Historical Posts
As Good As His Word
Do not swear at all.
Jesus taught, “…you have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘Do not break your oath, but keep the oaths you have made to the Lord.’ But I tell you, Do not swear at all: either by heaven, for it is God’s throne; or by earth, for it is his footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the Great King. And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make even one hair white or black. Simply let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ be ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one” (Matthew 5:33-37).
Oaths were common in our Lord’s day.
So common were oaths that they had become worthless. Two serious problems arose in connections with them. First, there was the practice of frivolous oaths. They were used for the most insignificant matters, and therefore became meaningless. Then there was the more dangerous practice of deceptive oaths. The Pharisees (a leading Jewish sect) were especially gifted in their use. Jesus strongly condemned them for their deception (Matthew 23:16-22).
Jesus’ disciples were not to use oaths.
He expected them to always be true to their word. Christians tell the truth, keep their word, and honor their promises. When they say “Yes,” they mean “Yes,” and when they say “No,” they mean “No.” A man is, after all, only as good as his word!
Here is a message our world desperately needs. Speak the truth!
Honor your word! Do what you say! There is not a segment of society which does not need to be reminded of this. Politicians, preachers, and people from all walks of life need to rediscover the importance and power of the simple truth.
Reputation is destroyed by being loose with the truth
Many a man’s reputation has been destroyed because he was loose with the truth and unwilling to keep his word. Often, financial or material gain is the motive for such deception. But, remember the words of Solomon, “A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favor rather than silver and gold” (Proverbs 22:1).
Are you interested in developing a good reputation?
No man can have a good name if he is not true to his words!
— Roger
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Christian “4-H” – powerpoint – audio
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Head – Christianity is a Religion of the Mind – God Expects Us to Think Clearly
- Isaiah 1:18
- Acts 18:28
- Matthew 11:3-5
- 1 Peter 3:15
- Acts 17:11
- 1 Thessalonians 5:21
- John 20:30-31
- 2 Peter 2:20
Heart – Christianity is a Religion of the Heart – God Wants Us to Connect Emotionally
- 2 Corinthians 5:14-15
- John 3:16
- 1 John 4:19
- Romans 6:17
- John 4:24
Hands – Christianity is a Religion of the Service – God Wants Us to Work Actively
- James 1:27
- Galatians 5:13
- Mark 10:43-45
- Matthew 25:34-40
Health – Christianity is a Religion of the Balance – To be a Healthy Christian, One Must Have Balance
- 1 Corinthians 8:1
- James 2:19-20
- 1 Corinthians 13:2
- 1 John 3:18
- John 14:15
- 1 Corinthians 13:3
- Colossians 3:17
- Matthew 7:21-23
- Romans 10:1-3
Delivered on: September 23, 2012. Streetsboro.
Content by Ralph Price
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1 Peter 04:17-19 What Shall Be The End of Them?
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(What shall be the end of them that obey not the gospel of God?)
Text: Peter 4:17-19
Introduction
- In 1 Peter 4:17-18, the Bible teaches judgment must begin at the House of God, and if it begins at the church, what shall be the end of them that obey not the gospel of Christ? Where shall the ungodly & sinner appear, if the righteous are scarcely saved? 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9
- This means, Christians friends, to pass the great judgment bar and enter in God’s eternal kingdom, you must be prepared and be willing to endure sufferings in the flesh and in your life, as Christ suffered in the flesh for us – 1 Peter 4:1-2; 1 Peter 4:12-13.
- Members of the church must be willing to go through the fire of the sufferings, persecutions, sacrifices, and heartaches of being Christ disciple and being tried, and come out as pure gold – Matthew 5:10-12; Revelations 2:9-11.
Jesus is Coming Back Again to Judge the Quick and the Dead
- Jesus was crucified and He died. God, with His power, raised Him from the dead, and Jesus ascended back in heaven. The Bible reveals to us that the same manner in which He was taken up, He will also return – Acts 1:9-11; John 14:1-3.
- Jesus is coming back again for the purpose of judging the world – 2 Corinthains 5:10. The standard of our accountability will be the Word of God – John 12:48. When Jesus comes back in judgment, there will be a great separation into either eternal blessing with God, or eternal punishment, separated from God which will be based on our works – Matthew 13:47-51.
- In Revelation 20:11-15, John sees a vision of the great white throne, where the small & great are standing before God to be judged (The books), the dead came from the sea, along with the souls in Hades to be judged according to their works. Those not found in the book of Life were cast into the lake of fire.
Sober, Watchful and Prayerful Living is Required
- Since judgment begins at God’s house, we must be sober, and watchful unto prayer – 1 Peter 4:7. Therefore, let us be mindful and watchful of the temptations Satan sets before us, so that we will always be ready, because the Son of man will come in an hour we do not expect – Matthew 24:36-44.
- We must not be forgetful to show love towards each other – 1 Peter 4:8-11. And let us make sure we keep God’s will first in our lives – Matthew 6:33.
- Let us be sure to devote our lives in serving the Creator no matter the circumstances whether their good, bad, indifferent, so we will be ready for judgment when it comes – 1 Peter 4:19.
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Harry (Andy) Anderson Jr.Return to the Home Page
Ezekiel 33:01-05 Heed God’s Warnings
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Text: Ezekiel 33:1-5
Introduction
Oftentimes, when traveling to Bible study or worship, I’ve noticed a number of traffic signals that are designed to give notice and warn drivers of impending road hazards, so drivers can properly maneuver their vehicles, to avoid possible harm to themselves and their vehicles (Deer Xing, 35 MPH Speed Limit, Curvy Road).- In, the Holy Scriptures, God has placed warnings, we must take heed to, if we expect to avoid the dangers and hazards, the devil places on the pilgrimage from this earth to Heaven – Ezekiel 33:1-5.
Heed God’s Warnings About Satan and His Devices
- You and I must take heed to God’s warning about our enemy Satan because he is actively trying to make sure our souls are separated from God – 1 Peter 5:8-9. This is why we must strive and work hard at resisting him – James 4:7-8.
- Preacher, what will happen, if I ignore God’s warning? In Matthew 7:24-27, Jesus teaches if you decide not to do what God says, you will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand and storm & floods came and destroyed it.
- One of Satan’s devices, he uses to destroy us, is deception, which is an attempt to mislead one into error – Genesis 3:1-6; 2 Corinthians 11:3. God exhorts us not to allow our hearts to be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin in departing from Him – Hebrews 3:12-13. In 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, we are given notice, the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God.
- You must also heed God’s warning about false prophets & teachers, which is another device of Satan to lead astray & destroy – 2 Peter 2:1. A false prophet or teacher is one who proclaims a deceptive message, a lie, and claims it is from God. In 1 John 4:1, God warns us not to believe everybody, but to test them to see if they are of God. God warn us not to take heed to the commandments of men – Matthew 15:8-9.
Heed God’s Warnings About Yourself
- Sometimes, we become so, preoccupied with others and the world, we forget to check our own lives to make sure we’re in the faith, and not become reprobates – 2 Corinthians 13:5. We need to make our calling and election sure – 2 Peter 1:10-11. We need to be watchful of ourselves that we might be able to stand before Jesus at the judgment – Luke 21:34-36.
- God also wants us to be aware, we must discipline ourselves. In 1 Corinthians 9:27, Paul teaches he had to discipline his body to remain faithful to the Lord. In Luke 17:3-4, Jesus tells us to take heed to yourselves, and when your brother trespass against you to rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him. God further instructs us not to avenge ourselves – Romans 12:19-21.
- God wants to make sure you take heed to yourself, and to the doctrine of Jesus Christ, that you continue in them that you will both save yourself and those that hear you – 1 Timothy 4:16.
- In conclusion, if you have heard God’s trumpet of warning about Satan’s devices and our own weaknesses, have you responded and made preparations to avoid the dangers and hazards of the wrath that will come on the children of disobedience? If not, why not?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Harry (Andy) Anderson Jr.Return to the Home Page
James 03:01-18 Is Your Tongue Under Control?
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Text: James 3:1-18
Introduction
- The tongue can be used to destroy the mind. But when used wisely it can encourage, uplift, and motivate a soul to obey the gospel of Christ.
- The Word teaches in many things we offend by words, therefore, it’s important to learn how to bridle, tame, or control the tongue – James 3:2-5. The speech that comes from ours mouths will either justify you or condemn you – Matthew 12:36-37; Matthew 15:16-20.
- Some lose control of their tongue by using deception & dishonesty to their advantage, but God clearly forbids us to lie or bear false witness – Proverbs 6:16-19; Proverbs 19:5, 9; Revelation 21:8.
Make Sure Your Tongue Is Not Destructive
- An uncontrolled tongue is like a fire out of control, it destroys everything in sight. It’s like a flame thrower that burns everything in sight. Is your tongue like this? In James 3:6-8, the Bible teaches the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity that defiles the whole body. The untamed tongue is full of deadly poison, so let us learn to refrain ourselves from evil words – 1 Peter 3:10-11.
- Is it not unnatural for a fruit tree to produce ripe and rotten fruits at the same time? This is hypocritical behavior, and is not consistent with keeping God’s commandments – James 3:9-13.
- If there is bitterness, envying, in your speech & life don’t deceive yourselves into believing everything is alright, while there is confusion & evil working in your life Recognize God’s pure wisdom & receive peace – James 3:14-18.
Your Controlled Tongue Can Edify and Encourage
- The Bible teaches us to use our speech and communication to express truthfulness and righteousness instead of evil – Matthew 5:37; Colossians 4:6. Our conversations and interactions should convey the love of God, and the truth of His Son Jesus Christ – Ephesians 4:15, 25, 29
- The Bible teaches that it is wise to have a quiet spirit and work with your own hands that you might have a good report of them that are without – 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12
- When your tongue is under control, your speech and behavior can communicate the good news that Jesus Christ has tasted death for every man through His sacrifice & resurrection – Titus 2:6-8; James 1:26-27
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Harry (Andy) Anderson Jr.Return to the Home Page
Nehemiah 02:17-20 Christians Must Never Give Up
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Text: Nehemiah 2:17-20
Introduction
- Christian’s must never give up the struggle, the contention, or the fight to enter into the joy of the eternal kingdom that God has prepared for those that love Him – Revelations 3:21. When disappointment occurs, we must try again. When we are knocked out for the count, we must get back up, when we fall down in the race we must get back up and continue the race to obtain the prize – 1 Corinthians 9:24.
- Unfortunately, some of us have quit the race and forfeited the prize – 1 Timothy 4:1. We must make sure we take heed to the Word of God – Hebrews 2:1-3. It is essential that we believe in Christ, the son of the living God – John 3:36 and Romans 15:4.
When You Obey God There Will Be Opposition
- In our lesson text, Nehemiah began the great work of rebuilding the broken down walls and gates of the temple in Jerusalem. God was with him and provided means for him for this great work. However, Nehemiah had some opposition to the work, one that would have this great work hindered and stopped (Sanballat) – 1 Peter 5:8.
- In Nehemiah 4:7-9, Nehemiah’s opposition, Sanballat & Tobiah began to conspire to fight against Jerusalem and hinder the work. But they prayed to God and set a watch. They didn’t let the fear of the enemy scare them because they feared God – Ecclesiastes 12:13; Matthew 10:28.
- In Nehemiah 6:1-4, the opposition, Sanballat & Tobiah sent out messengers on 4 occasions to meet them in one of the villages in an attempt to divert Nehemiah from the work, but Nehemiah had a great work to do. In Nehemiah 6:5-9, Sanballat sent false letters to try to scare Nehemiah and the Jews from ceasing the work.
Your Faith Must Not Waver When Opposition Comes
- No matter how tall your opposition is, you must resist the devil and not waiver in your service to God – James 4:7. Nehemiah’s opposition was great but he trusted and prayed to God and He protected him – Psalm 18:2. Your faith in God must not waiver. When opposition comes your way, what will you do?
- When opposition and temptation come in our lives, instead of looking to ourselves or others for safety, we should look to God – Psalm 121:1-8.
- When it is time for you and I to meet the Lord, may we all be able to say the words of the Apostle Paul, in 2 Timothy 4:7-8. If you have not rendered obedience to the gospel of Christ, what are you waiting for? God has provided His mercy, grace, and the perfect sacrifice for our sins, Jesus Christ. Why not come to Him in obedience and be raise to life as God raised His Son from the dead. Respond to the gospel today!
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Preached at the Gahanna-Jefferson church of Christ 6-13-2008
Content by Harry (Andy) Anderson Jr.Return to the Home Page
Revelation 3:1 Autopsy on a Dead Church Member – powerpoint – audio
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Revelation-03-01-01-Autopsy-on-a-Dead-Church-Member.pdf
Revelation-03-01-01-Autopsy-on-a-Dead-Church-Member.pptx
Text: Revelation 3:1
- Causes of Death
– Starvation – 1 Peter 2:2; Hebrews 5:12-14; Matthew 5:6
– Spiritual Diabetes – Isaiah 30:9-10; Jeremiah 6:14; 2 Timothy 4:3-4
– Sclerosis of the Giver – 2 Corinthians 9:7; Luke 12:19-20
– Sunday Sickness – John 4:23-24; Hebrews 10:24-25 - Big Head – Proverbs 16:18; 1 Corinthians 10:12; Proverbs 21:24; 1 Timothy 3:6
- Busybody – 1 Peter 4:15; 1 Timothy 5:13
- Big Mouth – James 1:26; James 3:6-8; Proverbs 10:19; Proverbs 17:28
- Stiff-Knecked – Acts 7:51; 2 Chronicles 30:8
- Always Looking Back – Luke 9:62
- Too Busy – Matthew 6:24; Matthew 6:33; Matthew 10:37-39
- Patting Himself on the Back – Luke 17:10; Matthew 6:3-4
- Finger Pointing – Matthew 7:3-5; 2 Corinthians 13:5
- No Backbone – 2 Timothy 1:6-7; 2 Timothy 4:1-2
- Straddling the Fence – James 3:9-12; 1 Kings 18:21
- Sitting in the Pew – Proverbs 22:13; James 2:18; Titus 2:14
- Full of Envy – Proverbs 14:30; Galatians 5:26; Proverbs 23:17
- Can’t Bend the Knee – Ephesians 3:14; Romans 14:11
- Won’t Spread the Gospel – Romans 10:14-15; Matthew 10:32-33
Content by Ralph Price
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I’ll Go With You
Who did Ruth want to go with?
Ruth wanted to cling to her mother-in-law Naomi. She was so determined to go with her that she pleaded “Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God: where thou diest, will. I die, and there will I be buried: the LORD do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me” (Ruth 1:16-17).
As Ruth showed devotion to her mother-in-law, we should show the same to Christ!
Did Moses want to go with God?
God appeared before Moses at the burning bush, and revealed His plan for him. Moses was to lead the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt.
Moses was not very anxious to complete this task at first. He began to question God, asked God to get somebody else, and even offer excuses to get out of doing this task.
In the end, God convinced him by promising to go with him, and even allowing his brother Aaron to accompany them (Exodus 3, 4).
Does God promise to be with us?
Many writers of both the Old and New Testaments agree that we cannot escape the presence of God. Wherever we go, He is there: what a comforting thought! The Hebrew writer quoted the Old Testament (Deuteronomy 31:6, 8; Joshua 1:5) when God said, “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee” (Hebrews 13:5).
Did David recognize God’s presence?
David wrote many of the Psalms telling of how God was with him. In Psalm 23, David tells how God was with him to lead him, guide him, provide for him, protect him, and comfort him. Not only did David know God was with him, but also expressed desire to be with God in His presence.
Was there a time in which we were without God?
Certainly! Paul said, “At that time you were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ” (Ephesians 2:12-13).
Thanks to Christ’s blood, we can be with Him again!
Can we know we are with God?
Sure! We must study the Bible, learn it, obey it, and live it! Sadly, many do not part or all of these instructions. Yet, we are asked “Can two walk together, unless they are agreed (Amos 3:3)?”
Are we in agreement with God? Have you accepted salvation in Christ?
Content by Richard Dillon
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Be Steadfast
What should we be steadfast in?
The church at Colosse was commended for its steadfast faith in Christ Jesus. As we are rooted and built up in Him, our faith must be steadfast (Colossians 2:5-7).
How is our steadfast faith useful?
By standing fast in the faith, we resist the devil. When resisted, he will flee from us. Therefore, after we suffer a while, we are made perfect, stablished, strengthened, and settled (1 Peter 5:8-10).
Is it worth a lot to be steadfast in the faith?
One will be rewarded for doing this. We achieve the victory through Christ, and the assurance that our labor is not in vain in the Lord (1 Corinthians 15:57-58).
Can our salvation be ensured by standing fast in the faith?
We could not even come to God without faith (Hebrews 11:6). It is possible to fall from grace (Galatians 5:4), which brings salvation (Titus 2:11). Therefore, Christians are warned that they can fall from their own steadfastness (2 Peter 3:14-18). Instead, we need to be diligent to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Are you in Christ? Are you growing?
Content by Richard Dillon
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Stumbling Blocks
Which of Jesus’ disciples was a stumbling block to Him?
After Peter heard that Jesus must suffer, be killed, and arise the third day he expressed disapproval. Jesus told him, “Get behind Me, Satan! You are an offense to Me, for you are not mindful of the things of God, but the things of men” (Matthew 16:21-23).
To whom was the gospel a stumbling block?
The Jews requested a sign, and thus did not believe in Christ as the fulfillment of the law. They wanted a physical king and an earthly kingdom, yet Jesus said His kingdom was not of this world (John 18:36). Paul explained that this could be a stumbling block, but could also save their eternal souls (1 Corinthians 1:22-24).
Can Christians put a stumbling block in the way of others?
There are certain liberties, or freedoms, in Christ, such as eating things offered to idols and fasting. However, if doing this offends another brother or sister in Christ, it thus violates the conscience and is a sin to both the brethren and Christ! Therefore Paul said he would not do anything ever again, if it caused his brother to stumble (1 Corinthians 8:7-13).
Did Jesus warn of offenses?
He pronounced woe on those that cause others to sin, saying these things would happen! Yet, we could have things that offend ourselves. Whether they be our hands, feet, or eyes, they should be restrained that they no longer offend us or cause us to enter everlasting fire (Matthew 18:6-9).
What did Paul say our attitude should be about offending others?
“So then each of us shall give account of himself to God. Therefore let us not judge one another anymore, but rather resolve this, not to put a stumbling block or a cause to fall in our brother’s way” (Romans 14:12-13). In the rest of the chapter he emphasizes pursuing peace.
What is the Gospel to you?
Is the Gospel of Christ a stumbling block to you? Or have you gladly accepted the salvation offered in Christ?
Content by Richard Dillon
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Addicted to the Ministry
In one of those marvelous passages that we so often overlook a beautiful compliment is paid an early Christian family. Paul said of the household of Stephanas, “they have addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints” (1 Corinthians 16:15).
At a time in our history when we are hearing so much about drug addiction, alcoholism, and the nicotine fit, it is refreshing to be reminded of at least one family whose addiction was not fatal or even harmful. Theirs was an addiction to doing the will of God.
The word `addicted‘ means “given over to a pursuit, practice, or habit.” The house-hold of Stephanas was devoted to persistent and habitual service. In the Greek language the word is `tasso,’ and it means specifically “to place in a certain order; to set first.” So Paul is saying of this family that they had made the `ministry of the saints’ their number one priority in life. Jesus came first! A greater compliment could not have been paid them.
Our Lord, in the Sermon on the Mount, commanded: “Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness” (Matthew 6:33). This family took that command seriously. We all should! Doing so will not only enrich this life, but will also make it possible for us to live eternally. There are many things which we can give our time, talents, and energies to, but none so important as our service in the kingdom of Christ.
- Are you a Christian?
- Do you believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God?
- Will you obey Him?
- Will you be “addicted to the ministry?”
Only you can answer those questions. Remember, your answer determines what eternity will hold for you.
—Roger
SEPTEMBER 9, 2012
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Rules of Engagement
Did you know there was in Washington, D.C. an International Spy Museum near Chinatown?
Having an avid interest in both military history and the former Soviet Union, I was thrilled to learn they had a web site. The museum displays just how ancient the espionage game is, but the greater part of the exhibits covers only the last 100 years of spying.
There is a whole section of the museum devoted to espionage during the Cold War. In fact, spies on that front had their own “ten commandments” (some say there are forty or more). The museum itself published ten of these so-called Moscow Rules.
Some of these espionage rules include:
- assume nothing
- don’t look back
- there is no limit to a human being’s ability to rationalize the truth
- maintain a natural pace
- if it feels wrong, it is wrong
Former CIA operative Jonna Mendez, as well as countless others, is quick to say that these rules are used by agents around the globe today. Many of these rules boil down to trusting instincts.
Whereas Christians battle a foe that will not collapse or capitulate, we still have rules of engagement that we must follow for our own spiritual preservation.
As our foe is the most formidable of them all (see 1 Peter 5:8; 2 Corinthians 11:14; Revelation 2:10; etc.), he must be fought with great intelligence.
We need to mature to the point of having our powers of discernment trained (cf. Hebrews 5:14). This will give us the kind of instincts we need to be most aware of the devil’s tactics (cf. 2 Corinthians 2:11).
We should not become paranoid or see problems where they do not exist, but we must not let our guard down either. God’s Word will protect us and serve us heroically in this terrific battle (cf. Ephesians 6:17), but only if we know how to use it properly.
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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A Christian Walk
In whom should a Christian walk?
Christians are rooted and built up in Christ Jesus the Lord; therefore, our Christian walk must be in Him (Colossians 2:6-7).
Where should a Christian walk?
John said we must “walk in the light as He is in the light” (1 John 1:7). After all, God is light and in Him is no darkness (1 John 1:5).
Isaiah encouraged the house of Jacob to “walk in the light of the LORD” (Isaiah 2:5). They were able to do this by keeping His commandments.
After all, God’s word is “a light unto my feet, and a light unto my path” (Psalm 119:105).
We need to walk in the narrow way and avoid the broad way that leads to destruction, which many will follow (Matthew 7:13).
Three keys to help us have a better Christian walk:
Walk in love (Ephesians 5:1-2)
Throughout the Bible we are taught of God’s love for all of mankind, Christ’s love for others, and the love that man must have in return. “We love Him because He first loved us” (1 John 4:19).
Walk as “children of light” (Ephesians 5:8-14).
Since God is light, we need to become His children and thus ‘children of light.’ Jesus taught Nicodemus how to do this as one is born again (John 3:1-7). Then, we must let our light shine before men (Matthew 5:16).
Walk circumspectly (Ephesians 5:15)
We need to be aware and stay aware of our surroundings. Paul warned young men like Timothy and Titus to beware of those who teach false doctrine. After all, if the blind lead the blind, all will fall into the ditch (Matthew 15:14).
Content by Richard Dillon
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The Right Attitude
A connection between associations and attitudes
As the story goes, Casey Stengel, who was a successful manager with the New York Yankees, knew the connection between associations and attitudes. When Billy Martin was a rookie manager, Stengel gave him some sage advice. Martin recalled, “Casey said that there would be fifteen players on your team who will run through a wall for you, five who will hate you, and five who are undecided. When you make out your rooming list, always room your losers together. Never room a good guy with a loser. Those losers who stay together will blame the manager for everything, but it won’t spread if you keep them isolated.”
I think there is a parallel in the church
The church has always had its share of losers. Their numbers are relatively small, but the damage they do can be extensive. I have in mind men like Hymenaeus, Alexander, Phygellus, Hermogenes, Demas, and Diotrephes (1 Timothy 1:20; 2 Timothy 1:15; 4:10; 3 John 9). Hang out with people like them and their bad influence will rub off. Do not be deceived: “Bad company ruins good morals” (1 Corinthians 15:33).
We all know people who find fault with everything in the church but themselves
Isolated they do little damage, but when they are surrounded by the weak, the immature, and others of their own disposition, they can cause great harm to the body of Christ. We need to do two things to mitigate the damage they do.
First, we must commit ourselves to developing a good attitude. Rather than constantly focusing on the negative, we must highlight the positive. It is said that two birds fly over the California desert, the humming bird and the vulture. One sees the beauty and the other the death of the desert, and the explanation is simple. They see different things because they look for different things.
Second, stay away from those who would suck you into their negativism. It really doesn’t take long to learn who wants to contribute to the cause, and who just wants to criticize. I’m not suggesting that we be harsh, unkind, or critical. I’m simply saying that if we are not careful, we will become like them. Let the few who feel the need to constantly criticize stick together. They will do little damage that way, and those who are really committed will be free to serve the Lord effectively.
I’m reminded of the fellow who requested a meeting with the elders. At that meeting the gentleman pointed out a number of things which he felt needed improvement, noted areas of neglect, and offered a series of objections regarding a host of issues. The elders thanked him for meeting with them, and acknowledged that some of his suggestion had real merit. They were simply too busy to address all of them personally. Could they call on him to deal with some of the most important issues raised? His immediate response, “I’m way too busy to get involved, but I am always happy to meet with you in an advisory capacity!” The Lord’s church has enough advisers already. What we need are workers!
Let’s develop the right attitude toward Christ, His word, and His church
We can then be a positive force for good in a world in desperate need of better role models, but it won’t happen unless we develop the mind of Jesus (Philippians 2:1-8).
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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What Did He Mean?
Treat others the way we want to be treated
Jesus said: “So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets ” (Matthew 7:12 ESV). I doubt that Jesus said anything in the course of His ministry that is more readily recognized, or more universally accepted. But, what did He mean? The intent is clear. We should treat others the way we want to be treated! It’s called the Golden Rule.
Love is the badge of discipleship
I can assure you that come Judgment Day Jesus will not be asking, “And how were you treated?” However, He will, among other things, take careful note of how we treated others. As Christians, there is never a time when it is right to be rude, unkind, mean-spirited, or hateful. Love should motivate our every word and deed. Love is the badge of discipleship. Jesus also said, “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35 ESV).
Loving sinners does not mean that we should ignore sin
Some interpret what Jesus said regarding love as proof that Christians should never disagree, never speak out against anything or anyone, and certainly should never suggest that someone else may be wrong about something. We must be tolerant. Any criticism, any disagreement, any suggestion that someone might be engaging in sinful conduct is to be rejected. It’s argued that these kinds of things are incompatible with the principles espoused by Jesus. If that is the case, please answer the following questions.
Did Jesus violate His own principles when He repeatedly called the Pharisees hypocrites (Matthew 23)? Was He wrong when He overturned the tables of the money changers and drove them from the temple (John 2)? Was He being unloving when He commanded the adulterous woman to leave her life of sin (John 8:11)? Is there a note of intolerance in His words when He said to Nicodemus, “You must be born again” (John 3)? Was He being judgmental when He referred to his own generation as a “brood of vipers” (Matthew 12)?
The Golden Rule does not demand that we acknowledge every lifestyle as acceptable. Loving sinners does not mean that we should ignore sin. The words of Jesus don’t prohibit us from speaking out about sin. In fact, His words demand that we speak out, but that we do it lovingly and kindly!
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Life Without Meaning
“Meaningless! Meaningless!” says the Teacher. “Utterly meaningless!
Everything is meaningless” (Ecclesiastes 1:2). This is not a skeptical and pessimistic view of life, but a poignant refutation of materialism. Wealth, power, pleasure and fame are all fleeting. Solomon, generally acknowledged as the author, observed: “I denied myself of nothing my eyes desired; I refused my heart no pleasure. My heart took delight in all my work, and this was the reward for all my labor. Yet when I surveyed all that my hands had done and what I had toiled to achieve, everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind; nothing was gained under the sun” (Ecclesiastes 2:10-11).
Life from a materialistic point of view is hopelessness
This is the attitude of one looking at life from a purely materialistic point of view. It portrays the hopelessness of those who trust in wealth, power, pleasure and knowledge. Experience teaches that rich or poor, wise or foolish, great or small, all must die. That being true, our author laments: “So I hated life, because the work that is done under the sun was grievous to me. All of it is meaningless, a chasing after the wind. I hated all things I had toiled for under the sun, because I must leave them to the one who comes after me. And who knows whether he will be a wise man or a fool? Yet he will have control over all the work into which I have poured my effort and skill under the sun. This too is meaningless” (Ecclesiastes 2:17-18).
Maybe you’ve felt the same sense of futility
If you have, don’t despair! There is hope. Having tried it all our author concluded that man’s whole duty was “to fear God and keep his commandments” (Ecclesiastes 12:13). Wisdom, knowledge, and happiness come to those who put Him first, but to those who do not life remains meaningless, a chasing after the wind (Ecclesiastes 2:25-26). A man may chase the wind, but he never captures it!
Is there meaning to life?
Is there hope? Can man find peace? Yes, but not in material pursuits! There is no lasting satisfaction or joy in a life apart from God. The struggle is futile until He comes into the picture. One may be rich, famous and powerful, but if God is missing, life offers nothing lasting (Luke 12:16-21). Everything is meaningless!
Does your life have meaning?
—Roger
JULY 29, 2012
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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The High Cost of the Low Life
“Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people” (Proverbs 14:34)
The high cost of sin is evident all around us
There is hardly a family that has remained untouched by the stigma of divorce. Modern sexual immorality will lead to the birth of thousands of illegitimate babies this year, while a million others will be murdered by abortion. Venereal disease is rampant, and homosexuality is not only tolerated, but even advocated by some as an acceptable lifestyle. Alcoholism is a real problem for millions of Americans of all ages. Drug abuse is a national disgrace. Crime statistics are ever climbing. The “good life” for many is really the “low life,” and the low life always has a high cost. The “wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23).
We can not play with sin
We are only kidding ourselves when we think we can play with sin and not suffer its consequences. A long time ago Moses warned the Israelites, “Be sure your sin will find you out” (Numbers 32:23). The low life always has a high price, though we may not realize it at the time. Tragically, the cost for some becomes intolerable (Matthew 27:3-5). No one can escape the consequences of low living for ever. A day of reckoning will come (2 Corinthians 5:10-11). Jesus offers an alternative to the low life. He offers His disciples the “abundant life” (John 10:10). Let’s dispel the myth once and for all that one can’t be a Christian and enjoy life too. Actually, you can’t really enjoy life and live it to its fullest apart from Christ. True, as a Christian we have to turn our backs on the momentary pleasure of sin (Hebrews 11:24-25), but we’re also turning our backs on the wretched consequences of sin as well. And, the consequences are always greater than the fleeting moments of pleasure sin offers! We can escape the high cost of the low life, but only by living by the Lord’s standards and not our own.
What ails us individually and as a nation is SIN.
Jesus Christ provides the only remedy.
It is our job as the church to model discipleship every day by a good example, and to proclaim the good news of Jesus everywhere we go. The world needs to see and hear the transforming power of Jesus in the lives of genuine disciples.
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Threats of the Postmodern Culture
The sheltered environment of the past is no more
My heart goes out to the parents of young children. They face challenges I never anticipated a few years ago. Technology has made us instantly aware of events in the remotest corners of our world. Social media makes it possible to reach millions in milliseconds. Media that could be beneficial are often used in nefarious and malicious ways. They becomes avenues for bullying, gossip, character assassination, pornography, and the spread of misinformation. The sheltered environment of the past is no more!
Stars died so you can live?
What got me thinking about all of this was something I read about a former Disney star trying to shed her squeaky clean image. Miley Cyrus has been in the news a lot of late for behavior, dress, and statements completely out of character with her former image. She recently got herself in trouble with some of her fans for a tweet which included a photo of Lawrence Krauss, a theoretical physicist, and a quotation attributed to him: “You are all stardust. You couldn’t be here if stars hadn’t exploded, because the elements (carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, all the things that matter for evolution) weren’t created at the beginning of time. They were created in stars. So forget Jesus. Stars died so you can live.” Her tweet included the caption “Beautiful.”
Young minds are impacted in very negative ways
Ridiculing faith, advocating atheism, and defending evolution is becoming ever more popular with stars and starlets. It doesn’t matter that most of them know very little about such things. Their position gives them a platform to spout off their liberal leanings, and sadly impressionable young minds are impacted in very negative ways as a result.
Indoctrinating our kids at an earlier and earlier age
Entertainers, educators, judges, and politicians with a liberal and postmodern mindset also want to undermine the moral fabric of our nation with their anti-christian, pro-abortion, pro-homosexual, anti-marriage agenda. And, they are seeking to do this by indoctrinating our kids at an earlier and earlier age. Children raised in a Christian environment who believe that homosexuality is sinful are accused of hate speech and bullying for expressing their views. Judges arbitrarily set aside laws which restrict marriage to a man and a woman, and protect the life of the unborn. This is done with total disregard for the will of the people!
Faith is always under assault
Christians are subject to frequent ridicule. We are often labeled as uneducated, unenlightened, superstitious people out of step with the times. As Christians this shouldn’t surprise us. It is how the devil works. Faith is always under assault. We must prepare ourselves and our kids to meet those attacks head on. In the end, truth will always triumphant over error. We must bring our children up in the “discipline and instruction of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4), and prepare them to face this postmodern assault with an unswerving faith in God, Christ and the Bible.
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Estate Planning
Useless disagreement
One of the saddest events in the ministry of Jesus is recorded in Luke 15:13-15. It has to do with a family disagreement over how the inheritance was to be divided. One came to Jesus with the following request: “Master, speak to my brother, that he divide the inheritance with me.” Jesus responded, “Man, who made me a judge or a divider over you?” Then He warned: “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions” (Luke 12:15). To further impress this truth upon His hearers, Jesus told the story of a certain rich man whose harvest had been so bountiful that he did not have room for it all. He determined to tear down his barns and build greater ones. Then he would sit back, take it easy, and enjoy the good life. But it would not happen. That night he died. All he had was left to others.
Important items are not found in the accumulation of things
It really isn’t any different today. Many spend their lives accumulating things, only to die and leave them behind for others to fight over. Happiness, joy, peace, and contentment aren’t found in the accumulation of things. They are the byproducts of living for Christ.
Leave behind real value
Sadly, most of us have seen this story acted out too many times in the lives of friends and associates. Families have been ripped apart as brothers and sisters fought over who got what. Homes have been destroyed because mothers and fathers gave their children every “thing,” but failed to provide a foundation for life centered in Jesus.
Parents, if you want to leave your children with something of real value, leave them the memory of a mother and father faithful to God. Provide them with an example of faith, love, devotion, and commitment to truth that will live on in their hearts long after you are gone. The really valuable estates aren’t measured in dollars and cents, but in faith, love, and service to God!
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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