Historical Posts
Preeminence
Are We to Seek Preeminence? Whoever Exalts Himself Will Be Humbled!
“Diotrephes… loves to have the preeminence among them (3 John 9).” John criticizes him for loving himself first above others, and commands fellow Christians not to follow his bad example. Paul wrote to the Romans with a similar message about preeminence, “For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith (Romans 12:3).”
Jesus, on the other hand, “is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence (Colossians 1:18).” He has the preeminence and is first in all things, especially the church! God has exalted Him.
Diotrephes sought to have preeminence; Jesus already has it! Too many times individuals try to take the place that is already reserved for another. This may happen in the home, the workforce, and even in the church. Nothing good can come from this concept of placing ourselves above others; in fact, many divisions occur as a result. This self-seeking is against what Jesus prayed for and what Paul pleaded for (John 17:21-23; 1 Corinthians 1:10). Jesus said, “whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted (Matthew 23:12).”
Regardless of our role in the home, workforce, or church, we need to recognize that Jesus has all authority (Matthew 28:18)! Let us not seek preeminence and to elevate ourselves, but abide by His authority. Have you come to Him in humility and accepted His authority in salvation?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
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Maybe They Are Born That Way?
Sin results from life choices, not because people are born that way.
Much has been reported lately about an effort that is being put forth to allow “transgender” students at Madisonville North Hopkins High School to use the restroom of the opposite sex, if they choose to do so. Furthermore, these students want their teachers to refer to them using the personal pronouns of their choosing. By “transgender,” I mean students who are convinced that they are actually not the gender with which they were born. They say that they are “a man trapped in a woman’s body,” or “a woman trapped in a man’s body”, that they are born that way. They suffer from what was once considered a psychological disorder, but instead of seeking treatment, they are trying to convince everyone else to support them in their delusion. In their effort to do so, they “crossdress” (girls dress as boys and boys dress as girls), “roleplay” (girls behave as boys and boys behave as girls), and attempt to gain legal standing from the authorities, as well as sympathy from the general public. This is what is taking place in our community, at our local high school.
The primary claim of those who suffer from transgender disorder is that they are born that way and cannot help being who they are. Like homosexuals, they claim that they are the way that they are as a result of some kind of genetic, or birth defect. For many years, the “LGBT” (Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual, Transgender) community, as they have styled themselves, has argued that there must be a “gay gene,” which is responsible for their sexual orientation. But, in the course of mapping the human genome, a “gay gene” has never been found. Of course, if one was ever found, that would mean that parents, through genetic engineering, could ensure that their children would not be born that way, and the population of the LGBT community could be wiped out in a generation. Other theories have suggested that one becomes a homosexual through some abnormality that takes place during gestation, or even childbirth. It has been postulated that some boys are so bombarded by female hormones in their mother’s womb that they become “feminized” prior to birth. Of course, there is no actual science to back up this theory, but even if it were true, that would still make homosexuality an abnormality that can be prevented, and this theory does not account for women who are attracted to women.
The greatest problem with the so-called “science” of homosexuality is that the LGBT community uses it to try to explain why they are the way that they are, while at the same time trying to convince everyone that there is nothing wrong with them, and that they should be accepted as a normal part of society. In their failed attempts to explain homosexuality as natural and normal, they are forced to concede that it is both unnatural and abnormal. The truth of the matter is that people who are lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender are what they are because of the choices they have made in their lives, not because they are born that way. Like fornicators, adulterers, pedophiles and other sexual miscreants, their consciences have been seared to such a degree that they are convinced of their incapacity to change. This amplified degree of self-denial is what keeps them trapped in a lifestyle that is self-destructive for their bodies and for their souls.
Homosexuality is a sin. Both lesbians and gays are condemned, in the Scriptures, as sinners (Romans 1:26-27). Bi-sexuality is a sin. It is condemned by the same passages that condemn homosexuality. Being transgender is a sin. The Scriptures teach that men must dress and act like men, and that women must dress and act like women. Those men who are “effeminate” and “abusers of themselves with mankind” are classified as “unrighteous” in the New Testament (1 Corinthians 6:9-10). These behaviors have always been sinful, according to the Old Testament (Leviticus 18:22-23; 20:13; Deuteronomy 23:17). Even in nature, it must be admitted that homosexual behavior is not normal behavior (1 Corinthians 11:14).
One fact in this debate, which is often overlooked is that it is possible for people in the LGBT community to get out, and to live a life that is free from sexual sin. In 1 Corinthians 6:11, Paul wrote, “And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.” On the heels of a condemnation of homosexuality, Paul declared that he knew people who had been in that lifestyle, but had changed their lives for the better. There are cases in the modern world of such successes. Members of the LGBT community have no excuse for failing to repent!
Content by Russell Kline
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Politics and Religion
Are politics and religion compatible?
There are some who believe that religious conviction and political involvement are incompatible. In fact, there are those who believe that deeply held religious convictions disqualify one from political office. Any reference to faith, it is argued, should be removed from political rhetoric on constitutional grounds. Yet, the Constitution guarantees freedom of religion, not freedom from religion. Politics and religion can mix.
I would adamantly oppose a state religion, but I strongly support the notion that we need more men and women of faith in political leadership roles. And, we need more people of faith speaking out against sin and speaking up in favor of righteousness. Religious leaders should lead in this regard. I’m not talking about the nonsense that often came from the mouths of men like Jerry Falwell and Pat Robertson, but rather a plea that men and women of honesty, integrity and truth be elected to political office. We should be more concerned with character and less concerned with political affiliation.
The prophets of the Old Testament did not hesitate to take on their political leaders. Elijah, Elisha, Micaiah, Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Hosea immediately come to mind as mixers of politics and religion. Nathan, a prophet of God in Israel during the period of the United Kingdom did not hesitate to expose David’s sin with Bathsheba and call the king to repentance (2 Samuel 12:7-11). In the New Testament John the Baptist rebuked Herod and Herodias for their adulterous relationship (Matthew 14:1-12). Paul preached to governor Felix of “righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come” (Acts 24:25). The message of Scripture is that God’s laws are for all men, and those who openly flaunt those laws must be held accountable, even when they hold high office.
However, more is required of God’s servants than just an indictment of sin. The apostle Paul admonished: “Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth” (1 Timothy 2:1-4).
I’d like to see more religion in politics, but don’t get me wrong. By that I simply mean that I’d like to see more honesty and integrity out of our politicians. And, I like to see more of our citizens praying for those in government that we might “lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.” Politics and religion need to be together.
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Preaching to the Dead
Have you heard of preaching to the dead?
Huh? How can someone hear a sermon if they’re dead? If you have read this far, you must be thinking this by now. The answer is relatively simple: one who is dead physically cannot hear, but one who is spiritually dead can still hear and learn. The church in Sardis was described as follows: “…I know your works, that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead (Revelation 3:1).” The church in Sardis was encouraged to repent and hear the Spirit’s message to the churches (Revelation 3:3, 6).
There are many people today who are spiritually dead! Peter tells us that: “They will give an account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. For this reason the gospel was preached also to those who are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit (1 Peter 4:5-6).”
God is ready to judge us all! If we have obeyed the gospel message and lived faithfully, we will enter into life; if we have not obeyed it, or lived unfaithfully, we will enter into damnation. This is why the gospel must be preached to those that are spiritually dead; they need a chance to live! In order to live, one must put to death the deeds of the body and live according to the Spirit (Romans 8:9, 13).
We must all believe and obey the gospel of Christ, “for we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ… (2 Corinthians 5:10)” Have you done so, or are you still spiritually dead?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
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Lord, Teach Us to Pray
Many today do not properly understand what prayer is and how they ought to pray. Answers can be found in the words of our Lord.
Jesus taught His disciples how to pray on at least two occasions. These are recorded in Matthew 6 and Luke 11. Prayer is an important part of maintaining a good relationship with God. Just as God communicates with us through the teachings of His Word (Hebrews 1:1-2), we communicate with Him through our prayers (Philippeans 4:6). Yet, there are many today who do not properly understand what prayer is and how they ought to pray, so they do not pray as they ought (James 4:3). These people have questions, which deserve answers – and these answers can be found in the words of our Lord.
First, there is the question, “To whom should our prayers be addressed?” Some people pray to God, others to Jesus, others to Mary, or some other dead “saint,” while others pray to the spirits of departed loved ones. Are all of these Scriptural addressees of our prayers? What did Jesus say about this matter?
In Matthew 6:9, Jesus said, “After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven…” In Luke 11:2, Jesus said, “When ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven…” The Lord taught His disciples to pray to God, the Father. Our prayers should not be directed to anyone else. This, however, does not mean that Christ and the Holy Spirit have nothing to do with our prayers. Jesus instructed His disciples to pray to the Father, in His name (John 16:23). The Holy Spirit plays a role in our prayers, in that He “helpeth our infirmities” (Romans 8:26). Also, it must be noted that Jesus taught His disciples to keep the Father’s name “hallowed,” or “sacred” (Matthew 6:9). One way that we might do that today is to address God using the pronouns, “thee, thou, thine, etc.,” which are reserved in our language for references to deity.
Next, there is the question, “What should I include in my prayers?” In His “model prayers,” Jesus taught His disciples to include praise for God in their prayers (Matthew 6; Luke 11). He taught them to be submissive to God’s will, in their prayers, and to ask God for daily blessings. He taught them to pray, not only for themselves, but especially for others. Throughout the New Testament, Christians are encouraged to pray for all kinds of people: for enemies (Matthew 5:44), for friends (James 5:16), for the sick (James 5;14), for the authorities (1 Timothy 2:1-2), etc. Jesus taught His disciples to include the giving of thanks in their prayers. In fact, the concepts of prayer and thanksgiving are mentioned together many times, in the New Testament (Philippeans 4:6; Colossians 4:2). He taught them, most importantly, to pray for forgiveness for their sins and for the sins of others, as well. Christ warned His disciples that, if they refused to extend forgiveness to others, they would not be forgiven for their own sins (Matthew 6:14-15). All of these things ought to be found commonly in our daily prayers – although it is not necessary that every one of these be included in every one of our prayers.
Then, there is question, “How often should I pray?” The Bible does not specify a precise number of times per day that a Christian should pray. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 reads, “Pray without ceasing.” In essence, it means that every Christian should pray to God as often as he can. Many Christians pray every morning, as they are preparing to take on a new day. Most Christians pray before every meal, to thank God for His providence. Most Christians pray when they go to bed at night, as they reflect upon the events of the waning day. In between these occasions, there are countless opportunities for Christians to speak to their Father, in prayer. God wants us to make good use of every one of them. How many times per day to you pray? Did you know that the typical Muslim prays five times every single day? As Christians, we serve a God who is much more deserving of our time and attention.
Once, I was asked this question: “Why does God want us to pray to Him? Doesn’t He know what we need without our having to ask Him?” Of course, God knows us better than we know ourselves (Luke 12:7). It is His love for us, which prompts Him to solicit our prayers (John 3:16). Just as a parent longs to hear the voices of his children, God longs to hear from us. He may not need us in the same way that we need Him, but He wants our love and our fellowship – given of our own free will (Romans 6:16-18). He is our Father and we are His children. It really is just as simple as that!
It is my sincere hope and fervent prayer that no Christian will ever let the blessed rite of prayer go unused. It is truly a shame when Christians neglect to pray. James 5:16 points out that “The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” Prayer can make a big difference in the lives of individuals and in the world at large. Make a difference in your life and in the lives of those around you. “Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-17).
Content by Russell Kline
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Does the Bible Contradict Science?
Does the Bible contradict science, or is the Bible confirmed by science? It depends what you accept as science.
Many people today hold to the misapprehension that the Bible contradicts scientific fact. The truth is that the Bible does not contradict true scientific fact. The Bible does contradict many unproven scientific theories (such as, the “Big Bang Theory” and the “Theory of Evolution”), but it does not contradict any proven, scientific facts. Does the Bible contradict science? No. As a matter of fact, the Bible offers some startling insights into science, which go well beyond what the ancients are known to have achieved.
In Isaiah 40:22, the text says, “It is he that sitteth upon the circle of the Earth, and the inhabitants thereof are as grasshoppers; that stretcheth out the heavens as a curtain, and spreadeth them out as a tent to dwell in.” Written some 600 years before Christ, these words seem to suggest that, at a time when the rest of the world believed that the Earth was a flat, disc-shaped object, the Lord revealed to Isaiah that it is, in fact, a round, spherical object. About 100 years after Isaiah, Greek philosophers were the first to propose that the Earth is round, but it would not be until the Middle Ages that the idea would widely be accepted. Does the Bible contradict science? No. In fact, the Bible was ahead of time.
In Jeremiah 33:22, the text says, “As the host of heaven cannot be numbered, neither the sand of the sea measured: so will I multiply the seed of David my servant, and the Levites that minister to me.” This reference is just one of many, which document the innumerability of the stars in the night sky (cf. Genesis 15:5; 22:17; 26:4). Ancient astronomers did try to count the stars, and they made some amazing astronomical observations with only their unaided eyes. Such accountings of the stars typically numbered a few thousand, but when the telescope was invented, in the 1600’s, scientists realized that the actual number of stars was far greater than that. To this day, it is not known exactly how many stars there are in our own galaxy, but estimates range from 200 to 400 billion. Furthermore, it is estimated that there are over 170 billion galaxies in the known universe, making the total number of stars in the sky impossible to accurately calculate. Does the Bible contradict science? No. Once again the Bible was ahead of its time.
In Job 28:25, the text says, “To make the weight of the winds; and he weigheth the waters by measure.” Today, it is known that the air in our atmosphere weighs 0.0807 pounds per cubic foot. That means, that in 13 cubic feet of space, there is about one pound of air. These scientific facts were not discovered until the 1500’s. Before that discovery was made, everyone thought that air had no weight at all. Does the Bible contradict science? No. God revealed that scientific fact to Job long before anyone else thought of it. Once again, the Bible was ahead of its time.
In Job 26:7, the text says, “He stretcheth out the north over the empty place, and hangeth the Earth upon nothing.” Today, it is known that the Earth orbits the sun, in a roughly circular fashion that takes one year to complete one circuit. But, the ancients did not know that. Some imagined that the Earth was carried on the backs of gigantic animals, or that a giant man carried it on his shoulders. While some Greek philosophers theorized that Earth orbits the sun, it was Copernicus who first proved it, in the early 1500’s. But, God revealed this scientific fact to Job long before the Greeks came up with the idea. Does the Bible contradict science? No. the was still Bible was ahead of its time.
In Leviticus 17:11, the text says, “For the life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul.” This passage demonstrates the scientific principle that blood is essential to life and good health. But, as recently as the 1800’s doctors would routinely bleed patients, thinking that they were removing toxins from the body. It was not until science proved the worthlessness of bloodletting that procedures changed. Once again, the Bible was ahead of its time. Once again, does the Bible contradict science? No.
Finally, in Job 38:16, the text says, “Hast thou entered into the springs of the sea? Or hast thou walked in the search of the depth?” Here, the Lord revealed to Job the presence of freshwater springs in the world’s oceans. It seems that no one even thought that such things might exist, until they were discovered in the early years of submarine travel. Freshwater springs on the ocean floor can cause submarines to lose their buoyancy and sink. Within the last decade, vast reserves of fresh water have been discovered beneath the ocean floor and some scientists think that they might one day be used as sources of drinking water for humanity. Does the Bible contradict science? No. Again and again, the Bible is shown to be ahead of its time and confirmed by true science.
These examples are some of the best evidence that there is to show that the Bible is precisely what it claims to be. If anything, the Bible is confirmed by true science. The only question that remains is, will you do what the Bible says you must do to be saved?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Russell Kline
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A New Man
The concept of being a new man has spiritual connotations.
“He started an exercise program a few months ago, and now he is a new man.” “He had by-pass surgery two years ago, and he’s been a new man ever since.” “Since he met her he’s a new man.” I’m sure you’ve heard those, or similar statements, many times. They reflect the change brought about in the life of an individual by some special act or set of circumstances. In each case the new man is better than the old. The concept also has spiritual connotations.
The apostle Paul wrote, “Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds, and have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him” (Colossians 3:9-10). It was also Paul who wrote, “…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).
When one becomes a Christian, he becomes a new man. The change should be evident to all. The old life with all of its sin and folly must be forgotten, and a new life, patterned after that of the Lord, must begin. We must rid ourselves of anger, wrath, malice, slander, filthy language and lying (to name a few), and in their place add compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience (Colossians 3:8-17). Our success in the Christian endeavor is measured by how well we conform to the life and example of our Lord.
Too many people want the benefits of Christianity without any of the responsibilities. Becoming a new man is not optional. When we believe, repent of our sins, and confess our faith in Christ, we must be baptized, buried with him that we might rise to walk in newness of life (Romans 6:4). Have you become a new man?
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Better Suffering
Is it better suffering from doing good or better suffering from doing evil? Is there a difference?
Suffering is a part of normal everyday life. When we make mistakes, we must suffer the consequences. We expect that. When we do something good, we may suffer a trade-off or persecution from others. We should expect that as well. In fact, “all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution (2 Timothy 3:12).” But is it better suffering for doing good or for doing evil?
Is one form of suffering better than the other? Yes! Why one is suffering makes a difference. Peter wrote, “For it is better, if it is the will of God, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil (1 Peter 3:17).” God says that it is better suffering for doing good! He has always seen His people suffer. Those who suffered were eventually delivered; those who caused the suffering were punished when God took vengeance.
If we are suffering for doing the will of God, He will repay us for doing good and deliver us. On the other hand, if we are suffering for doing evil, God will repay us for that evil. Go back in your mind. Remember when kids would do well and behave in school, and then suffer bullying from other students? Their parents would commend them when they got home! On the other hand, when kids got in trouble at school, they would suffer getting in trouble with their parents when they got home. Which would you choose?
Keep in your mind that God is in control. He will render to every man according to his deeds when he is no longer on the earth (Romans 2:6). Let this thought help your bear up. It is better suffering for doing good and persevering.
Content by Richard Dillon
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Belief of Demons
Do you have the belief of demons? Not good enough!
James 2:19-20: “You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe – and tremble! But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead?” The belief of demons does not lead to saving action.
Demons recognize the fact that there is one God. In fact, they admit that Jesus is the Son of God (Matthew 8:28-32). Demons confess that Jesus of Nazareth is the “Holy One of God (Luke 4:33-36).” Yet they want nothing to do with Him. They know their time will come when they will be tormented. The belief of demons is a dead belief.
Like the demons, we must confess Christ as the Son of God so He will confess us before His Father in Heaven (Romans 10:9-10; Matthew 10:32). Unlike demons who believe and just tremble, we can have nothing to fear if we take saving action. We need to show our faith by our works. Then we can receive eternal salvation. Instead of having nothing to do with Christ, we must have everything to do with Him!
By having a belief in Jesus as the Son of God, confessing Him before men, and putting Him on in baptism, we then no longer live for ourselves. When we take these actions we begin to allow Christ to live in us. We do so by faith in the Son of God, who loved us and gave Himself for us (Galatians 2:20). We must have far more than a dead belief, like the belief of demons. We must have a belief that drives us to take the saving actions that God has told us to take in His Word.
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
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Don’t Worry
Christians don’t worry the way the world does, even though God has not promised to shield us
As citizens of the United States of America, we are blessed beyond our capacity to appreciate it. We live in a time and place where life is easier and more convenient than it has ever been before. We get more done in less time than ever before, and we have much more time for leisurely pursuits. Yet, we also seem to be under much more stress than those who have come before us. Even the poorest Americans have a better quality of life than a tremendous percentage of the rest of the world, and we all worry about losing the things we have. Whether we are rich, poor, or somewhere in between, we all have to cope with the challenges that life presents us.
Christians have a tremendous advantage over those who are not Christians, we don’t worry when it comes to taking on the challenges of life. We don’t worry about things the way the world does, even though God has not promised to shield us from the problems that are common to all humanity. As Matthew 5:45 reminds us, “he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.” Still, God has equipped Christians with some outstanding mechanisms for dealing with life’s difficulties (John 9:31). However, many Christians fail to take advantage of the advantages that God provides. Of all people we ought to know how to manage the stresses of life on Earth so that we don’t worry!
The Lord has taught His children not to worry about things that are out of our control. In Matthew 6:27, Jesus posed this question: “Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature?” In essence, He is saying don’t worry. The words, “taking thought” translate a Greek term, which literally means to “be anxious,”or “to worry.” The point is that, just as we cannot make ourselves grow taller simply by worrying about our height, we also cannot deal with issues that are out of our control simply by worrying about them. That is why, in Philippians 4:6, Paul wrote: “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing…let your requests be made known unto God.” The word “careful” translates another Greek term, which refers to the concept of worry. The implication of this teaching is that it is a sin to worry about things we can do nothing about. That is what Jesus was getting at in the Sermon on the Mount. In Matthew 6:25-34, He used the phrase, “take no thought” three times and alluded to it in questions two other times. Clearly, the Lord wants us not to worry so much about things that are beyond our control. Don’t worry and trust that God is in control.
Still, it is natural for human beings to worry about all kinds of things. People worry about the economy, the environment, terrorism, and a host of other issues that are simply beyond the control of a single person. The Bible teaches us to take the worries and fears we do have and cast them upon God’s shoulders. In 1 Peter 5:7, it is written, “Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.” God will listen to His people; even at times when it seems like no one else will (Psalms 142:1-7). The thing is that, in order for our prayers to be most effective, we must listen to our Father’s counsel, which is found in His holy Word (Psalms 119:49-50). Remember that 1 Peter 5:7 teaches that we should cast our “care” (“worry”) upon God, because He “careth” (“worries”) about us. Some Christians have got the idea that their problems are too small and insignificant to be worthy of God’s attention. But, the Bible reminds us that our Heavenly Father loves each one of us, and He cares about the things we care about. That is why the Lord calls out to us from His Word to obey the gospel plan of salvation and become members of His church. “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9). It ought to be reassuring to us, to know that God worries about us, just as we worry about our own children.
Coping with the challenges of life is difficult, to be sure, but it ought to be much easier for faithful members of the Lord’s church than it is for those who have no relationship with God. That is why the rest of the world will always marvel at the serenity of the Lord’s people and how we don’t worry. The “peace of God, which passeth all understanding” comes only from the knowledge that God cares about us. We don’t worry because we know that He can help us face the challenges of life in this world (Philippians 4:7). If you are searching for peace on Earth, you need not look any further than the Bible. Turn to God and don’t worry anymore. In the pages of God’s Word, you may find the counsel you need to stop worrying about all the world’s problems and to start looking forward to what lies beyond this life!
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Russell Kline
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Our Plea
Our plea is for Biblical unity.
It has been suggested that America is the most religiously divided nation in the world. Whether or not that is, in fact, true, is hard to say. But, if it isn’t completely accurate, it is close. In addition to the non-Christian religions in this country, there are more than 2,500 different churches claiming to be the church we read about in the Scriptures. Though some would argue to the contrary, all this religious diversity is not good. Our plea is for a return to Biblical unity.
Jesus said, “I do not ask for these only, but also for those who believe in me through their word, that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be one in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me” (John 17:20-21 ESV). The intent of that prayer is obvious. Jesus desired unity on the part of believers. Only a united Christendom will bring the world to Christ. Division leads to unbelief. Therefore, if the lost are to learn of Jesus, those who follow Him must be united.
The apostle Paul, appealing to the church at Corinth for unity, pleaded with them to agree and stand as one (1 Corinthians 1:10). It is still a valid plea and remains our plea for Biblical unity today.
We believe that great harm has befallen the cause of Christ in this world because those who claim to follow Him are so divided. But, we also believe that unity is still possible. It is our desire to cast aside all manmade religious trappings and come to Christ solely on the basis of what the Bible teaches. Our plea is a simple one. “In matters of faith let us have unity. In matters of opinion let us have liberty. And, in all things let us have charity (love).”
We ask you neither to accept what the Bible does not teach, nor to reject what it does teach. This is our plea. We extend to you an invitation to join us as we seek to worship and serve the Lord according to the dictates of His word. Upon that basis we can all be one in Christ.
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Pleasing Men, or God?
Is it more important to be pleasing men, or God?
Someone, when asked the secret to success, replied: “I don’t know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everybody.” He was right on target. Those of us who seek to preach and teach Jesus would be wise to keep those words in mind and be aware of whether we are pleasing men, or God.
The apostle Paul warned the churches of Galatia: “I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, if any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed. For do I now persuade men, or God? Or do I seek to please men? For if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ” (Galatians 1:6-10). It’s clear that Paul was more interested in pleasing God than men!
Jesus was far more interested in pleasing His Father than in pleasing men. The Pharisees (a sect of Judaism) found His message terribly offensive. The disciples came to their Lord and said, “Do you not know that the Pharisees were offended…” (Matthew 15:12). The Lord responded: “Let them alone, they be blind guides of the blind. And if a blind man guides a blind man, both will fall into a pit” (Matthew 15:14). Jesus clearly demonstrated whether He would please men, or God. Jesus had not come to court the favor of men. His aim was to please His Father (John 5:30).
We will never succeed in our service to Christ until we are more concerned with pleasing God than men. Our message must not be determined by what people want to hear, but what God wants us to say. The charge to Timothy is still valid. “Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance with their own desires; and will turn away their ears from the truth, and will turn aside unto myths” (2 Timothy 4:2-4). In essence, you know whether you should seek to be pleasing men, or God. Don’t be a people pleaser. There is no success when we seek to please men. There can be no failure when we please God. Who do we seek to please? Have you started seeking to please Him by accepting His salvation?
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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All Lives Matter!
The message that “All Lives Matter” is a Biblical message.
The latter half of 2014 was marred by violence in different parts of our country, as protests erupted over allegations of racism within certain law enforcement organizations. It was alleged that, in the minds of some police officers, the lives of black people do not matter as much as the lives of other people. This has prompted some protesters to don t-shirts and carry signs that say, “Black Lives Matter!” Lately, I have seen some who have moved on from that message to one that says, “All Lives Matter!” Whether people realize it, or not, the message that “All Lives Matter” is a Biblical message, which says much more than those who chant it may intend to say.
If there are any in our society who sincerely believe that life (anyone’s life) is cheap and disposable, it is because that is the concept that society has been feeding itself for more than a generation. Since the 1970’s, proponents of abortion on demand have been arguing that the lives of unborn children do not matter and are subject to being snuffed out at any time prior to birth. Since the 1980’s, proponents of euthanasia on demand have argued that the sick and the elderly are a drain on society’s resources and that humanity would be better served if all of them were just brushed aside and terminated. For a much longer time than these, proponents of eugenics have argued that “inferior” forms of human life must be weeded out of our gene pool, so that only the strongest; most viable; “perfect” specimens shall prevail on Earth. Adolph Hitler is one of the most famous proponents of eugenics in history. With all of the disregard for life in our world, is it any wonder that humanity is becoming more violent?
The Bible teaches us that life is a precious gift, which must not be wasted, or thrown away (Ephesians 5:15-16). One’s ethnic, or national background is irrelevent – All Lives Matter. If one is in need, then we all have a responsibility to help and not to turn away (Luke 10:30-37). The path of mercy is always preferable to the path of violence (Matthew 5:7). Every soul is precious beyond all the wealth of this world (Mark 8:36-37). Every life is sacred, and must never be regarded with contempt (Proverbs 6:16-17).
The Bible does teach that Christians may defend themselves against the violence of others (Luke 22:35-38). The Bible also teaches that those who uphold the law may use force to stop those who break the law (Romans 13:4), and that those who take the lives of innocent people may be punished by a sentence of death (Genesis 9:6). But these things, in no way, suggest that people are permitted by the Lord to regard some lives as being more or less important than others. All lives matter!
I am afraid that, as we push God further and further away from our society, we will be inviting the cold embrace of fear, paranoia, and hatred, which will only lead us to increasingly more violence in all lives. Only when we learn and obey the teachings of our Lord Jesus Christ will we have peace, harmony and love prevailing in our world. For too long we have tolerated the devaluation of the lives of unborn children. For too long we have entertained the arguments of those who would seek to rid our world of the sick, the infirmed, and the imperfect. Right now, there are two competing views of life in our world: that of the Bible and that of evil. As Christians, we must stand up for the Word of God (Colossians 3:17).
As far as the protests and counterprotests in our land around “All Lives Matter” go, I cannot say who is right and who is wrong, because I do not know. One thing I do know, however, is that injustice is not an excuse for further violence.
- “Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:21).
- “Avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine, I will repay, saith the Lord” (Romans 12:19).
- “Recompense to no man evil for evil” (Romans 12:17).
- “But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also” (Matthew 5:39).
When we are outraged by the violence and oppression in the world around us, more violence is not the answer. People like Ghandi, King, and Mandella opposed injustice in their homelands, but they did so without resorting to violence. My prayer for the current generation is that people will learn from the Bible and from history to love God, and to love their fellow man (Matthew 22:35-40).
- “Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: neither give place to the Devil” (Ephesians 4:26,27).
- “Whosoever hatheth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him” (1 John 3:15).
All lives matter and all souls matter. Show the love of God to all. Preach the Gospel to all and save them eternally.
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Russell Kline
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Pure From Sin
Has your heart been made you pure from sin?
We all have questions that we may ask ourselves from time to time.
- “What did I come in here for?”
- “Where did I put that?”
- “What is on my to do list today?”
Some questions are asked every day for that day; other questions may be asked in retrospect throughout a lifetime.
- “What if I had chosen that job…?”
- “What if I moved there…?”
Perhaps some questions are best left unanswered. However, there is one question that we must ask, and honestly answer, for ourselves. This question has eternal implications and consequences.
Proverbs 20:9: “Who can say, ‘I have made my heart clean, I am pure from my sin?’” Solomon penned these words, and understood the importance of a clean heart before God. David pleaded with God that He would create a clean heart in himself, and would be cleaned from his sins (Psalm 51).
We need to have the same concern for the condition of our heart. We can cleanse our hearts and be pure from sin by drawing near to God (James 4:8). Jesus died on the cross for us, shedding His blood to cleanse us from our sins. By being baptized for the remission of sins (Acts 22:16), we can have a heart that is pure of sin. Only then can we say, “I have made my heart clean, I am pure from my sin.”
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
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You Have a Light
You have a light that should never go out.
When a light goes out, the bulb needs to be replaced. Light bulbs come in all shapes and sizes. To have a light that is effective, you must get the proper wattage and type in order to be sure that the light will work properly once again. A light that is too bright will hurt the eyes; a light that is too dim may not allow one to see properly.
Solomon wrote, “The light of the righteous rejoices, but the lamp of the wicked will be put out (Proverbs 13:9).” Spiritually, we all can be a light. Does our light work all the time? Does it shine brightly, or is it dim? The answer may depend on whether our light is righteous or wicked. Those who are righteous have reason to rejoice! Jesus Christ has died, taking away the sin of the world (John 1:29). They are now reconciled to Him and are shining. Those that are wicked are still living in sin, and thus are still separated from God (Isaiah 59:2) and their light has been extinguished.
What kind of light are we emanating? Do you have a light that is it bright and energetic and effective, leading many souls to Christ? Or, is it dim and weak, not showing the love of God to others? Jesus said, “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven (Matthew 5:14-16).”
Have you accepted the salvation offered in Christ to ignite your light? Others can only have a light when we become a light.
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
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An Army of One
Even when Christians just act on their own, being an army of one, they can accomplish great things.
In the New Testament, the Lord’s church is said to be many things. In the book of Ephesians alone, it is called, the bride of Christ (Ephesians 5:23), the body of Christ (Ephesians 1:22-23), the family of God (Ephesians 3:15), the manifold wisdom of God (Ephesians 3:10), and the army of God (Ephesians 6:12). The concept of the Lord’s church as a spiritual army is found throughout the New Testament (2 Timothy 2:3). While we may not fight literal battles, with physical weapons, we are fighting in a spiritual struggle every day of our lives (2 Corinthians 10:4). What is at stake in this struggle is our immortal souls, and the souls of everyone else around us (Mark 8:36-37). Our enemy is powerful, and vastly outnumbers us (Ephesians 6:12). This may cause some to wonder, “What can one Christian do, against an enemy so powerful and so numerous?” How strong is an army of one?
Frankly, there is a great deal that one Christian can do to make a big difference in the spiritual war that rages all around us. The Devil wants us to think that the situation is hopeless, and that we can‘t possibly prevail against his forces, but that is a lie! The Scriptures assure us that, if we will persevere in faithfulness to God, we are “more then conquerors,” in the good fight of faith (Romans 8:37). Don’t let the Devil scare you into thinking that you are powerless and incapable of making a difference. A Christian is never truly an army of one because God is with us.
Take up the 52-week challenge. It’s not too late to start. Resolve now to invite at least one soul to come to church with you in every week of this year. You don’t have to be particularly smart, or savvy or persuasive to take up this challenge, but you just might make a huge difference in someone’s life. Chances are that you will come into contact with people that other Christians won’t. Those folks need you to make the effort to invite them to “come and see” what the church of Christ is all about. Sure, most of the people you talk to won’t come to church, but if one does, then you will have accomplished something truly great for the cause of Christ (Mark 8:36-37), just by acting as an army of one.
Go on a one-Christian door-to-door campaign. Act as an army of one for God. Take home about 25 or so gospel tracts. Take home an equal number of copies of The Paper Pulpit. Go for a walk in your neighborhood on a sunny afternoon and knock on our neighbor’s doors. If they are not at home, leave them a copy of the literature you brought with you. If they are at home, invite them to come to church with you and leave them a copy of the literature you brought with you. It’s just that simple! Before you know it, you will have completed a one-Christian door-to-door campaign, once again acting as an army of one. If you are feeling particularly daring, you might even ask your neighbor to study the Bible with you!
Go on a $25.00 shopping spree. This challenge is very simple. First, identify someone you know – maybe a member of the church; maybe not – who is struggling, financially. Take $25.00 of your own money, and go shopping for groceries for them. Just buy things like milk, bread, eggs, meat, etc. and then deliver them. You may deliver them in person, or you may remain anonymous, but be sure to give the glory to God (Matthew 6:1-4), acting as an army of one on His behalf. In today’s economy, $25.00 is not really very much money, but it can make a world of difference to someone in need.
These are all things that I have done at various times in my life. I can readily say that they are both simple and gratifying. Knowing that, because of you, someone’s soul has been saved, or someone’s life has been made just a little better, is the most amazing feeling in the whole world! When just one Christian makes the time and effort necessary to have an impact on someone else’s life, the potential for the accomplishment of something good is astounding. You can make all the difference in the eternal destiny of a lost soul – and you don’t have to make any grand gestures or monumental efforts. The main thing is that you just have to get out there into the world and do something!
When Christians act on their own, just being an army of one, they can accomplish great things. But, when Christians act together, they can accomplish even more! What if every member of the church invited someone to come to church with them, every week? What if every Christian was willing to go door-to-door for Christ? What if all of us did something to help our neighbors in need?
Content by Russell Kline
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The Son of Encouragement
Everyone can all use more encouragement. You can all be an encourager, or a “son of encouragement”, and provide the need.
Joses, who was called Barnabas by the apostles, means “Son of Encouragement” (Acts 4:36). His actions match his name. He sold a piece of land and gave the money to the apostles, allowing them to meet the needs of the saints (Acts 4:32-37). He did what he could to help as many people as possible. Later, he helped aid those who needed relief from the famine in Judea (Acts 11:27-30).
There was another individual to whom Barnabas provided encouragement: Saul of Tarsus. Saul had been blinded after persecuting Christians, and had just received his sight. He began to preach Christ in Damascus, and then attempted to do the same in Jerusalem. However, many were afraid of him. They did not consider him a disciple. He really needed encouragement. Barnabas declared to them of how the Lord had spoken to Saul. He told Saul, in turn, began to preach Christ. As a result the churches throughout all Judea, Galilee, and Samaria were edified and encouraged (Acts 9:26-31). Not long afterward, Barnabas and Paul teamed up to travel and spread the gospel (Acts 12:25-14:28).
Imagine how many people were encouraged by this one individual. Barnabas had a gift for encouragement and used it to the best of his ability. What about you? Is encouragement your gift? Is it something else? Whatever it is, use it to the best of your ability in the servers of the Lord. You will be surprised how many people can be encouraged. The best encouragement you can provide is having hope in Christ. Can you share the encouragement of knowing you have accepted salvation in Christ on His terms?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
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Getting on Target
Have you been getting on target to reach the important goals you set for your life?
What do you want out of life? How do you define success? What goals have you set for yourself? How are you getting on target to reach them?
- Wealth?
- Happiness?
- Power?
- Success?
Those are the targets many people shoot for, and there is nothing inherently evil in any of them. But, when they become the central focus of our life, our definition of success, they take on a whole new meaning.
Look at money. In and of itself it is neither good nor evil, but when we become obsessed with the desire to have more and more of it, it takes on a sinister note. “The love of money is the root of all evil” (1 Timothy 6:10). It promises much but delivers little of lasting value. Many a life has been ruined by greed.
The same could be said of happiness. Those who make their chief aim in life the quest for happiness are never happy for long. It was the Greek philosopher, Epicurus, who said: “To whom little is not enough nothing is enough. Give me a barley cake and a glass of water and I am ready to rival Zeus for happiness.” When someone asked him the secret to happiness and contentment, he responded: “Add not to a man’s possessions but take from his desires.” Happiness, in and of itself, is not a worthy goal.
Helen Keller wrote: “Many persons have a wrong idea about what constitutes true happiness. It is not attained through self-gratification, but through fidelity to a worthy purpose.” With that in mind, listen to the Apostle Paul: “Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:13-14 NASB).
Heaven was his goal. It should be ours! Have you started in the right direction? Have you been getting on target for the goal of heaven? Can we help?
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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I am Resolved
What have you resolved in your mind?
In 1896, Palmer Hartsough penned the following words: “I am resolved no longer to linger, charmed by the world’s delight; things that are higher, things that are nobler, these have allured my sight. I am resolved to go to the Savior, leaving my sin and strife; He is the true One, He is the just One, He hath the words of life. I am resolved to follow the Savior, faithful and true each day; heed what He sayeth, do what He willeth, He is the living way. I am resolved to enter the kingdom, leaving the paths of sin; friends may oppose me, foes may beset me, still will I enter in.”
The new year is rapidly approaching, and many will be making New Year’s resolutions. What have we resolved to do? Do you need to make changes and improvements in how your are living in the coming year? As the song suggests, if we are living in sin we need to resolve to die to sin and live for Christ (Romans 6:2, 6; Galatians 2:20; 6:14).
We must be resolved and steadfast in our minds to follow diligently the example Christ set in His life on earth (1 Peter 2:21-24). We must be resolved to listen to Him (Romans 10:17; Acts 17:11) and obey Him (John 14:15; 2 Timothy 2:15). We must be resolved to enter and remain in the kingdom of God (Matthew 5:20; 7:21; 18:3; John 3:5), even though family, friends, or enemies may try to hinder us (Matthew 10:37-38). Be resolved to take action and accept the salvation offered in Christ.
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
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Color-Blind
God is color-blind. In Jesus Christ all racial, religious, social, and cultural barriers are destroyed.
Palestine, twenty centuries ago, was a divided land much like it is today. Division on the basis of race, social standing, and sex were all present, but the gospel of Jesus Christ was designed to destroy those barriers, making us “color-blind”. The apostle Paul wrote that for Christians “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). The lesson was, and continues to be, a difficult one to learn.
The disciples had difficulty with the concept of equality. When they found Jesus talking with the Samaritan woman they were amazed. They were amazed because she was a Samaritan, and because she was a woman (John 4:27). Women were second class citizens in Palestine. Further, the Jews were to have no association with those of other races (Acts 10:28). Jesus did not accept the prejudice of the day. He was color-blind in that respect. He had come to seek and to save the lost regardless of sex, ethnic origin, or social standing. His was indeed a new message.
Peter had trouble becoming truly color-blind. It was necessary for God to provide a miraculous vision before that apostle could accept the fact that God was “no respecter of person” (Acts 10:34). Even after he learned this important principle he had difficulty with it. On one occasion Paul had to rebuke him for his prejudicial conduct toward Gentiles (Galatians 2:11-12).
But, we should not be too hard on Peter. How many of us have shown a similar prejudice toward others and not been color-blind ourselves? Folks, God is color-blind. He is no respecter of persons. Those who follow His Son must also be color-blind. In Jesus Christ all racial, religious, social, and cultural barriers are destroyed (Colossians 3:11). Jesus Christ died for all men (John 3:16)!
God and His people look beyond the externals. Every man is made in God’s image and deserves to hear the salvation provided through Christ. Are you a Christian?
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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