Historical Posts
Non-Denominational Christianity
Non-Denominational Means Unity
Non-Denominational Christianity means no factions. It means Unity. The acceptance of denominationalism has done more to prevent Christian unity today than any other single factor. The word denominationalism implies division. It is a disposition or mindset toward the formation of factions.
The whole spirit of denominationalism is contrary to the spirit of New Testament Christianity. Jesus fervently prayed for unity among believers (John 17:20-21). The apostle Paul condemned denominational tendencies in the church at Corinth (1 Corinthians 1:10-13). He pleaded with disciples to be non-denominational. He wanted them to “speak the same things,” and that there would be “no divisions” among them (1 Corinthians 1:10). Now just the opposite philosophy prevails.
The major causes of denominationalism are twofold. First, division stems from a failure to study the Bible. Religious ignorance often characterizes the religious. We should be asking, “What saith the scripture?” (Romans 4:3). However, the question often is: “What does your preacher say?” The word of God, not the words of men, should be the final authority! Unity is impossible when the basis for non-denominational unity is ignored.
Second, division results from a refusal to accept what the Bible says. Often, those who know it refuse to accept it. Just for the sake of illustration, look at what the New Testament says regarding baptism. No honest Bible student would deny that baptism always involved an immersion in water as the appropriate response to the demand of Jesus and His disciples (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38). Yet, the practice of sprinkling or pouring water upon someone and calling it baptism is widespread. Why is this? Even though the Bible is clear on this subject, what it says is ignored. Denominationalism results, not from an inability to understand the Scriptures, but from a refusal to accept them.
Churches of Christ are non-denominational. We have no head over the church but Jesus Christ (Colossians 1:18). We have no law to govern us but the Bible (2 Timothy 3:16-17). We wear no name but His (Acts 11:26). We are not Protestants. We are not Catholics! We are not Jews. We are Christians. We desire to be nothing more or less than that which we are called to be in God’s word.
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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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A Christ Centered Religion
Christ Centered Religion – No creed but Christ, no head but Him, and no law but His!
We can never overemphasize the importance of being obedient students of the Bible. In God’s great scheme for the salvation of man, He provided for the preservation of His divine will through the written word. The Bible is no ordinary book. It is the word of the Almighty. It should be studied, learned, obeyed, and lived.
He who rejects the Bible and the Christ centered religion that results makes a terrible mistake. Paul wrote: “If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to the wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness, he is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself” (1 Timothy 6:3-5).
The fact is that our eternal well-being depends upon our devotion to the sacred text. It is through the Scriptures that we learn of the Savior. We cannot know God’s will apart from His word. Therefore, we must be careful students of the Bible. All that we believe, teach, and practice must originate in the Bible, which will cause us to have a Christ centered religion. Peter wrote, “If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God” (1 Peter 4:11).
The churches of Christ make a concerted effort to be governed by the Bible, and the Bible alone. We have no creed but Christ, no head but Him, and no law but His! If you are interested in a Christ-centered religion, then give us a try. With Paul we say, “We preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake” (2 Corinthians 4:5).
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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1 John 05:01-05 – Three Tests of Authentic Christianity – audio
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Text: 1 John 5:1-5 (Reading by Andy Anderson)
Introduction
1. As we began our study of First John, it was noted that it had a different objective than the Gospel of John
a. John wrote his gospel in order that one might have eternal life – John 20:30-31
b. His epistle was written so that one might know they have eternal life – 1 John 5:13
2. Throughout his epistle, then, John has mentioned the kind of things that provide evidence that one is truly a child of God, possessing fellowship with the Father and the Son – 1 John 3:10
3. There are actually several tests that John has been applying by which we can know that we have eternal life, and in the text for our study (1 John 5:1-5), they are mentioned together
Body
I. THE TEST OF BELIEF
A. IN PARTICULAR, BELIEF IN JESUS
1. As the Christ – 1 John 5:1a
2. As the Son of God – 1 John 5:5b
3. Who has come in the flesh – 1 John 4:2
B. TO DENY JESUS AS THE CHRIST, THE SON OF GOD
1. Makes one a liar and antichrist – 1 John 2:22
2. Makes fellowship with the Father and the Son impossible – 1 John 2:22-23
C. THE IMPORTANCE OF SUCH FAITH IN JESUS
1. Necessary for one to be born of God – 1 John 5:1a
a. Just as faith in God is necessary to please Him – Hebrews 11:6
b. So faith in Jesus is necessary to experience eternal life – John 8:24
2. Necessary for one to overcome the world – 1 John 5:4-5
a. We can overcome the world only through the One who lives in us – 1 John 4:4
b. But with such strength, we can do anything God desires of us – Philippians 4:13
II. THE TEST OF LOVE
A. JESUS HAD MADE BROTHERLY LOVE
1. A mark of discipleship – John 13:34-35
2. A commandment to prove we are His friends – John 15:12-14, 17
B. JOHN HAD STRESSED BROTHERLY LOVE
1. As evidence of abiding in the light – 1 John 2:10
2. As evidence of being a child of God – 1 John 3:10
3. As evidence of having passed from death to live – 1 John 3:14
4. As evidence of knowing God and being born of God – 1 John 4:7-8
C. AND NOW, IN DISCUSSING BROTHERLY LOVE
1. John describes it as a necessary corollary to loving God – 1 John 5:1a
a. If you love God who brings forth children
b. …then you must love those children who have come from Him!
2. John reveals how we can be sure that we love God’s children by loving God and keeping His commandments – 1 John 5:2
a. I may claim to love my brethren
b. But if I do not love God and keep His commandments, my claim is a shallow one!
III. THE TEST OF OBEDIENCE
A. JOHN HAD EMPHASIZED THIS TEST EARLIER
1. As essential to having fellowship with the Father – 1 John 1:6-7
2. As essential to knowing Jesus – 1 John 2:3-4
3. As essential to loving God – 1 John 2:5
4. As essential to abiding in Jesus – 1 John 2:6
5. As essential to being a child of God – 1 John 3:10
6. As essential to having our prayers answered – 1 John 3:22
B. NOW HE STRESSES THAT IT IS ESSENTIAL TO
1. Loving the children of God – 1 John 5:2
2. Loving God Himself – 1 John 5:3a
C. TO JOHN, HOWEVER, THIS TEST IS NOT A BURDEN
1. The commandments of God are not burdensome – 1 John 5:3b
2. Though he had served the Lord for many years (possibly 50 or more), he had not found the commandments grievous
3. His attitude toward commandment-keeping was like that of David’s – Psalms 19:7-11
Conclusion
1. In these three areas, then, we find the proof of authentic Christianity:
a. Belief in Jesus as the Son of God who came in the flesh
b. Love for the brethren
c. Obedience in keeping the commandments of God
2. It is interesting that today
a. Many people do not have any problem with the first two (belief and love)
b. But will often balk when told they need to be obedient to the commands of Jesus Christ (Oh, you are just being legalistic!)
3. But if we really love God and His children, if we really believe in Jesus as the Son of God who came in the flesh and died for our sins, then the commandments of the Lord will not be grievous
a. If you love Me, keep My commandments. – John 14:15
4. Are we passing the tests of authentic Christianity?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Ephesians 05:08-14 – Walking in the Light – audio
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Text: Ephesians 5:8-14 (reading by Don Treadway)
Introduction
A. Light and darkness are complete opposites.
1) It is impossible to have both at the same time.
2) In fact, just a little light will cancel out a great bit of darkness.
B. Spiritually speaking, sin is often equated with darkness and righteousness with light.
Body
I. We were once walking in darkness.
A. There is no one that does not sin (1 Kings 8:46).
B. All have sinned and have come short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23).
C. Sin separates us from God (Isaiah 59:2).
D. God is light and in Him is no darkness at all (1 John 1:5,6).
E. The world was in darkness, and did not receive the Light (John 1:5-13; 3:19-21).
II. We have been called out of darkness.
A. God called us out of darkness into His marvelous light (1 Peter 2:9).
B. The Lord called Paul to the Gentiles, turning them from darkness to light (Acts 26:15-18).
C. We are called by the power of the gospel (2 Thessalonians 2:13-14).
D. By obeying it, we:
1) die to sin [darkness]
2) are buried with Christ in baptism
3) are raised to walk in newness of life [light] (Romans 6:1-7)
III. We must now walk in the light.
A. By becoming sons of God, we are sons of light and day; we are no longer of night nor darkness (1 Thessalonians 5:5).
B. We must walk in the light as God is in the light (1 John 1:7).
C. Jesus commands us to let our lights shine before men (Matthew 5:16).
D. Light has no fellowship with darkness (Ephesians 5:11; 2 Corinthians 6:14-18).
Conclusion
A. Are you in the dark?
B. Come to Christ, the true Light!
Content by Richard Dillon
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What Do We Have in Common?
No two people on this earth are exactly alike. However, friendships are often formed between people who have things in common. We may enjoy similar activities, eat at the same restaurant, or find the same events interesting. As God’s people, there are some things we must have in common – love, faith, and salvation.
In the first century church, “all who believed were together, and had all things in common (Acts 2:44; 4:32).” Thus, they shared all that they had to help each other in a time of need. Do we have that love today?
Consider other things Christians have in common: salvation and faith! Jude 3 states: “Beloved, while I was very diligent to write to you concerning our common salvation, I found it necessary to write to you exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints.” We are all saved one way – God’s way! Thus, we must contend for the faith that we all have in common.
There is one faith (Ephesians 4:5), and it comes from hearing God’s Word (Romans 10:17). Paul even called Titus his “true son in our common faith (Titus 1:4).”
Do we truly have love, faith and salvation in common?
Content by Richard Dillon
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Non-Denominational Christianity
We are very accustomed to choices.
A casual stroll down the aisles of a local supermarket will quickly illustrate this point. I am amazed at the variety of options available when it comes to something as simple as pork and beans, potato chips, or peas.
In just a few weeks many of you will begin planning for this year’s garden. Again, choices abound. What kind of corn will you plant? What kind of tomatoes will you set out? What kind of beans? The choices seem almost endless. And, everyone has his/her favorites!
Looked at automobiles lately? There are so many makes and models. They come in a multiplicity of colors and with all kinds of options. There are so many choices to make, but that’s the way we like it.
We have become so accustomed to variety that we have incorporated the concept into religion.
Almost daily we encounter the message: “Worship with the church of your choice this Sunday!” This idea is at the heart of denominationalism. But, the concept is completely foreign to the New Testament.
It is not the church of our choice, but the church of Christ’s choice that we should seek.
The apostle Paul rebuked the Christians at Corinth for failing to understand this. The church was in turmoil because of the denominational spirit which had developed. He pleaded with them not to divide, but to unite (1 Corinthians 1:10).
We would do well to listen to the Lord’s prayer.
He cried out to the Father, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me” (John 17:20-21). That’s our prayer as well.
Let’s abandon all denominational ties and unite in Jesus Christ.
How can that be wrong?
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Questions and Answers 2010-06-27
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I. Question One – “Is Christianity a religion or a relationship? Or both?”
“A lot of my friends have been saying that Christianity is just a relationship with God. I understand that you need to go through the steps of salvation to be saved but they think you just need to pray, read the Bible, etc. So what I’m really asking is, “Is Christianity a religion or a relationship? Or both?”
A. First, we need to stress that everyone is in a relationship with God whether they realize it or not.
1. Matthew 12:30. He who is not with Me is against Me, and he who does not gather with Me scatters abroad.
2. One is either with God or against God. There is no middle ground.
3. Jesus said, “If you love me, keep my commandments.” John 14:15.
4. Jesus said…
a) John 8:24. Therefore I said to you that you will die in your sins; for if you do not believe that I am He, you will die in your sins.”
b) Luke 13:3. I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish.
c) Matthew 10:32. “Therefore whoever confesses Me before men, him I will also confess before My Father who is in heaven.
d) Mark 16:16. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned.
5. If we don’t believe or practice these things which Jesus commanded, do we love him? According to Jesus, we do not!
6. So is Christianity a relationship… I would say that it is a term that describes one’s relationship with God. If one is a Christian, then that one is in a RIGHT relationship with God.
B. Is Christianity a religion?
1. Religion – the belief in and worship of a superhuman controlling power.
2. In the Bible, the word for “religion” as applied to Christianity is threskeia.
a) This word focuses on the external aspect of one’s faith.
b) How one expresses his faith.
c) James 1:26-27. If anyone among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one’s religion is useless. Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world.
3. So, yes, Christianity is a religion.
a) It is a belief in and worship of a superhuman controlling power.
b) It is an outward expression of that belief in the way we behave.
II. Question Two – “Why did God make the earth?”
A. Wow! What a question!
B. The easiest answer is that God made the earth for us to live on! But I think the one who asked the question maybe wanted to know why God made Us.
C. Why did God make us?
1. Some things we can not know for sure.
2. We do know this. God is love. 1 John 4:8. He who does not love does not know God, for God is love.
a) Everything that God does issues forth from His love.
b) Therefore, I believe that God loved the idea of us.
c) God loved us before He created us.
d) Much like a man and a woman love the idea of having a child.
(1) Even before that child is conceived, they love the idea of it.
(2) Therefore, they decide to bring a child into existence.
e) Remember that God is described as our Father.
III. Question Three – “Why did God give us the Bible?”
A. God gave us the Bible as a guide. Psalm 119:105.
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
B. We can’t read God’s mind, so he had to give us a book to tell us what He wants us to know. 1 Corinthians 2:9-10.
But as it is written: “ Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, Nor have entered into the heart of man The things which God has prepared for those who love Him.” But God has revealed them to us through His Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God.
C. The Bible gives us everything we need to be pleasing to God.
1. 2 Peter 1:3. As His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue.
2. 2 Timothy 3:16-17. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.
IV. Question Four – “What constitutes worship?”
“Do we need to include the five acts that we do on Sunday for it to be true worship?”
A. The most basic definition of the word “worship” is “to show reverence and respect toward another.”
B. As the question states, God has authorized five ways in which we are to worship Him.
1. Singing. Ephesians 5:19.
2. Praying. 1 Thessalonians 5:21.
3. Bible Study. Acts 20:7.
4. The Lord’s Supper. 1 Corinthians 11:23-26.
5. Giving as we have been prospered. 1 Corinthians 16:1-2.
C. By example, we know that Christians gathered together on the first day of the week to worship. Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 11:18; 1 Corinthians 16:1-2.
D. However, only two of the acts of worship are LIMITED to the first day of the week.
1. Those two are giving and the Lord’s Supper.
2. We have plenty of examples of singing, praying, and Bible study being performed at other times.
a) Acts 16:25. But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them.
b) 1 Thessalonians 5:17. Pray without ceasing.
E. No, I do not believe that all five acts of worship must be present for one to be worshiping God.
1. On Wednesday evenings when we gather together, study, sing, and pray, we are worshiping God.
2. However, on the first day of the week, we need to have all five acts of worship present to be pleasing to God.
V. Question Five – “A wife is to keep silent in church but ask her husband. If a husband understands or tells her something that is not correct is she lost because of what her husband tells her?”
A. The relevant passage is 1 Corinthians 14:26-35.
How is it then, brethren? Whenever you come together, each of you has a psalm, has a teaching, has a tongue, has a revelation, has an interpretation. Let all things be done for edification. If anyone speaks in a tongue, let there be two or at the most three, each in turn, and let one interpret. But if there is no interpreter, let him keep silent in church, and let him speak to himself and to God. Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others judge. But if anything is revealed to another who sits by, let the first keep silent. For you can all prophesy one by one, that all may learn and all may be encouraged. And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets. For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints. Let your women keep silent in the churches, for they are not permitted to speak; but they are to be submissive, as the law also says. And if they want to learn something, let them ask their own husbands at home; for it is shameful for women to speak in church.
1. This passage teaches that a woman is to keep completely silent in the assembly.
2. She is not to utter a sound.
3. This would mean that it would be wrong for a woman to sing.
4. Furthermore, what if a woman did not have a husband? She would have no one to ask her questions!
5. We must ask, “Does is passage apply to us today?”
B. I have never attended an assembly like the one mentioned in the above passage.
1. I have never attended an assembly when someone spoke in a language they had never studied.
2. I have never observed on in the process of receiving a revelation.
3. I have never been to a service where there had to be an interpreter present who had the gift of interpretation.
4. Three classes of people are told to keep silent in this passage:
a) One who spoke in another tongue if there was not interpreter present.
b) A prophet who is speaking must be silent when another receives a revelation.
c) Women must keep silent.
5. Silent – sigao. To keep silent. To hold one’s peace.
6. This was an assembly different from any we will come across today.
7. These women who were told to ask their husbands questions at home would have been asking prophets! There was no need for them to worry about getting bad information.
C. Today, women are not commanded to be completely silent but to learn in submission. 1 Timothy 2:11.
Let a woman learn in silence with all submission.
1. “Silence” – hesuchia. Quietness. Tranquility arising from within. Causing no disturbance to others. Meek.
2. Does not mean that they are not to utter a sound.
3. A woman is not forbidden to ask a question as long as she is not disrupting the service or taking control of the service in doing so.
4. Furthermore, a woman today has the Bible available to her. Not true for those to whom Paul was writing in 1 Corinthians 14.
VI. Question Six – “what verse specifically tells the wife to love her husband and what Greek word is used?”
“In the Father’s Day sermon you closed saying wives are to respect and love their husbands. Other than the general commands for Christians to agape one another, what verse specifically tells the wife to love her husband and what Greek word is used?”
A. The verse I was thinking of was Titus 2:3-4.
The older women likewise, that they be reverent in behavior, not slanderers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things— 4 that they admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children…
B. The Greek word that is used is philandros.
1. Comes from the Greek word for love, phileo. Which means tender affection.
2. And from Andros which means man or husband (implied when “wife” is used in context).
VII. Question Seven – “Cursing is wrong. What about euphemisms?”
“Cursing is wrong. What about phrases that most of us use like, “Oh shoot,” “Son of a gun,” “Holy cow,” etc. How can these be ok when you are meaning the same thing just substituting another word?”
A. You have a good question.
B. These phrases are called “euphemisms.”
1. Euphemism – a mild or indirect word or expression substituted for one considered to be too harsh or blunt.
2. If you look up the word “shoot” you will see that it is a euphemism for a certain four letter word that also starts with “sh.”
a) Now, the word “shoot” is not wrong when you are using it in any other way.
b) But if you are saying it as a substitute for that other “s” word, then it is wrong.
3. Look up “heck.”
4. Look up “son of a gun.”
5. “Golly”
6. “Darn”
7. “Freakin” (I won’t even say it.)
8. All of these words are merely substitutes for more harsh words.
C. As Christians, we ought to refrain from using euphemisms.
VIII. “Is it wrong for a Christian family to put up a nativity scene at Christmas?”
A. In my mind, the one thing that sets the church of Christ apart from false churches is it’s view of the authority of the Scriptures.
1. Colossians 3:17. And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.
2. We understand that we must have authority for those things we practice.
3. We understand that the silence of the Scriptures does not authorize.
B. The Bible nowhere authorizes Christians to celebrate the birth of Jesus as a special holiday.
1. How can we claim to respect the authority of the Scriptures as a church but then promote a religious holiday that is not authorized?
2. This does not mean that we cannot celebrate Christmas as a simple national holiday.
3. But to attach religious significance to it is unauthorized.
C. Some claim to find authority in Romans 14:5-6.
One person esteems one day above another; another esteems every day alike. Let each be fully convinced in his own mind. He who observes the day, observes it to the Lord; and he who does not observe the day, to the Lord he does not observe it.
1. It seems a stretch to me to apply this passage to Christmas.
2. Nevertheless, some feel that this passage authorizes them to pick a day to celebrate Jesus’ birth as long as they don’t bind it on other people.
D. Is it wrong to set up a nativity scene?
1. At the very best, I believe it is very unwise.
2. At the worst, it could be sin for promoting an unscriptural holiday.
Content by Ralph Price
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Non-Denominational Christianity
We are very accustomed to choices
A casual stroll down the aisles of a local supermarket will quickly illustrate this point. I am amazed at the variety of options available when it comes to something as simple as pork and beans, potato chips, or peas.
Each spring, as people prepare for their gardens, choices abound. What kind of corn will be planted? What kind of tomatoes will be set out? What kind of beans will be raised? The choices seem almost endless. And, everyone has his/her favorites!
Looked at automobiles lately? There are so many makes and models. They come in a multiplicity of colors and with all kinds of options. There are so many choices to make, but that’s the way we like it.
It is the Church of Christ’s choice, not ours
We have become so accustomed to variety that we have incorporated the concept into religion. Almost daily we encounter the message: “Worship with the church of your choice this Sunday!” This idea is at the heart of denominationalism. But, the concept is completely foreign to the New Testament. It is not the church of our choice, but the church of Christ’s choice that we should seek. The apostle Paul rebuked the Christians at Corinth for failing to understand this. The church was in turmoil because of the denominational spirit which had developed. He pleaded with them not to divide, but to unite (1 Corinthians 1:10).
We would do well to listen to the Lord’s prayer
He cried out to the Father, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me” (John 17:20, 21). That’s our prayer as well. Let’s abandon all denominational ties and unite in Jesus Christ. How can that be wrong?
To do this we must commit to the authority of Scripture
Our goal should be to be obedient to the will of God. Our purpose is not to please ourselves, but our Savior. Every matter essential to the development and maintenance of a relationship with the Creator is clearly spelled out in the Bible. The problem is not that men don’t understand the will of God, it is that they do not accept it! Non-denominational Christianity will never be achieved as long as men reject the Word of God.
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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It Isn’t So!
A devout religious faith is abnormal? Not so!
William James, noted American psychologist and philosopher, wrote nearly 100 years ago, “There can be no doubt that as a matter of fact a religious life, exclusively pursued, does tend to make the person exceptional and eccentric.” He went on to say that these were individuals “for whom religion exists not as a dull habit but as an acute fever.” He argued that religious leaders were especially subject to abnormal psychological behavior. At the heart of his argument was the belief that a devout religious faith was abnormal. It isn’t so! The devout tend to be happier, healthier, and more fulfilled than any other segment of society.
Religion is the chief cause of wars, death, misery and suffering? Not So!
Whenever someone wishes to attack religious faith, they argue that religion has been the chief cause of wars, death, misery and suffering in our world. They often point to the Crusades, the conflict in the Balkans, the animosity between Jews and Arabs, or the bloodshed between Protestants and Catholics in Northern Ireland as proof of their assertions. It isn’t so! Those who do this fail to recognize that these things have come about, not as a result of following the Bible, but because the Scriptures were ignored. Further, the critics disregard all the good that has come as a result of Christianity.
Religion is merely as a crutch for the weak-minded? Not So!
Some view religion merely as a crutch for weak-minded individuals. They argue that all religions are essentially alike. They discount the prospect of Divine revelation, and attribute belief to superstitions from our distant past. One religion is no better nor worse than another. All paths lead to the same destination. It isn’t so! Christianity argues that there is one way to God, and that is through His Son Jesus Christ. Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me” (John 14:6). And, He knew that most people would find His way too narrow. In the Sermon on the Mount He said: “Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leads to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leads unto life, and few there be that find it” (Matthew 7:13-14).
Only religion offers Absolute Value
Bruce Sheiman has written an interesting book titled An Atheist Defends Religion. Even though he is an atheist, Sheiman points out repeatedly that our world is far better because of religion. Obviously, I couldn’t endorse everything he writes, but he does make a strong case for religion. One observation is worth noting. Sheiman wrote: “Only religion offers Absolute Value as the sages for millennia have defined it. That is why most people are and will always be religious (page 68).
Are you walking in the way that leads to life?
If not, are you ready to begin?
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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What Then…
The day of the Lord will come like a thief
Peter wrote: “But do not overlook this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance. But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a roar, and the heavenly bodies will be burned up and dissolved, and the earth and the works that are done on it will be exposed” (2 Peter 3:8-10).
Charles Henry Parkhurst (1842-1933), commenting on the words of Peter, observed: “With God one day is as a thousand years and a thousand years as one day, which is to say that there is no calendar and no timepiece in the divine experience, no aging, no getting away from the beginning, nor approaching toward the end.” We, however, are time bound creatures. We are born. We age. We die. It is unavoidable, inescapable, absolutely certain. The time of our death is unknown, but the reality of it is undeniable (Hebrews 9:27).
Yes, God is eternal, but we are not
He has always been, and He will always be. We, on the other hand, are different. We had a beginning. We were born into this world, and we will someday be taken out of it. Yet, we are destined for an eternity of our choice. God’s desire is our salvation. He longs for us to be with Him, but He will not force Himself upon us. He yearns for all men to come to a knowledge of the truth that they might be saved (1 Timothy 2:4). The depth of His desire is demonstrated in the sacrifice of His Son (John 3:16).
Life is all about choosing
No clear thinking man would choose to be lost eternally, but we operate under the false premise that we will always have tomorrow to prepare. If the Bible teaches one thing with absolute certainty about life, it is the uncertainty of it all. Yesterday is gone forever, tomorrow may never come, today is all we have. If we fail to use it, we may never get another chance.
When it’s over, what then?
When it’s over, and that day is coming for all of us, what awaits on the other side. For Christians there is nothing frightening, foreboding, or final about the grave. “For we know that if the tent, which is our earthly home, is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens” (2 Corinthians 5:1). Do you have that hope, and if not, would you like to have it? Remember, the clock is ticking, time is running out, eternity is just around the corner. What then?
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Christianity is Not a Holiday Religion
Not a holiday religion
Today, December 25, the world will pause to remember, amidst the gifts, the greatest gift of all – Jesus Christ. He is what Paul called God’s unspeakable gift (2 Corinthians 9:15). I am always thankful when men are reminded of Jesus and what He means to humanity. At the same time, I am saddened to know that so much of the spirit of Christ will be forgotten when the season has passed. I know that is not what our Lord desires. His is not a holiday religion.
Aristides wrote of Christians (125 A.D.): “They walk in all humility and kindness, and falsehood is not found among them, and they love one another. They despise not the widow, and grieve not the orphan. He that hath, distributeth liberally to him that hath not. If they see a stranger, they bring him under their roof and rejoice over him as if he were their own brother: for they call themselves brethren, not after the flesh, but after the spirit of God: but when one of their poor passes away from the world, and any of them see him, then he provides for his burial according to his ability: and if they hear that any of their number is imprisoned or oppressed for the name of their Messiah, all of them provide for his needs, and if it is possible that he may be delivered, they deliver him. And if there is among them a man that is poor and needy, and they have not an abundance of necessaries, they fast two or three days that they may supply the needy with their necessary food.”
Has Jesus made an impact on you?
If Jesus has not made the kind of impact on our lives that causes us to be kind, considerate and caring the year round, He really hasn’t made an impact at all. Open your heart to the hurt of others. Be responsive to their needs. Give yourself. The love and compassion of Christ are as needed in July as they are in December. He cared; so must we!
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Too Much, Or Too Little Religion?
Just playing it safe?
Someone has written: “The most uncomfortable person in the world is one who has just enough religion to make him uneasy, not enough to be enjoyed, and too much to be ignored.” It’s sad, but true! For many religion is little more than a passing aberration. Going to church is their way of playing it safe, just in case there really is a God. As a result, they never experience the hope, joy and peace of true Christianity.
New Testament Christianity was never intended to be a hobby
It was designed to be a way of life. When one becomes a Christian he becomes a different person. The apostle Paul wrote: “…if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17). That is why Jesus spoke of the new birth and told Nicodemus, “Ye must be born again” (John 3:7). Jesus demands a wholehearted commitment, not a halfhearted faith. This new life will be reflected in the way we treat others, in the way we face discouragement and defeat, and in the way we radiate the love of Christ to those around us.
How much religion do you have?
Do you believe with all your heart that Jesus was the Son of God (Acts 8:37)? Have you changed your mind, and in turn, your life to conform to His image and example? That’s what the Bible calls repentance (Acts 2:38). Do you have the courage to confess your faith in Him (Romans 10:9, 10)? Will you be baptized as He demands (Mark 16:16)? Will you put Him at the center of your life (Matthew 6:33)?
You need a genuine commitment
You can experience the hope and joy of Christianity, but not without a genuine commitment to Him and His cause.
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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It’s a Crazy World
Some time ago I read a story in the Columbus Dispatch about a child-custody case in which the parents were in disagreement over their daughter’s education. The mother was insisting on home-schooling her daughter, and the father was just as insistent that the child attend public schools. My interest in the story had nothing to do with the pros and cons of home-schooling. What caught my attention was the reason the mother gave for wanting to home-school her daughter. She said, “I believe when you teach your children, you teach from the Bible.”
Claiming to be a Christian
Again, I have no quarrel with the home-school movement, nor do I have a problem with our local public school system. I feel my children received a good education in our public schools. But, as parents, we also played a significant role in their education. So, what’s the point? It seems this girl’s parents were never married. They have lived together for the past four years. The child was the result of that relationship. Still, the woman claimed to be a devout Christian.
While living an immoral life
I realize that many in our society see nothing wrong with two people living together outside of wedlock and conceiving a child in that environment, but the Bible does not condone it. It is sin. And, someone living in open sin cannot be called a “devout Christian.” Granted, I don’t know the whole story, only what I read in the paper. It is possible that this woman just acquired her faith, and as a result, kicked the father out of the house because he would not do the right thing and marry her.
Christians are called to live godly lives
At any rate, living together outside of marriage, and conceiving a child in that sinful relationship is not right. Devout Christians do not live that way, and they do not defend those who do. Christians are called to live godly lives. And, although we are not perfect, we certainly do not live in open sin while professing a devout faith. We are called to live a different life. Paul wrote to Titus that “the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in this present world” (Titus 2:11-12). Anything less is not devout Christianity but blatant hypocrisy. Though the world seems not to know it, Christianity demands a holy life! In our crazy world, this truth has been forgotten!
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Leviticus 06:01-07 Restoring First Century Christianity – audio
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Text: Leviticus 6:1-7
Introduction
- The word restore, or restoration, means to bring back to or to put back into a former or original state; a return of something to a former, or original condition like a building, stature, or painting.
- In our scripture reading (Leviticus 6:1-7), we learn the Law of Moses provided a plan of restitution to those whom were victims of robbery (Leviticus 6:4-5).
- Today, we want to focus our attention to bringing back Christianity, the church, to the original state it was in the first century when it was established to achieve the unity that Jesus prayed to His Father about (John 17:20-23).
- To restore Christianity, we must follow God’s plan (Colossians 3:17). A return to the total authority of the Bible as God’s Word is necessary to restore Christianity. A return back to the Bible (the original) in all things we must do, so we can speak the same thing & be of the same mind and same judgment (1 Corinthians 1:10).
Restoration Implies Man Has Left God’s Pattern
- It is unfortunately that man has left God’s pattern for him through the deceitfulness of sin. If you depart from the pattern God has laid down for us, you will
(1) be separated from God (Isaiah 59:1-2)
(2) Suffer the consequences of sin (Romans 6:23). Did not Nadab and Abihu suffer the consequences from leaving God’s pattern in regard to their service a priest (Leviticus 10:1-2)? - In 1 Timothy 4:1-2, the Spirit teaches us that some will depart from the faith because they have submitted themselves to seducing spirits and doctrines of the devil. As a result of departing from the faith and God’s message, you have no fellowship or relationship with God (2 John 9-11).
- In Romans 10:1-3, Paul expresses his desire for his brethren to be saved but they could not because their religious zeal was not according to the Word of God and they were not willing to submit to the righteousness of God. The scribes and Pharisees are like the denominations of today because they vainly honor & worship God by teaching doctrines of men [a departure from God and His Word] (Matthew 15:8-9).
God Wants His Church Restored
- God wants members of the brotherhood of the Lord’s church to return to the original pattern for the church, and God’s wants members of denominations to leave their doctrines of men & false religious bodies, and be added to the original, the one true church and be saved (Acts 2:47).
- God wants His church to be restored to its’ plan of salvation (Acts 2:38), mission (Matthew 28:18-20), organization (Titus 1:5), and worship (John 4:24). But we have to be willing to bring back the church in all things to the original pattern which is contained in the Word of God (Acts 17:10).
- Are you ready to speak where the Bible speaks and be silent where the Bible is silent? Are you prepared to call Bible things by Bible names and do Bible things in Bible ways? Why not, restore Christianity today (1 Peter 4:11)?
HEAR BELIEVE REPENT CONFESS BAPTISM LIVE FAITHFULLY
Content by Harry (Andy) Anderson Jr.Return to the Home Page