Historical Posts
Faith and Knowledge
Faith is an essential element in our response to God.
“But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him” (Hebrews 11:6). As defined in Scripture, it is “…the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1). Living faith is the operative agent in man’s obedience to God. It leads to action. Faith and works are inseparably linked. One is ineffective without the other (James 2:14-26).
Given the importance placed on faith in Scripture, it is imperative that we understand the its meaning.
Some see it as the proverbial “blind leap into the dark,” a crutch for weak individuals. But nothing could be further from the truth.
Superstitions result from ignorance and fear of the unknown. They are maintained despite evidence to the contrary. They are unsupported by facts. They originate in ignorance. Faith is often incorrectly associated with superstition. In fact, one of the definitions provided in Merriam Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary for faith is “firm belief in something for which there is no proof.” I suspect that to be the definition many people attach to “faith” in Jesus Christ as the Son of God. Nothing, however, could be further from the truth.
Faith, as used in Scripture, is not belief without proof, but belief based on evidence.
Peter admonished Christians to provide reasons for their faith, because it is reasonable (1 Peter 3:15). Our faith in Creation, in the Bible, in Jesus Christ, in the resurrection, in eternal life rests on a solid foundation of evidence.
Given what we know about the universe, faith in God is far easier to sustain than a belief in the Big Bang, or any other evolutionary hypothesis. The same can be said for our belief in the Bible as the word of God, and our faith in Jesus Christ as the Son of God.
I have no doubt that faith will always be under assault by non-believers, but I also know that it has nothing to fear from truth. As our knowledge increases, our faith will grow proportionately. “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17).
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Chasing The Wind
Does life have meaning? Can we find hope and happiness? Are we just chasing the wind?
The book of Ecclesiastes is one of the most interesting in the Old Testament.
Some think it offers a somewhat skeptical and pessimistic view of life, but, in fact, it gives a poignant refutation of materialism.
“Meaningless! Meaningless!” says the Teacher. “Utterly meaningless! Everything is meaningless” (Ecclesiastes 1:2). Wealth, wisdom, power, pleasure and fame are all fleeting. Solomon, generally thought to be the author, observed: “I denied myself nothing my eyes desired; I refused my heart no pleasure. My heart took delight in all my work, and this was the reward for all my labor. Yet when I surveyed all that my hands had done and what I had toiled to achieve, everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind; nothing was gained under the sun” (Ecclesiastes 2:10-11).
Ecclesiastes offers the attitude of one looking at life from a purely materialistic point of view.
It portrays the hopelessness of those who trust in wealth, power, pleasure and knowledge. They are chasing the wind. Experience teaches that rich or poor, wise or foolish, great or small, all must die. That being true, Solomon lamented: “So I hated life, because the work that is done under the sun was grievous to me. All of it is meaningless, a chasing after the wind. I hated all the things I had toiled for under the sun, because I must leave them to the one who comes after me. And who knows whether he will be a wise man or a fool? Yet he will have control over all the work into which I have poured my effort and skill under the sun. This too is meaningless” (Ecclesiastes 2:17-18).
Maybe you’ve felt the same sense of futility the author of Ecclesiastes experienced.
If you have, don’t despair! There is hope. Having tried it all, Solomon concluded that man’s whole duty was “to fear God and keep his commandments” (Ecclesiastes 12:13). Wisdom, knowledge and happiness come to those who put Him first, but to those who don’t life remains meaningless, an exercise of chasing the wind (Ecclesiastes 2:25-26). A man may chase the wind, but he will never capture it.
Is there meaning to life? Is there hope? Can man find happiness?
Yes! But not in material pursuits! There is no lasting satisfaction or joy in a life apart from God. The struggle is futile until He comes into the picture. You may be rich, powerful and famous, but if you leave God out of your life it will all have been for nothing. You will have spent your life chasing the wind!
Would you like to experience the joy and peace of being in Christ?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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2014 Campaign Reflection
Door Knocking Campaign Distributes Many Fliers
Wow! What an awesome week we have enjoyed together! A special thank you goes out to the campaigners from Wood Avenue Church of Christ in Florence, Alabama who joined us in the work. There were over 2,000 doors knocked on, and many fliers and Heart to Heart publications handed out in the area around the church building. Sonshine Family Camp was a great success, and the gospel meeting was well attended by both the hosting congregation and visitors in the area. Members of this congregation are to be commended for assisting with the planning and participation of the many areas of service.
Give Thanks for the Door Knocking Campaign Effort
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).” No doubt Paul’s joyful words summarize how we all feel about the Wood Avenue mission trip that has just been completed. We rejoice with all of them in their diligent efforts to spread the gospel; we pray that much fruit will be produced, and we are very thankful to everyone who had a part.
After the Door Knocking Campaign Ends
Now that the door knocking campaign has come to an end and the Wood Avenue campaigners have returned to their home in Alabama, what are we going to do here at our home? We must continue the work with with vigor and zeal! There will be contacts to follow up with, and we must continue to spread the gospel throughout the world (Mark 16:15-16). Wood Avenue campaign workers will rejoice with us, pray for our efforts, and be thankful that they had the opportunity to come and work with us. If it is the Lord’s will, we may do something like this again in the future.
Content by Richard Dillon
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Three Facts About The Church
People need the facts to make an informed decision!
More and more, I am discovering that folks know less and less about the church. They are ignorant of the facts of what the church is, what the church does, and where the church is going. Perhaps we can offer some insights into these areas.
Fact One: The church is not brick and mortar.
The church may have a meeting house, but to refer to that meeting house as the church leaves a false impression. The church is alive. Peter said that it was a “spiritual house” made up of “living stones” (1 Peter 2:4-5). The people are the church. The church is God’s spiritual family.
Fact Two: The business of the church is that of perpetuating the message of Jesus Christ.
Jesus commanded His disciples to “go into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15). It was not our Lord’s desire to have His name carved in marble, but to have his message imprinted upon the hearts of men. He did not desire that ornate cathedrals be built in His honor, or great wealth be amassed in His name. He asked only that His message of hope and salvation be shared with every man. That was, and still is, the mission of His church.
Fact Three: Our Lord did not expect His disciples to remain on this earth forever.
He, and those who followed Him, offered a solemn warning concerning the fate of this world. It will not stand forever, but the church will. It is an eternal kingdom (Hebrews 12:28). Someday “the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up” (2 Peter 3:10), but the church will know no end (John 14:1-3).
Now that you know the facts, are you a part of Christ’s church? Have you been baptized into Christ? Make a decision based on the facts.
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Fact or Fiction?
Is evolution fact or fiction?
A response to an article in TIME (April 8, 1996) included the following: “Creationists would have us believe the ‘theory’ of evolution is questionable. In fact, evolution is as incontrovertible as the orbiting of the earth around the sun. A vast majority of educated people agree that evolution and heliocentrism are correct, although both contradict a literal interpretation of the Old Testament.”
A lot of people will read a statement like that and never question it, but I am not one of them. This article presents evolution as fact, but is evolution fact or fiction? The fact that a lot of educated people believe something in no way makes that thing right. Further, there is nothing in the Old Testament which would suggest that heliocentrism (the earth orbiting the sun) is incorrect. We speak of the sun rising every morning and setting every evening, but we are not denying heliocentrism when we use such expressions. The Bible is not a science book, but when it addresses scientific issues, it is remarkably accurate. Isaiah wrote of the rotundity of the earth long before Columbus sailed to the New World (Isaiah 40:22). Job eluded to gravity centuries before the concept because a scientific fact (Job 26:7).
Further, if evolution is an established fact, where is the proof? Fact or Fiction?
- There is no proof of evolution, only assertions!
- Is there any evidence that life came from non-life?
- Is there any evidence that monkeys became men?
Evolution literally means change. Within nature there is room for a lot of change. There are many different kinds of dogs. They come in all shapes and sizes. But, no dog every changed (evolved) into a cat. No fish every changed (evolved) into a bird. And, no monkey ever became a man. If they did, where is the proof? By that, I mean real evidence, not merely an artist’s conception!
It takes a whole lot more faith to believe in evolution than it does to believe in creation. The complexity and design in our universe demands a designer (Psalm 19:1-3;139:14). Our existence demands an explanation. “Every house is built by someone, but the builder of all things is God” (Hebrews 3:4).
Fact or fiction? Evolution is not a viable explanation for origin, a fact, no matter how many educated people argue to the contrary. It remains just an unproven theory, a fiction, with no evidence. “In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth” (Genesis 1:1). That’s not fiction, but fact!
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Expecting the Unexpected
What are you expecting?
Over the years my family and I have learned we should be expecting the unexpected. Many a family outing, vacation, or dinner out has been interrupted by some development we were not expecting. It may be a death, an accident, or something else, but in spite of our best laid plans, something invariably goes awry.
James, the brother of our Lord, addressed this matter when he wrote: “Now listen, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.’ Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes” (James 4:13-14).
We really don’t know what tomorrow holds.
That is not to say, however, that we should not look beyond today. Every farmer plants in spring with an eye to fall. It is not only all right to look to the future expecting a result, but it’s essential. James, however, did go on to advise his readers to preface their plans with the acknowledgment that all is subject to the Lord’s will (James 4:15). What you are expecting may not happen. The unexpected could come up.
Why do we need to look to the future?
As parents, we need to plan for our children’s education. As fathers, we need to plan for our families in case of our untimely death. We need to plan for retirement. At some point in our lives our bodies will no longer function to the extent that we can continue to work and support ourselves. We should be expecting this. We would like to retire while we can still enjoy retirement. That requires planning. The fact is, no one plans to fail, but far too many fail to plan. And, as a result, their dreams don’t come true.
But, the most important planning we do is for eternity.
Yet, this is the area folks seem to put off longest. In fact, many never get around to it at all. They treat the subject as if it has to be unexpected. I don’t intend to make that mistake. Jesus offers a plan for life that will prepare us for eternity, so that we can know what we should be expecting. To the best of my ability, I intend to follow his plan. Do you? When life is over, and it can end for us at any time, it will be too late.
If you are going to follow Jesus, the time to start is now.
Tomorrow may be too late! What are you expecting based on the plans you have put into action?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Freedom in Christ
Only freedom in Christ can break the binding shackles of sin.
Over 200 years ago, the United States of America gained its independence from Great Britain. July 4th marks the celebration of this freedom in America. On July 4, 1776 the Continental Congress passed a resolution authorizing a committee to devise a seal for the United States of America; it would become a reality June 20, 1782. This seal contains three colors that also appear on the American flag, and share the same meaning: white for purity and innocence; red for hardiness and valour; blue for vigilance, perseverance, and justice. These characteristics describe those who sacrificed their lives for our country – their ideal of a country of freedom.
Just as many gave their lives for the freedom of the United States of America, one Man died for all men to give them freedom from sin: Jesus Christ! He said, “Therefore, if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed (John 8:36).” Paul explained to the Romans that we have been set free from sin (Romans 6:18, 22), that there is freedom in Christ. He later wrote to the Galatians, “Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage… (Galatians 5:1). For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another (Galatians 5:13).”
As the American flag reminds us of the sacrifices many gave for us, there is a symbol that reminds us of the sacrifice required to obtain that freedom in Christ: the cross. Every first day of the week we formally observe Christ’s sacrifice by partaking of the Lord’s Supper (Acts 2:4; 20:7).
The three colors of the flag might also represent a lot to a Christian! A Christian is pure in the sight of God, by having his sins washed away. He overcomes the temptations and troubles of this world and will receive a white garment (Revelation 3:4-5). Red is the color of blood that Jesus shed on the cross for our sins (John 19:34). Blue is the color of water, as one is baptized into Christ to have his sins washed away (Galatians 3:27; Romans 6:3-7).
Have you accepted the freedom from sin Jesus offers through His sacrifice? Are you living now in the freedom of Christ?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
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Let Freedom Ring
Let freedom ring. Freedom in our country and, even more importantly, freedom in Christ, freedom from sin.
On July 4th this nation again celebrated Independence Day. I am grateful for the holiday and what it represents. I have difficulty imagining what it would be like to grow up in any other environment. It is the longing of the human heart to be free.
But, there is a freedom even more precious than that we know as citizens of the United States, where we let freedom ring in our physical world. It is the spiritual freedom we find in Jesus Christ. He said, “You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:32).
Apart from Christ, all men are enslaved to sin. Sin is the great burden of a man’s heart. We are helpless to remove it. We are condemned by it. Its consequences are both immediate and eternal. Paul cried out, “Wretched man that I am! Who will set me free from the body of this death?” (Romans 7:24). And then he proclaimed, “Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Romans 7:25).
On the Lord’s Day Christians gather around the world to remember His sacrifice and the freedom it made possible – freedom from the condemnation of sin. “There is therefore no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death” (Romans 8:1-2). It is ony through Jesus that we can let freedom ring spiritually, freedom from sin.
The cost of freedom is never cheap. The blood of many a native son has been shed to provide and maintain our freedom. To secure our deliverance from sin required an even greater sacrifice – the blood of God’s own Son.
On the 4th we let freedom ring loudly. As the bells of freedom ring throughout our land in celebration of Independence Day, let them also remind us of the greater freedom we have through Christ.
The freedom we enjoy as citizens is ours by birth. The freedom we have in Christ is ours by choice. It is truth, believed and acted upon, which secures for us the freedom Christ provides. Have you let freedom ring spiritually? Have you been set free from the bondage of sin? Do you believe that Jesus Christ was the Son of God? Have you repented of your sins? Will you confess His blessed name? Will you be born again (baptized)?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Faithful Witness
A faithful witness tells things as they are. a faithful witness tells the truth, no matter what.
When a person is accused of a crime he did not commit, he needs a lot of help to be acquitted. He needs a faithful witness. His true friends will always tell the truth, even in adversity, even when it may seem to damage the reputation of the accused. By telling the truth, the puzzle should come together and the accused may be set free. Thus the accused will realize what true friends he has.
Jesus was accused and put on trial. He did not see a faithful witness. Many told lies about Him, including His own apostles! However, Jesus remained faithful and obedient to the point of death (Philippians 2:8). Jesus died, was buried, and rose again so that we might obtain Heaven.
The wise man wrote, “A faithful witness does not lie, but a false witness will utter lies (Proverbs 14:5).” Jesus Christ is our faithful witness (Revelation 1:5). He does not lie (John 14:6)! As He was in the beginning with God and was God (John 1:1-2), He could tell us the things from His Heavenly Father. The Word of God is a true and faithful witness to show us the way to Heaven (John 17:17).
Jesus told the church at Laodicea, “These things says the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God (Revelation 3:14)…” What things does He wish to tell us? He tells us what we need to know in order to get to Heaven! He was there, and wants us to go there too! He is a true and faithful witness. Are we going to be a true and faithful witness of and for Him as we live our lives before the world?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
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Planning for the Vacation of a Lifetime
School is out. Summer is upon us. Vacation time is here.
If a vacation is in your future, you need to be aware of how much effort will be required to get ready. Plans, preparations, and reservations often must be made months in advance. Going on vacation is hard work.
If you are still interested, I know the ideal spot. The weather is perfect for a vacation. It never rains, yet the meadows are green. Flowers perfume the air. Trees line the banks of a river which runs clear and unpolluted. There are no insects with which to contend. You will not be stuck in long lines. It is not crowded. There is no crime. And yes, I almost forgot, once you get there it will not be necessary to spend another dime. Everything is free.
If you are still with me, you’re probably thinking, “Yea, right! There’s no such vacation place. If there was, everyone would want to go there. People would do whatever it takes to have the vacation of a lifetime.” You would, and so would I!
Well, it’s not a fairy tale. There is such a place, though it is not really a vacation location. The Bible calls it heaven. It’s everything I have described, and so much more.
For those who make heaven their final destination, “God will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain” (Revelation 21:4). “The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is the lamp” (Revelation 21:23). “Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful” (Revelation 21:27). “The river of the water of life, as clear as crystal” flows through the midst of the city. Trees line the banks. The leaves are for the healing of the nations (Revelation 22:1-2). John is describing the indescribable. Heaven is more than our finite minds can comprehend, and it can be ours.
It takes a lifetime of preparation, but the reward is worth the effort. Are you preparing for the vacation of a lifetime? Jesus died to make it possible.
- Do you believe that He is the Son of God (John 8:24)?
- Are you willing to repent of your sins (Luke 3:2)?
- Will you be baptized for the remission of your sins (Acts 2:38)?
- Will you serve Him faithfully (1 Corinthians 15:58)?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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God Gives the Increase
God gives the increase when we do our part.
Last week was a wonderful, if tiring, week at Fort Hill camp and I was happy to be able to participate. There were 111 campers, 50 staff members, and 8 cooks. All the workers had one common purpose: share the good news of Jesus Christ with the campers.
Every day included morning devotionals, Bible classes, songs, prayers, scripture readings, evening assemblies, fire circle devotionals, and evening cabin devotionals. The opportunities to feed on the Word that God gives were abundant.
As the week unfolded and progressed, some of the campers themselves participated as well. In fact, many took part in the above activities. Then, as a result of the planting and watering of God’s Word, some began to probe and ask questions regarding the lessons, showing they were serious about learning of God and His love for us. By the end of the week, there were six baptisms (including two in my Bible class) and six restorations, once again showing how God gives the increase to the church. No doubt many may have heard the truth before coming to camp, and yet there were some who began to hear the gospel preached there for the very first time.
Paul seems to describe this week: “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase (1 Corinthians 3:6).” We planted many seeds this week; we watered many seeds this week. Some seeds may even yet be waiting to sprout. If we do our part, God certainly will do His. God gives the increase! Have you responded to the love God shows us in the sacrifice of Jesus for our sins? Can he count you in that increase?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
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Beware of Things
Beware of things and coveting them.
“And he said unto them, take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth” (Luke 12:15).
The story is sometimes told of a country boy who was invited by a very wealthy uncle to visit New York City. It was the first time the young man had ever been away from his home in the hills and he was filled with wonder. He spent his first day window shopping on Fifth Avenue. That evening his uncle asked him what he thought of the ’Big Apple.’ The boy hesitated a moment and then said, “Well, uncle, I never saw so many things in all my life that I could so easily do without!”
Has it ever occurred to you that much of what you want you don’t really need? This week’s necessity is destined for next week’s garage sale. Things just don’t satisfy. Beware of things owning you instead of you owning them.
The Bible offers some sobering thoughts regarding the things that are really important. Jesus asked, “…what is a man profited if he gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a Man give in exchange for his soul” (Matthew 16:26). Paul wrote, “But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world and it is certain we can carry nothing out” (1 Timothy 6:6-7). The important question is not, “How much do we have?, but, “How do we use what we have?”
I do not mean to suggest that there is anything inherently wrong in having things. I do, however, want us to remember and beware of things that can never make us truly happy.
Our most urgent need is still to know and obey Jesus Christ. All the things in the world cannot compensate for our failure to do so come Judgment Day. Have you learned of Him and responded to His love for you?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Fellow Workers for the Truth
We can be fellow workers for the truth, even in different places.
Today I am sad that I am not with you there at Gahanna-Jefferson, but I am glad to be working here at Fort Hill. Soon the campground will be full of staff, counselors, and campers. There will be a few familiar faces, but a lot of new ones as well. Regardless of where we are, we are all working for a common cause.
3 John 5-8: “Beloved, you do faithfully whatever you do for the brethren and for strangers, who have borne witness of your love before the church. If you send them forward on their journey in a manner worthy of God, you will do well, because they went forth for His name’s sake, taking nothing from the Gentiles. We therefore ought to receive such, that we may become fellow workers for the truth.”
Very soon the campers will begin to arrive, and it will be up to me and the workers here to demonstrate the love of God to them. Hopefully by the end of the week, they will have learned a lot about God and will want to learn even more. When it comes time for them to go home, we hope to send them on their journey in a manner worthy of God.
You can do the same at Gahanna-Jefferson! Welcome fellow members and visitors. Show them the love of God during your time of Bible study and worship together. When it is time to go home, send them on their journey in a manner worthy of God.
We may be in different places today, but we are “fellow workers for the truth.” Lord willing, I will see you next Sunday.
Content by Richard Dillon
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Money Is Not The Answer!
Can money fix everything? No. Money is not the answer.
For a long time this nation has operated upon the false premise that more money can fix about anything. But, does the evidence substantiate the claim? Absolutely not! Billions and billions of dollars have been poured into programs to help the poor, but people are still living in squalor and struggling to make ends meet. Billions more have been spent on education, yet we continue to hear disparaging news about our educational system and the lack of a properly educated work force in this country.
Nearly every week some new national crisis is declared, and demands for billions to fix it may be heard. Obviously, a certain amount of money is necessary to feed the hungry, house the needy, and educate the children of this nation. But, there comes a time when more money is not the answer. All the money in the world cannot educate children who are unwilling to learn. No matter how much money we spend, we cannot lift anyone out of poverty who is unwilling to help himself.
In most cases, what is needed is not more money, but more determination, more ambition, more resolve to do better. People need a hand up more than a hand out! What is needed is more self-reliance, more hard work, more commitment to succeed. People need to help themselves! What is needed is more faith in God, more faith in God given values, more faith in the Bible. The true measure of a man is not what he owns, but what owns him. No man is truly successful who has left God out of his life!
If you think money is the answer, think again. Solomon described two kinds of men in Proverbs 13:7. First, there are those who make themselves rich, but are really impoverished. Then, there are those who make themselves poor, but in fact, have great riches. All the money in the world cannot buy good health, a good name, a single additional day of life, or our eternal salvation.
Money is not the answer. Often, it is the problem! The love of money remains “the root of all evil” (1 Timothy 6:10).
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Take it or Leave it
Jesus has made you an offer. Will you take it or leave it?
“Take it or leave it.” That is a saying one may hear when negotiating. An offer is made on a deal, and it can be either accepted or rejected. Both parties want the best end of the deal; is there an offer that will work for both? If Jesus were to say to you, “Take it or leave it,” what would you do?
Jesus’ disciples had to make that choice. When Jesus called Levi [Matthew] to follow Him, he “left all, rose up, and followed Him (Luke 5:28).” Likewise, Peter said to Jesus, “See, we have left all and followed You (Mark 10:28).” Peter and Andrew immediately left their nets to follow Jesus (Matthew 4:18-20), and James and John immediately left their boat and their father to follow Him (Matthew 4:21-22).
Imagine what would have happened if the disciples decided to take what they had. They would have gained physically, but would have lost spiritually. Jesus asked, “For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul (Matthew 16:26)?”
What might you have? If Jesus were to make a deal with you, would you take it or leave it? Jesus said, “Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lost it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel’s will save it. For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul (Mark 8:34-37)?”
“Take it or leave it.” What will you do with the salvation offered by Jesus? The choice is yours.
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
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A Lesson from our Past
Learn from our past. Seek to be Christian, and Christian only.
Diana Ross McCain, writing in Early American Life (October, 1989), described the hardships of worship in seventeenth century Connecticut. In our past, Church attendance was almost universal since it was required by law of young and old alike, unless excused by serious illness or some other equally compelling circumstance.
Church buildings were not built for the comfort of the church goer in our past. Winters were especially hard on the devout. The church building of that day had no fireplace, no stove, and no significant heat source of any kind. Preachers often delivered their sermons wearing their heavy coats and mittens. Samuel Griswold Ridgefield, writing of his boyhood in Ridgefield, Connecticut, around the turn of the nineteenth century, said, “Nobody thought of staying home from church because of the extremity of the weather.”
About 1830 stoves were introduced. Writing about their introduction, Ridgefield, noted: “As soon as this reform was suggested, they began to wrestle with the people, until at last the church and society were divided into two violent factions, the Stove Party and the Anti-stove Party.” At the first worship service following the introduction of the stove, the head of the anti-stove faction slid to the floor in her pew in a faint. She was carried outside where she quickly regained consciousness. “What happened?” she was asked. “Oh, it is the heat of those awful stoves,” she replied. “No, no, my dear,” responded the head of the stove faction, “That can’t be: it’s a warm day, you know, and there’s no fire in them.”
It is an amusing story, but it illustrates an important point from our past that is still applicable today. It has been man’s tendency, almost since the day God first revealed His will to man, for men to seek to change it. We either make laws where God has made none, or set aside the laws which He has made. Moses warned against this when he wrote: “What thing so ever I command you, observe to do it: thou shalt not add thereto, nor diminish from it” (Deuteronomy 12:32).
So many problems could be avoided if only we would heed this command! Let’s not make laws where God has made none, and let’s not set aside any which He has made.
Would you join us in seeking to be Christians, and Christians only?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Place of Refuge
Do you have a place of refuge? Look to the Lord.
Have you ever wanted a place to call your very own? A place where you could get away from it all? Sometimes a place is needed where one can go and unwind, not being interrupted. This place often gives one a sense of security and is a refuge. How does one get such a place? Usually, it has to be discovered or built. Sometimes it is passed on to one person from another. A Christian has the best place of refuge.
Solomon wrote, “In the fear of the LORD there is strong confidence, and his children will have a place of refuge (Proverbs 14:26).” What a blessing it is to become children of God! We can have a place of refuge. Who else could give us a sense of security? Who other than the one who created the heavens and the earth could we put our trust in?
As Christians, we know and have been told that there will come a time when we must suffer persecution (2 Timothy 3:12). During those times we may feel like we need to retreat to a place of refuge. A familiar song asks, “Where could I go but to the Lord?” Jesus knows what we are going through. Many people persecuted Him, and yet He was willing to suffer to the point of death on the cross (Philippians 2:8). He wants us to come to Him, and we can be confident in knowing that He will take care of us. Will you take His offer of a place of refuge? Will you be baptized into Christ?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
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Where Is Your Faith?
Where is your faith when you face the storms of life and your world comes crashing down?
“…as they sailed he fell asleep: and there came down a storm of wind on the lake; and they were filled with water, and were in jeopardy” (Luke 8:23).
Sudden storms on the Sea of Galilee were not uncommon. The disciples knew the fury of the sea. At least four had made their living as fishermen. As they crossed the lake a placid calm settled over the water. Jesus slept. Suddenly, terror struck as a fierce storm swept over them. It must have appeared that shipwreck was imminent. They rushed to Jesus, who was still asleep, crying, “Master, master, we perish!” Jesus stood, spoke, and there was calm. Then he turned his attention to the twelve and asked, “Where is your faith?” In the anxiety of the moment they had forgotten who Jesus was. He had cleansed a leper, healed a soldier’s servant, and raised a widow’s son. The storm was no threat to him.
Illness, an accident, the death of a loved one, and our world comes crashing down around us. Fear sweeps the soul. Our ship is about to sink! But, there is no need for fear. Where is your faith? Jesus still calms the storms of life. He reassures, “Let not your heart be troubled, ye believe in God, believe also in me” (John 14:1).
The hope and confidence that Christ gives to our lives is illustrated in the beautiful Psalm 23. David wrote, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.”
Faith overcomes fear. It was a lesson the disciples had forgotten on the sea that day. They let their fear overcome their faith. But, there is nothing to fear when Jesus walks at our side. Is He your Lord and Savior? Where is your faith?
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Beautiful Feet
Feet that work for God are beautiful feet.
Let me give a big “Thank You!” to everyone who came out yesterday and participated in work day at the church building. There were many things that needed to be done, both inside and outside. They may not have been big things, or very visible, but they were important things to accomplish. It is good to know many people are interested in being workers for the Lord. Evidence of hard workers is indicated by sweaty faces, red hands, and even smelly, but beautiful feet.
You may have a turned up nose at the aforementioned thought. However, God would think differently! In His Word, the Bible, He says: “How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who proclaims peace, who brings glad tidings of good things, who proclaims salvation, who says to Zion, ‘Your God reigns (Isaiah 52:7)!’”
Yes, a physically, messy or dirty and tired person can be seen to be beautiful when viewed with spiritual eyes. Those who are hard-working for the Lord are precious in His sight. Those who go and preach the gospel of Christ and those who use the various talents that God has given them, whatever those talents may be, are very beautiful in His sight, and should also be beautiful in our sight.
Let us always let the beauty of Jesus be seen in us and be aware that we are living sermons, testifying of and for Him with our lives! Let us have beautiful feet and proclaim His good news of salvation before the world that they may also come unto Him and accept His offer of salvation from sin.
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
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What Has Happened to America?
What has happened? Immorality is America tearing it apart. There is but one solution.
Are you troubled by what you see and hear in our country? I am! I keep asking myself, “What’s happened to America?” The country I knew as a boy is no more. Violence, vulgarity, drinking, drugs, illicit sex, pornography and a host of other problems pollute the land.
I am not saying that there were no problems when I was a youngster, but at least then they were still recognized as problems. Divorce was much rarer. People worked to keep their marriages together. Most babies were conceived after the wedding, and those who were not were usually born after the wedding. Now kids are having kids in record numbers and marriage is not even in the picture.
Values are warped now in America. One evening I sat down to watch the news. The first story regarded a new law to protect abortion clinics and to restrict protests by anti-abortion advocates. The story was slanted in favor of the pro-abortion forces and against the anti-abortion movement. The fact that there would be no protests if America simply stopped killing innocent babies never entered the picture. But what really upset me was what followed. The next two stories involved the alleged mistreatment of animals. In one it was argued that carriage horses in New York City were not being properly cared for, yet the horses shown in the segment all looked in good health and were receiving what appeared to be excellent care. The mayor still thinks horse drawn carriages should be outlawed. The other item involved a wrestling bear which was supposedly being mistreated. As far as I know, the bear won every match. It, too, was well fed and received proper care. Naturally, however, it was clear we should feel sorry for the animals. The mistreatment of animals cannot be tolerated by an enlightened society. It’s alright to kill our babies, but don’t abuse an animal! Now, I’m not in favor of abusing animals, but there is something desperately amiss when people in America oppose the mistreatment of animals and support the wholesale slaughter of the unborn. We have a serious problem!
It’s not hard to figure out what has happened to America. And, there is but one solution. In the words of Solomon, “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people” (Proverbs 14:34). Are you living a righteous life before God, having had Jesus remove your sin?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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