roman Empire, the text reads, “And in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed: and the kingdom shall not …

Who Will Get Your Vote?

Recently, the main discussion in most conversations has centered on the theme of politics. It seems that everyone is talking about his or her favorite candidates for the various local and state offices. One cannot help but to wonder how much good could be achieved in the cause of the Lord if the same amount of time, money and influence were exerted in the spreading of the Gospel. Nevertheless, the freedom to vote as one pleases is certainly a great liberty offered by this nation of ours. The Lord God made man to be a creature of choice. From Adam on down, man has had to make choices, morally and otherwise. But, the greatest decisions are to be made in the spiritual realm and not in the political circle. We mention now some of the momentous occasions wherein decisions had to be made, either for the Lord or Satan. First of all, we read in 1 Kings 18 where Elijah the prophet met the prophets of Baal in a direct confrontation on Mount Carmel. Elijah was set to prove who was truly the God that all people should serve and worship. The party of indecision, of all nations, was Israel. The great prophet inquired of the double-minded congregation, “How long will you falter between two opinions? If the Lord is God, follow Him; but if Baal, follow him. But the people answered him not a word” (V. 21). Israel as a whole had held Baal to be Lord and God, …

Encouragement

I. Self-Encouragement Every right-thinking person knows how feeble he is, and he prays with David: “O Yahweh, make me to know my end, and the measure of my days, what it is. Let me know how frail I am” (Psalm 39:4). “Truly every man is but a breath” (Psalm 39:11), and “we are dust” (Psalm 103:14), “a vapor which briefly appears, and then vanishes” (James 4:14). Consequently, he needs encouragement in his soul, his spirit, the only part of him that will never die (Ecclesiastes 12:7; Matthew 10:28; 22:32). Powerful in self-encouragement is daily prayer in the “evening and morning and at noon…and he will hear my voice,” said David (Psalm 55:17). Likewise, daily Bible study gives one fresh courage: “this is my comfort in my affliction,” said David, “for thy word has quickened me” (Psalm 119:50, KJV), “renews my life” (NIV), “has revived me” (NASV), “invigorates me” (FHV). You cannot imagine a person more in need of self- encouragement than Job “with sore boils from the sole of his foot to the crown of his head” (Job 2:7), and having a wife who turned against him: “Do you still hold fast your integrity? Curse God and die!” (Job 2:9). However, he refused to give up, and his Bible reading was strengthening, saying, “I have treasured up the words of his mouth more than my necessary food” (Job 23:12). II. Encouraging Others As important as is self-encouragement, unless a person determines also to encourage others, he is selfish and a …

What Can I Do?

Andrew might have been a man one would consider average. He came from a city of little reputation. In fact, if one heard of it in the first century, he would know the industry of the place by the meaning of its name, “house of fish,” which may have been all for which it was known. We know it today as Bethsaida, a city that would probably be lost if it were not for its preservation in the Scriptures (John 1:44). This city was probably located around the northeastern shore of the Sea of Galilee, where average Andrew practiced an average trade, fishing. The only reason we probably know of Andrew is because he is mentioned about a dozen times in the Bible. Even so, at a glance, Andrew’s life seems rather unexciting as compared to others of whom we read. He was a disciple of John the Immerser (John 1:35-40). He even followed Christ and became an apostle (Matthew 10:2). However, in light of the accomplishments of the other apostles, Andrew’s seem to fall into the shadows. We do not have any of his preaching recorded like his brother Peter’s. He never wrote Scripture. Actually, none of his actions, which are recorded in the Bible, would be considered significant by the world’s standards. Nonetheless, because of the One he followed, we would contend that his life has an eternal effect on many souls. Today, Andrew provides a great example of action. Often, when we feel there is nothing we …

Cain and Abel Crossword Puzzle

(Crossword Puzzle is Internet Interactive; do the puzzle online.) You need Java enabled to view the crossword applet. Solution

Brand Out of the Fire #2

In Zechariah 3:1-5, we read about God showing Zechariah a scene with the high priest standing before the angel of the Lord. Satan stands on the right side of the high priest. Satan accuses the high priest of not being right for God’s purposes. Satan was accusing the entire priesthood of the Israelites, and by extension accusing all of the people of being improper for God’s purposes. God states that Israel is the brand taken out of the fire. Last time, we looked at the brand being something that burned a marking on an animal to show ownership. However, there is a more likely picture being given (a kind reader pointed this out to me). The brand was the stick used to stir the fire. As it was used, it slowly burned off. Thus, it would get shorter and shorter. Eventually there was not enough left to stir the fire anymore. God put the nation of Israel through the fire of punishment. He allowed foreign nations to conquer them and take into slavery. Israel was being pictured as the stick that stirred the fire. But God was going to take the brand out of the fire before it became completely useless and completely burned up. God intended for there to be a remnant to return to the promised land. God is a wonderful and merciful God. He does punish but he always desires to save. He has given us the Bible to read and study. If we will do that …

Brand Out of the Fire

A brand was usually a metal rod with markings molded on the end. This end was put in a fire and heated. Then the heated end was put on an animal to burn the mark onto the animal. This mark normally indicated ownership. The one requiring the branding was the owner. He was the one with authority. In Zechariah 3:1-5, we are given a scene that God showed Zechariah. In this scene the high priest is standing before the angel of the Lord. Satan is standing on the right hand side of the high priest. Satan is accusing the high priest of not being appropriate for God’s purposes. By accusing the high priest in this instance, Satan is really accusing the whole priesthood. And by extension, he is accusing all of the people of God. This is a courtroom. In those days the accuser stood at the accused’s right hand. Both of them stood in front of the judge. Satan is hoping to win this court case. He actually has a good case. The priesthood and the people had been evil. They had been taken into captivity for many years because of their sins. But Satan does not understand the mercy, grace and love of God. God says that indeed the high priest and the people were a brand that had been heated in the fire. But God had taken them out of the fire. And he was going to forgive them for their past sins. (Of course, the high …

You Can’t Get There from Here

As I’m writing this article (March 2004), I can hear birds singing. Looking to my left out of the windowed doors of my study I can see that it is a beautiful sunny day; the thermometer on the wall gives an outdoor temperature of 69 degrees. The sky is so blue and the grass green, the first hint that Spring is right around the corner. What a nice day it is! But for the last two weeks I’ve been under the weather; the doctor said it was some kind of infection in my nose or maybe he said I was sick in the head; at any rate I’ve had cold-like symptoms that have kept me away from work and church. I’ve been lying around the house trying to get well. Today, I feel better; I got a good night’s rest and the symptoms are beginning to subside. Looking out of the window, I think to myself, “What a great day to be out working in the yard or tinkering around out in the shop. Maybe a trip down to the lake.” But then I realize that I’m not quite well yet and that I probably need to stay in for at least another day. Its almost torture to sit here, look outside and see the wonderful day the Lord has blessed us with and not be able to get out there and enjoy it. It’s the pits. I can’t help but to think about another man who looked and saw …

Premillennialism and a New Generation

The false doctrine of premillennialism has been around for almost two thousand years, and yet it has absolutely no basis in the Bible. Papias (c. 60-130) of Hierapolis in Asia Minor advanced millennial views, believing that there would be a period of a thousand years after the resurrection of Christ during which the kingdom of Christ would be set up in a material way. When the millennium did not occur with Jesus’ resurrection, some began to rethink the event that would initiate its beginning. It was decided that perhaps the return of Christ would be that event. The beliefs of Papias were pervasive enough that the churches of the first half of the second century were generally aware of the premillennial theory that he advanced. Many later writers such as Origen, Dionysius of Alexandria, Eusebius and Augustine came out against millenarian views to the extent that the theory went into sharp decline. Premillennialism was almost a dead issue for the next thousand years. In the Reformation period some began to espouse millennial views again. The popular views included both premillennialism and postmillennialism. Biblical exegetes of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries paid tribute to millennial ideas in their popular commentaries. Fiery preachers let their voices ring from the pulpits, groves and brush arbors in the cities and the country with eschatological excitement. Men such as William Miller predicted the return of Christ in 1843 and 1844. By 1875 a new brand of premillennialism called Dispensationalism spread like wildfire in the United States. J.N. …

In the Image of Christ

Remember the television show Art Linkletter used to have, where he would ask children various questions, and get some of the funniest responses? Children can still surprise you by what they say. With Karen being an elementary school teacher, I can testify to this personally. However, not everything they say is amusing. I’m amazed at the profanity some of these children use. Not mild terminology, mind you, but sometimes blunt, graphic obscenities. A shame isn’t it, for these children to so speak, as we know this is the type of filth they’ve been exposed to at home, on television and elsewhere. The innocence of childhood is lost for some to the influence of the world. Similarly, sometimes I’m amazed at the language and conduct of Christians. We are to reflect the purity of life that comes from being a child of God. “Put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness” (Ephesians 4:22-24). This means our speech is to be pure, wholesome, reflecting our relationship with God. “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear” (Ephesians 4:29). A shame, isn’t it, for Christians to use language that reflects more of …

Jesus’ Attitude Toward Scripture

An important and interesting study from the life of Jesus in the New Testament is that of Jesus’ attitude toward Scripture. The word “Scripture” is from graphe and is found 51 times in the New Testament. In the Gospels the word Scripture occurs 24 times and all refer to Jesus’ attitude toward and use of Scripture. There are also several other words directly related to Jesus and his attitude toward Scripture (i.e., speak, word, law, etc.). Jesus Believed Scripture Was Authoritative. In that Jesus believed that Scripture came from God that meant the Scripture was authoritative. He recognized Scripture “as the commandments of God” to be obeyed (Matthew 19:17; Mark 1:44; Luke 17:10), rather than to be transgressed by man (Matthew 15:1-9). When a lawyer attempted to trap him, he replied, “What is written in the law? How readest thou?” (Luke 10:26). There are two phrases that reoccur in the Gospels and used by Jesus: (1) “It is written” occurring 19 times and (2) “have ye not read” occurring five times. When asked questions, Jesus directed the querist to the Scriptures. Jesus stated, “The scripture cannot be broken” (John 10:35). The word “broken” means not able “to break, annul, cancel” (Abbott-Smith 274) and not “to deprive of authority” (Thayer 385). The quotation of John 10:34-35 is from Psalm 82 in the Septuagint. Jesus claims the Scripture, even the translation from the Hebrew into the Greek Septuagint, was authoritative and therefore could not be canceled or annulled. Jesus believed the Scriptures were authoritative. We can …

Personal Faith or the System of Faith?

Ephesians 2:8…3:17…6:16…how can I distinguish “faith” from “the faith”? Thanks and God bless. Bro. Gabriel “Bhong” Policarpio Ephesians 2:8 has the word “faith” in the Greek without the definite article, “the.” Ephesians 3:17 and 6:16 have the definite article “the” preceding the word “faith” in the Greek. Occasions where the definite article “the” precedes the word “faith,” it is generally conceded that “the faith” refers to the system of faith otherwise known as the Gospel or the New Testament. It is not, though, as easily discerned on occasions where the definite article “the” does not precede the word “faith” whether one’s personal faith is meant or if the system of faith, the Gospel, is intended. However, we may make too much of a distinction between personal faith that derives from the system of faith (the Gospel) and the system of faith itself. One’s personal faith is not operable without reliance upon and issuing forth from the system of faith. Likewise, the system of faith profits a person not at all until from it springs one’s personal faith because of it; the system of faith is not operable in our lives until it manifests itself in our personal faith. Consider, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8). If “faith” here refers to personal faith (and it may really refer to the system of faith), still personal faith is only operable in its relationship to the system of …

Who Can Administer Baptism?

who is allowed to perform a legitimate baptism? may an unsaved man or a saved or unsaved woman do so? Granted, the baptism under consideration is immersion in water (Romans 6:3-5; Colossians 2:12) for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38) or to be saved (Mark 16:16; 1 Peter 3:21). What does the Bible reveal regarding the administrator of this baptism, and is what the Bible reveals in this regard an article of Christian faith limiting administration of baptism to a select few? First, I suggest that we apply the all too uncommon “common sense,” logic or reason to the question posed. Many Christians immediately scoff at and set aside an appeal to common sense, logic or reason as inapplicable to a Bible matter, but I am afraid of unreasonable people, I think with good reason (1 Thessalonians 5:21; 1 Peter 3:15). If it were the case at some time historically (quite plausible) that in a given region, continent or the whole world that no true Christian were available to administer baptism, and that in order for baptism to be “legitimate” it had to be administered by a Christian, then no matter how much an agonizing soul desperately desired to be baptized, he could not be baptized; and Christianity would come to a screeching halt, never able to be resumed. Further, if in order for a baptism to be “legitimate” it has to be administered by a true Christian, one who himself was baptized by a true Christian, no one (not …

The Church is the Family of God

Christians need to remember that they are also members of the family of God. Paul says, “For ye are the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:26). Through belief and obedience in Christ Jesus we become children in the family of God. John 1:12 tells us, “But as many as received him, to them gave he the power to become the sons of God…” (John 1:12). Since Christians are children in the family of God, the question comes, “Shouldn’t we be obedient to the Father of that family?” And since Christ is described as “the Word of God” in Revelation 19:13, we have the Word of the Father that we should obey or risk his correction and even punishment of being cast out of that glorious family. On the other hand, what a wonderful situation it is of being children in the family of God. Wouldn’t his children always bring glory for him and praise for him through Christ’s church–his kingdom, “To the general assembly and church of the first born [Christ is the first born, resurrected]…” (Hebrews 12:23). Thus Christians are members of Christ’s church. Then in the same chapter we have, “Whereby we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved” (verse 28a). Again, “Who hath delivered us [Christians] from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of His dear Son” (Colossians 1:13). Translate refers to Acts 2:47b, “And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved,” and again …

The Church Is the Bride of Christ

The apostle Paul tells the Corinthians, “For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ” (2 Corinthians 11:2). Two things are seen: one, espouse you to one husband is an analogy that uses the idea of a bride that is espoused to one husband, and two, chaste refers to purity, referring to a bride that is pure by the rules, and the desires, of the husband, that being in this case Christ as that one husband, and his word, as the requirements for his bride. In Ephesians Chapter 5, Paul uses human marriage as a symbol of Christ and the church. Paul says, “…even as Christ is the head of the church: and is savior of the body” (verse 23). Again, “Husbands love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it” (verse 25). “For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones” (verse 30), which shows how close and much the church is integral to Christ, and how much in likeness the church is to be like him. Then each Christian being a part of his body, understands that he or she can be rejected when in conflict with Christ. The conduct will then be what the Christ the head instructs Christians and the church to follow. These surely describe the bride that all men want, and it describes the …

Are You a Good Passenger?

I like to be the driver most of the time when I am going somewhere. If I am tired, or not feeling well, or there is some matter of convenience that means that I need to be a passenger, of course, I will willingly do so. But I am not sure I am a good one. My oldest son is 27 and has been driving for 11 years. Still, when I am in the car with him, I find myself telling him how to drive. My wife is older than he is (thought I was going to tell didn’t you), and has been driving longer, also. Yet, sometimes I find myself wanting to give her instructions as we ride along. Speaking of my wife and children, I kid them that they are trying to constantly put on the brakes when I am driving. They are just sure I am going to plow into whoever or whatever is ahead of us. I have thought about it quite often. You know what makes us “bad” passengers? It is the fact that we are not in control. When I am driving I know where I am going to turn, and I know that I have seen the semi in front of us and that I am going to stop. I have the steering wheel in my hand, and I am in control (or at least I think I am). Over the years I have seen a bumper sticker that reads something along the …

Are You Looking for a Soul Mate?

I recently got a brochure in the mail from a computer dating service. The company boldly advertised in big, flowery letters, “Let us help you find your soul mate.” Most people long for a soul mate, someone with whom they can share all the intimate details of their lives. Finding such a person is difficult. Those who reveal their deepest thoughts and emotions to another person do so at the risk of ridicule, rejection and betrayal. Psalm 139 is a beautiful psalm in which David describes his soul mate. He begins, “O Lord, you have searched me and known me. You know my sitting down and my rising up. You understand my thought afar off. You comprehend my path and my lying down, and are acquainted with all my ways. For there is not a word on my tongue, but behold, O Lord, you know it altogether” (verses 1-4). So often you hear people say, “He just doesn’t understand me.” Wouldn’t it be great to have a friend who really understands you, someone who knows what you are going to say, even before you say it? God does. David continued, “Where can I go from your Spirit? Or where can I flee from your presence? If I ascend into heaven, You are there. If I make my bed in hell [“Sheol” ASV; “Hades or the world of the dead” (Biblesoft’s)], behold, You are there” (verses 7-8). Maybe you have been hurt by someone who abandoned you or disappointed you in …

Agonizing Over Sin

In his autobiography, Elias Smith, of restoration fame from Vermont, told of what was called the canker-rash striking the small community of Woodstock. He told of the death of several young people in their teen years and early twenties. He told of one family who within a period of four days lost all three of their young daughters. What the disease was, we do not know, but he described it as the persons breaking out in a very red rash, running a very high temperature and dying within thirty-six to forty-eight hours. The families hastened to bury their dead loved ones fearing that the disease could be spread, even from a corpse (52f). (The disease was, perhaps, some form of measles.) Smith told of one young man whom he watched die. At the time of his friend’s death, Smith was but a lad of sixteen years. He recounted the story this way, “Not long before he died, his father came into the room; his son said, ‘father what do you think of my situation?’  His father with tears replied, ‘my son, you are dying.’ He said, ‘do you think I am?’ ‘Yes,’ said his father. ‘Then (said he) if it is so, I am undone to all eternity; O, How can I die without Christ; I am undone! undone, forever!’ He uttered these words and died immediately” (53). After watching his young friend, as well as the three sisters earlier mentioned buried, Smith began to think on the words of his young …

Has God Cast Israel Away?

I just finished reading two long articles written by those who once claimed membership in the Lord’s church that took the position that Romans 11:1 indicates that the physical nation of Israel is still to receive blessings as God’s people, for not only does Paul deny in verse one that God has not cast away his people, he says in verse 26 that all Israel will be saved. It is not enough to dismiss the remark with the statement that this is the same old false denominational premillennial argument (which it is) which has been disproved many times. Such statements may cause a person to accept or reject an argument or a doctrine on grounds that are prejudicial rather than scriptural. If an atheist, a liberal, a premillennialist or anyone else teaches a truth, we should accept it. Those whom we consider “giants in the faith” have the same responsibility to “prove all things; hold fast that which is good” as anyone else, and to simply label a person or doctrine as premillennial or liberal has little bearing on the truthfulness or falseness of any position. Note some things that should cast light on the subject when carefully considered. First, let us notice some passages both in Old Testament and New which indicate that the physical state of Israel is no longer considered God’s chosen people, or elect nation. In Matthew 21:42, Jesus said, “The kingdom of God shall be taken from you and given to a nation bringing forth …

“Just” a Toe Problem?

Coy Watson was a dear friend and brother in the Lord. We worshiped and served together some years ago during my local work in West Tennessee. Coy was a solid “Bible man.” He liked to read and study the Word. He liked to talk about the Word. He liked to listen to the preaching of the Word. In the latter months of his life, Coy struggled mightily with diabetes. The symptoms were most noticeable on his left foot. His toes tingled and had become discolored. Before long, they turned virtually black and lost all feeling. His physician in Jackson told him that surgery was necessary. Part of his foot would have to be amputated. His surgeon removed the infected members, but to no avail. The disease was incrementally spreading up his body. Within weeks a second medical procedure was required. This time he lost the better part of his leg. A third surgery took the toes on his right foot. Gangrene was taking Coy a piece at a time. Consider for just a moment, did Coy have “just” a toe problem, or did he have a body problem? Now stay with me for just a moment. Don’t get lost. I sometimes hear people say, “That’s not our (i.e., a group) problem, that’s his (i.e., an individual) problem.” Such a statement is not in harmony with reality. People problems are always group problems, not just individual problems. Study the examples below and then decide for yourself if this is the case. Is each “just” an …

Jesus Is Presently King Over His Kingdom

Jesus does not have to wait until some indefinite time in the future to be crowned King since he, the seed of David, is already reigning on his throne from heaven. The prophet Gabriel told Mary, “Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end” (Luke 1:30-33). John, the forerunner of Jesus being filled with the Holy Spirit from his mother’s womb, was sent of God to prepare the people’s hearts to receive Jesus, the Son of God, and enter into his eternal kingdom. Like John before him, Jesus preached the message of repentance: “Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 4:17). The kingdom was soon to appear for the benefit of “Israel” as Jesus declared: “Verily I say unto you, That there be some of them that stand here, which shall not taste of death, till they have seen the kingdom of God come with power” (Mark 9:1). The kingdom came with power according to the plan of God on the first Pentecost day after the crucifixion, resurrection and ascension of Jesus when he had taken his seat to …

Who Am I?

I customarily read the obituaries in the local newspaper and one morning I observed something unusual. A lady who recently died and in mentioning her kindred, the point was clearly made that she was the great, great, great granddaughter of George Washington. It was evident that her family members wanted the fact of this lady’s ancestry known. It seems that a basic need we have is to know who we are and where we came from. Alex Haley’s deep desire to know his family’s ancestry led him over an extended period of time to do much research and travel. He then wrote the book, “Roots.” We have known individuals who were adopted as children who made every effort to know the identity of their biological parents. While these people loved and appreciated their adopted parents, there was a real longing in their hearts to learn of their family background. Even in biblical times, we learn of the Jews’ great pride in being the offspring of Abraham. They would proudly exclaim that “Abraham is our father” (John 8:39). They seemed always to be involved in tracing their lineage back to the great patriarch. Paul warned Timothy not to give heed to “endless genealogies” (1 Timothy 1:4). The most important family relationship, however, is not the physical but the spiritual. Most of us cannot gloat in a ‘blue blood’ ancestry. By faith, having been baptized into Christ, we are the children of God (Galatians 3:26-27). “And if ye are Christ’s, then you …

Spirituality

I. Misconceptions About Spirituality 1. Monasticisim. A monk or a nun retiring “from the world under religious vows” is pursuing spirituality by privacy for concentration and fervency in personal praying. But retirement “from the world” is not what Jesus taught or practiced. He taught his disciples that, though they were “not of the world” (John 17:14), “yet they themselves” were “in the world” (John 17:11) with orders to “shine as lights in the world” (Philippians 2:15). Pointedly he told them “you are the light of the world” (Matthew 5:14), and “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15). Jesus did not seclude himself in a monastery. 2. Asceticism. An ascetic, living alone away from all human beings, believes that he “can reach a higher spiritual state by rigorous self-discipline and self-denial.” But the One who reached the highest spiritual state did not do so by abandoning all human contact. With him self-denial meant to meet as many people as possible, to go “about doing good” (Acts 10:38), “to seek and save” the lost (Luke 19:10). One of Jesus’ grandfathers wrote, “A loner is self-centered, and rages against all sound wisdom” (Proverbs 18:1). 3. Celibacy. Jesus was celibate for a special reason, but he did not ask others to follow his example. Instead, he approved of marriage as being ordained by his Father in heaven (Matthew 19:4-5). Moreover, he walked some 20 miles to attend a wedding in Cana (John 2:1-12). Further, his apostle taught that to forbid marriage …

The Elect

Among other New Testament passages, Peter introduces us to “the elect” in his first epistle, chapter one, verse two: “Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.” There are many false teachings propagated about the nature of election, but this definition is enough to fill our needs. If we examine carefully the text, we notice exactly who the elect are, and how they become such. According to this passage, the elect are “elect” due to both God’s actions, and man’s response to those actions. Included are these: “According to [“on account of,” Thayer] the foreknowledge of God the Father.” The knowledge of God concerning events before they happen does not make them so; it merely has the power and ability to declare them. His plan of election was in his mind before the world began (Ephesians 1:3-6; 3:11). “Through [by the means of] sanctification of the Spirit.” Jesus declared sanctification came through truth (John 17:17). Peter later declared purification (similar term) comes through obedience to truth (1 Peter 1:22). The Spirit guided men into all the truth (John 16:13). When one heeds the Spirit’s voice in Scripture today, he becomes sanctified by his obedient faith in that truth. “Unto [for the purpose of] obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ.” Parallel terms are here joined by the conjunction “and.” Whatever is true of obedience is …

The Morning Cloud and the Dew

Have you ever noticed that at some times of the year when you get up in the morning there is water on the grass and plants? Most of the time it is in the form of little drops of water. This is dew. It did not rain. The water droplets formed there from the humidity in the air. You may also have noticed that at times of the year that there is a fog in the air in the morning. It is like standing in a cloud. You cannot see very far when standing in it. But when the sun gets high in the sky, and the temperature rises some, the fog and the dew disappear. They are only there for a short time and then go away. In Hosea 6:4, God says that Israel and Judah had become like the morning cloud and the morning dew. He says their goodness is only for a short time. They quickly forget God and his laws. They go about doing their own things instead of the things of God. Because of being like the cloud and the dew, God is going to punish them. They will be severely punished. Do not be like a morning cloud or the morning dew. Learn to live a good life according to the commandments of God. Then always live that good life. And if any of this is hard to understand, ask an adult to help you.

A Cake Not Turned

In Old Testament times, dough was sometimes rolled flat to cook. Sometimes it was rolled into an oval shape and baked. The oven was sometimes simply a small pit dug into the ground with a flat surface over it. The dough would be put on the surface and then turned when it was partially done. This turning would allow the bread to cook evenly on both sides. This would also allow it to cook properly all the way through. Today, we have ovens that cook evenly all the way around the dough and it is not necessary to always turn the bread over. God said the Israelites were like a cake not turned in Hosea 7:8. This meant that the cake had been allowed to sit for too long on one side. It was burned on one side and undone on the other side. This made it completely useless. It could not be eaten at all. It needed to be thrown out as garbage. God said the Israelites were useless to him. They needed to be thrown out with the garbage. Their sacrifices and prayers to him were not acceptable. Normally prayers and sacrifices go up to him as a sweet smell. But because of their wickedness, the Israelite’s sacrifices smelled terrible to him. They smelled just like a burning cake. Make sure you are a properly cooked cake in God’s eyes. Learn all you can about obeying him. Keep reading your Bible. And if any of this is hard …

Sunsets

Last night just before dark, I had to go outside and take care of a few chores. We’re spending a few days down at our little shack on the lake and I needed to go check on some things down at the boathouse. As I walked down toward the lake, I couldn’t help but notice the sunset. The cypress trees, full of Spanish moss, were black, silhouetted against a cyan and pink sky. I thought to myself, “If only I had a camera.” I went on to the boathouse and finished in less than five minutes. As I started to walk across the pier, I glanced by over my shoulder to look at my sunset one more time. But the sky had darkened, the colors faded, the once beautiful sunset was gone. I thought, “It was here just a minute ago, now its gone, how could it disappear so quickly?” As I walked back to the house I just couldn’t get over how quickly the sunset had vanished. Our lives are like that sunset. We are here but a short time. The Psalmist wrote, “My days [are] like a shadow that declineth; and I am withered like grass” (Psalm 102:11). Just like the setting of the sun, our lives are ever getting shorter. James described our lives as a “vapor” or puff of steam (James 4:14), full, thick, rolling and boiling with life. But no sooner does it begin to rise does it begin to evaporate. The shortness of life …

Crucial Passages: Galatians 3:28

Introduction The text for our consideration at this time was written by Paul to the churches of Galatia, where he said, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28). It is of interest to note, in the current controversy regarding the role of women in the church, that it is a growing practice to attempt to use Galatians 3:28, with particular interest given to the phrase “neither male nor female,” to override and supersede plain New Testament instruction that calls for men to be in positions of leadership in the local church and the worship assembly. The purpose of this article is two-fold: First, to examine some of the many serious abuses of Galatians 3:28 in the current controversy; Second, to consider a brief contextual study of this crucial passage, and its meaning. Some Abuses of Galatians 3:28 The idea has long persisted in sectarian circles that there are no gender distinctions that are to be recognized in Christ. The one passage that has become the sole bastion of support for this falsehood has become Galatians 3:28. It has only been in recent years that this crucial passage has gained lofty notoriety among some in churches of Christ as authorizing everything from women passing communion trays during the Lord’s Supper to serving as elders in the local congregation. The way in which Galatians 3:28 has been employed in this controversy …

None of the Above

A recent issue of the Dallas Morning News “Religion Section” revealed this interesting statistic. “For years, the fastest-growing ‘religious group’ in America has been those who regard themselves as spiritual but not religious–the so called ‘none of the aboves,’ who, if asked their religious denomination, would say they have none. These ‘nones’ have more than doubled their numbers in the last 10 years. There are now more than 30 million of them in the United States. If they were a religious denomination, they would trail only the Catholic Church (with 67 million members) in size.” For some time, many have been making a distinction between being spiritual and being religious. Religion is equated with ritual and tradition, and so many reject the term. To them it is better to be spiritual, which they claim one can be by oneself, whenever one wants and wherever one may be. In their minds, religion requires church and all that goes with it. Being spiritual requires only a state of mind, which is defined by the person, not an organization. By this definition, you can feel spiritual and it not disrupt your routine or require anything from you, other than the feeling itself, of having genuine feelings. It offers greater appeal than the commitment being part of a church does. This is a misunderstanding of what being religious is. The term used in Scripture for religion/religious speaks positively of an attitude of mind which results in genuine devotion to God. Acts of mercy, love and holiness, …

Mud Ball of Misery

Planet Earth is for many if not even most of its inhabitants a mud ball of misery, only sometimes punctuated with brief rays of diversion through fleeting amusements sometimes cleverly disguised as something bordering happiness. More simply put, for millions life is little more than a bitter pill between two eternities. Most of the world personally experiences rather than merely notes in the news about far away places the ravages of war, famine, disease, oppression and violent crime. There is no earthly hope for the victim citizens of our world, and most can hardly imagine that they will ever be secure from harm, have enough food to eat or have sufficient medical attention, shelter and clothing. Planet Earth is a mud ball of misery because of sin in the world. Sin made its debut on our planet among humans in the Garden of Eden, when disobedience to God and his inviolate Word extended hand toward the forbidden tree (Genesis 3); God changed the Edenic world into which he introduced our first parents as a consequence of their sin (Genesis 3:15-19). Next, the sin of murder nested among humanity when Cain ambushed his brother, Abel (Genesis 4). From there, humanity plunged headlong into the depths of sin so intolerable to Holy God that he destroyed all but eight souls (1 Peter 3:20), and he forever changed the world even more as a consequence of sin (Genesis 6-8). Planet Earth is a self-inflicted mud ball of misery because of the consequences of …

Between the Testaments

1) Why is it that there was a “gap” of 400 silent years? 2) Is this prophesied in the OT just like the other prophecies fulfilled in the NT? 3) What is the importance of studying this “400 Silent Years”? 4) Does it has a bearing in our spiritual belief and in our salvation? 5) Were these events during this intertestamental period have influences in the Jewish beliefs and in Christianity? 6) Did it affect the Jewish belief? Favorably or unfavorably? Yours truly, Gabriel M. Policarpio The only biblical explanation of which I am aware for there being a gap of 400 years between the ending of Old Testament prophecy and the commencement of the New Testament era is that both the ending of Old Testament prophecy and the commencement of the New Testament era with resumption of divine revelation corresponded to the divine timetable. “But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons” (Galatians 4:4-5 emphasis added). “Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you” (1 Peter 1:20). See also Ephesians 1:10 and 1 Timothy 2:6. I am not aware of Old Testament prophecy that predicts 400 years of silence between the testaments, but it is a mistaken notion that prophecy or revelation from God was constant anyway, even during …

Catholic Bible?

I was told over 30 years ago by a religious scholar that when the Bible was put together at the 395th congress of constantinople, it was controled by the rich contributors to the catholic church, so they controlled a lot of what went into the Bible. I also heard something to this effect on the radio some 15 years ago and they said the cardinals and bishops that where bought by the rich church supporters did serve the rich, but the pope of the time was the only one who stood up the the rich people controling what went into and what was left out of the Bible. I’ve searched the net many a time and I can’t get any info on this subject. can you help or direct me? Frank Kocanda jr. Perhaps the reason you have been unable to find verification of claims you cite is that they are untrue. The Bible, both testaments, were collected together long before the emergence of the Roman Catholic Church. The subject category in which you have expressed interest is called “Biblical Canonicity” or simply “Canonicity.” Some articles archived on Gospel Gazette Online pertain to biblical canonicity; two of these may be found at these URL’s. https://www.gospelgazette.com/gazette/1999/oct/page20.shtml https://www.gospelgazette.com/gazette/1999/oct/page2.shtml

Repentance for Forsaking Worship

Bro Rushmore: Please provide scriptures regarding member of church who quits & eventually comes back to church, doesn’t confess sin of neglect to congregation & resumes where he left off. My son & are having this conversation & differ on our ideas. I fell the person needs to confess neglect to congregation in some manner. thank you enjoy  your publication.  Wayne Crum 1. Sin is simply defined in Scripture as a violation of what God has stipulated or commanded in the Word of God. “Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law” (1 John 3:4). 2. Even Christians are required to acknowledge their sins and repent of them. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9). “Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee” (Acts 8:22). 3. Conceivably, one’s sin may be known only to himself and God, but usually one’s sins are known to or may involve some others, for which acknowledgement of repentance needs to be made to these others. “Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift” (Matthew 5:23-24). “Take heed to yourselves: If thy brother trespass against thee, …

The Church Is the Body of Christ

There can be no doubt that the church is the body of Christ according to the Bible. “He [God] put all things in subjection under his [Christ’s] feet, and gave him to be head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fullness of him that filleth all in all” (Ephesians 1:22-23). Paul repeats it in Colossians 1:18, “And he [Christ] is the head of the body, the church.” It is understood that Christ therefore makes the body full with his character, being and the direction of both him and God. It can be said that anything less causes a sickness in that body, and that anything more imposes unnecessary weight on that body. The head rules the body. Look at yourself. Your head rules your body. Surely it is so. Thus with the church, the Head rules the body, or Christ as Head of the church, which is his body, is ruler over it. But what of the local leaders of the church? As servants of Christ their leading echoes the directions of the Head of the church, Christ. They shepherd the church into the words and directions of Christ, keeping it in obedience to Christ, the Head of the church unto the glory and praise of God. When those leaders must make a hard decision, a ruling, it will echo and coincide with the words, directions and teachings of Christ. Those leaders are representatives of Christ, and high quality representatives will accurately reflect their leader, …

Isn’t God Lucky That He’s Got Me!

I have missed only a handful of services in my whole life,Isn’t God lucky that he’s got me!I’ve never smoked, never drank, never cheated on my wifeIsn’t God Lucky that he’s got me! I’ve studied my Bible – many verses I knowIsn’t God lucky that he’s got me!Around the world preaching I’ve been willing to goIsn’t God lucky that he’s got me! No cusswords from me have ever been heard,Isn’t God lucky that he’s got me!I am constantly lifting my prayers heavenward,Isn’t God lucky that he’s got me! No, he is not “lucky,” I’m the one blessed so muchBecause of his grace that through Jesus I find,The blood that was shed to heal my soul with its touch,I am not worthy of his love, I must keep that in mind. Oh, yes, he expects me to obey his commands,To serve him, and worship him with all of my heart,To faithfully overcome all that this life demands,And from his ways to never waver, never depart. I have to live a life before him that is pure and good,Aren’t I blessed by having him in my life!So that when life ends, with him I will have stood,Aren’t I blessed by having him in my life! No matter how good I am, how hard I labor here,I will never deserve the blessings he is offering me,I hope one day he will say, when to his throne I draw near,“Enter in faithful servant, for eternity.”

Like the Sun in Full Strength

It wasn’t a great day to be taking a walk. A dense fog permeated the air, and dampness seemed to wrap itself around me like a cold, wet blanket. My mood was as gloomy and gray as the weather as I allowed negative thoughts to take control of my mind. After a while, the sun came out, beaming warm rays on my face. As the fog lifted, I began to notice the trees, garbed in their autumn attire of rusty red, brilliant yellow and bright orange leaves. I laughed at two squirrels merrily chasing each other from tree to tree. My sour mood began to dissipate like the fog. I came home with a greater appreciation for the beauty of nature and the blessings of God. Later, as I was reading the Song of Deborah in the Book of Judges, Deborah’s final words grabbed my attention. She said in Judges 5:31, “But let those who love Him be like the sun when it comes out in full strength.” I stopped to ponder this great advice from the wise woman judge of Israel. How can we be like the sun? The sun brings people out. There is nothing like a lovely, sunny day to bring people out into the open to enjoy some fresh air and exercise. They feel better after a day out in the sunshine. Many people are trapped in a gloomy dungeon of loneliness. All they really need is someone to bring them out of their shell with …

Who Is the Lord That I Should Obey His Voice?

Who was the first person to ask this question? Pharaoh the ruler of Egypt asked Moses this question when he was told to let God’s people go. “And Pharaoh said, ‘Who is the Lord, that I should obey His voice to let Israel go? I do not know the Lord, nor will I let Israel go’” (Exodus 5:2). Pharaoh really was ignorant of who God was when he asked this question and made this defiant statement. God proceeded to give him, in the words of one of our brotherhood preachers, “a 10-lesson correspondence course” in who he was! The 10 plagues sent on Egypt told and showed Pharaoh exactly who God was! Because of the continued hardness of Pharaoh’s disobedient heart, it cost him his life and the lives of many other Egyptians. One may ask, but why did this happen to Pharaoh since the Bible says, “God hardened his heart?” God’s Word must be rightly divided and spiritually discerned before biblical understanding is possible. Every time God would send a plague, Pharaoh said he would let the people go and each time the plague was removed, he refused. All of the Egyptians were not hardened. Pharaoh’s servants saw the “handwriting on the wall.” They said, “How long shall this man be a snare to us? Let the men go, that they may serve the Lord their God. Do you not yet know that Egypt is destroyed?” (Exodus 10:7). When we read and understand the entire account of the children …

Why Baptism Is Immersion

From the 2nd century after Christ there has been a great deal of discussion on the subject of baptism. Various debates took place down through the ages, regarding whether or not the action of baptism could be changed, and finally that body that we today know as the Roman Catholic Church substituted the use of sprinkling and pouring water, which they first referred to as “clinical baptism,” which was administered to dying people who were too ill to be taken to a baptistry or stream to be immersed into Christ. Several months ago this student was called upon to baptize a dying man in the therapy pool of a local Catholic medical center. When the penitent believer came up out of the water, a young man who was Catholic said, “That is the most awesome thing I have ever seen in my life.” A nun, a chaplain in the same medical center replied, “That is the way it was always done in the apostolic church.” The young man replied, “Why was it ever changed?” With a slight shrug of her shoulders the nun replied, “The church believes she has the right to make such changes.” Anecdotal evidence, so say logicians, is not evidence. Yet this anecdote shows clearly that there are those in 21century America who are perfectly aware that what they call the “mode” of baptism has been changed since the days of the apostles of Christ. With the coming of the great Reformation came other long and detailed …

I Am With You Always

As we read the Great Commission in Matthew 28:18-20, it is our conviction that few of us get the impact of what Jesus said as the apostles did. There are at least two things in the construction of the original language that need our attention, in addition to some other lessons we may get. First, in verse 20 when the KJV says, “I am with you,” the original text has “egoo meth humon eimi.” Since “eimi” means “I am” if all Jesus meant was simply “I am with you,” he would not have used the expression he used. But when “egoo eimi” is used, it means something like this, “I, myself, the One who has all authority in heaven and on earth, the Savior who died for you and rose again and who is alive forevermore, even I am with you.” Second, we may note that he will be with them, but he uses the expression, “I am.” This is the same expression he used in John 8:58 where he says, “Before Abraham was I am.” This is the expression God used in Exodus 3:14 when he told Moses to tell Pharaoh who sent him. The Jews understood this expression for what it implied, and therefore accused Jesus of blasphemy. But to the apostles and to us, it should mean that the One who was in the beginning with God, who made us and died for us, plans to be constantly with us provided we meet the conditions he mentioned. …

Selecting Ripe Cantaloupe

During the hot summer months of the year, my family enjoys eating what we call a “cold plate” for dinner. Practically everything on the table comes from the garden and nothing is cooked–it’s all fresh produce. There’s no hot stove to endure, just delicious garden fruit and vegetables. One of our favorite table items is chilled cantaloupe. Unfortunately, until recently we’ve not had much success with selecting them. Inevitably, the melons we’ve bought from the grocery have been green, generally tasteless and too hard for consumption. Too many times, our family has anticipated eating a nice, ripe, juicy cantaloupe–only to be disappointed from the very first bite. And if we’ve brought a good one home, it’s been by shear accident. I called my father in Tennessee one afternoon to see if he had any insight on buying good cantaloupes. Having spent a considerable amount of time in his own garden through the years, he offered me a few suggestions that I have found especially helpful. Dad said there are certain “indicators” to look for when purchasing ripe melons. They include: 1. Color–What color is it? Avoid green-skinned melons; look for orange, brown or tan skin. 2. Firmness–Is the melon hard like a bowling ball, or can you squeeze it to certain degree? Is the consistency of the fruit over hard, or is there a certain “pliability”? Is it soft at the stem end of the melon? 3. Smell–This is one of the best signs. Is there the aroma of fresh …

They Lost Their Way

In the news recently is a brief report about two adults who became lost over the weekend in the rugged mountains of North Carolina. The couple from Miami, FL had planned to hike only a couple of miles from the parking lot to a waterfall where they had planned to have a picnic. As they went on their way, however, they lost the trail and became confused about their direction. They were lost for three nights before they finally came to the Blue Ridge Parkway where they were able to flag down help. How frightening the experience must have been not only for them, but for the friends and family who did not know what their fate would be. The couple may be embarrassed about it all, but they are not alone because we all have experienced the anxiety of having lost our way. It is quite an uneasy feeling that hangs over us as a threatening cloud when we don’t know which way to turn or whether we’ll even be able to survive. Many of us are uncomfortable with death, but there is also the distressing state experienced by the realization that spiritual death has occurred when we have wondered away from God like the prodigal of Luke 15:11ff. The prophet writes, “All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all” (Isaiah 53:6). Through the grace of God, we may …

Almost Thou Persuadest Me

“King Agrippa, Believest thou the prophets? I know that thou believest. Then Agrippa said to Paul; ‘Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian’” (Acts 26:27-28). The apostle Paul is an example to all Christians in his dedication to preach the Gospel of Christ to every person. He felt indebted to the human race because he possessed the knowledge of the truth and was ready always to preach the good news of salvation (Romans 1:14-16). He proclaimed that Gospel as a free man, and according to the context of this passage, as a prisoner for the sake of the Lord. Thus, before King Agrippa, he expounded the glad tidings that Jesus was the fulfillment of the Old Testament (Acts 26:22-23). Paul’s sermon was so convincing that Agrippa exclaimed, “Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.” Let us now observe some of the pertinent messages contained in this statement of the king. “ALMOST” Paul, in asking Agrippa if he believed the prophets (concerning Jesus), mentioned that he knew that he believed. Yet, Agrippa was not a Christian. A believer has the right to become a child of God, but faith alone does not save a person (John 1:11-12; James 2:24, 26). Almost is not all the way. Here you have a believer who was not yet a Christian. “Almost cannot avail; almost is but to fail: Sad, sad, the bitter wail, almost, but lost.” “THOU” Agrippa said, “Almost thou…” that is to say, he was addressing the apostle Paul, the preacher. This …

A Four-Fold Lesson

Dorothy Steury of Calvert City, KY has divided 2 Corinthians 2:14 into four parts for her ladies’ Bible class: “But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and manifests through us the sweet aroma of his knowledge everywhere.” 1. “Thanks be to God.” From ancient times people have been taught to “give thanks to the Lord, because his lovingkindness is everlasting” (1 Chronicles 16:41), and “give thanks to his holy name” (Psalm 30:4), and “At midnight I will arise to thank you because of your righteous ordinances” (Psalm 119:62) and “in everything give thanks, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:18). 2. “God leads us.” He does if we want to be led, if we are of those who respond to Jesus’ invitation: “Come unto me, all you that labor and are heavily laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). The principle is: “Whosoever will, let him take the water of life” (Revelation 22:17). On the other hand, the devil wants to leads us! Demas was led by the Lord when Colossians 4:14 and Philemon 24 were written (62 A.D.), but five years later, he had let the devil lead him, as Paul wrote in 67 A.D.: “Demas, having loved this present world, has deserted me” (2 Timothy 4:10). But a woman like Mary Magdalene, how beautiful a life, being led by her Lord; she was among the last ones at the cross (John 19:25), and actually …

The Epistle of Christ

Pick up your Bible and open to the inside cover. Look to the “New Testament” books. Do you see, “The Epistle of Christ?” Neither do we. We see, “The Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Philippians, Ephesians, Colossians, Thessalonians,” etc., but no “Epistle of Christ.” Interesting, considering one of the inspired, New Testament writers (Paul) said it existed! Turn now to Second Corinthians, Chapter Three: “You are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read by all men; clearly you are an epistle of Christ, ministered by us, written not with ink but by the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of flesh, that is, of the heart” (vv.2-3 NKJV). Christians, did you know you were writing an epistle? Did you know you tell the story of Christ each day? Did you know someone is reading this final declaration of God through your life? Yes, the written revelation of God is complete, but Paul said this was an epistle, “written not with ink but by the Spirit of the living God on tablets of the heart.” Jesus said our lives should be read and comprehended as evidence for the truthfulness of Christianity: “By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35 NKJV). What does your epistle say? Can we read it? Would you be glad to have the Lord read it? Think about it!

Water to Wine Crossword Puzzle

(Crossword Puzzle is Internet Interactive; do the puzzle online.) You need Java enabled to view the crossword applet. Solution

Horses Cannot Run on Rocks

In Amos 6:12, we read, “Shall horses run upon the rocks? will one plow there with oxen? for ye have turned judgment into gall, and the fruit of righteousness into hemlock.” At the time of Amos, most horses were not given metal shoes like they are today. The wealthy person might put gold ones on his horse, and some armies put leather shoes on their horses. These went over the entire hoof like shoes that we wear. But leather and gold are soft. They were more for show than they were for protection. The horse has a very soft spot in the center of his foot. If the horse attempts to run on rocks, he will bruise this soft tissue. This tissue is very sensitive. When it is bruised the horse has a very difficult time walking. Therefore, people at the time of Amos did not run their horses on very rocky ground. God says that the Israelites are like the horse on rocky ground. They have worshipped idols. They have broken many of God’s commandments. They have become very immoral. And yet, they still want to believe that they are God’s people and that nothing bad will happen to them. But all of their sins are like the rocky ground. They cannot live (run) on these rocks without harming themselves. And God will hold them accountable for putting themselves in this situation. I know you want to obey God. Read your Bible. Learn all you can. Do not be …

Beautiful and Glorious Branch

Isaiah Chapter Four is a description of the church. Isaiah was prophesying hundreds of years before the church was established. In verse two, we read, “In that day shall the branch of the Lord be beautiful and glorious and the fruit of the earth shall be excellent and comely for them that are escaped of Israel.” “Them that are escaped” references Christians. Christians are freed from sin by Jesus. They escape the slavery of sin. The word “beautiful” is a word that means glorious or beautiful. The word “glorious” comes from a word that means heavy. So, Christians are to be glorious/beautiful and heavy. But what does heavy mean in this context? Heavy can mean important. Or it can mean full. In Isaiah 5:2, we read that God parallels his people to a vineyard. A vineyard is planted to produce lots of fruit. In Chapter Four, the church is seen as the branch of the Lord. So, for the branch to be heavy would mean that it is full of fruit. God’s people should be beautiful and fruitful. Are you spiritually beautiful and fruitful? Do you speak and act as God wants you to act? Do you teach others about Jesus? Do other people see you as different from the world? Do other people want to be like you because they see Jesus in your life? Study God’s Word. Obey what he wants you to do. Be a beautiful and glorious branch, and if any of this is hard to …

Great Things from Small Things

In the summer of 2001, we moved to a new area, and once we had found a place to live, we began looking for a place to worship. Choices were few. But believe it or not we found a church home in only the second week. So, what does one look for when looking for a new church home? Of course, one must take into consideration that the new congregation will stand for the truth on important doctrinal matters, that goes without saying. But what characteristics other than a solid doctrinal backbone do we look for when searching for a new church home? Where we come from, there seems to be a church of Christ on every corner. Within a twenty mile radius you may find as many as ten congregations. Some of these churches are less than five miles apart. Kinda’ makes you wonder about just how unified the church really is, huh? At any rate, there’s no problem in finding a church to suit your needs, whether it be social, financial, spiritual or for whatever reason folks go to church. But what if you only had two choices? Say choice one was a church of some size, between 200 and 500 folks or maybe even bigger. They support a fulltime minister and a fulltime assistant minister or youth director. They publish a weekly paper that helps spread the Gospel to the surrounding community. Just maybe they produce a weekly radio or television broadcast. This church supports and helps …

Will You Be Left Behind?

(What About the Rapture?) The latest premillennial sensation to hit the religious scene is the Left Behind series of best selling books written by Tim LaHaye and Jerry B. Jenkins. The initial volume Left Behind has spawned other premillennial themes, such as Tribulation Force, Nicolae, Soul Harvest, Apollyon, Assassins, The Indwelling and The Mark. Each new book has avid readers anxiously awaiting the next one in the series. There is also Left Behind: The Kids so that children ages 10-14 might be thoroughly indoctrinated in premillennial sensationalism. The Left Behind movie came out in October 1999. The Left Behind book and movie cover the basic Rapture doctrine. It is the fictional story of Rayford Steele, his daughter Chloe, Buck Williams and Bruce Barnes as they try to make sense of the strange disappearance of thousands of people around the world. The rest of the Rapture story is that while these select souls are taken to be with the Lord during the Rapture period, there will be a seven-year tribulation on earth unlike anything ever seen before. The seven-year tribulation is to be consummated by the horrific battle of Armageddon. Then, Jesus Christ is to set up his kingdom on earth for one thousand years. The entire Rapture scenario is as fictional as anything you will read in novels, but those who believe it claim that it is taught in the Bible. As we shall see, such is far from being the case. The Rapture is a very popular aspect of what is called Dispensational Premillennialism. John Nelson Darby (1800-1882), a former Anglican priest, brought this brand …

Bible Repentance

Introduction Before we can study repentance, we must first understand all repentance entails. Webster uses the three following definitions when defining “repentance:” (1) “to feel sorry or self-reproachful for what one has done or failed to do,” (2) to feel such regret or dissatisfaction over some past action, intent, etc. as to change one’s mind about,” (3) “to feel so contrite over ones sins as to change, or decide to change, one’s ways; be penitent.” While all three of these definitions are somewhat accurate, a combination of the last two gives the most complete definition, as it demands a change of mind and a change of action. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of Biblical Words states the term “signifies ‘to change one’s mind or purpose’” and, in the New Testament, always involves “a change for the better.” Further, “this change of mind involves both a turning from sin and a turning to God” (Vine’s). Bible Examples Turn to Luke 19:1-10. As we recall the account, Zacchaeus was a tax collector. Tax collectors were known for cheating people in order to receive great riches (Nelson’s). As long as the Roman government received its share of the taxes, the collectors could take anything they wanted for themselves, even if it was not part of the tax. For this reason, tax collectors were greatly disliked by the people and considered equal with sinners. Notice also that Zacchaeus was a “chief among the publicans.” Most likely, this meant he had other publicans working for him, from which he …

Ask for the Old Paths

God has always desired to save mankind from his sins, but impenitent mankind has always resisted God’s grace and mercy. Since God continues to offer salvation to humanity, the only reason that souls remain lost is because of human refusal to accept salvation on God’s terms. Jeremiah 6:16 is one of those standout verses of Scripture, and especially worthy of our exposition and special attention. “Saith” can be variously translated, including with the words “charge,” “command,” “demand” and “require.” God through the prophet Jeremiah charged, commanded, demanded and required the nation of Judah to abide in his divine instructions. The phrase “thus saith the Lord” appears 414 times in the Old Testament, and numerous other times among the 1262 times “saith” appears in both testaments of the Bible it refers to communication from God to man. In addition, God obviously addressed mankind with his divine instruction with the use of other words and phrases (e.g., “the word of the LORD came,” Genesis 15:1; 2 Samuel 7:4 [phrase appears 92 times in the Old Testament]). The apostle Peter summarized how mankind became aware of God’s divine instructions (2 Peter 1:20-21). “The LORD” comes from the Hebrew word “Yehovah (yeh-ho-vaw’),” which means “(the) self-Existent or Eternal; Jehovah, Jewish national name of God” (Biblesoft’s). There are 5,000 instances in the Old Testament of the King James Version where the capitalized “LORD” appears indicating it means “Jehovah.” “The divine name YHWH appears only in the Bible. …God chose it as His personal name by which He …

What Do Christians Believe?

What do Christians believe about suffering? and What do Christians believe about God? ~ Jayde Christians are supposed to believe what God through the Bible has instructed mankind. Though the questions are too broad, basic answers can be provided without too much difficulty. Suffering first made its entrance into this previously Edenic world as a consequence of sin. Following the sin of Adam and Eve, God punished the first pair and parents of the human race by introducing suffering as a consequence to human rebellion and sin. God introduced labor pain to birth in Genesis 3:16, and he introduced laborious effort to grow crops, that from then to the present must compete with thorns and thistles (Genesis 3:17-19). Also, physical death (as well as spiritual death or separation from God) came upon humanity as a direct result of the sin of Adam and Eve (Genesis 3:19). Though the rest of humanity does not bear the guilt of the sin of Adam and Eve (Ezekiel 18:10), all of humanity nevertheless experiences the consequences of sin by the first pair. This is not the same world that initially greeted Adam and Eve before they sinned. Furthermore, God made additional changes to this world, most notably during the universal flood of Noah’s day (Genesis 6-8). Suffering is an ever present reminder of the imperfect world in which we live, imperfect because of not only the sin of Adam and Eve, but the sins of the rest of humanity (Romans 3:10, 23). Though suffering often is not the direct …

Ownership

So who owns the church? One can hear the phrases “my church” or “our church” and these are good when they indicate a church at a particular location to which that person or persons are members. If the phrases indicate actual ownership, as in “it is mine,” then those persons are wrong. First then, who is the church? It is Christ and the members of the church, you and me, on earth. Though God owns everything on earth, the building is not the church, and the building might be considered the only thing about the church that its leaders and members can consider as owning. Even that is questionable since it is likely that the church treasury, Christ’s money, bought the building. Then it is more his than that of the members.  Christians make up the church on earth. Christians do not own each other but God and Christ do. Christ owns us and is the ruler of Christians. He bought and paid for us on the cross. Christians are his. His church is his body (Ephesians 1:20-23), Paul telling us, “Which he (God) wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: and hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head …