Historical Posts
Are You Sorry?
It has often been said that the two hardest words to utter in the English language are “I’m sorry.”
We all make mistakes, yet it is difficult to admit when a mistake is made. It is also hard to help others realize when they make a mistake.
But, a true friend “loves at all times (Proverbs 17:17).” Sometimes this must mean telling others that they are living in sin. Paul asked the Galatians, “Have I therefore become your enemy because I tell you the truth (Galatians 4:16)?” A true friend tells the truth, even when it is not popular.
Consider what happens when a person is told they made a mistake. The initial response may be disbelief and/or anger, but hopefully the attitude will turn to sorrow.
Is it wrong to make a person feel sorrow? Consider Paul’s words to the Corinthians: “For even if I made you sorry with my letter, I do not regret it; though I did regret it. For I perceive that the same epistle made you sorry, though only for a while. Now I rejoice, not that you were made sorry, but that your sorrow led to repentance. For you were made sorry in a godly manner, that you might suffer loss from us in nothing. For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted (2 Corinthians 7:8-10)…”
If we truly are sorry, we’ll repent! If we do not repent, we’ll perish (Luke 13:3,5). If we can help others to feel sorry in a godly way, leading to repentance, we can help to save many souls.
Content by Richard Dillon
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Different World
I know times are changing. Every generation sees change. Much of it is for the better. I prefer an automobile to a horse and buggy. I’d rather use a computer than a typewriter. There are any number of changes I find personally appealing and beneficial. I’m generally not opposed to change.
But, when it comes to the church, I’m uncomfortable with change. I’m not thinking of the changes that are incidental like the times we meet on the Lord’s Day, the order of our worship (two songs and a prayer, Lord’s Supper at the beginning or end of the assembly), or even how many songs we sing.
The changes that concern me relate to much more important matters like:
- The purpose of the church
- Respect for the Bible
- Commitment to the Lord
When I was young what folks looked for in a church home was an emphasis upon God. We came to worship and to be reminded of His love, mercy and grace. We wanted to hear His word taught and preached. We wanted to be able to worship according to the pattern of the New Testament. We desired fellowship with others who shared our commitment to Christ and the Bible. Those were the matters which mattered.
Today it is a different story. It is no longer enough to love God, teach truth, and worship faithfully. Folks are looking for much more in a church home. Worship need not be Biblical, but it must be contemporary, novel, and entertaining. Assemblies are more focused on what worshippers want, than what God desires. Correct me if I’m wrong, but shouldn’t worship be directed toward the One who is worshipped, and not toward the worshipper? I think Jesus said something about that (John 4:24).
It is no longer enough to live and teach the truth. People want to know what the church will do for their kids. They want the church to provide “day care,” recreation, and social interaction for their youngsters. But, was the purpose of the church to replace the home? Sure, the church can assist the home, but it cannot replace it. What we really should desire is a church where God’s plan for marriage and family is emphasized. No youth minister, Bible class teacher, or preacher can satisfy God’s plan for the home as effectively as godly parents who are willing to invest time, talent, and resources in their own offspring.
It is no longer enough for the church to meet on the Lord’s Day around the Lord’s Table to observe the Lord’s Supper. Now churches must also provide “fellowship activities” to fill the social calendars of their members. I like to eat as much as the next guy, and I even enjoy being with others in social settings, but when did that become the standard for selecting a church home?
It used to be that people expected to hear the Bible preached (2 Timothy 4:1-5). With many that is no longer the case. Sin, guilt, judgment, and hell are now off limits in many pulpits as folks ought not be made to feel uncomfortable in worship. They would rather be entertained than enlightened, laugh than learn, conform than be challenged to sacrifice and serve.
The world’s got it wrong!
We must be careful not to conform to the world’s standards (Romans 12:1, 2; 2 Corinthians 6:17; 1 John 2:15-17).
It may be a different world, but “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8).
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Skeptical Christianity
Many of the oldest denominations have a history of keeping their membership under control by keeping them ignorant of what the Bible actually says.
Prior to the Protestant Reformation, Bibles were literally chained to the pulpits of churches and were considered to be objects of mystery by the laity. Even the oldest of the Protestant denominations continued to make the Bible the exclusive property of the clergy by teaching their membership that it was just too mysterious for them to understand, and that one must be “ordained” before he may even begin to understand its secrets. Even in the twenty-first century, there remain those who never call into question what their preacher tells them, because they have been taught not to study the Bible for themselves and to depend completely upon the clergy to tell them what to believe.
This is not in accord with the will of God!
As a matter of fact, the Bible teaches Christians to be skeptical of what they are told, and to demand proof of the veracity of what is preached to them. “Prove all things; hold fast to that which is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:21). “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me [Jesus]” (John 5:39). “These [the Bereans] were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so” (Acts 17:11). These are only a few of the Bible verses, which help us to understand that skepticism is a desirable quality in every member of the Lord’s church.
Some argue that having faith means that you cannot have answers to some of life’s essential questions.
But the Bible describes faith differently. Hebrews 11:1 says, “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” The text does not say that faith is something we have, in spite of a lack of evidence, but rather that faith is something we have because of the evidence. Whereas one might say, “I don’t know if God is out there, but I have faith,” a New Testament Christian says, “I know that God is out there—therefore I have faith.”
Many point to Second Corinthians 5:7 as proof of the assertion that faith is some kind of an ethereal feeling we have, rather than a firm conviction. But, when the text says, “For we walk by faith, not by sight,” it is not saying that we walk by faith because we have no sight. Rather, it is declaring that faith is superior to sight. Our sight may be deceived, but our faith cannot be deceived, because it is based upon substantial evidence (Hebrews 11:1).
Faith is not a blind leap in the dark.
It is a kind of trust that we have in God, because we know that we have good reason to trust in Him “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it” (1 Corinthians 10:13). Faith is about being convinced of the reality of God, and then putting complete trust in Him. “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).
Being a skeptical Christian does not mean that one has no faith.
As a matter of fact, it is absolutely essential for every Christian to have strong faith. As questions of your preacher and your Bible class teacher, when you do not understand what they are saying to you. Look up the passages of Scripture that they cite and see if what they are telling you is true. Preachers and Bible class teachers can make mistakes and they can have sinister agendas, so do not simply accept everything you are told about religion, without question.
If the people in your church are discouraging you from asking questions and searching the Scriptures, then it may be time for you to seek a church where the pursuit of Bible knowledge is encouraged, rather than discouraged. At the churches of Christ, skepticism is a virtue, rather than a vice.
People learn the truth by seeking answers to their questions.
It is my sincere hope and fervent prayer that you will find the truth you seek.
Content by Russell Kline
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Unseen God of a Seen World
Go ahead and step outside. Take a look around. Inhale, and then exhale. What do you see? What do you feel?
God’s creation is all around us. Hebrews 11:3 states: “By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible.”
What we see is evidence of the God we do not see. Paul said, “For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse (Romans 1:20).”
How did God create the world? Remember, “…the worlds were framed by the word of God…” The very first thing God said was, “Let there be light (Genesis 1:3)!” What happened? There was light!
We know Jesus also had a part in creation, because He is the Word of God in the flesh that was in the beginning (John 1:1-5,14). Without Him there was not anything made that was made.
Later in John 1, we learn that no one has seen God at any time (John 1:18). Even though we do not see Him, we have faith that He is here! Faith is necessary to come to God (Hebrews 11:6), and it comes from hearing the Word of God (Romans 10:17).
Let us share God’s Word with others, so they can know Him too!
Content by Richard Dillon
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May The Lord Do What Seems Good To Him
During David’s reign, the Ammonites, assisted by the Syrians, confronted the army of Israel. Joab, captain of Israel’s army, with the Syrians on one side and the Ammonites on the other, divided his forces between himself and his brother Abishai. He then said to Abishai: “If the Syrians are too strong for me, then you shall help me, but if the Ammonites are too strong for you, then I will come and help you. Be of good courage, and let us be courageous for our people, and for the cities of our God, and may the Lord do what seems good to him” (2 Samuel 10:11-12).
I’m particularly struck by the phrase “may the Lord do what seems good to him.” In addition to their personal courage, they were dependent on God’s help, whatever that might entail. They simply asked that God do what seemed good to Him. Do you sometimes find yourself at a loss to know what to pray for, or how to put it into words?
Maybe we should just ask God to do what seems good to Him.
If you are like me, you have prayed many times for someone’s health to improve, only to watch them slowly decline. I know we should pray for the sick, and I know that God hears and responds to those prayers (James 5:14-16). Yet, His response is often not the one we were seeking. I don’t question it for I know He knows best.
It seems to me that Jesus and the early disciples had a pretty good grasp of this idea. It is repeatedly expressed in their plans and petitions. They sought the Lord’s will, and not their own. In the garden Jesus begged the Father for a way out of His impending crucifixion, yet said each time, “your will be done” (Matthew 26:39, 41, 44). Paul often spoke of his plans for ministry, but acknowledged that all such plans were subject to the will of God (Acts 18:21; 1 Corinthians 4:19). James admonished his readers to make all their plans submissive to God’s will (James 4:15).
God knows best, even when we cannot see it.
I look at the turmoil in our world, man’s inhumanity to man, wars, famine, disease and I am compelled to respond, “May the Lord do what seems good to Him.”
I look at those battling cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and a host of other physical problems and pray, “May the Lord do what seems good to Him.”
I look at those struggling with financial burdens, a lost job, a bad investment, a failed business and ask, “May the Lord do what seems good to Him.”
I look at a world similar to the one Paul confronted in the first century when men worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator (Romans 1:25), and can only respond, “May the Lord do what seems good to Him.”
I look at souls who are lost, some having heard the gospel repeatedly and others not at all, and I pray, “May the Lord do what seems good to Him.”
Yes, we must be strong and courageous, but remember that God is stronger, and He knows best.
May we always pray that God will do what seems good to Him!
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Hosea and Gomer: A Living Lesson
Hosea was a prophet of the Lord who lived and worked in Israel—the northern kingdom, in the period of time when God’s people were divided into two kingdoms.
Israel was composed of ten tribes of the Hebrew people, who separated themselves from Judah and Simeon after the death of Kind Solomon (1 Kings 12). Their capital city was Samaria (1 Kings 16:23-24). The kings of Israel set up idols for the people to worship, so they would not go back to the Temple in Jerusalem, which was controlled by Judah (1 Kings 12:26-33). The kings of Israel did not rely upon God for protection, but made alliances with neighboring nations (Hosea 10:13). Because of Israel’s continued devotion to evil, God was going to punish the entire nation (Hosea 9:3).
It was Hosea’s job to warn the people of Israel about their impending doom, and to appeal to them to repent, before they would no longer be able to do so.
Hosea’s name means, “salvation” and that is the theme of his book. Even though the people of Israel did not deserve it, God was willing and eager to forgive them (Hosea 14:2-4). But, since they had earned it for themselves, God was also prepared to punish the people of Israel for their sins (Hosea 9:7; Romans 6:23). To explain his relationship with the Israelites, the Lord used Hosea’s marriage as a living lesson.
HOSEA AND GOMER GET MARRIED
The Lord told Hosea to marry a “daughter of the age,” which is generally understood to mean a woman who was typical of most women in Israel, at that time (Hosea 1:2). They added three children to their family: Jezreel, meaning “God Will Scatter,” was the first; Lo-ruhamah, meaning “No Mercy,” was the second; Lo-ammi, meaning “Not My People” was the third (Hosea 1:3-9).
It was not long, however, until Gomer violated her marriage vows and began to sell herself, as a prostitute (Hosea 2:2). Gomer’s betrayal of her husband’s love was just like Israel’s betrayal of God’s love. Just as Gomer sold herself, in prostitution, Israel had done the same by engaging in the worship of idols (Hosea 4:17). Gomer had committed adultery against her husband and Israel had committed spiritual adultery against the Lord.
As members of the Lord’s church, we are the bride of Jesus Christ (Ephesians 5:22-32).
We are in the same position as Israel was, in ancient times (Galatians 6:16). Just as God expected faithfulness from Israel, He expects faithfulness from us (Revelation 2:10). When we sin against God, we are guilty of spiritual adultery, just like Israel. Imagine how you would feel, if you found out that your spouse was unfaithful to you. That is how God feels, when we are unfaithful to Him!
One interesting aspect of the relationship between Hosea and Gomer is that, even while Gomer was being unfaithful to Hosea, he still provided for her needs (Hosea 2:8). In a twist of irony, Gomer did not know that it was her husband who was looking out for her, and she gave the credit to her lovers (Hosea 2:5).
In like manner, God had provided for Israel’s needs, even while Israel was being unfaithful to Him. Like Gomer, Israel did not perceive what God was doing, and gave credit to the false gods with which they had committed spiritual adultery (Hosea 10:1). Just as Hosea was angry with his wife’s continued unfaithfulness, so God was angry with Israel’s continued unfaithfulness (Hosea 2:9-13).
Think about all of the good things that God provides for us, in our lives.
Even though so many of us frequently stray away from the path of righteousness, the Lord still takes care of our basic needs (Matthew 6:24-34). It is no wonder, then, that the anger of the Lord is kindled against those who turn their backs upon Him (Romans 1:32).
The end of the story of Hosea and Gomer is a happy one. Gomer was unfaithful to Hosea for a very long time, but she eventually sunk so low, that her lovers put her up for sale (Hosea 3:2). But, Hosea loved Gomer and was willing to buy her back (Hosea 3:1). He would take his wife back home, but only if she would realize how much better off she was with him than with her lovers (Hosea 3:3).
Israel had reached a very low state in its spirituality (Hosea 4:6). Yet, God still loved Israel and was willing to forgive. Israel would have to go into a period of captivity, but when they learned that they are better off with God than with idols, they would be restored (Hosea 3:4,5).
No matter how low we may get in our own spirituality, God will never stop loving us (Hebrews 13:5).
When we realize that we are better off with God than without Him, the infinite mercy of the Lord shall provide us with a way of restoration (1 John 1:9).
Content by Russell Kline
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Everything Works Together for Good
One verse that has been on our hearts lately is Romans 8:28: “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.”
We can see this applying right this very minute. Our house in Alabama is being sold, the ministry I will give up has been taken care of, and opportunities abound to where I am going. Please notice a few things about this verse…
- We know! Let us not doubt God, but be confident that He is able to do more than we can ask or think (Ephesians 3:20).
- All things work together for good. Not just some things, but everything we do God can use for His good! It is a good God that we serve, and He has always been good to us.
- God knows we love Him when we keep His commandments (John 14:15). When we do what He says, He will take care of us! Thus, God has a purpose for all of us.
Let us not doubt God, but follow His lead. If we do His will, He will take care of us. Let His purpose be done for us, not our own. “…Not My will, but Yours, be done (Luke 22:42).”
Content by Richard Dillon
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Daily Struggle
I think I have a pretty good grasp of how a Christian ought to live. And, if I know my heart, I really do try to live by His standards. Yet, there are occasions when, like everyone else, I fall short. There are times when I struggle. Knowing what to do, and wanting to do it are two entirely different things. There are times when I know exactly what I ought to do or say, but find it a struggle to follow through.
A few weeks ago I was on the other end of a conservation in which someone was calling to urge me to do something for which I had neither the authority nor desire to do. The conversation went something like this. “Christians ought to be able to work their differences out. We are supposed to get along, aren’t we? My father was a member of the church of Christ. I’m a Christian. I assume you are a Christian. Are you?” The implication was simple, if I didn’t do what he wanted me to do, then I wasn’t really a Christian. I probably should point out that the issue under discussion really had nothing to do with me. It was an effort to drag me into something that I had no intentions of being drug into.
Again, what I was being asked to do I had no authority to do. Even if I had had the authority to do it, I would not have done it, for what I was being asked to do I considered highly unethical. Be that as it may, my Christianity was under attack. I truly wanted to unload on the caller. I could have said some very unkind, but true things about him, but I didn’t. I simply responded to his question by saying, “I strive to be a faithful Christian every day.” Then I referred him to someone else who was in a position to respond authoritatively, and I knew would tell him exactly what I would have told him if I had the authority to do so.
By now I’m sure you have a number of questions. Who called you? What did they want you to do? Why did they question your Christianity? They are all valid questions, but it serves no real purpose to answer them. What I want you to understand is that all of us encounter situations in which our instinct is to lash out, but our Christianity prohibits doing so. As Jesus famously advocated: “In everything, therefore, treat people the same way you want them to treat you” (Matthew 7:12).
Living our faith every day is a real challenge, and some days we all struggle. The key to success is a commitment to do what we know is right, even when instinctively we may want to do something else.
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Without Excuse
Have you ever heard the old saying, “An excuse is just a gift wrapped lie?”
Perhaps you have not heard this saying, because excuses are so ubiquitous in modern society. Human beings have been making excuses for bad behavior since the dawn of history. As far back as the Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve tried to make excuses for eating the forbidden fruit (Genesis 3:11-13).
But, in Romans 1:18-21, the apostle Paul wrote, “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.”
People who rejected God in the ancient world were “without excuse,” just like us, in the modern world, when we do the same.
The Scriptures show us that God does not accept excuses.
Romans 1:20 shows us that there is no excuse for denying the existence of God. In Luke 14:16-24, the parable of the great supper shows us that there is no excuse for refusing the Lord’s invitation.
In Matthew 25:14-30, the parable of the talents shows us that there is not excuse for being a poor steward of the Lord’s blessings.
In First Samuel 15:1-35, the story of King Saul’s refusal to obey the Lord’s commands shows us that there is no excuse for disobeying God, when He tells us what He wants us to do.
But, why do people make excuses, in the first place?
Sometimes, people make up excuses for their bad behavior, in order to avoid the consequences of their actions. This sort of activity is seen every day, in criminal court proceedings. Some are so desperate to escape punishment for the crimes they have committed that they will make up any excuse at all, which might help skew perceptions in their favor.
Sometimes, people will make up excuses for their bad behavior, in order to prevent others from casting them in an unflattering light. This sort of activity is seen frequently, in the world of politics. When politicians are caught in a scandal, they will make up any excuse at all, which might keep the tide of public opinion from turning against them.
Usually, people make up excuses for their bad behavior, in order to assuage their own feelings of guilt they have for what they have done. People become comfortable with their own sins by convincing themselves that what they did is not really all that bad, and that the Lord will surely not hold it against them. Hebrews 3:13 warns us not to be deceived by the “deceitfulness of sin,” which can lull us into a false sense of security. If we become comfortable with our sins, then we will not repent of them and we shall surely perish (Luke 13:3).
There are many reasons why we are without excuse, when it comes to our sinful behavior.
For one thing, God has shown us that He loves and cares for us by the grandest gesture of all: the sacrifice of His only begotten Son (Romans 5:8; John 3:16; Revelation 1:5; Galatians 2:20).
Also, we must consider the fact that others who have disobeyed the Lord have not fared so well (1 Corinthians 10:11; Romans 15:4).
Furthermore, we must admit that God has given us numerous opportunities to change our ways (2 Peter. 3:9; Ephesians. 5:16; James 4;14; 2 Corinthians 6:2). The gospel of Jesus Christ is such a simple thing for us to comprehend and to obey, that there is no excuse for failing to do so (Mark 12:37b).
The efforts of those who encourage us, pray for us, exhort us, plead with us, show concern for us, and teach us leave us without excuse for failing to do something about our sins (2 Corinthians 5:11; Acts 8:4; Hebrews 3:13; 1 Thessalonians 5:11-14).
The blessings that God sheds so abundantly upon us make it so that there is no excuse for failing to yield to His will (Acts 14:17; Romans 1:20; Psalm 19:1).
Excuses are a barrier between Earth and Heaven.
Instead of making up excuses about why we cannot get to Heaven, we ought to be making progress on the path of righteousness.
In Matthew 7:13-14, Jesus said, “Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.”
Stop trying to justify your sins, and take ownership of them. That is the first step in the process of repentance, and Word of God declares that there can be no salvation from sin without repentance (Acts 17:30).
Content by Russell Kline
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Revelation of Christ
Perhaps upon reading the title of this article, you may think that this idea is taken from the book of Revelation. Instead, it comes from Paul’s letter to the Galatians.
He told them that through the grace of God, He revealed His Son (Galatians 1:16). Thus, as Paul went to many places, he preached that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God (Acts 9:20). He tried to live a life that was in complete submission to Christ; when people saw Paul, they saw Jesus through him (Galatians 2:20). The life Jesus lived was an example to all, and we must strive to live as He did (1 Peter 2:21-22).
Paul then went on to make reference to the apostles who were before him in Jerusalem (Galatians 1:17). In Acts 2, the apostles were assembled together there at Jerusalem on the day of Pentecost. They received the Holy Spirit, and began to preach to all nations whereby everyone could hear and understand. Peter said to them, “God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ (Acts 2:36).” Again, Jesus was revealed through the apostles!
Jesus first revealed Himself to His apostles; His apostles then revealed Him to others. Now, it is up to you and me to reveal Christ in us. Surely, together we can bring many lost souls to Christ. Let the revelation of Jesus continue!
Content by Richard Dillon
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Pray for One Another
While visiting the nursing home this week a faithful member of the Lord’s church informed me that every night her neighbor would come into her room and visit with her. Then, after a good length of time, they would pray together. Finally, “Good night!” would then ensue.
I always enjoy hearing stories like that because even preachers do not always realize what goes on behind closed doors. It warms our hearts to know that every Christian is doing something worthwhile that not everyone knows about. “Your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly (Matthew 6:6).”
Prayer is something that can be done in secret, with brothers and sisters in Christ, or in public with people that we may not know. Just as Paul said to pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17), James said to “pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much (James 5:17).”
Just as a lot of good is being done between these brethren in the nursing home, think what good can be done with you! Let’s all pray for each other effectively and fervently; it avails much!
Content by Richard Dillon
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Remember the Prisoners
It seems that every day in the local paper that someone is arrested and put into prison. Sometimes they go to jail for things they should not have done, and other times they do something that is good that others do not approve of.
Consider the case of Paul and Silas.
They were put in prison for casting an unclean spirit out of a certain slave girl (Acts 16). While in prison, other prisoners were listening to them sing praises to God. They were even able to preach the gospel to the Philippian jailer, and he and his whole house were baptized!
Paul could relate well to those in prison, since he was there himself. How often do we think about them?
After all, Jesus died for them also! Hebrews 13:3 states, “Remember the prisoners as if chained with them – those who are mistreated – since you yourselves are in the body also.”
We need to pray for these people, and if possible, share the gospel with them. Even Jesus said, “I was in prison and you came to Me (Matthew 25:36).
The reward is inheriting the kingdom prepared for us from the foundation of the world (Matthew 25:34).
Content by Richard Dillon
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Religion and Life
I get the distinct feeling that many people want the blessings and privileges that come with faith, but they desire few of the responsibilities of discipleship.
These folks want the Father close at hand, but never take the time to talk to Him in prayer. They want to be spiritually alive, but spend little time with the “bread of life” (the Bible). They want a faith that will sustain them in times of trouble, but have little thought of God when things go well. They want worship to be exciting, emotionally fulfilling, and spine tingling, but are spectators not participants in the assembly. They talk about the importance of Christ in their lives, and then crowd Him out of their lives. Paul described these folk as “having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof” (2 Timothy 3:5).
Faith in Jesus Christ is life changing, or at least it was meant to be.
“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17). To follow Jesus requires that we rid our lives of all that is contrary to His will and nature, and that we imitate His life, His love, His devotion, and His compassion. He gave us the perfect example to follow (1 Peter 2:21).
As Christians, our purpose is to do the will of Him who died to save us.
We are not people pleasers, but God pleasers (Galatians 1:10). What we believe and stand for is not determined by public opinion and popular vote. We believe the Bible to be the word of God. We honor God by honoring His word. It is our rule book for life. It tells us how to live, what kind of people we are to be, how we are to treat one another, and what is required of us in order to live eternally. It is impossible to share in all the blessings of Christ, while rejecting the responsibilities of discipleship. Thus, the light of every true Christian will shine brightly each day.
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Giving of our Talent
“For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath.” – Matthew 25:29
Paul, in praise of the Christians of Macedonia, wrote: “How that in great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality. For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves; praying us with much entreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering of the saints. And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God” (2 Corinthians 8:2-5). The fact that these Christians were willing to give more than just their money those who were in need is most impressive, indeed!
The various abilities we all possess are gifts entrusted to us by God. Whether we are capable of great feats of physical strength and endurance, diplomatic interpersonal skills, extraordinary intelligence, or any other such like ability, we all have God to thank for what we are capable of doing. But, are we using our various talents for the glory of God, or we simply wasting them selfishly?
In His “Parable of the Talents” (Matthew 25:14-30), Jesus made the point that, no matter how many talents we may or may not have, God expects us to use those talents and not simply hide them from the world. If one has a talent for teaching, one must find a way to use that talent for the cause of Christ; if one has a talent for singing, then one must find a way to use that talent for God’s glory; if one has a talent for preaching, then one must preach the gospel to all who will listen. Making the best use of our God-given talents is not an optional proposition: it is something we all must do, if we want to go to Heaven!
There are Christian doctors who go on medical mission trips, so they can use their talents to glorify God. There are Christian young people who go on door knocking campaigns, so they can be useful in the Lord’s service. It doesn’t matter who you are, or how much talent you have, God can use you in His kingdom!
Content by Russell Kline
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Giving of our Means
When one thinks about the Bible doctrine of giving, money is usually the first thing that comes to mind. In 1 Corinthians 16:1-2, the apostle Paul succinctly stated that giving of our means is supposed to be part of the worship that Christians offer to God. “Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye. Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come.” The “collection for the saints” to which Paul referred was money that he was raising to take with him to Jerusalem, so he could present it to the elders of the church there for the relief of Christians who were suffering financially (Acts 11:29-30). He wanted the members of the church in Corinth to set aside money for this effort by giving of their means on the first day of every week, so there would be no need for a special collection, when he arrived.
This passage authorizes the church to take up a collection on the first day of every week. This is meant to be part of the worship that the church offers to God, because the first day of the week was “when the disciples came together” (Acts 20:7). It also authorizes the church to put up money “in store.” Churches may have savings accounts and checking accounts. Churches may budget money for specific purposes. The church is not authorized to hoard money, but it is authorized to have a plan, or a purpose for the money that is collected, on the Lord’s Day (Luke 16:9).
“Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store…” – 1 Corinthians 16:2
As to the amount of money that Christians are supposed to give on the first day of every week, there is no limit. The New Testament does not teach that Christians are supposed to give a tithe, or a “tenth” of what they possess or earn, but that they are to give “as God hath prospered” them. That means that it is up to the individual Christian to determine the amount of money he will contribute on the Lord’s Day. Of course, every Christian should bear in mind that the giving he does is part of the worship he offers to God, and that God would not be pleased with a half-hearted gift (2 Corinthians 9:6-7). Also, it should be noted that we all owe the Lord a debt that is far greater than our ability to pay. We cannot put a price on what Jesus did to purchase our redemption, so the truth is that owe God everything we have. Let us all consider these things when we give of our means.
Content by Russell Kline
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False Teachers
The Bible offers many warnings concerning the dangers of false teachers.They have always presented a problem for God’s people (2 Peter 2:1). They always will (1 Timothy 4:1-3). Jesus warned of them saying, “Beware of the false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits” (Matthew 7:15, 16). They are not hard to spot.
They are excellent communicators. “By their smooth and flattering speech they deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting” (Romans 16:18). Not all good communicators are false teachers, but almost all false teachers are good communicators.
They are self-centered rather than Christ-centered. Faithful men of God do not preach themselves, but Christ (2 Corinthians 4:5). False teachers emphasize themselves! Theirs is the last word. They undermine the authority of Christ.
They appeal to men rather than to God. They offer what people want rather than what they need. They are men-pleasers rather than Godpleasers (Galatians 1:10).
They are often motivated by personal financial gain. Peter said of them, “In their greed they will exploit you with false words” (2 Peter 2:3). There is a lot of money to be made by unscrupulous preachers. And, it is those who can least afford it that are most often deceived.
They refuse to be open and honest in financial matters. Their books are closed to all but a privileged few. Real Christians will not only take pains “to do what is right” in the eyes of the Lord but also “in the eyes of men” (2 Corinthians 8:21). Faithful men of God have nothing to hide.
They will be noted for their inconsistent living. Like the Pharisees of the New Testament, “they do not practice what they preach” (Matthew 23:3 NIV). No one can faithfully proclaim the word of God who does not first make every effort to consistently live it.
Finally, they are often ignorant of God’s word. Like the Sadducees, they err, not knowing the scriptures (Matthew 22:29). Like those described by Paul, “They want to be teachers of the law, but they do not know what they are talking about or what they so confidently affirm” (1 Timothy 1:7). Not every false teacher perverts truth from impure motives. Some are simply ignorant of the Bible.
Why is this a matter of concern? Because only the truth can save (John 8:32). Like the Bereans, we must examine the Scriptures every day to see if what is said is true (Acts 17:11).
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Bible Study Attendance
It seems like the growing trend in today’s society is to skip Bible class and attend just the worship service.
Perhaps the kids cannot get ready in time; people have to leave early to get to work; others simply just want to sleep in a little longer. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if everyone came together to study God’s Word?
The Ohio State Fair is now upon us. Imagine if the whole city of Columbus attended, and every individual stopped at the church fair booth! What a wonderful crowd!
Everyone would get a tract, sign up for a Bible Correspondence Course, or want more information about the Lord’s church. My, how we will grow! There was a time this almost happened!
Paul and Barnabas were preaching to the Jews and Gentiles at Antioch of Pisidia. After much persuasion by the Gentiles to return the following Sabbath, Paul and Barnabas got a wonderful surprise! “…Almost the whole city came together to hear the Word of God (Acts 13:44).”
Upon seeing such a huge crowd, the Jews were filled with envy (Acts 13:45). Since they rejected God’s Word, it then began to spread to the Gentiles (Acts 13:46).
Let’s flock to hear God’s word, and not reject it. After all, Jesus has the words of eternal life (John 6:6)!
Content by Richard Dillon
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Moral Integrity
We Christians must stop apologizing for our moral position and start making our voices heard…
A. W. Tozer has written: “One of our great tasks is to demonstrate to the young people of this generation that there is nothing stupid about righteousness. To do so, we must stop negotiating with evil. We Christians must stop apologizing for our moral position and start making our voices heard, exposing sin as the enemy of the human race and setting forth righteousness and true holiness as the only worthy pursuit for moral beings. I have no doubt that historians will conclude that we of the twentieth century (should the Lord tarry) had intelligence enough to create a great civilization but not the moral wisdom to preserve it.”
There are only two approaches to ethics and morality.
Either we believe that right conduct is based on some authoritative standard, or we believe that morality is entirely relative — that there are no fixed standards of right and wrong.
If we do not accept some standard as authoritative in regard to moral and ethical issues, then we are put in the position of making those decisions for ourselves. The Bible describes this attitude when the historian wrote concerning the period of the Judges: “In those days there was no king in Israel, but every man did that which was right in his own eyes” (Judges 17:6). As you might imagine, chaos was the result.
For the Christian, the Bible is our standard for right and wrong.
On its pages we discover what is authorized, approved, and desired by God in the heart and actions of His people. Some things are always right and some things are always wrong! Right and wrong are not determined on the basis of what is easiest, brings the most pleasure, or feels best in a given situation. Proper moral and ethical conduct is prescribed on the pages of God’s word. With the Psalmist we should exclaim, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path” (Psalm 119:105).
The Bible offers the only basis upon which we may make morally and ethically sound judgments.
We would encourage you to:
Examine it carefully,
Believe it fully,
Obey it completely,
Live it daily.
Your life will be richly blessed.
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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I Heard It Through The Grapevine
A comedian once said that there are three “tell-alls” in any neighborhood:
- Telephone
- Telegraph
- Tell the town gossip!
When a message is sent through the right channel, it is quickly received. Thus, we often hear something “through the grapevine.”
There is a vine that we must be connected to, and must listen to every word that is spoken. Upon hearing these words, we must share them! Jesus said, “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser (John 15:1).” We must hear Him speak, and preach His message throughout the world!
Sometimes spreading a message without consent gets us into trouble. However, we have Christ’s command to share His words! After all, we are the branches that abide in Him, and we must bear fruit for Him (John 15:2ff.).
When His words are heard through the grapevine, much fruit will be produced. Thus, we as branches will be rewarded. “If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you (John 15:7).
Content by Richard Dillon
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Religious, or Righteous?
“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap” (Galatians 6:7).
Ironically, many people equate religion with righteousness, but the two do not always go hand in hand.
I suppose the best example in the New Testament would be the Pharisees, the predominate Jewish sect of our Lord’s day. They were the religious elite, but they weren’t very righteous. Jesus urged the people, “All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not” (Matthew 23:3). Seven times in Matthew 23 Jesus called them hypocrites. They were pretending to be something they were not, and Jesus saw through their hypocrisy. To be sure, they would reap what they had sown (Matthew 23:33).
Christianity is more than ritual and ceremony.
The religion of Christ is a religion which makes men holy, righteous, and godly. Those who do not understand this do not understand Christianity.
Holiness is a hard word to define.
Scholars are uncertain as to its exact roots in ancient language, but it involves being remade, set apart, and living a radiant and pure life. It is the word which Peter used to describe the nature of God (1 Peter 1:16). Christians are admonished to “follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord” (Hebrews 12:14).
Righteousness involves doing what is right, acceptable and approved of God.
It includes integrity, virtue, purity of life, uprightness, correctness in thinking, feeling, and acting. A religion without righteousness is a religion without redemption. We must live “soberly, righteously, and godly” (Titus 2:12).
Godliness implies reverence and love for God and things divine.
Godly men and women have the right values and priorities. Christianity makes men godly, so don’t be deceived into thinking that religion is nothing more than a Sunday morning exercise in ritual and ceremony. The religion of Christ is characterized by holiness, righteousness, and godliness. Anything less is unacceptable.
Religious men are not always righteous, but righteous men are always religious!
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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