Historical Posts
1 Timothy 06:06-10 – Godliness with Contentment is Great Gain – Audio
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Text: 1 Timothy 6:6-10 (Reading by Don Treadway)Godliness with Contentment is Great Gain
Godliness is always right, but it is not always easy to do the right thing. Sometimes peer pressure can be difficult to overcome. Other times, it may seem easier to do what’s right if one has certain things, or if one does not have other things. However, by doing what is right with what one has, one may be blessed and gain contentment.
Body
I. We must profess godliness.
A. Godliness means living a life that is respectful to God, and to oneself.
B. Earlier, Paul told Timothy that godliness is profitable for all things (1 Timothy 4:7-8).
C. God has given us all things that pertain to life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3).
D. Godliness is in accordance with truth (Titus 1:1).
E. Christians must live in “holy conduct and godliness” (2 Peter 3:11; 1 Peter 1:15-16).
F. We must add godliness to our faith (2 Peter 1:5-7).
G. We can expect persecution when living godly lives (2 Timothy 3:12).
H. We must withdraw from those that suppose godliness is a means of gain, yet pursue true godliness (1 Timothy 6:5,11).
II. We must be content.
A. Paul has learned to be content in every condition (Philippians 4:11-12; 1 Corinthians 4:11).
B. We must be content with such things as we have (Hebrews 13:5).
C. We need God’s words more than necessary food (Job 23:12; Matthew 6:11).
D. God gives us all we need (Philippians 4:19; Psalm 23:1; Proverbs 30:7-9).
III. We have much to gain.
A. Godliness is profitable for this life, and the life that is to come (1 Timothy 4:8).
B. If a man gains the world and loses his soul, he loses everything; if he loses the world and gains his soul, he has gained everything (Matthew 16:26; Luke 12:20-21).
Conclusion
As Christians, we are to live Christ Jesus with Godliness. In so doing, we must be content with who we are and what we have. Being content and living godly lives in Christ, we have much to gain!
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
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Matthew 05:13-16 Contagious Christian Living – Audio
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Text: Matthew 5:13-16
Introduction to Contagious Christian Living
1. Usually, the term “contagious” has a negative connotation.
2. Contagious simply means that something is transmissible and is not negative by definition.
3. What normally gives the word a negative connotation is that we usually speak of it with reference to disease. (EBOLA as an example)
4. However, are there not many good things that we could wish were contagious?
5. In this lesson, let’s examine some things that we can do with our lives that will help make Christianity contagious and bring others to Christ.
Body
I. Becoming Contagious Christians
A. People may sometimes think that being “contagious” involves attributes such as size, money, entertainment, theatrics, etc., but not so for true contagious Christian living.
B. We may never become a “mega-church,” but we can become a contagious church by following three principles of contagious Christian living.
C. Three principles of Contagious Christian Living:
1. Be Amazed at the Glory of God – Revelation 15:1-4
2. Be Transformed by the Love of Jesus – 1 Timothy 1:12-17
3. Be Yielded to the Word of God – John 12:47-50
II. How Jesus Drew People to Him?
A. Jesus turned ordinary conversations to spiritual Conversations – John 4:10, 13-14
C. Jesus gave people reason to follow Him – John 4:13-14
D. Jesus didn’t force Himself on other people – John 4:26-30
E. Jesus created intentional encounters with people – John 4:4
Conclusion
1. May we strive for true Christian living, with lives are a reflection of the Son of God.
2. Living with a greater awareness of how blessed we are as Christians, we can be contagious to those with whom we come in contact.
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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On the Contrary
Are Christians Contrary?
Living a different, or contrary, lifestyle than another can cause curiosity. Sometimes that curiosity might lead to trouble; other times that curiosity can open doors to open and honest communication. For example, Haman noted to King Ahasuerus that the Jews’ “laws are different from all other people’s, and they do not keep the king’s laws (Esther 3:8).” He did not want them to remain, yet Ester was chosen to be queen to Ahasuerus and helped to save the Jewish people.
Paul called a spirit of divination out of a girl in Philippi, contrary to her masters desires. Since their profit was gone, they brought them to the magistrates and accused them of “exceedingly troubling our city; and…teaching customs which are not lawful (Acts 16:16-21)…” As a result, Paul and Silas were thrown into prison. However, this resulted in the other prisoners and Philippian jailer having a chance to hear the gospel. The latter heard it and obeyed it!
Paul also commended the Thessalonians for following the Christian examples of others. However, by doing so, they had to suffer persecution from their own countrymen, even as they did from the Judeans. The Judeans were guilty of killing the Lord and their own prophets, and thus did not seek to please God. Thus, they were “contrary to all men (1 Thessalonians 2:13-16).”
We must live our lives according to God, even if it is contrary to the world and what is accepted by the world, for the world has no authority to change God’s Word. In a dark world, Jesus said to “let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven (Matthew 5:16).” Hopefully our contrary lifestyle will open the door for communication and salvation!
Content by Richard Dillon
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An Easy Job
Fault-Finding is an Easy Job
Someone has written: “Nothing is easier than fault-finding; no talent, no self-denial, no brains, no character are required to set up in the grumbling business.” Fault-finding is an easy job because it requires no preparation and little effort. Yet, many have made it their life’s vocation. They become so wrapped up in the faults and failings of others that they are blind to their own glaring shortcomings.
Paul admonishes Christians to be more concerned with self-examination (2 Corinthians 13:5). This is not an easy job, but is desirable. One who can see his own shortcomings will be far less critical of the faults of others.
There is a lot of good and a little bad in most everyone. But, we tend to focus on one or two negative things. Then, we ignore dozens of positive ones. No, I’m not suggesting that we ignore the negative. But, I’m not advocating that we highlight it either! Why do we find it so much easier to be critical than complimentary?
We have enough critics in the world.
We need not join the ranks of critics. We have enough critics in the world. Judith Crist said, “To be a critic, you have to have maybe three percent education, five percent intelligence, two percent style and ninety percent gall and egomania in equal parts.” Some of us may be overqualified for this easy job, but that’s no excuse. Any dummy can find fault!
Lest I be accused of being too critical of the critics, I do want you to know that they serve one important function. They show us exactly what a Christian should not be. Remember, “it’s better to say a good thing about a bad fellow than a bad thing about a good fellow.”
On those occasions when we do find it necessary to be critical of others, we should make sure that our criticism is constructive and helpful, not damaging and debilitating. The Golden Rule always applies, “Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them” (Matthew 7:12).
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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A Good Example
A good example says more about us than what we say.
The apostle Paul wrote to two young preachers. Both were encouraged to set good examples. Timothy was admonished: “Let no man despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12). Titus was challenged: “In all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility, sound speech that cannot be condemned, that one who is an opponent may be ashamed, having nothing evil to say of you” (Titus 2:7-8).
The challenge of the gospel is to live life imitating the example of Jesus Christ, being a good example. He left us an example that we should follow in his steps (1 Peter 2:21). We are to walk as He walked (1 John 2:6). A mature disciple is one who can say with Paul: “For I through the law died to the law that I might live to God. I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me” (Galatians 2:19-20).
The effects of a good sermon are destroyed by bad living. The best parental advice is overruled by a bad example. Children imitate what they see and hear. Imagine the frustration of a child who is punished for smoking the cigarette butt his father threw away, or has his mouth washed out for saying a word he learned from his mother. Jesus warned regarding the Pharisees: “Therefore whatever they tell you to observe that observe and do, but do not do according to their works; for they say, and do not do” (Matthew 23:3). Sadly, the Pharisees are not the only ones to have their influence destroyed by living a bad example.
It’s impossible to place too much emphasis on the importance of a good example. What we do says more about us than what we say. Edgar Guest wrote: “I’d rather see a sermon than hear one any day. I’d rather one should walk with me than merely show the way. The eye’s a better pupil and more willing than the ear. Fine counsel is confusing, but example’s always clear. And best of all the preachers are the men who live their creed. For to see good put in action is what everybody needs.”
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Make the Most of Today
Make the Most of Today
Dale Carnegie observed, “One of the most tragic things I know about human nature is that all of us tend to put off living. We are all dreaming of some magical rose garden over the horizon instead of enjoying the roses that are blooming outside our windows today.” In a sense, the Psalmist said the same thing. He wrote: “This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it” (Psalm 118:24, KJV).
Someone else has written: “Today is the day I have been looking for. All my life has been spent in preparation for it. Yesterday and tomorrow are faraway nothings – the one a faint memory, the other a vague promise. But this is my day. It offers all that God has to give, and I’m a laggard or a coward if I fail to make the most of it.” We need to make the most of today. We cannot afford to spend all of our time regretting the past or daydreaming about the future. If we do, we miss out on the present. Nor can we afford to live today in fear. Life is too brief and time too precious for us to do that.
Yet, there is a sense in which all of us must be vitally concerned about both the past and the future. A relationship with Christ will take care of both and enable us to make the most of today, to live today. Through obedience to the demands of Jesus Christ we can have all our past sins washed away (Acts 22:16). In this new relationship with Him, we can also live with heaven before us (John 14:1-3). As long as we walk in the steps of Jesus our future will remain secure (1 John 1:7). With the past forgiven, and the future secured, the present takes on greater significance. Jesus came so that we could live an abundant life (John 10:10). As a Christian we can face each day with confidence. With a smile on our face and a song in our heart life becomes an adventure. Each day offers new joys, rewards, pleasures and opportunities. Life is worth living and we can make the most of today.
But, if we remove Christ from the picture there is no hope and no forgiveness. The past will haunt us and the future will frighten us. The good news is that Jesus can make a difference, if we will let Him.
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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The Wrong Questions
Are We Asking The Wrong Questions?
When disaster strikes, we ask, “Why?” When suffering comes into our lives, we ask, “Why me?” These are the wrong questions. We should be asking, “What can I learn from this?” Or, “How do I deal with it?” No life is free from adversity. It is foolish to think that we can go through life unscathed. Troubles come into life as surely “as the sparks fly upward” (Job 5:7). No one should be surprised by adversity. It is inevitable! How we deal with it is another issue altogether. It can make us or break us, and we really do determine which it will be.
When troubles enter a marriage the first question often raised is, “Should we get a divorce?” But, again, that is the wrong question. What should be asked is, “How do we fix it?” There are no broken marriages which cannot be fixed if both parties want to resolve the problems. At the root of nearly every broken marriage is a communication problem. And frankly, at the heart of this problem is a failure not to talk but to listen. It is not by accident that James admonished, “Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath” (James 1:19). When we focus on the symptoms we are asking the wrong questions. If you find yourself in a troubled marriage, start looking for solutions, not an escape!
When religious controversy arises, the question is raised: “Who is right?” That’s another example of asking the wrong questions! The correct question ought to be, “What is right?” If truth is to triumph in the hearts of men there must be a constant pursuit of the truth. After all, it was Jesus who said, “And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:32). We cannot close our eyes to the message because we dislike the messenger. We must not reject the truth because it conflicts with our traditions. We must not let the messenger have more sway over us than the message. This is, however, exactly what happens when we allow “smooth words and flattering speech” to triumph over truth (Romans 16:17-18).
When someone dies the inevitable question is, “How did they die?” Was it an accident? Had they been sick? Did they have a heart attack? But, the more important question to be raised is, “How did they live?” Death is inevitable, and judgment follows (Hebrews 9:27). The verdict rendered at Judgment is not based on how we died, but how we lived? Perhaps we would all benefit from an honest appraisal of how we are living, and whether or not we are prepared for death and what follows!
Don’t get mired in asking the wrong questions. Let’s ask the right questions. Let’s consult the Bible for the right answers.
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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An Abundant Life
God’s promise of an abundant life in Jesus
Jesus provides an abundant linfe. In John 10:10, Jesus said, “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” The context in which this verse appears is a discussion of the Lord’s role as the Good Shepherd (John 10:1-17). In this discussion, Jesus made many important points about how He interacts with His “sheep” (you and me).
- The Good Shepherd is not a thief, so He enters the sheepfold through the door.
- He knows the names of His sheep and His sheep recognize His voice (John 10:1-5).
- Jesus also described Himself as the Door through which His sheep enter into His fold (the church). Everyone else who pretends to be the Messiah is a thief and a robber, who wants only to destroy the sheep (John 10:7-10).
- The Good Shepherd cares about His sheep, and would lay down his life for them. A hireling (also a Messianic pretender) will not give his life for the sheep. That is something that only the Good Shepherd will do (John 10:11-14).
However, I want to focus on Jesus’ statement in the latter part of John 10:10. What is an abundant life? What did Jesus promise, when He promised to His sheep, life more abundantly?
The English word, “abundantly” is translated from a Greek word, which means, “exceedingly; above measure.” It is used again in Ephesians 3:20, which says, “Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us.” One of the central ideas of this passage is that God is capable of doing things that we haven’t even thought of yet. Why, then, should we limit our prayers to meager requests for God’s help with this, or that? Christians ought to learn to think big, dream big of an abundant life, and make bold requests of our God, who is able to exceed our expectations and bless us even beyond our capacity to receive blessing (Malachi 3:10).
The promise of an abundant life, therefore, is the promise of a life that exceeds our expectations and surpasses what we might think of as reasonably good. As Christians, we are blessed with certain assurances, which make life on Earth a much more pleasant prospect than it might be otherwise (Ephesians 1:3). For example, the assurance of eternal salvation gives us an inner peace, which the world cannot even comprehend (Philippians 4:7). Also, the assurance of God’s providence at work in our lives comforts us, when times are tough (Matthew 6:25-34). Finally, the assurance of knowing what will happen to us when we die helps us not be afraid of death, so that we can embrace all that life has to offer us (Revelation 14:13). These concepts all contribute to living an abundant life. Christians have much to live for, in this world, and they have much to look forward to, in the next (Philippeans 1:21).
Not only does living for Jesus benefit us here, but it also benefits us in the hereafter. What faithful Christians have to look forward to in eternity is such an abundant life it defies human description. John’s vision of Heaven, in the Revelation, was something that was unlike anything he had ever seen on Earth. He used the words “like” and “as” so many times in the book of Revelation, because he was trying to describe in Earthly terms something that transcends life in this world. “And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. And I John say the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.” (Revelation 21:1-4) John told us about Heaven by telling us what is not there: death, sorrow, crying, and pain. These are things which can make life on Earth miserable, therefore they do not exist in Heaven!
An abundant life is something that is promised to every Christian, so let us resolve to lay claim to our share of it. Let us rejoice in all the blessings with which the Father so abundantly blesses us (Philippeans 4:4). Let us trust in the blessed assurance of the promises that God has made to all who will yield to His will (2 Peter 3:9). Let us look forward to the prospect of an eternal home in Heaven, and allow this hope of eternal life to be the anchor, which keeps our souls steadfastly secured to our Lord and Savior (Hebrews 6:19).
May we all live an abundant life, victoriously, and triumphantly, in this present world!
Content by Russell Kline
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Look Up, Not Down
Do People Look Up To Us?
Have you ever felt that someone was always looking down on you? Maybe you felt short, young, or inexperienced. You just wished there was something you could do to change the way others look at you. Well, there is something you can do!
1 Timothy 4:12: “Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.”
Paul tells Timothy not to let anyone look down upon him because he is a youth; instead, they should look up to him because of how he lives! Whether we are young or old, short or tall, a babe in Christ or a maturing Christian, we should conduct ourselves in such a way that people look up to us.
Are we setting a Christ-like example with our words, our conduct, our love, our spirit, our faith, and our purity? Does our conduct cause others look down upon us, or do they look up to us? Are we being a good role model?
Content by Richard Dillon
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Theudas and Judas
Theudas and Judas came to nothing…
The apostles were commanded to go and preach the gospel to every creature (Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 16:15-16). As they did so, they often found themselves in prison. In Acts 5, an angel of the Lord allowed them to escape prison. Then, shortly after, they were found teaching again. Next, they appeared before a council to hear of their fate. The council had a decision to make.
Gamaliel, a Pharisee and respected teacher of the law, called for a private conference with the council to offer them guidance. He cautioned them about becoming enemies of God and suggested releasing the apostles. The thrust of his argument was based on Theudas and Judas. He reminded them that Theudas, who had about 400 followers was killed, but nothing came of his followers. Then, Judas of Galilee rose up after him, and when he died his followers also came to nothing (Acts 5:34-37). Since God was not with them, nothing came of them.
The apostles, on the other hand, were different from Theudas and Judas! After Jesus died, they came to something! Their impact was noticed throughout the whole world. The church multiplied. Many heard the gospel preached, believed it, and were baptized for the remission of their sins. Evidence proves that Jesus did die on the cross for our sins, was buried, and rose again the third day (1 Corinthians 15:1-7).
The apostles had God with them. They did see Jesus; and through their eyes, we can too! Based on their eyewitness account, we can learn of Jesus, accept His salvation and then teach others the gospel. Just think, what kind of an impact can you have for Him? Who can you bring to eternal life in heaven?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
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Avoid Foolish Disputes
Foolish disputes over a dress?
Recently on Facebook, a picture of a dress has sparked foolish disputes. What color is the dress? Even Fox News has gotten involved! Some say the dress is blue, others say it is gold; some say white; others say black. This one picture of a dress with stripes has been shared with thousands of people, and generated as many comments. Various factors come into play. Depending on the lighting, the device used, and other factors, different answers are given according to the perception of the observer. But, what is the point of what color the dress is? Why are people taking part in these foolish disputes? Is it just a matter of being seen to be right?
Paul told Titus, “avoid foolish disputes, genealogies, contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and useless (Titus 3:9).” Imagine the useless debates of the old law, and the problems that were created in Bible times. Some things do not matter; some things are not explained. However, other things do matter. Jesus pronounced woe to the scribes and Pharisees because they had “paid tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faith (Matthew 23:23).” They should have done those things, without leaving the rest undone!
In our lives we may argue and have foolish disputes over things that are worthless. We need to let go on the unimportant. Instead, we need to pay attention to God’s laws that are in effect for us today and work out our own salvation (Philippians 2:12). This is what is most important! Have you worked out your salvation?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
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Choose to See the Good
I choose to see the good stuff!
The prophets of doom and gloom are everywhere. The economy is in the tank. Hundreds of thousands have lost their jobs. Every day we face the threat of another terrorist attack. Crime is on the rise. Drug and alcohol abuse is an increasing blight on society. Political scandals are a daily occurrence. Newspapers are filled with stories of man’s inhumanity to man. Is there nothing good to report? Yes, but we have to choose to see the good.
Realistically, there are a lot of good things taking place in our world, but they don’t get reported. Sadly, the good stuff doesn’t sell papers or attract viewers, so it’s ignored. Most of us have experiences every day which reaffirm our faith in God and restore our confidence in mankind. Good things are happening, they just aren’t being reported. I, for one, choose to see the good and refuse to let the purveyors of doom and gloom rule my day.
I know that God is still in charge (Daniel 4:17, 25, 34-35). I know that the Lamb of God rules the universe, and those who trust in Him will overcome (1 John 4:4; 5:4). I know that God’s ears are open to the prayers of His saints. He hears and answers (1 John 5:14-15). I know that “all things work together for good” for those who love God (Romans 8:28). And, I know that no matter what happens here, He has something better awaiting us on the other side (2 Corinthians 5:1).
I don’t deny that there are a lot of bad things taking place in our world, but I refuse to let them rule my day. The writer of Proverbs offers the following insights regarding life and the attitude we bring to each day. We would do well to hear and heed those admonitions. Here are but a few examples of what he wrote as an inspired author. “A glad heart makes a cheerful face, but by sorrow of heart the spirit is crushed. The heart of him who has understanding seeks knowledge, but the mouths of fools feed on folly. All the days of the afflicted are evil, but the cheerful of heart has a continual feast. Better is a little with the fear of the Lord than great treasure and trouble with it. Better is a dinner of herbs where love is than a fattened ox and hatred with it” (Proverbs 15:13-17). “Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad” (Proverbs 12:25). “A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones” (Proverbs 17:22). It is hard to have a glad heart unless you choose to see the good around you.
I can only speak for myself, but I choose to see the glass as half full, not half empty. I choose to see the good and to dwell on the good and not the bad. I choose to thank God each day for His blessings, and not to complain about my minor inconveniences. I choose to let the Lord and not the world direct my steps. I choose to see the good news over the bad stuff. And, I choose to see the day as the Psalmist did: “This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it” (Psalm 118:24). I choose to see the good! What are you choosing?
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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An Army of One
Even when Christians just act on their own, being an army of one, they can accomplish great things.
In the New Testament, the Lord’s church is said to be many things. In the book of Ephesians alone, it is called, the bride of Christ (Ephesians 5:23), the body of Christ (Ephesians 1:22-23), the family of God (Ephesians 3:15), the manifold wisdom of God (Ephesians 3:10), and the army of God (Ephesians 6:12). The concept of the Lord’s church as a spiritual army is found throughout the New Testament (2 Timothy 2:3). While we may not fight literal battles, with physical weapons, we are fighting in a spiritual struggle every day of our lives (2 Corinthians 10:4). What is at stake in this struggle is our immortal souls, and the souls of everyone else around us (Mark 8:36-37). Our enemy is powerful, and vastly outnumbers us (Ephesians 6:12). This may cause some to wonder, “What can one Christian do, against an enemy so powerful and so numerous?” How strong is an army of one?
Frankly, there is a great deal that one Christian can do to make a big difference in the spiritual war that rages all around us. The Devil wants us to think that the situation is hopeless, and that we can‘t possibly prevail against his forces, but that is a lie! The Scriptures assure us that, if we will persevere in faithfulness to God, we are “more then conquerors,” in the good fight of faith (Romans 8:37). Don’t let the Devil scare you into thinking that you are powerless and incapable of making a difference. A Christian is never truly an army of one because God is with us.
Take up the 52-week challenge. It’s not too late to start. Resolve now to invite at least one soul to come to church with you in every week of this year. You don’t have to be particularly smart, or savvy or persuasive to take up this challenge, but you just might make a huge difference in someone’s life. Chances are that you will come into contact with people that other Christians won’t. Those folks need you to make the effort to invite them to “come and see” what the church of Christ is all about. Sure, most of the people you talk to won’t come to church, but if one does, then you will have accomplished something truly great for the cause of Christ (Mark 8:36-37), just by acting as an army of one.
Go on a one-Christian door-to-door campaign. Act as an army of one for God. Take home about 25 or so gospel tracts. Take home an equal number of copies of The Paper Pulpit. Go for a walk in your neighborhood on a sunny afternoon and knock on our neighbor’s doors. If they are not at home, leave them a copy of the literature you brought with you. If they are at home, invite them to come to church with you and leave them a copy of the literature you brought with you. It’s just that simple! Before you know it, you will have completed a one-Christian door-to-door campaign, once again acting as an army of one. If you are feeling particularly daring, you might even ask your neighbor to study the Bible with you!
Go on a $25.00 shopping spree. This challenge is very simple. First, identify someone you know – maybe a member of the church; maybe not – who is struggling, financially. Take $25.00 of your own money, and go shopping for groceries for them. Just buy things like milk, bread, eggs, meat, etc. and then deliver them. You may deliver them in person, or you may remain anonymous, but be sure to give the glory to God (Matthew 6:1-4), acting as an army of one on His behalf. In today’s economy, $25.00 is not really very much money, but it can make a world of difference to someone in need.
These are all things that I have done at various times in my life. I can readily say that they are both simple and gratifying. Knowing that, because of you, someone’s soul has been saved, or someone’s life has been made just a little better, is the most amazing feeling in the whole world! When just one Christian makes the time and effort necessary to have an impact on someone else’s life, the potential for the accomplishment of something good is astounding. You can make all the difference in the eternal destiny of a lost soul – and you don’t have to make any grand gestures or monumental efforts. The main thing is that you just have to get out there into the world and do something!
When Christians act on their own, just being an army of one, they can accomplish great things. But, when Christians act together, they can accomplish even more! What if every member of the church invited someone to come to church with them, every week? What if every Christian was willing to go door-to-door for Christ? What if all of us did something to help our neighbors in need?
Content by Russell Kline
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I am Resolved
What have you resolved in your mind?
In 1896, Palmer Hartsough penned the following words: “I am resolved no longer to linger, charmed by the world’s delight; things that are higher, things that are nobler, these have allured my sight. I am resolved to go to the Savior, leaving my sin and strife; He is the true One, He is the just One, He hath the words of life. I am resolved to follow the Savior, faithful and true each day; heed what He sayeth, do what He willeth, He is the living way. I am resolved to enter the kingdom, leaving the paths of sin; friends may oppose me, foes may beset me, still will I enter in.”
The new year is rapidly approaching, and many will be making New Year’s resolutions. What have we resolved to do? Do you need to make changes and improvements in how your are living in the coming year? As the song suggests, if we are living in sin we need to resolve to die to sin and live for Christ (Romans 6:2, 6; Galatians 2:20; 6:14).
We must be resolved and steadfast in our minds to follow diligently the example Christ set in His life on earth (1 Peter 2:21-24). We must be resolved to listen to Him (Romans 10:17; Acts 17:11) and obey Him (John 14:15; 2 Timothy 2:15). We must be resolved to enter and remain in the kingdom of God (Matthew 5:20; 7:21; 18:3; John 3:5), even though family, friends, or enemies may try to hinder us (Matthew 10:37-38). Be resolved to take action and accept the salvation offered in Christ.
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
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If You Abide, Walk! – Audio
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It may seem like an oxymoron to walk somewhere if you abide. However, that is what the Bible commands us to do! John wrote, “He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk just as He walked (1 John 2:6).” God will not tell us to do something that we cannot do. How can we walk and abide simultaneously?
First, we must abide in Christ. One can only abide if one gets into. Thus, one gets into Christ by being baptized into Christ (Galatians 3:27). Once in Christ, we must remain in Him and be active. Jesus explained that He is the vine and we are the branches. The branches must abide in Him, as He abides in the vinedresser. By abiding in Him, we must bear fruit (John 15:1-8). He then goes on to say that we are to abide in His love (John 15:9ff.).
Once in Christ, we must walk as He walked. Earlier in his letter, John said that we must “walk in the light as He is in the light (1 John 1:7).” By being where Christ is, we can have fellowship with Him and one another. Christ is no longer here on earth, but is with us in spirit. While He was on the earth, He showed us how we ought to walk (1 Peter 2:21-25).
By learning more about Him and following His example, we can abide in Him. We can only abide in Him if we walk just as He walked! Let us remain in His Word, and do what He says.
Content by Richard Dillon
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Christian Conduct
Are our lives characterized by Christian conduct?
“Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel” (Philippians 1:27).
Make no mistake about it, God makes specific demands of His people. Christians must not adopt the ways of the world. We are commanded to conform to a higher standard. Our conversation (conduct) must be governed by the word of God. It must be Christian conduct. We must look to the Scriptures to determine the direction our lives take. Anything less can spell disaster.
Man is incapable of charting the correct course without proper guidance. Solomon wrote: “There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the ends thereof are the ways of death” (Proverbs 14:12). Jeremiah, the prophet, echoed those sentiments when he wrote: “O Lord, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps” (Jeremiah 10:23). God, knowing our limitations, sent Jesus into this world to show us the way to Him. In fact, Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me” (John 14:6). He lived a perfect life. He showed us how to live. He left an example for us to follow (1 Peter 2:21-22).
It is impossible to follow Christ without paying careful attention to our conduct. We cannot be faithful children of God while living like the devil! We must have Christian conduct. No, Christians are not perfect, but they are also not slaves to sin. “Know ye not, that to whom yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness” (Romans 6:16-18).
Who do we serve? How do we live? Are our lives characterized by Christian conduct? If not, then we are not Christians!
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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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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Galatians 06:01-05 – Bear One Another’s Burdens – audio
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Text: Galatians 6:1-5 (Reading by Don Treadway)
Introduction
A. Individually, we all have burdens to bear.
B. Collectively, we should strive to help with one another’s burdens.
C. By doing so, the law of Christ is fulfilled.
Body
I. We are all tempted, and may be overtaken by a trespass at any time.
A. The devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. All brethren experience the same suffering, and we must resist him (1 Peter 5:8-9).
B. No temptation has overtaken you, except that which is common to man (1 Corinthians 10:12-13).
1) Temptation leads to sin, and sin to death (James 1:12-15).
2) All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God; we have all been tempted (Romans 3:23).
3) Jesus was tempted in all points just as we were, but without sin (Hebrews 4:15-16; Matthew 4:1-10).
4) We continue with Jesus in His trials (Luke 22:28).
5) We are not sufficient of ourselves, but our sufficiency is from God (2 Corinthians 3:5).
6) As we partake of the Lord’s Supper, we must examine ourselves as sinners; we examine the sinless Christ as the perfect sacrifice for our sins (1 Corinthians 11:28).
II. We must restore others in a spirit of gentleness.
A. God will render to each of us our deeds, and we should want our deeds to include helping others (Romans 2:5-9).
B. Christians are commanded to edify one another (Romans 14:19; 1 Thessalonians 5:11; Ephesians 4:11-13,15-16,29; Hebrews 10:24-25).
C. Jesus said not to boast in relation to others as the Pharisee, but humble ourselves as the tax collector (Luke 18:9-14).
D. Paul also said not to think of ourselves too highly (Romans 12:3,5-6,8).
E. The strong ones should bear with the scruples of the weak (Romans 15:1-7,14).
F. We should bear with one another in love, with longsuffering (Ephesians 4:2).
III. Bearing one another’s burdens fulfills the law of Christ.
A. Jesus said that the scribes and Pharisees bind burdens on others, but will not move them (Matthew 23:1-4). He also proclaimed woe on lawyers who did the same thing (Luke 11:46).
B. Loving your neighbor as yourself is the royal law according to Scripture (James 2:8; Leviticus 19:18; Mark 12:28-33).
C. Jesus said, “therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets (Matthew 7:12).”
Conclusion
A. Are we bearing one another’s burdens?
B. Are we fulfilling the law of Christ?
C. Let us not think of ourselves as above others.
D. Rather let us humble ourselves and help each other get to Heaven.
Content by Richard Dillon
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A Plea for Pilgrims – audio
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Text: 1 Peter 2:11-12: “Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul, having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation.”
Peter makes a few important observations to Christians:
1. We are sojourners and pilgrims!
As the song goes, “This world is not my home, I’m just a passing thro’…” Even though we are in the world, we are not of the world (John 15:19; 17:14-16). Paul proclaimed that his citizenship is in heaven (Philippians 3:20).
2. We must abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul!
John similarly warns Christians about worldly lusts (lust of flesh, lust of eyes, and pride of life). They are not of God; rather they are of the world. Just as sojourners and pilgrims do not stay in one place forever, the world and its lusts will not last forever (1 John 2:15-17). The body and soul are always at war, as Paul could tell you (Romans 7; Philippians 1:21-30).
3. Our conduct must be honorable!
As Paul told the Philippians to let their conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so Peter says it should be honorable among the Gentiles. We should be “blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world (Philippians 2:15).” Jesus Christ is a light to the Gentiles (Luke 2:32), and the whole world (John 8:12; 12:46). As Jesus is our example (1 Peter 2:21), we too are lights in the world (Matthew 5:14-16).
4. Others will speak against us as evildoers!
Many spoke against Christ, His disciples, and the early Christians; they will speak against us too!
5. Others may glorify God by observing our good works!
As we shine our lights (Matthew 5:16), people know we are not of the world but of Christ. As we follow His example, they can follow our example and bring all glory to God (Luke 5:25; 17:15; 18:43).
Content by Richard Dillon
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