Historical Posts
Preaching with Authority
“If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God…” -1 Peter 4:11
Jesus captivated multitudes of thousands of people at a time because, when He preached, “he taught them as one having authority, and not as the Scribes” (Mark 7:29). People were hungry and thirsty for righteousness, and Christ gave them food for their souls (Matthew 5:6; John 6:35). Biblical preaching is supposed to do the same thing for people in the modern world: it is supposed to feed their souls (1 Peter 5:1-3).
That is why Biblical preaching must be authoritative. If it is not, then it will not provide the spiritual sustenance that people need so very much. The vast majority of souls walking the Earth are withered and emaciated – starving for what only authoritative Biblical preaching can provide. Paul described the condition of those whose souls are lost as being “dead” while they “liveth” (1 Timothy 5:6). Only the message of God’s Word can bring these dead souls back to life (Ephesians 2:1).
The problem with most preaching that is done in churches today is that it lacks authority from the Word of God to back it up. In most churches, sermons consist of one or two quotations from the Scriptures and then a series of illustrations, jokes and inspirational stories. In 2 Timothy 4:1-2, preachers are charged to “preach the word.” God does not want preachers to entertain people with anecdotes, but to “persuade men” to obey the will of the Lord (2 Corinthians 5:11). To accomplish this lofty goal, preaching must be authoritative.
As indicated earlier, it is the Word of God, which is the source of all religious authority. Colossians 3:17 reads, “And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.” To speak or to act in someone’s name is to do so by their authority. Therefore, preachers are required to preach and to teach in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ-having the authority of His Word to verify everything that is said.
Beware of preachers who overuse the phrase, “I think.” Frankly, it does not matter what any preacher thinks about anything. It only matters what the Bible says. Preaching that is not reinforced with multiple references in Scripture is not authoritative preaching. When I was learning to be a preacher, my teachers would say, “Always include lots of Scripture in every sermon. Then, you can be sure that at least that much of your sermon is correct.” That admonition still rings true today.
Content by Russell Kline
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Woman’s Role in the Church
The apostle Paul wrote: “Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law. And if they will learn anything, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church” (1 Corinthians 14:34,35). To Timothy he wrote: “Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection. But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence” (1 Timothy 2:11,12).
From the advent of Christianity it was the practice for men to lead in the assembly. Women’s roles were limited in the public assembly. They were prohibited from preaching, teaching and assuming other leadership roles when men were present. In recent years this practice has been called into question, and people have gone to great lengths to discredit the apostle and what the Scriptures say regarding this issue.
Some argue that Paul was a woman hater. They conclude that his remarks merely express his personal prejudice, and are not binding on the church. Such an attitude undermines the authority of the entire Bible. Using this approach, anything one finds personally objectionable can be ignored. This is how many people approach the word of God.
Others argue that the limitations placed on the woman’s role were cultural. They claim that although these limitations were enforced in Paul’s day, they are no longer binding on the church. There is nothing in the Bible which suggests that this is the case.
Paul also wrote: “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). This passage is sometimes used to justify the practice of women preachers. The apostle does not set aside previous legislation in this text. He simply underscores the equality which exists in the church regardless of ethnic, social, or gender differences. God loves us equally. This does not, however, negate the fact that he has established different roles for us!
Radical feminists and liberal theologians would like to discard the Biblical prohibitions regarding a woman’s role in public worship. In many churches they have been successful. But, we are committed to respecting what the Bible teaches whether it is socially acceptable or not.
Women are not inferior to men, and men are not superior to women. But, God has ordained different roles for us, and we must respect them if we respect Him.
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Moral Integrity
We Christians must stop apologizing for our moral position and start making our voices heard…
A. W. Tozer has written: “One of our great tasks is to demonstrate to the young people of this generation that there is nothing stupid about righteousness. To do so, we must stop negotiating with evil. We Christians must stop apologizing for our moral position and start making our voices heard, exposing sin as the enemy of the human race and setting forth righteousness and true holiness as the only worthy pursuit for moral beings. I have no doubt that historians will conclude that we of the twentieth century (should the Lord tarry) had intelligence enough to create a great civilization but not the moral wisdom to preserve it.”
There are only two approaches to ethics and morality.
Either we believe that right conduct is based on some authoritative standard, or we believe that morality is entirely relative — that there are no fixed standards of right and wrong.
If we do not accept some standard as authoritative in regard to moral and ethical issues, then we are put in the position of making those decisions for ourselves. The Bible describes this attitude when the historian wrote concerning the period of the Judges: “In those days there was no king in Israel, but every man did that which was right in his own eyes” (Judges 17:6). As you might imagine, chaos was the result.
For the Christian, the Bible is our standard for right and wrong.
On its pages we discover what is authorized, approved, and desired by God in the heart and actions of His people. Some things are always right and some things are always wrong! Right and wrong are not determined on the basis of what is easiest, brings the most pleasure, or feels best in a given situation. Proper moral and ethical conduct is prescribed on the pages of God’s word. With the Psalmist we should exclaim, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path” (Psalm 119:105).
The Bible offers the only basis upon which we may make morally and ethically sound judgments.
We would encourage you to:
Examine it carefully,
Believe it fully,
Obey it completely,
Live it daily.
Your life will be richly blessed.
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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The Music of the Church
The subject of church music is of great interest and importance. It should be apparent to all that music was an important part of the worship of the New Testament church. But, what kind of music was it?
If we are at all concerned with “biblical authority” for what we believe and practice, we will want to know what kind of music the Lord authorized for His church. There are essentially two kinds of music: vocal and instrumental. What constituted the music of the church? Was it vocal, instrumental, or a combination of the two? The answer is quite clear. The music of the early church was vocal, a cappella singing (Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16; Matthew 26:30). Instrumental music came centuries after the birth of Christianity and was foreign to the word of God!
Two objections are usually voiced in this regard. It is argued that the instrument was a part of the worship of the Jews in the Old Testament. This we readily acknowledge. But, we must also point out that the burning of incense and the offering of animal sacrifices were also a part of their worship. Should these things also be included in the worship of the church? Surely no one would argue that they should. The real issue is not what was practiced under the Mosaic system, but what did Christ authorize for His church?
Some attempt to justify the instrument on the basis of the word “psallo” (psalms – Ephesians 5:19). The argument goes something like this. The word “psallo” from which the word “psalms” comes, means “to pluck the hair; to twang the bowstring; to twitch the carpenter’s line; to touch the chord of a musical instrument.” It is then argued that this word authorizes the use of the instrument. If the word was understood to mean that in the New Testament it would not only authorize the use of the instrument, but would demand it. However, the same authority says of the word “in the New Testament to sing a hymn, to celebrate the praises of God in song” (Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon, page 675). For centuries the New Testament was understood to authorize only singing as the music of the church.
Someone may ask, “What makes the difference? Does it really matter?” Nadab and Abihu might have asked the same questions moments before the fire of the Lord came down from heaven and consumed them (Leviticus 10:1-3). They were responsible for burning incense before the Lord. The account says that they used “strange” fire (unauthorized fire, NIV) which the Lord had not commanded. This “minor” deviation from what God had authorized cost them their lives. They may have thought it an insignificant change, but the Lord did not agree.
If it is important to obey God, and it is, then we must always seek to carry out His will as He has commanded. Even “minor” changes can have major consequences. In relationship to church music, God has authorized singing, and if we respect His authority, that is what we will do.
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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The God Particle
“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth (Genesis 1:1).” God clearly tells us how the world was created, yet some people still do not believe God did. The Bible calls them ‘fools’ according to Psalm 14:1 and 53:1. Even the wisdom of men is foolishness with God (1 Corinthians 1:19-21; 3:19). God reminds us that His thoughts and ways are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:6-9), yet wants us to seek Him.
Isn’t it amazing to learn that scientists have just discovered the so called ‘God particle?’ It is even admitted by scientists that even though this does not explain the origin of the universe, it can help predict the end of the world (which, according to them, may be billions of years away!).
Paul wrote, “For since the creation of the world, His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Professing to be wise, they became fools (Romans 1:20-22)…”
As to the end of the world, no one knows the day nor hour when the Son of Man will come (Matthew 24:35ff.), so we must always be ready!
I know there is a God! I know He wants me to learn, obey, and serve Him! If I do so, I know I can live forever with Him (1 John 5:13)!
Content by Richard Dillon
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The Lord’s Command
One of the clearest statements made by the Lord is found in Mark 16:16. Jesus said: “He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.” In spite of that clear command from Christ, many persist in denying the importance of baptism. Baptism is said to play no part in a person’s salvation. It is argued that one need not be baptized to go to heaven. This argument is made even though Jesus made faith and baptism prerequisites to salvation.
It is sometimes argued that because Jesus did not say, “He that believeth not and is not baptized shall be damned,” baptism is not a necessary ingredient in man’s salvation. Be assured the Lord expressed himself clearly. He knew that if a man truly believed he would not refuse baptism, and if he did not believe he would not desire baptism. One who rejects the command to believe and be baptized stands in rebellion to the authority of God’s only begotten Son. We cannot be saved and at the same time reject his commands (John 12:48). Not one single argument against the necessity of baptism is found in the New Testament, but there are many for it!
Someone will usually charge that if baptism is essential to salvation, then salvation becomes a matter of works. Such could not be further from the truth. Baptism is the logical expression of one’s faith. Through it (baptism) one is brought into Christ (Galatians 3:27). It is in no way meritorious! It is a loving response to the commands of a loving Savior. “He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved.” Jesus said it! Do you believe it? Will you obey it?
— Roger
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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1 Peter 02:13-17 Governments of Men – audio
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Text: 1 Peter 2:13-17
Introduction
1. Our study in 1st Peter, shown us that those who are Christians have many blessings and responsibilities
2. In last week’s study we saw that we are to have our conduct honorable before others
3. What about our responsibilities to those governments of men under which we live?
4. When our true citizenship is in heaven, do we have any responsibilities on earth?
Body
I. OUR RESPONSIBILITY IN ONE WORD: SUBMIT! (1 Peter 2:13-14)
A. WE ARE TO SUBMIT TO EVERY ORDINANCE OF MAN
1. The word submit
a. It means be subject to, signifying to place one’s self under subjection
b. We are also told in this epistle that Christians will be submissive – 1 Peter 2:18; 3:1; 5:5
2. In this case, we are told to submit to every ordinance of man
a. The word ordinance literally means a creation
1) The Greeks and Romans were accustomed to describe the appointment of officers as the creation of them
2) Therefore, the expression ordinance actually refers:
a) Not to a particular law passed by government
b) But to the civil government or institution itself
3) NASV, to every human institution
b. Note also, we are to submit to EVERY human institution
1) Whether it be a monarchy, democracy, or totalitarian state
2) The responsibility of Christians is still the same: submit!
B. THE APOSTLE PAUL TAUGHT THE SAME PRINCIPLE
1. We are to be subject to the governing authorities – Romans 13:1
2. We MUST be subject, and show such submission by paying taxes and customs, and showing respect and honor to our officials – Romans 13:5-7
II. REASONS WHY WE MUST SUBMIT (1 Peter 2:15-17)
A. PETER GIVES US TWO GOOD REASONS
1. First and foremost, this is the will of God – 1 Peter 2:15a
a. Also, for the Lord’s sake – 1 Peter 2:13
b. That ought to suffice for all true servants of God
c. But Peter does explain why this is the Lord’s will
2. That we may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men – 1 Peter 2:15b
a. Having a heavenly King, Christians are often falsely accused of treason – Acts 17:5-8
b. By doing good, we can silence (Lit., muzzle) such ignorant charges
B. PAUL GIVES US ANOTHER GOOD REASON
1. Governing authorities that exist have been appointed by God! – Romans 13:1
a. This truth is emphasized in the book of Daniel – Daniel 2:20-21; 4:17, 25, 32
b. Even those that are evil, which God uses for His divine purposes and then replaces – Exodus 9:16 (Egypt); Isaiah 10:5-12 (Assyria)
2. This being the case, to resist the government means to resist God Himself! – Romans 13:2-4
3. Lest we find ourselves resisting against God Himself, Christians freely submit
4. But is the principle of submission to government without exception?
III. THE EXCEPTION TO THE RULE
A. IT IS NOT WHENEVER GOVERNMENT IS OPPRESSIVE
1. Consider the government and conditions under which Peter and Paul wrote:
a. The government was totalitarian, with Nero as ruler, an evil, vicious emperor
b. Under his reign, Christians suffered greatly – 1 Peter 4:12-13
c. Eventually, even Peter himself was crucified, and Paul was beheaded
2. Under such oppressive governments, our responsibilities remain clear:
a. We are to submit
b. We are to pray for our rulers, that peace may prevail – 1 Timothy 2:1-2
B. THE EXCEPTION: WE MUST OBEY GOD RATHER THAN MAN!
1. As illustrated by Peter and the rest of the apostles – Acts 4:18-20; 5:27-29
2. Only when we are forced to disobey God, must we then disobey the government
3. Even then, it is only the particular laws designed to force us to disobey God that we have a right to break; we have no authority to break other laws in protest
4. We are charged to pray for those in authority, and submit to them in all other areas
Conclusion
1. Such is our responsibility as Christians under whatever government we may find ourselves
a. Even though we have liberty and freedom in Christ, we should use that freedom in serving the Lord – 1 Peter 2:16
b. As we do so, we will show honor and respect to those in authority – 1 Peter 2:17
2. Of course, we who live in countries that allow freedom of religion should be especially quick to show our respect and submission, and to thank God daily for this wonderful privilege!
3. Speaking of freedom of religion, are we taking advantage of such freedom by rendering obedience to God? Perhaps there are those who have not yet done so – Hebrews 5:9
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Does It Say That?
Have you ever the term, “Chimney Corner Scripture?” This means something thought to be in the Bible, though is not.
People often say something like, “it’s in the Bible somewhere…”, when the truth is, it isn’t in the Bible, or the Bible says something different. See if you can find the following in the Bible:
- Baseball
- Tennis
- Hockey
Based on history (pardon the pun), these sports were not known until after the Bible was written. However, one could (incorrectly) attempt to justify them as follows:
- In the big inning, God created the heavens and the earth (Genesis 1:1)
- Joseph served in Pharaoh’s court (Genesis 41);
- Aaron lit the lamp at twilight, scoring the first goal (Exodus 30:8)
As humorous as these examples may seem, many lost souls try to justify themselves in the same way, using “Chimney Corner Scriptures,” thinking they are saved when they are actually lost. “…As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things, in which are some things hard to understand, which untaught and unstable people twist to their own destruction, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures. You therefore, beloved, since you know this beforehand, beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away with the error of the wicked; but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (2 Peter 3:16-17)…”
God says what He means, and He means what He says! We don’t need to try to change His meaning, add to, or take away from it (Revelation 22:18-19).
Does God really say that?
Content by Richard Dillon
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Have You Got the Right Directions?
Technology of the modern world can be both a blessing and a curse. When everything works as it should, it’s a blessing – when things go wrong, it’s something else. Take, for example the bizarre case of Sabine Moreau, a 67-year old woman from Belgium, who recently went on a two-day, 900-mile odyssey because her GPS receiver gave her the wrong directions.
She had intended to travel only 90 miles, to pick up a friend in Brussels, but she ended up driving all the way to Zagreb, Croatia, through Germany, Austria and Slovenia. Her friend found an alternate means of transportation and her family reported her missing after she was gone for 24 hours. Interpol found her by tracking gas purchases on her bank card.
Of course, this is not the only instance of GPS technology run amok. Last March, three Japanese tourists vacationing in Australia found themselves stuck in several feet of water, when their receiver directed them to drive into Moreton Bay to reach their destination on an island. In August, a man drove into an Alaska harbor, when his receiver directed him to “turn right.”
All of this has me convinced that I ought to just stick with the good old map and compass.
These stories have got me thinking about how much trust people invest in technology and how that trust is sometimes misplaced. Getting from “point A” to “point B” sounds like a simple enough task, but as we have already seen, it can go drastically wrong, when you don’t have the right directions. Getting from Earth to Heaven is equally challenging. It sounds like a simple task, but you can end up someplace you DON’T want to be, if you’ve got the wrong directions.
Man has devised many different ways he thinks will get to Heaven.
The problem with man’s ways of getting to Heaven is that they won’t get you to where you want to go. Jesus lamented, “Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men” (Mark 7:7). In the very next verse, He went on to point out that those who were “teaching for doctrines the commandments of men” were also guilty of “laying aside the commandment of God.” When we disregard God’s Word, in favor of our own ideas, we make a mistake that is every bit as absurd as those who seem to disregard common sense and blindly follow their GPS receiver into a body of water, or a foreign country.
In John 14:6, Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” The only way to get to Heaven is the Lord’s way. If we are looking at any source, other than the Bible, we will not find the right directions. Instead of Heaven, we will arrive at the wrong destination!
Some may think that salvation by “faith only” or salvation by “works only” seems like the right way to go. But, as the proverb reminds us, “There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death” (Proverbs 14:12). The only way to be sure about the spiritual path you are taking is to compare it with what the Bible says. As the apostle Paul wrote, in 1 Thessalonians 5:21, “Prove all things; hold fast to that which is good.”
The Bible teaches us how to be saved from our sins (Romans 10:17; Hebrews 11:6; Luke 13:3; Romans 10:9,10; Acts 2:38). It teaches us how to worship God (John 4:23,24; Ephesians 5:19; 1 Corinthians 14:15; 11:23-26; 16:1,2; Acts 20:7). It teaches us how to live faithful, Christian lives (Hebrews 10:25; Galatians 5:22,23; Ephesians 6:13-18; Philippians 4:8; 2 Peter 1:5-8).
Do not deviate from the path that God has set before us.
“And whatsoever things ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him” (Colossians 3:17).
Content by Russell Kline
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How the Bible Authorizes – By Necessary Inference
How The Bible Authorizes
By Direct Statement - By Approved Example - by Necessary Inference
By Necessary Inference
What about those things with which the Bible does not deal directly? How can we know that it is sinful for Christians to smoke cigarettes, or abuse drugs like morphine, when such things did not exist in the first century and are not mentioned in the Bible? In order to know what the will of God is, when there is no direct statement or approved example to settle the matter, we must turn to necessary inference.
Necessary inference is a conclusion that is demanded by the available evidence. For example, there is no verse in the New Testament, which says, “Thou shalt not smoke cigarettes,” but there is a verse which says, “All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any” (1 Corinthians 6:12). Put that verse together with First Corinthians 6:19-20, and you can argue that smoking is sinful, because it is an addictive habit that destroys the body. The same argument could be applied to the abuse of alcohol, morphine and other drugs.
This is where the application of logic comes into play in our study of the Bible. God is a rational being and He deals with humanity in a rational way (Isaiah 1:18). It may not always be easy to understand the Lord’s logic, because it is so much more complex than man’s (Isaiah 55:8-9). But God, who created the human mind, is perfectly capable of communicating His will to humanity in a way that is logical, straightforward and within the grasp of our understanding (Ephesians 3:4).
The thing about necessary inference is that it is a conclusion which is demanded by the available evidence. It is not a conclusion which is contradicted by the available evidence. That is the kind of logic employed by false teachers (Mark 7:7). Every teaching and practice that is done in the name of religion must have authority from the Bible to back it up (Colossians 3:17). Whether it is a direct statement, an approved example, or necessary inference, there must be Bible authority for what we teach and practice!
“And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.” – Colossians 3:17
Lies Men Have Told About The Bible
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What Does the Bible Say?
When it comes to religion, there is no shortage of opinions on the subject. In our community, there are dozens of denominations, each one teaching and practicing different things about salvation, worship and faithful living. Is every denomination right? How can they all come to different conclusions about what is written in the same Word of God? Is it God’s will that there be so much confusion in religion?
The Bible says that God "is not the author of confusion" (1 Corinthians 14:33), so the problem must lie with man. Much of the confusion in the modern religious world stems from a lack of understanding of how the Bible authorizes. If we are going to preach and practice with the authority of the Lord to back us up, then we must learn to ascertain Bible authority (Colossians 3:17). In the final analysis, it is what the Bible says that matters most of all, for it shall be the Word of the Lord that judges us, in the last day (John 12:48).
Content by Russell Kline
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How the Bible Authorizes – By Approved Example
How The Bible Authorizes
By Direct Statement - By Approved Example - by Necessary Inference
By Approved Example
What makes an example an approved example? There are a number of examples of tradition and practice in the New Testament, some of which are imitated by the modern church and some of which are not. How can we know which examples we ought to imitate and which we ought not?
For one thing, we must understand the difference between actions which are determined by local custom and tradition and actions which are part of the regular practice of religion. Jesus showed His disciples how to partake of the Lord’s Supper and then encouraged them to do so on a regular basis (Luke 22:19-20). It is an example that the Lord intended for Christians to imitate on a regular basis (1 Corinthians 11:24-25). This, obviously, is what we would call an approved example.
In John 13:1-17, we find that, on the same evening that Jesus instituted His Supper, He also washed His disciples’ feet. Jesus did for His disciples what would have been the job of the lowest ranking servant in any house. He made the point to His disciples that they all must be willing to serve one another, if they desire to be “great” in the kingdom of Heaven. When Jesus said, “For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you” (John 13:15), He was not instructing them to make the washing of feet a part of their worship, like the Lord’s Supper. Instead, He was calling upon His disciples to follow His example of selfless service (1 Peter 2:21).
Understanding the difference between practices that were customary and practices that were part of a regular pattern of divinely authorized religious exercise is essential!
“For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us and example, that ye should follow his steps” – 1 Peter 2:21
Lies Men Have Told About The Bible
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What Does the Bible Say?
When it comes to religion, there is no shortage of opinions on the subject. In our community, there are dozens of denominations, each one teaching and practicing different things about salvation, worship and faithful living. Is every denomination right? How can they all come to different conclusions about what is written in the same Word of God? Is it God’s will that there be so much confusion in religion?
The Bible says that God "is not the author of confusion" (1 Corinthians 14:33), so the problem must lie with man. Much of the confusion in the modern religious world stems from a lack of understanding of how the Bible authorizes. If we are going to preach and practice with the authority of the Lord to back us up, then we must learn to ascertain Bible authority (Colossians 3:17). In the final analysis, it is what the Bible says that matters most of all, for it shall be the Word of the Lord that judges us, in the last day (John 12:48).
Content by Russell Kline
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How the Bible Authorizes – By Direct Statement
How The Bible Authorizes
By Direct Statement - By Approved Example - by Necessary Inference
By Direct Statement
At first glance, this may seem to be the simplest of all the ways in which the Bible authorizes. After all, if the Bible says that a thing is so, then it is so, right? Well, it must be acknowledged that not every direct, propositional statement in the Bible is binding upon us today.
One must take into consideration who made the direct statement in question. In John 9:34, Jewish authorities said that a man whom the Lord had healed was born in sin. Their statement may have been quite direct, but that does not mean it was accurate. Ezekiel 18:20 makes it clear that people are not born in sin, but are responsible only for the sins they commit in their lifetimes. Direct statements like those in John 9:34 cannot be used as evidence to teach what the Bible clearly denies.
In order for a direct statement to bear authority, it must come from one who possesses divine authority. In Matthew 17:5, God, the Father said, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him.” This is a simple, declarative statement, which establishes that God wants us listen to what Jesus has to say. Since it came from the Father, Himself, there can be no doubt about the weight of its authority. In Mark 16:16, Jesus said, “He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved.” This is a simple, declarative statement, which establishes that baptism is absolutely essential for the salvation of every soul. Since it came from the Lord, Himself, there can be no doubt about the weight of its authority.
Another source of divine authority is found in the words of those who were inspired by the Holy Spirit to speak and write. In declarative statements made by the apostles and by others who were under the influence of inspiration, we find that there is an abundance of Biblical authority. As the process is described in 2 Peter 1:21, “holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” That is why Peter’s declaration about baptism for the remission of sins in Acts 2:38, Philip’s declaration about the confession of faith in Christ in Acts 8:37 and Paul’s declaration about the need for all men to repent in Acts 17:30 are considered to be absolutely authoritative.
This is not an issue that is too complicated for us to understand. When it comes to ascertaining Bible authority, a little common sense goes a long way!
“He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved…” – Mark 16:16
Lies Men Have Told About The Bible
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What Does the Bible Say?
When it comes to religion, there is no shortage of opinions on the subject. In our community, there are dozens of denominations, each one teaching and practicing different things about salvation, worship and faithful living. Is every denomination right? How can they all come to different conclusions about what is written in the same Word of God? Is it God’s will that there be so much confusion in religion?
The Bible says that God "is not the author of confusion" (1 Corinthians 14:33), so the problem must lie with man. Much of the confusion in the modern religious world stems from a lack of understanding of how the Bible authorizes. If we are going to preach and practice with the authority of the Lord to back us up, then we must learn to ascertain Bible authority (Colossians 3:17). In the final analysis, it is what the Bible says that matters most of all, for it shall be the Word of the Lord that judges us, in the last day (John 12:48).
Content by Russell Kline
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Why Teach The Bible?
God has given us his inspired word!
Certainly he has the power and understanding to say what he means and mean what he says! To know what God desires go to the Bible, not the teaching that mankind has invented. God warns us that false teachers are coming
- Matthew 7:15 admonishes, “Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.“
- 1 John 4:1 states, “Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.“
- 2 Timothy 3:13 warns, “But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.“
Only the Bible can make us wise unto salvation
In 2 Timothy 3:14-17, we are told, “But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” For salvation, follow the Bible, not mankind.
- Matthew 15:8-9 shows why we can’t follow the doctrines of men – they are vain. “This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me. But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.“
- We have to go to the Bible to find the commandments of God. Mark 7:6-7 repeats this warning! “This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.“
Don’t remain ignorant. We need salvation and judgment is coming
- Acts 17:30-31 tells us we can’t remain ignorant, but must come to repentance, “And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent: Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.“
- John 12:48 tells us that the word of God will judge us. “He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day.“
Do you know Jesus? Are you sure?
Some people think that they can’t know for sure. The Bible teaches us that we can in 1 John 2:3-5 , “And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him.” We need the Bible to teach us his commandments.
Why teach the Bible? Look at what it does!
- Makes us wise unto salvation
- Teaches us saving doctrine
- Corrects us when we are wrong
- Furnishes us unto all good works
- Teaches us how to know that we know Jesus
- Will Judge us
Please contact us to arrange a Bible Study and hear more.
Content by Zachary Van Tassel
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Do All in the Name of the Lord
Do All in the Name of the Lord – Colossians 3:17
Authority must be granted.
Have you ever acted in someone else’s name? It is quite a common thing for people to be given the “power of attorney” over someone else, so they may act on their behalf. This kind of power may not legally be assumed by anyone, however, without authority being granted by the one in whose name the action is to be taken. In other words, before I can do anything in someone else’s name, I must have their authority to do so.
What we teach or practice in religion must have God’s authority.
This same line of thinking applies in religion. Colossians 3:17 says, “And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.” Everything we teach or practice in religion must have God’s authority to back it up. Without divine authority, it may not be said that a particular religious teaching or practice meets with the approval of the Lord.
The Word of God, which supplies us with authority.
It is the Word of God, which supplies us with authority from God to do or say anything in His name (Acts 4:7-10). Unless there is a direct statement, necessary inference, or approved example from the Bible to authorize a particular teaching or practice, it is simply impossible to affirm that there any divine authority behind it. That is why most preachers in the churches of Christ quote the Bible so many times in their sermons.
The Lord taught that many people will be surprised to learn, on the Day of Judgment, that their souls are lost, simply because they did not “do all in the name of the Lord” (Matthew 7:22-23). Let us all resolve not to be numbered among them!
Content by Russell Kline
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Non-Denominational Christianity
We are very accustomed to choices
A casual stroll down the aisles of a local supermarket will quickly illustrate this point. I am amazed at the variety of options available when it comes to something as simple as pork and beans, potato chips, or peas.
Each spring, as people prepare for their gardens, choices abound. What kind of corn will be planted? What kind of tomatoes will be set out? What kind of beans will be raised? The choices seem almost endless. And, everyone has his/her favorites!
Looked at automobiles lately? There are so many makes and models. They come in a multiplicity of colors and with all kinds of options. There are so many choices to make, but that’s the way we like it.
It is the Church of Christ’s choice, not ours
We have become so accustomed to variety that we have incorporated the concept into religion. Almost daily we encounter the message: “Worship with the church of your choice this Sunday!” This idea is at the heart of denominationalism. But, the concept is completely foreign to the New Testament. It is not the church of our choice, but the church of Christ’s choice that we should seek. The apostle Paul rebuked the Christians at Corinth for failing to understand this. The church was in turmoil because of the denominational spirit which had developed. He pleaded with them not to divide, but to unite (1 Corinthians 1:10).
We would do well to listen to the Lord’s prayer
He cried out to the Father, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me” (John 17:20, 21). That’s our prayer as well. Let’s abandon all denominational ties and unite in Jesus Christ. How can that be wrong?
To do this we must commit to the authority of Scripture
Our goal should be to be obedient to the will of God. Our purpose is not to please ourselves, but our Savior. Every matter essential to the development and maintenance of a relationship with the Creator is clearly spelled out in the Bible. The problem is not that men don’t understand the will of God, it is that they do not accept it! Non-denominational Christianity will never be achieved as long as men reject the Word of God.
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Some Things You Should Know About Elders
Organization of the Lord’s church
The organization of the Lord’s church is one of the most misunderstood concepts in the religious world. One can find all manner of organizational structures in the denominational world, but the New Testament offers a simple yet effective organizational system for the Lord’s church. In relationship to organization, the church is called a body. There is one body, and there is but one head, Jesus Christ (Ephesians 4:4; Colossians 1:18). It’s not an organization of many bodies with one head, or one body with many heads, but one body with one head.
Each congregation is autonomous (self-governing)
There is no organization in the New Testament larger than the local church. Each scripturally organized congregation is overseen by qualified elders (Acts 14:23; 1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9), and served by qualified deacons (1 Timothy 3:8-13). Elders have no authority beyond that contained in the New Testament. They have no authority to bind or loose. That is, they cannot make laws for Christ, nor can they set aside those laws contained in the “perfect law of liberty.” Their responsibility is to lead the local church in the direction dictated by her head Jesus Christ.
Elders are not perfect
They do not claim to be. They can and do make mistakes. No qualified elder would ever claim infallibility.
Elders have the best interests of the church (congregation) at heart
The well-being of the body always outweighs that of any one member, or small group of members.
Elders often deal with matters that are highly confidential
Sometimes they are misunderstood because all the facts are not on the table, and can’t be, out of respect for personal privacy.
Elders, as already noted, have no authority to add to or take from God’s word
But in matters of indifference, opinion, and expediency, they must weigh all sides and lead in the direction that is best for the church as a whole.
Elders have various responsibilities
They often work in demanding jobs, are involved in many civic organizations, and have family responsibilities like other members of the church. Still, they take time to study, pray, counsel, and shepherd the flock. They do so not for personal recognition or honor, but out of a love for Christ and His church.
Elders genuinely desire your prayers and support
And they will listen patiently to your suggestions and criticism.
Elders have a very serious work to do
They approach that work earnestly desiring to please the Lord. There are some things you can do to make their work easier. The writer of Hebrews offers a good summary. “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you” (Hebrews 13:17).
— Roger
JUNE 17, 2012
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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The Church is Like…
Our task is to practice and preach truth
God’s family is called a kingdom in relationship to its government (Colossians 1:13), a body in relationship to it’s organization (Colossians 1:18), and a church in relationship to the world (Colossians 1:18). His spiritual family is to be the “pillar and support of truth” (1 Timothy 3:15). As subjects of the King, we are here to do His bidding. As members of His body we have a job to do, a role to fill. As part of the church, we find ourselves in the world, but the world is not to be in us. Our task is to practice and preach truth throughout the world by means of works and words. But, I’m not sure everyone understands this mission.
Yet, people act like it is a country club
The church ought to be more like a hospital than a country club. Yet, people act like it is a country club, not a hospital for the soul. We should see the church for what we can give rather than what we can get. Worship should prepare us for a week of work for Christ, not entertain us for an hour. The emphasis should be service and not serve us!
A service station would be more appropriate
An appropriate modern analogy for the church may be the old fashioned service stations many of us remember as children. Our parents went there on a regular basis to refuel their cars. Not only did they fill the tank, but they checked the oil, cleaned the windshield, and checked the air in the tires. If there were mechanical problems, they took care of them. It truly was a service station. We left prepared for the road ahead.
This seems a good (not perfect), analogy for our worship assemblies. In a sense, our time together fills our tank, checks for problems, cleans our windshield (so that we see clearly), and gets us ready for the road ahead (life). Hospitals address our physical needs while the church focuses on our spiritual condition.
Not to be entertained…
We do not come to be entertained, but to exalt the Savior, to be educated in the gospel, to be equipped for service in the Lord’s army, to be excited about our task of taking His message to the world, and to have are defects (sins) exposed so they can be corrected. We can’t address a problem if we are unaware that it exists.
Food, fun, and fellowship are fine, but they are not and never have been the emphasis of the faithful. They all have their place, but let’s make sure they are never substituted for the real purpose of our assemblies or the reason for membership in His family.
There are lost and hurting people all around us
We need to bring those who are lost and hurting to the Great Physician where their wounds can be healed and their hearts mended. The church offers people real solutions for their problems. It provides hope to the hopeless. It offers help to the hurting. It gives direction to the lost. It takes care of the sick, or at least it’s supposed to!
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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A Lesson from Our Past
Hardships of worship in seventeenth century Connecticut
Diana Ross McCain, writing in Early American Life (October, 1989), described the hardships of worship in seventeenth century Connecticut. Church attendance was almost universal since it was required by law of young and old alike, unless excused by serious illness or some other equally compelling circumstance.
Church buildings were not built for the comfort of the church goer
Winters were especially hard on the devout. The church building of that day had no fireplace, no stove, no significant heat source of any kind. Preachers often delivered their sermons wearing their heavy coats and mittens. Samuel Griswold Ridgefield, writing of his boyhood in Ridgefield, Connecticut, around the turn of the nineteenth century, said, “Nobody thought of staying home from church because of the extremity of the weather.”
What happened?
In about 1830 stoves were introduced. Ridgefield, writing about their introduction, said: “As soon as this reform was suggested, they began to wrestle with the people, until at last the church and society were divided into two violent factions, the Stove Party and the Anti-stove Party.” At the first worship service following the introduction of the stove, the head of the anti-stove faction slid to the floor in her pew in a faint. She was carried outside where she quickly regained consciousness. “What happened?” she was asked. “Oh, it is the heat of those awful stoves,” she replied. “No, no, my dear,” responded the head of the stove faction, “That can’t be: it’s a warm day, you know, and there’s no fire in them.”
You shall not add to it or take from it
It is an amusing story, but it illustrates an important point. It has been man’s tendency, almost since the day God first revealed His will to man, for men to seek to change it. We either make laws where God has made none, or set aside the laws which He has made. Moses warned against this when he wrote: “Everything I command you, you shall be careful to do. You shall not add to it or take from it” (Deuteronomy 12:32). So many problems could be avoided if we would only heed this command! Let’s not make laws where God has made none, and let’s not set aside any which He has made.
This is our goal
Would you join us in seeking to be Christians, and Christians only?
— Roger
MAY 27, 2012
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Headed Our Way
Legalize same-sex marriage?
If I’m not mistaken, nine states and the District of Colombia have now legalized same-sex marriage, and if the Ohio Freedom to Marry Coalition has its way, Ohio will be added to the list. An effort is currently underway to secure enough signatures to get the issue on the ballot in 2013. Then, if enough people can be persuaded to vote for the change, it will become law.
Proponents of same-sex marriage argue that this is a civil rights issue
In their judgment, religion should play no part in the matter. Further, they say that politics or personal views on morality are also irrelevant. They argue that all American citizens should be entitled to the same rights. Correct me if I am wrong, but don’t we all have the same rights already. Every man has the right to take a wife, and every woman has the right to take a husband. The fact that a small segment of our population wishes to demand an additional right to a union contrary to nature, is not a civil right but a moral matter.
Morality is not on the minds of many people
A sizable portion of the electorate, without giving serious consideration to what is at stake, will no doubt accept the civil rights argument. Sadly, morality is not upper most on the minds of many people. They reason, as long as it doesn’t affect them personally, who are they to tell someone else what they may or may not do? I can’t help but wonder at what point society will say “enough is enough!” Once same-sex marriage is embraced, the floodgates will open. The proponents of plural marriages will assert their civil right to multiple marriages. Others will assert their civil right to marry their cat. Another will claim it their civil right to marry a child. Yes, some will say that this is all nonsense, but advocates for these ideas are already out there.
Homosexuality is not a civil rights issue, but a moral issue
There is no homosexual gene. No one is compelled to engage in homosexual activity any more than they are compelled to engage in heterosexual activity. Adultery and fornication are just as sinful as homosexual activity. And, yes, homosexuality is clearly condemned in Scripture (Leviticus 18:22; 20:13; Romans 1:26-27; 1 Corinthians 6:9-10; 1 Timothy 1:8-10). I understand that the world places no value on the word of God, but surely Christians do!
God has spoken with clarity and force
Please understand, I have no animosity toward homosexuals or anyone else, but God has spoken with clarity and force regarding this issue. Homosexual conduct is sinful. No amount of human reasoning can change that. If asked to sign a petition or given the opportunity to vote on the matter, I would hope we would stand for what the Bible teaches, even though it is counter to modern culture.
— Roger
MAY 6, 2012
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Biblical Morality
Our postmodern culture argues that the Bible is an outdated, irrelevant text
Our culture, therefore, argues that it is wrong to appeal to the Bible as an authoritative standard for morality. Robert Williams, in his book, Just As I Am: A Practical Guide to Being Out, Proud, and Christian, offers the following argument in defense of homosexuality: The point is not really whether or not some passage in the Bible condemns homosexual acts; the point is that you cannot allow your moral and ethical decisions to be determined by the literature of a people whose culture and history are so far removed from your own. You must dare to be iconoclastic enough to say, “So what if the Bible does say it? Who cares?” (page 128).
People have a problem with authority
Sadly, Mr. Williams echoes the sentiments of a lot of folks when he dismisses the moral relevancy of Scripture. People have a problem with authority, especially Biblical authority. Folks want to be religious, but they also want to be free to do as they choose. This is not something new. It was said of the children of Israel in the days of the judges, “In those days there was no king in Israel. Everyone did what was right in his own eyes” (Judges 17:6; 21:25).
For the iconoclast truth is whatever he wants it to be
An iconoclast is somebody who challenges or overturns traditional beliefs, customs, and values. For the iconoclast truth is whatever he wants it to be. Anything in the Bible which is objectionable is declared to be culturally irrelevant. The argument is generally framed as follows. The Bible is thousands of years old. The fastest Moses, Jesus, Paul ever traveled was five or six miles an hour. Today, we can board a plane and fly anywhere in the world at six hundred miles an hour. How can the Bible possibly be relevant in our modern, highly technological world? The answer is pretty simple. A man can lust, covet, or slander his neighbor at six hundred miles an hour just as easily as he can at six miles an hour. Make no mistake, our world is far more technologically advanced than the world of the Bible, but people are still the same.
Is any truth in the Bible no longer true?
The Bible anticipated the iconoclasts and their attacks on the integrity and relevancy of Scripture when it asserted: Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever (Hebrews 13:8). Is there a part of the Sermon on the Mount that doesn’t resonate today with the honest reader? What truth in God’s ancient book can be demonstrated to no longer be true?
Either the Bible is the word of God or it isn’t
It claims to be inspired, authoritative, all-sufficient, and by implication inerrant (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Those claims can be defended. Therefore, to reject what the Bible says about morality or any other matter is to reject the authority of the Creator Himself. Biblical morality may not be popular, but it is right!
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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