Historical Posts
Such Were Some of You
Thanks to Al Parr, working with the Saline Church of Christ, for the content of this post.
Such WERE some of you… means there was a change.
“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.” – 1 Corinthians 6:11
The “such” to which Paul refers is the list of ten sins in the two preceding verses (1 Corinthians 6:9-10): fornication, idolatry, adultery, effeminacy, homosexuality, thievery, covetousness, drunkenness, revilement, and extortion. Some were involved in those sins, but no more. Such were some of you.
The doctrine has recently reappeared (did it ever completely disappear?) that baptism makes an adulterous marriage suddenly sanctified. It has been oft-repeated, though wrongly, “You can make the Bible say anything you want it to say.” It has also been said that “a text out of context is a pretext.” Those who want to believe their own ways delude themselves in thinking that the Bible supports them.
Paul does not say here that sin is no longer sin because sinners became Christians. They were cleansed from sin, not in sin (compare 1 Corinthians 3:17; 6:18-20). The context of these verses is that Christians no longer think, speak and behave according to the philosophy and morality of the world (1 Corinthians 5:1; 9-11; 6:7; 15-17).
Sin is not cleaned up by obedience to the gospel; it is cleaned out. If you are still in the same sin to which you were bound before your baptism, where is the obedience to the gospel? Where is the change? How can it be said, such were some of you?
Al Parr works Confirming the Churches and preaches at the Saline Church of Christ
7300 East Michigan Avenue
Saline, MI 48176
734-429-4319
Content by Zachary Van Tassel
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Truth Abides Forever
God’s Truth Abides Forever.
There are too many things that do not last very long. They do not abide.
- John said that the world is passing away, and its lust (1 John 2:17).
- James said our life is a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away (James 4:14).
All too often we allow ourselves to get caught up in the things that do not last; instead, we need to pay attention to what will abide, what does last.
The Psalmist wrote, “His merciful kindness is great toward us, and the truth of the LORD endures forever (Psalm 117:2).” God’s truth abides forever. It will last, even when other things do not! The Psalmist also wrote, “The LORD is good; His mercy is everlasting, and His truth endures to all generations (Psalm 100:5).”
God’s truth was in the beginning; it is here now; it will always exist.
In the New Testament, Jesus gives us three sources of truth:
- Jesus Himself (John 14:6)
- God, His Father (John 17:3)
- God’s Word (John 17:17)
John earlier told us that Jesus was in the beginning with God (John 1:1-2). In the beginning, God spoke and created light (Genesis 1:1-3). Today, Jesus is sitting at the right hand of God (Romans 8:34; Colossians 3:1). The word of God is with us today through the Bible (2 Timothy 3:16-17); God’s truth abides forever (1 Peter 1:25; Isaiah 40:8).
God, His Son, and His Word always were; they still are; they always will be. Their truth abides forever. That’s the truth! It has been proven over and over again that the Bible is accurate in every way. Believe it and follow God’s instructions! Jesus said, “And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free (John 8:32).” The truth abides forever, and if we do what we are commanded to do with it, we shall abide forever with them!
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
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In The Likeness
Thanks to Al Parr, working with the Saline Church of Christ, for the content of this post.
Romans 6:5 – “For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection“
Therefore, those baptized for another reason – in another likeness – are not in the likeness of His resurrection – are not walking in newness of life (Romans 6:4), and have not crucified the old man (Romans 6:6), and are neither dead unto sin, nor alive unto God (Romans 6:11). The likeness of the death and the likeness of the resurrection are linked.
Sincere people often ask, and several have asked on FaceBook pages, “even though I was immersed in that other church, do I need to be immersed again?” Think on this, and then answer the question. Salvation is not based on immersion; it is the result of transforming conversion:
- When one is baptized because he believes (Mark 16:16)
- When he is baptized because he knows that is what God requires for his salvation (1 Peter 3:21)
- When he is baptized as a willing and submissive response to the authority of Jesus (Matthew 28:19)
When baptism is based on these things, one is saved by the grace of God, and not by his own choices and actions (Ephesians 2:8-9). Think on these things and determine your answer about being immersed again.
“IF we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, (THEN) we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection.” Did you only give your body to the water, or did you give your heart to Jesus Christ?
Al Parr works Confirming the Churches and preaches at the Saline Church of Christ
7300 East Michigan Avenue
Saline, MI 48176
734-429-4319
Content by Zachary Van Tassel
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An Effective Preacher
Thanks to Al Parr, working with the Saline Church of Christ, for the content of this post.
What makes an effective preacher?
Acts 18:24-28 – “And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus…”
In describing Apollos and his work, Luke, by the inspiration of God, lists six qualifications of an effective preacher:
[1] an eloquent man;
[2] mighty in the scriptures;
[3] instructed in the way of the Lord;
[4] fervent in the spirit;
[5] he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord;
[6] (is easily taught when in error, as) they took him unto them and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly.
The effect of such work by such an effective preacher: He helped them much which had believed through grace, and this he did publickly, shewing by the scriptures that Jesus was Christ.
Considering that all Christians are to be effective preachers with their lives, could all of the same be said of you?
Al Parr works Confirming the Churches and preaches at the Saline Church of Christ
7300 East Michigan Avenue
Saline, MI 48176
734-429-4319
Content by Zachary Van Tassel
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What a Difference a Year Makes
After the persecution of Stephen (Acts 7), many Christians scattered as far as Antioch. The hand of the Lord was with them, and “a great number believed and turned to the Lord.” As word of this spread to Jerusalem, Barnabas was called to Antioch. When he arrived, Barnabas encouraged them to “continue with the Lord.” He then found Saul in Tarsus, and brought him back to Antioch. Thus, “for a whole year they assembled with the church and taught a great many people. And the disciples were first called Christians at Antioch (Acts 11:19-26).”
My family and I can relate to Barnabas and Saul. For a whole year now, we have assembled with the saints here at Gahanna-Jefferson and a great many people have been taught. It is hard to believe that just a year ago my family and I moved up here to work with the Lord’s church. A lot of things have taken place: campaign, gospel meeting, fellowships, Bible Bowl, visitations, and the like. Many improvements have been made to the building and grounds. We finally sold our house. Jessica discovered she has a neuroendocrine carcinoid tumor, and will have surgery soon. Elijah has grown much and is talking more.
There is so much that can happen in a year. Image how many people heard the gospel throughout Antioch thanks to the efforts of Barnabas and Saul. A lot of good things have happened to this congregation over the past year, thanks to each and every member. We are blessed to be a part of this congregation, and pray the Lord can work through us for many years to come. Imagine what can take place within a year from now!
Content by Richard Dillon
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Just Grow Up!
Are you a mature Christian, or do you need to just grow up?
Every parents wants to raise children to be mature adults. This involves growth in five specific areas encompassing the physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual development of the child. We see this kind of growth in Jesus. Following the incident at Jerusalem when He was twelve, Luke wrote of Him, “And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men” (Luke 2:52). Mental, emotional and physical growths are indicted by wisdom and stature, and the spiritual and social elements are found in His growing in favor with God and men. It is a sad thing when a child fails to properly develop.
There is a spiritual dimension to growth in Christ which is often overlooked or played down. Paul described the organization of the early church as being structured for the purpose of bringing children of God to maturity. We ought to “all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head – Christ” (Ephesians 4:13-15).
The reality is, however, that many babes in Christ remain perpetual babies. They need to just grow up! These are the folks who are always demanding things go their way. They threaten to leave if others don’t bow to their will. Their feelings are always getting hurt, and they never accept responsibility for their condition. Everything is the fault of someone else. They are always right, and everyone else is wrong. There comes a time when you want to say to these folks, “Just grow up!”
Such growth is possible only when we are brought up on a proper diet. Peter urged, “as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby” (1 Peter 2:2). Spiritual nourishment comes from the word for which we should hunger and thirst. Are you a mature Christian, or do you need to just grow up?
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Baptism is a Burial
Thanks to Johnny O. Trail from the Sycamore Chapel Church of Christ for the content of this post.
Baptism is an immersion, or a burial, in water.
I was reading a 1936 history of Beech Grove, Tennessee a few years ago. It revealed an interesting fact about certain Confederate Soldiers who and their burial around the region. It seems that farmers in the area were complaining about the improper burial of soldiers who had died in battles around the small community.
In their haste to escape from advancing Union Soldiers, the Confederate Army placed their dead comrades in shallow, insufficient graves. In some cases, these deceased soldiers were barely covered with dirt and left to be ravaged by the elements. Needless to say, this created a morbid, grotesque scene for farmers and citizens of the region to contend with on a regular basis. Moreover, it was a constant reminder of a terrible war that cost so many American lives.
As late as 1935, farmers were complaining of having to farm around the remains of these soldiers that were, in some cases, above the ground. They wanted these men to be exhumed and have a proper burial, so they would not be continually farming around the remains of dead soldiers. In response to the complaints, the bodies were exhumed and placed in a Confederate Cemetery that is located just off of I-24 on the Coffee County / Bedford County line in Tennessee. To this day, one can see that particular cemetery from the interstate that runs parallel to the graves.
This reveals a very important principle about baptism that many in our world fail to realize. Baptism is a burial. The very word that is used to describe the process along with certain passages makes this fact apparent.
The dictionary does the Bible student a disservice in defining the word “baptism.” One dictionary defines baptism as “a religious ceremony in which somebody is sprinkled with or immersed in water…” Sprinkling is one way the word is defined by people in our age. This might also be termed baptism by effusion.
First, the Bible makes it plain that baptism required much water. John 3:23 makes this point in regards to the baptism of John. “And John also was baptizing in Aenon near to Salim, because there was much water there: and they came, and were baptized.”
As a matter of fact the same point is made regarding the baptism of the Ethiopian eunuch. Acts 8:37-39 says, “And as they were going along the road they came to some water, and the eunuch said, “See, here is water! What prevents me from being baptized?” And he commanded the chariot to stop, and they both went down into the water, Philip and the eunuch, and he baptized him. And when they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord carried Philip away, and the eunuch saw him no more, and went on his way rejoicing.” From this text, we learn that there was enough water for both the eunuch and Philip to go down into and be baptized. The implication is clear. Baptism required “much water,” because it is an immersion, a burial, in water.
In the book of Romans, Paul makes it clear that baptism is a burial. Consider his words in Romans 6:4: “We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.” When Jesus was buried, He was completely encapsulated within a new tomb. Matthew 27:59-60 says, “And Joseph took the body [of Jesus—J.O.T.] and wrapped it in a clean linen shroud and laid it in his own new tomb, which he had cut in the rock. And he rolled a great stone to the entrance of the tomb and went away.” Thus, it becomes ostensible that any imitation of Christ’s burial would include a complete and total burial under water.
Finally, one might consider the linguistic arguments regarding the proper method of baptism. For this discussion, we need to look at the Septuagint translation of Leviticus 14:15-16. These passages say, “Then the priest shall take some of the log of oil and pour it into the palm of his own left hand and dip his right finger in the oil that is in his left hand and sprinkle some oil with his finger seven times before the LORD.” The three words considered from these scriptures are pour, dip, and sprinkle. In the Greek, these words are cheo (pour), rhantizo (sprinkle), and bapto (dip). This makes it obvious that the scholars who translated the Septuagint version of the Bible knew that there were three separate and distinct Greek words for these different actions.¹
From these arguments, it becomes apparent that baptism means immersion, or burial. As a matter of fact, Dr. Hugo McCord in his translation of the Bible, The Everlasting Gospel, IV ed., consistently renders the word bapto as immersion. Brother McCord does this because the word means “to immerse.” McCord avers in his appendix:
Likewise, the word “baptism” is eliminated, because it is not a translation: “baptism” only anglicizes the Greek word baptisma, using English letters to replace Greek letters, and does not tell what the word means. The root of bapto, “dip” is seen in Luke 16:24: “Send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water to cool my tongue.”
Thus, the scriptural and linguistic arguments make it apparent that immersion, or burial in water, is in mind when the inspired writers use the term “baptism” in scripture. Still, there are those who reject the truth on this matter. The American Bible Society refuses to translate the word baptisma as immersion. When pressed on the matter they responded. “No translation should employ a word which would rule out one or the other of the interpretations as to the mode of baptism.”²
We should desire the truth in regards to translating words and develop an understanding of their meanings. The translation of baptisma should be of no exception!
¹ Jackson, Wayne (1993). Notes From the Margin of my Bible, Volume I. Courier Publications, Stockton, pgs. 14, 15.
² Ibid, pg. 698-699. The word “mode” in their response is not a proper term to use in connection with the topic under consideration. Hugh Fulford has an excellent discussion of this term in an issue of the Spiritual Sword.
Works Cited:
Jackson, Wayne (1993). Notes From the Margin of my Bible, Volume I. Courier Publications, Stockton.
McCord, Hugo (2000). The Everlasting Gospel, IV ed. Gospel Light Publishing Company, Delight.
Johnny O. Trail preaches at the Sycamore Chapel Church of Christ
2699 Old Clarksville Pike
Ashland City, TN 37015
615-746-8624
Content by Zachary Van Tassel
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What Are You Looking For?
What are you looking for in a church?
It is not at all uncommon to hear someone speak of “church shopping.” By that, they mean that they are looking for a church which satisfies their needs, fulfills their desires, and provides what they want. Usually, but not always, they are looking for an entertaining worship experience, an active program providing day care, organized activities for the kids, and some social opportunities for themselves. All of which are well and good in a fraternal or social club, but is that really what the church is all about? What are you looking for that is meaningful?
The value of the worship experience is not determined by how it makes us feel, but how it pleases God. Worship is unacceptable when it offers people what they want, but does not give to God what He demands. Jesus condemned those who drew near to God with their lips while their hearts were far from Him. Their worship was vain because they taught as doctrine the commandments of men (Matthew 15:9). That kind of worship is more interested in what people want than what God has commanded. It is unacceptable, no matter how good it may make a person feel or match what they were looking for.
The attitude among many churches today is a reflection of attitudes in the political arena. Politicians are notorious for taking polls to determine positions. Sime preachers are often no different. Find out what the people want and give it to them. After all, the name of the game is seeing who can have the largest attendance, the biggest budget, attract the masses. Didn’t Paul have something to say about all of that? Seems to me he did (2 Timothy 4:1-5).
Think more about what you should be looking for. Acceptable worship must be directed toward the right object (GOD), done in the right spirit, and governed by God’s word (John 4:24). Personal preferences are irrelevant when it comes to determining what should or should not be done in worship. Ours is not a search for the church of our choice, but for the church of Christ’s choice. He has clearly spelled out in His word what the church is to be, how the church is to worship, and how Christians are to live. Those decisions have all been made for us. We must decide whether or not we will listen to Him and be looking for the things that matter to Him.
If you are looking for a church intent on pleasing God, not men, we would like to hear from you.
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Selfishness
Thanks to Johnny O. Trail from the Sycamore Chapel Church of Christ for the content of this post.
Almost all sin is based in selfishness.
One can trace just about every imaginable sin to selfish behaviors. As a matter of fact, the first sin appealed to the fulfillment of self, selfishness. In offering temptations, Satan wants humankind to focus on himself and be based in selfishness. This is the very thing he did in the Garden of Eden. Genesis 3:2-5 says, “And the woman said to the serpent, “We may eat of the fruit of the trees in the garden, but God said, ‘You shall not eat of the fruit of the tree that is in the midst of the garden, neither shall you touch it, lest you die.'” But the serpent said to the woman, “You will not surely die. For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.”
The epitome of Christ and Christianity is self-denial. That being the case, selfishness is the antithesis of true Christian living. Jesus makes this apparent throughout His earthly ministry. Do you see any selfishness in this statement? Matthew 16:24-26 says, “Then Jesus told his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul?”
A recent article in the Tennessean regarding the vote on Amendment One underscores the nature of selfishness. A woman from Alabama was interview regarding the upcoming vote on the aforementioned amendment. She was alarmed to learn that Tennessee was trying to close the loopholes in its existing abortion laws. Notice how many times this woman seeking an abortion uses the term “I”:
“I know a lot of people are excited when they hear they’re pregnant, but I felt like I was looking at a brick wall between me and everything I wanted to do by the time I hit my 30s and 40s,” said Mae, who asked that her full name be withheld to protect her privacy. “I was not in a place where I physically, emotionally, mentally and financially could, in all clear conscience, bring a child into the world.”
Can you see the selfishness? Simply stated, she saw this unborn child as a hindrance to her future happiness. The unborn child erected a “brick wall between [her] and everything [she] wanted to do…” Nonetheless, she felt comfortable having premarital sex so she could fulfill the selfish needs of her flesh. She wanted all of the pleasure of a sensual relationship but none of the responsibilities that come along with it. Regardless of what many claim, the vast majority of abortions are done as a means of birth control so people can maintain their own selfish lifestyles.
Arrogance and pride are also sins associated with selfishness. When one assumes that he is successful without God’s assistance, the fall of that person is coming quickly. This was one of the faults of the king of Assyria. Notice what Isaiah says about him. Isaiah 10:12-14 says, “When the Lord has finished all his work on Mount Zion and on Jerusalem, he will punish the speech of the arrogant heart of the king of Assyria and the boastful look in his eyes. For he says: “By the strength of my hand I have done it, and by my wisdom, for I have understanding; I remove the boundaries of peoples, and plunder their treasures; like a bull I bring down those who sit on thrones. My hand has found like a nest the wealth of the peoples; and as one gathers eggs that have been forsaken, so I have gathered all the earth; and there was none that moved a wing or opened the mouth or chirped.”
Contrary to his self-inflated opinion, the king of Assyria is merely a rod of correction in the hands of God. Notice what is said in Isaiah 10:15 “Shall the axe boast over him who hews with it, or the saw magnify itself against him who wields it? As if a rod should wield him who lifts it, or as if a staff should lift him who is not wood!” A few chapters later King Sennacherib would see the defeat of his army at the gates of Jerusalem and his own death at the hands of his sons. Isaiah 37:36-38 says, “Then the angel of the LORD went forth, and smote in the camp of the Assyrians a hundred and fourscore and five thousand: and when they arose early in the morning, behold, they were all dead corpses. So Sennacherib king of Assyria departed, and went and returned, and dwelt at Nineveh. And it came to pass, as he was worshipping in the house of Nisroch his god, that Adrammelech and Sharezer his sons smote him with the sword; and they escaped into the land of Armenia: and Esarhaddon his son reigned in his stead.”
When one removes God from his future plans, he is doomed to failure for God is the one who sees and controls the future of all people. James 4:13-15 says, “Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit”-yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes. Instead you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that.” We should endeavor to seek God’s will for our lives and include Him in all of our plans.
Selfishness, focusing on self, is a means of self-destruction. Romans 2:8-9 says, “But for those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, there will be wrath and fury. There will be tribulation and distress for every human being who does evil, the Jew first and also the Greek.” This is further echoed by Paul in 2 Timothy 3:1-5. “But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people.”
God calls upon His followers to be selfless in regards to their Christian walk, giving up selfishness. Jesus was the epitome of a selfless servant of God seeking only His father’s will in faithful obedience toward Him. He had no selfishness. Philippians 2:5-8 says, “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.” We should strive to like the Master in our service to mankind, giving up selfishness. May we endeavor to be like Him every day.
Johnny O. Trail preaches at the Sycamore Chapel Church of Christ
2699 Old Clarksville Pike
Ashland City, TN 37015
615-746-8624
Content by Zachary Van Tassel
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Renewing Our Zeal
Thanks to Johnny O. Trail from the Sycamore Chapel Church of Christ for the content of this post.
Our zeal for Christ and His church should be seen.
It is easy for the people of God to become discouraged and lose their focus at times, lose their zeal. Scripture encourages Christians to maintain their zeal for serving God. Titus 2:11-15 says, “For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works.”
We are to be “zealous for good works” as laborers in God’s vineyard. Zealous is defined as “ardently active, devoted, or diligent; full of, characterized by, or due to zeal.” Suffice it to say that we are to be “ardently active” in doing good things for the benefit of the kingdom of God. This being the case, there are several areas wherein we need to renew our zeal.
One area that the church seems to lack enthusiasm for is personal evangelism. God wants Christians to be zealous for winning souls to Christ. I Peter 2:9-10 says, “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. Once you were not a people, but now you are God’s people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.”
All Christians are part of the “royal priesthood.” That is, we are intercessors on behalf of God to people who are outside of Christ. There is no such thing as a clergy and laity class in the church. All the people of God are priests who are expected to teach their fellow man about Jesus. Thus, we need to realize that God expects every single one of us to be teaching alien sinners about Jesus and have zeal in doing so.
The great commission was not just for the twelve apostles. God expects every one of His disciples to be working at converting people to Christ. John 4:35 says, “Do you not say, ‘There are yet four months, then comes the harvest’? Look, I tell you, lift up your eyes, and see that the fields are white for harvest.” Without reapers working with zeal, the harvest will turn to rot and ruin.
Christians need to renew their zeal for restoring erring Christians. Galatians 6:1 “Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted.” Many congregations of the Lord’s people could increase attendance significantly if they were able to restore those who simply dropped out of service in the church. That being said, there must be an effort that is made to demonstrate that we are concerned about people who have become apostate.
God’s people need to renew their zeal for church attendance. We receive so many blessings from assembling with the saints in the presence of God. It is a tremendous source of encouragement to be around people who are in accord regarding their service toward God. In reality, we need to be present for every service of the church. Hebrews 10:24-25 says, “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.”
As the aforementioned passage states, assembling allow us to “stir up one another to love and good works.” In congregational settings, we are made privy to situations with brethren and people in our communities who might need benevolent assistance. Sometimes we become aware of things that were previously unknown regarding our own brethren. A group of likeminded people with zeal can accomplish much good. Everybody needs a good “stirring up” ever once and a while.
We are admonished in scripture to be zealous for good works. As representatives of Christ, we must allow our enthusiasm, our zeal, for Christ and His church to be seen by those around us. If we show no passion and zeal for our Christianity, the world around us might very well assume that our devotion is hollow in its final summation.
Johnny O. Trail preaches at the Sycamore Chapel Church of Christ
2699 Old Clarksville Pike
Ashland City, TN 37015
615-746-8624
Content by Zachary Van Tassel
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Other Sheep
Thanks to Al Parr, working with the Saline Church of Christ, for the content of this post.
John 10:16 – “And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.”
It is sad that some people still, as they did in the days of Peter (2 Peter 3:15-16), pervert the scriptures. One religious group, very active in television advertising and door-to-door work all over the world, teaches that the “other sheep” of which Jesus spoke are Jewish descendants in North America. Don’t let such people lead you into their deception.
Writing what the Spirit told him to write (1 Corinthians 2:13), Paul explained to the Ephesian church that Jesus, in talking of the other sheep, was talking about the Gentiles (compare Ephesians 2:11-18). In speaking to the elders of that church (Acts 20:28-29) he referred to the mixed assembly of Jews and Gentiles as “the flock of God,” singular in number and equivalent to the “one fold” (the one church) under the “one shepherd” (Jesus).
God’s plan to unite Jew and Gentile (in the church) is not a mystery; it has now been made known (Colossians 1:27), and does not require the fanciful interpretation of uninspired men. Neither does it require even another book from God (Galatians 1:8-9).
Those who are wrongly “dividing the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15) are doing so “to their own destruction” (2 Peter 3:16).
Al Parr works Confirming the Churches and preaches at the Saline Church of Christ
7300 East Michigan Avenue
Saline, MI 48176
734-429-4319
Content by Zachary Van Tassel
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Just a Symbol
Baptism is much more than just a symbol.
Over the years I have written many times regarding the subject of baptism. It is no secret that we in churches of Christ preach that baptism is essential to our salvation, not just a symbol of salvation. We believe this to be plainly declared in Scripture (Acts 2:38; 22:16; etc.). Jesus was baptized (Matthew 3:16). He preached baptism (Mark 16:16). He made and baptized more disciples than John (John 4:1). Few would dispute these assertions. Yet, when these things are called to the attention of folks, they are ignored.
The common refrain today is “believe and invite Jesus into your heart.” Nothing more is demanded. Anything more, it is argued, would make salvation a matter of works, and it is asserted that work has no relationship to man’s salvation. I do not dispute the fact that we are undeserving of the sacrifice of Jesus. Nor do I dispute the fact that there is nothing we can do to save ourselves. We are wholly dependent upon Christ. However, that is not to say that we have no obligation to Him beyond the acknowledgement of His divinity. The devil would not argue with us regarding His identity, but the devil would never submit to His will. Those who claim to believe but will not obey are siding with Satan.
Further, when we teach that baptism necessitates a burial in water, we are told that we are merely dealing with symbolism, and we should not confuse the symbol with the substance.
- First, from a linguistic standpoint there is no doubt that baptism involves an immersion or submersion. Sprinkling and pouring do not satisfy the true meaning of the word.
- Second, baptism is described as a burial in the New Testament (Romans 6:4; Colossians 2:12).
- Third, in the detailed accounts of baptism in the Bible there is a going down into and a coming up out of water (Acts 8:38-39).
I do not deny the symbolism involved in baptism. Again, according to the Bible, baptism is a symbol of the death and burial of the old man and the resurrection of the new man in Christ (Romans 6:3-14). How can this be symbolized by sprinkling or pouring a few drops of water on someone’s head? That does not constitute a burial or a resurrection! And, if it is all a matter of symbolism, why not drop the water altogether? Surely, if a few drops are sufficient to satisfy the symbolism, can it not be completely eliminated? Some have already done so!
If I have misrepresented what the Bible teaches, then it should be ignored. But, if the truth on this subject has been presented, and I am convinced that it has, ignoring it jeopardizes our hope of heaven.
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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Christ and His Church
One cannot accept Christ and reject His church, or accept the church and reject Jesus. The two are inseparable.
“Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it” (Ephesians 5:25).
It is impossible to separate Christ from his church. Without Christ there would be no church, and without the church Christ’s mission would have been incomplete. It must be clearly understood that one cannot accept Christ and reject his church, or accept the church and reject Jesus. The two are inseparable.
His relationship to the church is set forth in Scripture. The purpose of his coming was to build the church (Matthew 16:18). His love for the church moved him to give himself for her (Ephesians 5:25) His blood was shed to purchase her (Acts 20:28). And, he is her head today (Colossians 1:18).
What is the church? It is not a building, a social club, or a political action committee. It is God’s spiritual family (1 Timothy 3:15). In relationship to its government it is called a kingdom. In regard to its organization it is called a body. In respect to its relationship to the world it is called the church, meaning the “called out.”
The church consists of saved men and women. The Lord adds the saved to the church (Acts 2:47). How, then, does one become a part of the church? According to the Bible, the only real authority on the subject, citizenship in the kingdom comes through the new birth (John 3:3,5,7). Membership in the body comes by baptism into it (1 Corinthians 12:13). And, one is added to the church by the Lord upon the basis of faith, repentance, and baptism (Acts 2:37-47).
Is it possible to accept Jesus, but reject his church? No! Can one be saved outside of the church? No! All of the saved are in Christ’s church today (Acts 2:47;4:12). Hear God’s word, believe it, and obey it. The Lord will add you to his church and you will be a Christian, nothing more, nothing less (Acts 11:26).
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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Secret Deeds and Open Rewards
There are no secret deeds with God. He sees and will reward openly.
Bigthan and Teresh, eunuchs and doorkeepers to King Ahasuerus, secretly wanted to kill him. This became known to Mordecai, who told Queen Esther, who informed the king in his name. The matter was investigated and confirmed, resulting the deaths of Bigthan and Teresh. Later this was recorded in the book of the chronicles (Esther 2:21-23).
Haman, who was promoted above all the princes to King Ahasuerus, became jealous of Mordecai when he would not bow or pay homage to him. As a result, he got King Ahasuerus to use his signet ring, sealing the death of the Jews, Mordecai’s people.
Mordecai soon learned of this and told Queen Esther. Queen Esther risked her life to appear before King Ahasuerus, and requested a banquet to reveal her wishes. On the eve of the banquet, King Ahasuerus could not sleep; therefore, the book of the chronicles was read to him. He learned that Mordecai had saved his life, and nothing was done to reward him. Haman was brought in, and was asked what to do to honor someone the king wishes to honor. Thus, the king rewarded Mordecai openly for saving his life.
The next day, Queen Esther revealed to King Ahasurerus that Haman was behind the plot to kill the Jews, her people. It was learned that Haman had gallows prepared for them, and he was hung on them (Esther 6-7).
Here are two examples, one good and one bad, of secret deeds. Both were openly rewarded! Jesus said, “…your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly (Matthew 6:6).” We must remember that whatever we do in this life, whether good or bad, will be rewarded by God. There are no secret deeds as far as He is concerned. Let us do good that we may enter into eternal life! Start by accepting His salavation offered in His son.
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
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Jesus Our Savior
We are all drowning spiritually. And, there is a Savior. But sadly, most reject his help. It makes no sense.
Have you ever been lost? It’s a frightening thing to be lost and alone and need a savior! Maybe as a child you were separated from your mother in a larger department store. Perhaps you were a hunter on new terrain. Unfamiliar with the topography, you became disoriented. Or, you took the wrong exit on the freeway and ended up in unfamiliar surroundings. Whatever the situation, we have all been there and needed help.
- The heart races.
- The palms sweat.
- Panic sets in.
- An overwhelming sense of helplessness and despair fills the soul.
- It seems hopeless.
- Something terrible is bound to follow.
Do you remember how relieved you were when a clerk calmly reassured you that everything would be all right and helped you locate you mother (or child)? Or, you saw a familiar landmark and found the path back to camp? Or, you saw a sign pointing you in the right direction, and were soon on track again? Whoever, or whatever the savior, there was a deep sense of relief and gratitude.
Now, imagine something even more frightening. Your boat has capsized in the middle of the Ohio river. You neglected to wear your life jacket, and you are a mediocre swimmer at best. You can stay afloat for a few minutes, but if help does not come soon, it will be over. Suddenly, out of nowhere, a boat pulls alongside and offers assistance. How would you respond? No right thinking person would reject such an offer, would they?
The fact is, we are all drowning spiritually. And, there is a Savior. But sadly, most reject his help. It makes no sense. He is the only Savior (Acts 4:12). Reject Him, and there is no hope. Death is inevitable without His help. Again, you would think no one would reject his offer, but they do. Millions do!
Let me urge you not to make the mistake of turning your back on the only Savior there is. John Rowe wrote: “I was sinking deep in sin, far from the peaceful shore, very deeply stained within, sinking to rise no more; but the Master of the sea heard my despairing cry, from the waters lifted me, now safe am I.”
Jesus came to rescue all of us, but He can only save those who reach out to Him. Do you believe (John 8:24)? Have you repented (Luke 13:3)? Have you been baptized (Acts 2:38)? Is He your Savior?
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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Good Medicine for any Ailment
A merry heart is still good medicine!
“A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bone” (Proverbs 17:22).
We are what we think. Solomon said of man, “as he thinketh in his heart so is he” (Proverbs 23:7). Attitude plays an important part in our lives. A good attitude is a key to physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing.
Physically, many health problems are the result, either directly or indirectly, of anxiety. It has been estimated that as many as two-thirds of all patients who see physicians have symptoms caused or aggravated by mental stress. Headaches, high blood pressure, hay fever and a host of other health problems can be directly linked to emotional stress. The key to good physical health begins with good mental health. Use good medicine. “A merry heart doeth good like a medicine.“
Emotionally, the greatest threat to our wellbeing is depression. I have in mind the kind of depression which results from our outlook. We must avoid the negative gloom and doom thinking which leads to discouragement. I realize that we all have good days and bad days, but for some the bad far outweighs the good, at least in their own eyes. These folks feel bad when they feel good for fear they will feel worse when they feel better. “A broken spirit drieth the bones.“
Spiritually, sin is a cancer eating away at the soul. It finds its greatest nourishment in an evil heart. Jesus said, “Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh” (Matthew 12:34). It was also Jesus who said that from the heart come evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, and all things which defile a man (Matthew 15:19-20). What is needed is good medicine. In Christ we find a cure for the soul’s cancer (Romans 6:23).
“Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life” (Proverbs 4:23). Here is the key to real physical, emotional, and spiritual health. A merry heart is still good medicine!
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Righteousness Delivers
Righteousness delivers time and again. Our nation needs to return to righteousness.
There was once a time when a country was not true to God, even though a few citizens may have been. He told Ezekiel, “’Son of man, when a land sins against Me by persistent unfaithfulness, I will stretch out My hand against it; I will cut off its supply of bread, send famine on it, and cut off man and beast from it. Even if these three men, Noah, Daniel, and Job, were in it, they would deliver only themselves by their righteousness,’ says the Lord God (Ezekiel 14:13-14).”
Noah (Genesis 6-9) was faithful to God. When man’s every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually, Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD (Genesis 6:5,8). Even though God destroyed the earth by so great a flood, we see that righteousness delivers Noah and seven others. They were saved in the ark.
Daniel prayed to God often, and his friends would not bow down and worship the king. Even though they were thrown into a den of lions or into the fiery furnace (respectively), they were delivered by God; those that threw them in perished. Righteousness delivers again.
Job never blamed God for his adversity. Even though many things were taken away from him, yet he remained faithful to God and did not sin with his lips (Job 2:10). After a while, Job was blessed with more than what he had at the beginning. Yet again, righteousness delivers.
There is a great concern today about our nation. By persistent unfaithfulness, the LORD may turn against it. However, the righteous will be delivered! The wise man said, “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people (Proverbs 14:34).” Let us be among the righteous few that the LORD may deliver.
Content by Richard Dillon
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The Passing of Time
The passing of time can be deceptive. Spend it wisely.
For years I’ve heard others say, “The older I get, the faster time goes.” I really didn’t understand what they meant until recently. I suspect that’s a sign that I’m getting older, myself.
When we are young we don’t think a lot about time. We have a lifetime ahead of us. There is no need to contemplate the future and the passing of time. As we get a little older, we start thinking about getting out of school, getting a job, making money, and having a family. Before we realize it, we’ve done those things and the passing of time happens. Our family is raised, and we’re left scratching our heads and asking, “Where did the time go?”
It’s no wonder Moses wrote: “…we spend our years as a tale that is told. The days of our years are threescore and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is there strength, labor and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away” (Psalm 90:9, 10). James, the brother of our Lord, said much the same thing when he asked, “What is your life?” His answer: “It is even a vapor (a puff of smoke), that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away” (James 4:14).
I suspect one of the most frequent mistakes we make is our failure to utilize our time wisely. The devil likes delays. Whatever it is, if we ought to do it, he’s saying, “Put it off! Wait until tomorrow! It will keep! Don’t get in any hurry!” Sadly, we are prone to listen and the passing of time gets away from us. But, there are some things that are too important to delay. If we do, life and eternity will be filled with regret.
We could all profit from the Psalmist’s example. He wrote: “This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it” (Psalm 118:24). Yesterday is lost forever. Tomorrow is only a promise. But, today is mine. It is a mistake not to make the most of it. It will quickly pass. There’s no time to delay. For those who use the precious moments well, life is an adventure.
Listen to the words of the apostle Paul: “Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men, but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:15-16). We should not lament the passing of time, only our failure to use it wisely.
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Indisputable Facts – II
The advent of choirs, the use of solos, and various other forms of religious entertainment were late comers to the worship of the church and lack any New Testament authority. The Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological, and Ecclesiastical Literature (Vol. VI, page 758) says: “These innovations were first made in the 4th century; and though the people continued to enjoy their ancient privilege of all singing together, it is conceivable that it gradually was forced to die…An artificial style of music, having no affinity with the worship of God, soon began to take the place of those solemn airs which before had inspired the devotion of his people.”
Further, Neander writes of the consequences of bringing secular music into the church as follows: “We have to regret that both in the Eastern and Western Church their sacred music had already assumed an artificial and theatrical character, and was so far removed from its original simplicity that even in the 4th century the abbot Pambo of Egypt complained that heathen melodies [accompanied as it seems with the action of the hands and feet] had been introduced into their Church psalmody” (Kirchengesch, ii, 681: comp. Scriptores Ecclesiastici, De Musica, i [1784] 3).
These innovations ultimately lead to the demise of congregational singing. “Thus it soon came about that the many, instead of uniting their hearts and their voices in the songs of Zion, could only sit coldly by as spectators” (Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological, and Ecclesiastical Literature (Vol. VI, page 758). These are indisputable facts of history.
Further, the New Testament knows nothing of the present state of division within Christendom. From Acts 2 to the close of Revelation there was only one church. Denominationalism did not exist! The Bible makes it clear that Jesus came to build one church (Matthew 16:18; Ephesians 4:4; Colossians 1:18). One church is all we find in the Bible. These are also indisputable facts.
If it is important to respect the authority of the New Testament, then these are matters of extreme significance. If, on the other hand, it is more important to do what we deem best rather than what is clearly authorized in Scripture, then these are matters of little concern. I am convinced by Scripture that it is far more important do what God authorizes in His word than to do what appeals to men (Galatians 1:10). Therefore, I am committed to teaching the truth on these matters whether others agree or not!
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Words of a Dying Man
The words of a dying man are very moving.
His words could be of great wisdom and value to those who are willing to listen. Perhaps a hidden secret is revealed; a timeless truth is given; advice is hoped to be taken and used. In some cases, a request is made.
As Jesus was crucified, He said: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do (Luke 23:34).” Imagine that the very ones that put Him on the cross are the very ones He was willing to forgive. They did not know what they were really doing, but Jesus did! He died for them so that their sins might be taken away.
After Jesus was risen, He commanded His apostles to preach the gospel throughout the world (Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 16:15-16). Sometimes that gospel was given, but it was not well received. Stephen quickly learned this as those from the Synagogue of the Freedmen disputed with him, leading to his stoning. As he knew he was a dying man, he cried: “Lord, do not charge them with this sin (Acts 7:60).” Imagine that! Just like Jesus, Stephen was willing to forgive them for what they were doing!
Yes, other last words may be those of forgiveness. After all, Jesus wants to love and forgive others. He said, “But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you (Matthew 5:44).”
Sometimes we need to seek forgiveness for ourselves or forgive others. Sometimes we need to give others a blessing. Sometimes we need to do good for people. Sometimes we need to pray. Take action now. Don’t wait until it’s too late! Don’t wait until you are a dying man to save yourself and forgive others.
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
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