Historical Posts
Unclean Lips
Isaiah said, “Woe is me, for I am undone! Because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips (Isaiah 6:5)…” Isaiah recognized the fact that he is only human, dwelling among many others. As human beings our lips can sometimes get us into trouble. We say things we ought not, we do not say things we should say, we say things in the wrong way, or do not have the talent to speak before people.
Moses called himself a man of “uncircumcised lips (Exodus 6:12, 30).” When God appeared to him, he claimed not to be eloquent, but slow of speech and slow of tongue (Exodus 4:10). He was afraid that as Israel would not listen to him, neither would Pharaoh.
Jeremiah said, “Behold, I cannot speak, for I am a youth (Jeremiah 1:6).” Sometimes we feel young or inexperienced, and are afraid to speak up. It can be intimidating to speak before a panel of officials regarding important concerns.
Whatever the excuse, there is a remedy! One of the seraphim touched Isaiah’s mouth with a live coal, taking away his iniquity and purging his sin. Immediately he was ready to go as sent (Isaiah 6:6-8). The LORD reminded Moses that He made his mouth, and would go with him and teach him what to say. If it wasn’t enough, he would send Aaron with him (Exodus 4:11-12; 6:7:1). The LORD was with Jeremiah, and touched his mouth, putting His words in them (Jeremiah 1:7-10).
We must remember God is with us! He sent Jesus to cleanse us from our sins. He gave us His Word so we will know what to say. We must not be afraid to proclaim the Word of God – no excuses!
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
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Confidence in the Gospel
Early disciples were bold, full of faith and had confidence. They were not self-conceited, presumptuous, arrogant, head-strong, or offensively boastful. They merely possessed the confident, calm assurance that faith provides. Notice these examples from the pen of Paul:
- “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28).
- “For we know that if our earthly house, this tent, is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens” (2 Corinthians 5:1).
- “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (1 Corinthians 4:13).
How can we effectively reach others if our lives are filled with doubt? We need some of the confidence of the youngster who was drawing pictures with his crayons. His mother asked him what he was doing. “I’m drawing a picture of God,” he said. After his mother patiently explained that no one knew what God looked like, the little boy replied, “Don’t worry mom, when I get done they will!”
We can have confidence in the gospel because we can have confidence in its source – the Bible.
Its claims of inspiration are valid (2 Timothy 3:16). The brevity, clarity, unity and accuracy of the Book are not accidental. Contrary to the claims of unbelievers, nothing in science, archaeology, or history has shown the Bible to be anything other than credible! The Bible owes its origin to God.
We can have confidence in the gospel because we can have confidence in its central figure – Jesus.
No fair minded person today will deny the existence of Jesus of Nazareth. He is an indisputable fact of history. What we know about Him confirms our faith in Him. The historian W. E. H. Lecky, who was not a believer in revealed religions, wrote: “The character of Jesus has not only been the highest pattern of virtue, but the strongest incentive to its practice, and has exerted so deep an influence, that it may be truly said, that the simple record of three short years of active life has done more to regenerate and to soften mankind, than all the disquisitions of philosophers and than all the exhortations of moralists.” (History of European Morals, ii (1869), p. 88).
Like those early disciples, we must boldly proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ. We can have confidence that its message is as true and relevant as ever!
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Galatians 01:06-12 – One Gospel, Many Preachers – Audio
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Text: Galatians 1:6-12
One Gospel, Many Preachers
Over the course of time, there have been many preachers. At the beginning of the church, there was only one gospel! As time went on, some people began to turn to a different gospel; however, there is not really another gospel, but some wanted to pervert the one gospel and preach a false gospel! That still happens today, yet it should not be so!
I. There is one gospel.
A. Paul received the gospel through revelation of Jesus Christ (Galatians 1:11-12).
B. The gospel is the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15:1-4).
C. The gospel is God’s power to save (Romans 1:16)!
D. There is not another gospel, but some pervert it (Galatians 1:6-7).
II. There are many preachers.
A. Peter preached the first gospel sermon on Pentecost (Acts 2:29-36).
B. Philip preached Jesus to the Ethiopian (Acts 8:30-37).
C. Paul simply preached Christ and Him crucified (Romans 6:1-6; 1 Corinthians 2:2; Galatians 6:14; 1 Corinthians 1:17; 1 Thessalonians 2:9).
III. Many preachers must preach the same gospel!
A. Jesus said, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned (Mark 16:15-16).”
B. Preachers must preach so people can hear, believe, and call upon the LORD (Romans 10:13-16; Isaiah 52:7).
C. Preachers should say the same thing, and let there be no division among them (1 Corinthians 1:10).
D. If a preacher preaches a different gospel, he is to be accursed (Galatians 1:8-9).
It was thrilling to hear many gospel preachers last week at Polishing The Pulpit. They all spoke the same thing! The one gospel that was preached in the first century can still be preached today. The one gospel that saved men’s souls then is the one gospel that saves men’s souls today. Though there may be many preachers must preach the one gospel of Christ from the Word of God!
Have you heard the one gospel and responded to accept salvation in Christ?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
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Color-Blind
God is color-blind. In Jesus Christ all racial, religious, social, and cultural barriers are destroyed.
Palestine, twenty centuries ago, was a divided land much like it is today. Division on the basis of race, social standing, and sex were all present, but the gospel of Jesus Christ was designed to destroy those barriers, making us “color-blind”. The apostle Paul wrote that for Christians “there is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28). The lesson was, and continues to be, a difficult one to learn.
The disciples had difficulty with the concept of equality. When they found Jesus talking with the Samaritan woman they were amazed. They were amazed because she was a Samaritan, and because she was a woman (John 4:27). Women were second class citizens in Palestine. Further, the Jews were to have no association with those of other races (Acts 10:28). Jesus did not accept the prejudice of the day. He was color-blind in that respect. He had come to seek and to save the lost regardless of sex, ethnic origin, or social standing. His was indeed a new message.
Peter had trouble becoming truly color-blind. It was necessary for God to provide a miraculous vision before that apostle could accept the fact that God was “no respecter of person” (Acts 10:34). Even after he learned this important principle he had difficulty with it. On one occasion Paul had to rebuke him for his prejudicial conduct toward Gentiles (Galatians 2:11-12).
But, we should not be too hard on Peter. How many of us have shown a similar prejudice toward others and not been color-blind ourselves? Folks, God is color-blind. He is no respecter of persons. Those who follow His Son must also be color-blind. In Jesus Christ all racial, religious, social, and cultural barriers are destroyed (Colossians 3:11). Jesus Christ died for all men (John 3:16)!
God and His people look beyond the externals. Every man is made in God’s image and deserves to hear the salvation provided through Christ. Are you a Christian?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Go and Tell John – audio
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Text: Luke 7:18-23
At Nain, Jesus had raised the son of a widow from the dead. Word about Him quickly spread throughout the region, and ultimately came to John. John then sent his disciples to Jesus to ask Him if He was the coming one. John knew the prophets foretold about God’s Messenger that would come (Malachi 3:1-3), and he wanted to know if Jesus indeed was that Messenger.
As the disciples came to Jesus, they directly asked Him if He was the Coming One. Jesus did not answer them by word of mouth; instead, He performed miracles for them to see. He then said, “Go and tell John the things you have seen and heard: that the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, the poor have the gospel preached to them. And blessed is he who is not offended because of Me (Luke 7:22-23).”
John’s disciples were able to return to him as direct witnesses of Jesus; they were not relaying hearsay. It was up to them to believe Jesus based upon what they had seen with their own eyes and heard with their own ears. It was up to them to go and tell John about it. It was then up to John to accept it and respond accordingly.
The same is true for us today. Those like John’s disciples are telling us what they saw and heard themselves. He writes, “This is the disciple who testifies of these things, and wrote these things; and we know that his testimony is true (John 21:24).” He wrote those things that he had seen and heard so we may believe that He is the Christ, the Son of God. By believing, we can have life through Christ (John 20:31).
Now, it is up to us. Do we believe in what the Bible has to say? Are we willing to go and tell others what we have learned about Christ? The gospel has the power to save us all (Romans 1:16).
Content by Richard Dillon
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Joy in the City
As the gospel began to be preached, many souls heard and obeyed it. Even the great persecutions could not slow down the spread of the gospel. Many believed Philip as he preached in Samaria (Acts 8:4-8).
At Antioch in Pisidia, Paul and Barnabas brought the gospel to the Gentiles that were there. The unbelieving Jews were envious, but the Gentiles heard it and believed. Thus, the word of the Lord was being spread throughout the region (Acts 13:42-52).
As the gospel came to Thessalonica, many became followers of the Lord when they heard it. From there, the word sounded forth in every place (1 Thessalonians 1:5-8).
In each of the preceding texts, there was much joy in the city! There is obviously a correlation between the gospel spreading and joy being fulfilled. John expressed that correlation: “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth (3 John 1:4).” The word of God is truth (John 17:17), and when it is heard, believed, and obeyed, there is great joy! As the word of God spreads and more souls are added to the Lord, joy increases.
Do you have great joy? Are you spreading the gospel? Have you obeyed the gospel yourself? Remember, “…there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance (Luke 15:7).”
Content by Richard Dillon
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Don’t Resist the Truth
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Text: 2 Timothy 3:8-17
Jannes and Jambres are examples of those who resisted Moses. Even though their names do not appear in the Old Testament, rabbinic tradition says they are among the magicians who sought to duplicate the signs God showed Pharaoh through Moses (Exodus 7:11-12, 22; 8:7; 9:11). They succeeded in copying the first two plagues, but by the third admitted “this is the finger of God (Exodus 8:19).
Paul uses them as an example of how men today still resist the truth: by having corrupt minds. They are disapproved concerning the faith. In his first letter to Timothy, Paul said this person does not consent to wholesome words, even the words of Jesus Christ. Therefore we should withdraw ourselves from them (1 Timothy 6:3-5).
As Jannes and Jambres could do no more plagues, those that resist the truth can progress no further. Instead, Paul says, we need to follow the proper doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, love, perseverance, persecutions, and afflictions as he did. We may be in the minority for doing what is right, but as Moses did, so do we have God on our side! We need to be encouraged to stand up for the truth! By hearing the word of God, we receive faith (Romans 10:17). Paul goes on to tell Timothy that the Scriptures make us wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.
As human beings, we are physically limited in what we can do. However, as Christians, with God all things are possible (Matthew 19:26). Instead of trying to resist the truth (which will not get us anywhere), we should learn and obey the truth. Jesus said, “you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free (John 8:32).”
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
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Laborers for the Harvest
Send forth laborers.
Matthew says of Jesus, “But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd” (Matthew 9:36). It was then that Jesus said to his disciples, “The harvest truly is plenteous, but the laborers are few; pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest that he will send forth laborers into his harvest” (Matthew 9:37, 38).
The world’s population has passed the seven billion mark.
The task of preaching the gospel to the lost is enormous. In spite of the technological advances of this century men are still dying every day having never heard of Jesus. Something must be done.
Taking the gospel to the world is not an impossible mission.
The early church did it without all of the modern tools at our disposal. At a time when transportation was slow and dangerous, they went everywhere preaching the word (Acts 8:4). Without the aid of radio, television or newspapers they made inroads throughout their world (Colossians 1:6). Can we do the same? Yes, but we must imitate their example.
First, we must be convinced that Jesus truly was the Son of God, and that he conquered death.
There was not the slightest doubt on the part of those first disciples as to who he was or what he did. They understood that every man’s salvation hinged on a relationship with him. There was no salvation in any other (Acts 4:12).
Second, they believed in the importance of their mission.
They were willing to make any sacrifice. They faced all kinds of obstacles. They were arrested, beaten, threatened, executed, yet they kept on. They counted it a joy to suffer for him (Acts 5:41).
Third, they never tired of telling others about him.
Luke says of them, “Daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ” (Acts 5:42). They could not be quiet. Souls were at stake.
Fourth, each did what he could.
Following the persecution which developed after the death of Stephen, “they that were scattered abroad went everywhere preaching the word” (Acts 8:4). Luke makes a point of telling his readers that the apostles remained in Jerusalem (Acts 8:1). These were ordinary Christians taking the message to the lost. Good news has to be shared. They could not be quiet.
Fifth, they never let failure or discouragement get the best of them.
They were not always successful (Acts 24:25; 26:28), but they never gave up.
The harvest is still great, and the laborers are still few.
Jesus calls for workers. Are you willing to serve him? Start by learning of Him and accepting His salvation.
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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God Gives the Increase
God gives the increase when we do our part.
Last week was a wonderful, if tiring, week at Fort Hill camp and I was happy to be able to participate. There were 111 campers, 50 staff members, and 8 cooks. All the workers had one common purpose: share the good news of Jesus Christ with the campers.
Every day included morning devotionals, Bible classes, songs, prayers, scripture readings, evening assemblies, fire circle devotionals, and evening cabin devotionals. The opportunities to feed on the Word that God gives were abundant.
As the week unfolded and progressed, some of the campers themselves participated as well. In fact, many took part in the above activities. Then, as a result of the planting and watering of God’s Word, some began to probe and ask questions regarding the lessons, showing they were serious about learning of God and His love for us. By the end of the week, there were six baptisms (including two in my Bible class) and six restorations, once again showing how God gives the increase to the church. No doubt many may have heard the truth before coming to camp, and yet there were some who began to hear the gospel preached there for the very first time.
Paul seems to describe this week: “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase (1 Corinthians 3:6).” We planted many seeds this week; we watered many seeds this week. Some seeds may even yet be waiting to sprout. If we do our part, God certainly will do His. God gives the increase! Have you responded to the love God shows us in the sacrifice of Jesus for our sins? Can he count you in that increase?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
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Good News
I picked up the paper this morning to look for good news. I found none.
There were stories about death and destruction, crime and misery, drugs and sex, but no good news. Floods and tornadoes, poison gas and destructive bombs, alcohol abuse and drug addition, disease and death were everywhere. Can you remember the last time you read or heard some really good news?
There are good things to report, but it is assumed that the public is not interested. Bad news sells newspapers. Television is no different. Man’s inhumanity to man is the main ingredient of the nightly news. The networks scramble to see who can dig up the most dirt on someone, or find video of some gruesome tragedy. No matter where it happens, it must be shown in our living rooms minutes later. And, the bloodier the better!
Would you like to hear some good news?
God loves us (John 3:16). Christ died for us (Romans 5:8). Heaven can be ours (John 14:1-3). We are victors through Him (1 Corinthians 15:57).
Christians are bearers of “good news.” That is exactly what the gospel is. When Paul wrote to the church at Rome that it was his intention to preach the gospel there, he was telling them that it was his desire to proclaim the good news in their city (Romans 1:15-17).
What is this good news? It consists of three fundamental facts: Jesus died for our sins, was buried, and resurrected the third day (I Corinthians 15:3, 4). It involves three divine commands: faith in Jesus (John 8:24), repentance (Luke 13:3), and baptism (Mark 16:16). And, it offers three glorious promises: the remission of our sins (Acts 2:38), the gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38), and eternal life (1 John 2:25).
It is the good news of Jesus Christ which instills hope and optimism in our hearts.
No matter how bad things may seem, we know God has something better in store for us. Further, His message can make a difference in the lives of others. There would be far more good news to report in our world if the good news of Jesus Christ was heard, believed, and obeyed more often. It is toward that goal we strive each day.
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Observations of a Centurion – audio
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As Jesus was dying on the cross, a centurion made a couple of important observations about Him.
First, he confessed that “Truly this was the Son of God (Matthew 27:54; Mark 15:39). Also, Luke records, “Certainly this was a righteous Man (Luke 23:47)!”
We too must believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; otherwise we will die in our sins (John 8:24). John also exhorts us by reminding us that “if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. And He Himself is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the whole world (1 John 2:1-2).”
As Jesus was the Son of God, so can we become sons of God. Paul told the Galatians that we are sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus (Galatians 3:26). John adds, “But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God (John 1:12-13).
As Christ was righteous, so can we become righteous. As Christ was obedient to the point of death on the cross (Philippians 2:8), we can be made righteous through that obedience (Romans 5:19).
God’s righteous children.
Doesn’t that sound promising? There are befits if we live righteous lives as God’s dear children. John wrote, “Little children, let no one deceive you. He who practices righteousness is righteous, just as He is righteous (1 John 3:7). Jesus Himself promised that the righteous will enter into eternal life (Matthew 25:46).
Are you a child of God?
Are you living righteously? If so, you may enter into eternal life. If you have not become a child of God, why not do so now? If you are not living the righteous life as you should, why not start?
Content by Richard Dillon
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Send the Light
There’s a call comes ringing o’er the restless wave…
There are souls to rescue, there are souls to save.
We have heard the Macedonian call today…
And a golden off’ring at the cross we lay.
Let us pray that grace may everywhere abound…
And a Christ-like spirit ev’rywhere be found.
Let us not grow weary in the work of love…
Let us gather jewels for a crown above.
The above verses may sound like a telephone call. You can hear the Macedonians dialing your number, and when you answer they say, “Send the light, the blessed gospel light!” Of course, telephones did not yet exist when this idea arose, but the message was perfectly clear!
In the night, Paul had a vision of a man from Macedonia pleading for help. He concluded that the Lord had called him to go there and preach the gospel. As a result of heeding that call, Lydia, her household, and a jailer, all from Philippi (first city in Macedonia) were baptized.
What if you got a similar call?
Would you answer it?
Christ has already called (Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15-16).
Let us answer the call!
— Richard Dillon
Content by Richard Dillon
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The Right Amount of Salt
Sodium chloride, also known as salt, is a very important compound. It is used to season and preserve food. Just the right amount can be useful; too much or too little can cause all kinds of problems. We must use this, like other things God gave us, to serve Him.
Lot’s wife found out the hard way that too much salt can be a bad thing. God said not to look back as Sodom and Gomorrah were being destroyed. Lot’s wife disobeyed God and did look back, and turned into a pillar of salt (Genesis 19:17-26). Just imagine how much salt she turned into!
On the other hand, we have an example where just the right amount of salt is required. God told the priests, “And every offering of your grain offering you shall season with salt; you shall not allow the salt of the covenant of your God to be lacking from your grain offering. With all your offerings you shall offer salt (Leviticus 2:13).”
In the New Testament, salt is a vital part of the Christian life! Jesus said, “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men (Matthew 5:13).” Paul said, “Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one (Colossians 4:6).”
Let us give the world a great flavor by spreading the gospel of Christ (Mark 16:15-16)!
Content by Richard Dillon
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The Challenge of Evangelism
Introduction
- The church faces many challenges. There is the challenge of restoring New Testament Christianity in a religiously pluralistic society – John 14:6. There is the challenge of making our homes what God wants them to be – Psalm 127:1. There is the challenge to remain holy – 1 Peter 15-16. But the supreme challenge we have as Christians is to take Jesus Christ to the world – Mark 16:15-16.
- To meet the challenge of evangelism every Christian must be serious about doing their part to assure everybody hears the message of the gospel of Jesus Christ. We must have the zeal to teach the world the Word of God as the first century church did – Acts 19:8-10; Acts 8:3-4.
- If you had a medical emergency, your loved ones would feel a great urgency to get medical attention immediately to help. The world today has a great spiritual emergency and needs Christians to respond to keep them from spiritual death through the message of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
All Accountable Men and Women are Lost and Need Forgiveness
- Christians must see the urgency and the need to save lost souls that are dying everyday. Every soul that has transgressed God’s commandment is lost and separated from God – Isaiah 59:1-2. And anyone separated from God needs forgiveness – Romans 3:23; 6:23. Your soul and everyone else’s soul is valuable and worth all the effort to save!
- At the Day of Judgment, all accountable men & women that do not know God or have not obeyed the gospel of Christ will be eternally punished night & day forever – 2 Thessalonians 1:-7-9. In 2 Peter 3:9, you learn that God does not want us to perish, but wants all to come to repentance. Which should encourage each of us to reach out to lost soul and plant the seed of the Word of God that they might obey Jesus to be saved?
- If you are not committed to the teaching and preaching of the gospel of Jesus Christ, and feel you are not accountable to do your part to teach Christ to the lost, it is not likely you will be evangelistic. May we all have the spirit of the Apostle Paul, “…woe is me if I do not preach the gospel!”– 1 Corinthians 9:16
God Has Only One Plan of Redemption to Save Man
- God has a plan for the redemption of man; God has one plan, one way, and one church to save men & women from their sins – Matthew 7:13-14. That one way is Jesus Christ, and His church that was purchased with His own blood – John 14:6. Salvation is only in Jesus Christ and not through other men or churches – Acts 4:12.
- It is important for all the world to know the truth because error and false doctrine fills the world, and the only thing that can liberated those in the bondage of sin is the truth – John 8:31-32. Did you know many people’s worship to God is in vain because they do not have a proper relationship with God and they’re practicing false doctrines of men – Matthew 15:8-9.
- If you have neglected your Christian responsibility of teach the Word of God, why not come today and rededicate yourself to His service – James 5:19-20. If you’re lost, Christ died for yours sins, and God raised Him from the Dead. Why not come today.
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The Truth in Love
What do you want to hear?
When you go to the doctor for your annual checkup, don’t you want to hear that everything is just fine? But, what if it’s not? Do you still want your physician to tell you that you are fine even though all the tests say otherwise? Of course not! That would be malpractice. Why then, when it comes to our spiritual health, are we so reluctant to hear the truth?
Not just, “smile, God loves you”
Someone has observed: John the Baptist’s message from the wilderness was not, “Smile, God loves you.” It was “O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come.” Jeremiah was not put into a miry pit for preaching, “I’m OK, you’re OK.” It was for crying against the adultery, idolatry and other wickedness of his nation. Noah’s message from the steps of the ark was not, “Something good is going to happen to you.” He condemned the world and was a preacher of righteousness. Jesus Christ was not crucified for saying, “Consider the lilies, how they grow,” but for saying, “Woe unto you scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites … children of hell … fools and blind guides … whited sepulchers … generation of vipers.”
Listen to the whole counsel of God
When Paul was about to part company with the Ephesian elders, he said to them: And now, behold, I know that none of you among whom I have gone about proclaiming the kingdom will see my face again. Therefore I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all of you, for I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole counsel of God. Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood. I know that after my departure fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; and from among your own selves will arise men speaking twisted things, to draw away the disciples after them. Therefore be alert, remembering that for three years I did not cease night or day to admonish everyone with tears. And now I commend you to God and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up and to give you the inheritance among all those who are sanctified (Acts 20:25-31).
The whole truth is the truth in love
Faithful men of God must always teach and preach the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. They can do no less and please God, and it is God, not men, who is to be pleased (Galatians 1:10). Of course, the truth must be presented in love (Ephesians 4:15). No faithful preacher will delight in being offensive, but truth cannot be compromised in a bid for the love and praise of men. Real love for God and for souls requires that the truth be taught in spite of any personal ramifications. That is why John was compelled to say to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have her” (Matthew 14:4). In so doing, he was preaching the truth in love.
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Galatians 02:01-05 Circumcision and the Gospel
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Text: Galatians 2:1-5
Introduction
1. Paul’s primary purpose in writing to the Galatians was to defend
a. His apostleship – Galatians 1:1
b. His gospel – Galatians 1:11-12
2. In doing so, he recounts a meeting that took place in Jerusalem, in which
a. He, Barnabas, and Titus attended – Galatians 2:1
b. He had the opportunity to relate the gospel he preached – Galatians 2:2
c. Some tried to compel Titus (a Greek) to be circumcised – Galatians 2:3-5
3. The issue of circumcision and the gospel was a major concern in the first century
a. Did Gentiles who became Christians have to be circumcised as per the Law?
b. The question preoccupied many churches, and much of Paul’s ministry
4. While the issue was resolved sufficiently that it is rarely a problem today, there are important lessons to be learned from a study of “Circumcision and the Gospel”.
Body
I. THE PRACTICE OF CIRCUMCISION
A. IN THE OLD TESTAMENT
1. As a sign of a covenant, it began with Abraham – Genesis 17:9-14, 23-27; Romans 4:11
2. It continued with Isaac, Jacob and his sons – Genesis 21:4; 34:14-17
3. Moses circumcised his sons, and gave the ordinance to Israel – Exodus 4:26;
4. It was required to observe the Passover – Exodus 12:48
5. Male children were to be circumcised the eighth day – Leviticus 12:1-3
6. The Jews born in the wilderness had not been circumcised, but were after they crossed the Jordan River – Joshua 5:1-8
B. IN THE NEW TESTAMENT
1. John the Baptist was circumcised as an infant – Luke 1:59
2. Jesus was likewise circumcised on the eighth day – Luke 2:21
3. It became an issue when the gospel was first preached to Gentiles – Acts 11:1-3
4. It was the focus of controversy in Antioch and Jerusalem – Acts 15:1-2, 4-6
5. Paul had Timothy circumcised – Acts 16:1-3
6. It was rumored that Paul taught Jews not to be circumcised – Acts 21:18-21
7. It was certainly a frequent subject in Paul’s epistles
a. To the Romans – Romans 2:25-29; 3:1,30; 4:9-12; 15:8
b. To the Corinthians – 1 Corinthians 7:18-19
c. Especially to the Galatians – Galatians 2:1-9, 12; 5:2-6,11; 6:12-15
d. Mentioned in Ephesians – Ephesians 2:11
e. Also to the Colossians – Colossians 2:11; 3:11; 4:11
8. Because of the role of circumcision in Israel’s history, and its significance in early history of the church, it is important that we properly understand it in relation to:
II. THE TRUTH OF THE GOSPEL
A. PHYSICAL CIRCUMCISION NOT REQUIRED
1. Evidenced by the conversion of Cornelius and his family – Acts 10:44-48; 11:17- 18
2. Confirmed at that conference in Jerusalem – Acts 15:7-21
3. Proclaimed by the letter sent by the apostles and elders – Acts 15:22-31
4. Expounded upon by Paul in his letters – Romans 4:8-12; 1 Corinthians 7:19; Galatians 5:1-6; 6:15
B. SPIRITUAL CIRCUMCISION NOW AVAILABLE
1. A circumcision made without hands, in which sins are cut away – Colossians 2:11
2. Which occurs when we buried with Christ in baptism, then raised with Him – Colossians 2:12
3. When God makes us alive with Christ, forgiving our sins – Colossians 2:13
4. The physical rite of circumcision has become a matter of indifference to God, though it can be used and misused. From both the practice of circumcision and the truth of the gospel as revealed in the Bible, let’s summarize.
III. THE LESSONS FROM CIRCUMCISION
A. RITUAL ALONE NOT ADEQUATE…
1. This was true even when circumcision was required of Israel
2. God desired circumcision of the heart as well as of the flesh – Deuteronomy 10:16; 30:6; Jeremiah 4:4
3. Paul explained that the true Jew was the one circumcised in heart – Romans 2:28-29
4. The same is true of baptism; it must be accompanied with faith and repentance – Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; 8:36-37; Colossians 2:12
B. THE LAW HAS PASSED AWAY
1. Jesus said not one jot or tittle of the Law would pass until all was fulfilled – Matthew 5:17-18
2. Circumcision was required by the Law – Exodus 12:48; Leviticus 12:1-3
3. If circumcision is no longer binding, the change implies the passing away of the Law
4. A similar point is made with reference to the priesthood of Christ – Hebrews 7:12-19
C. ‘EVERLASTING’ MAY NOT MEAN ‘LASTING FOREVER’
1. Circumcision was described as the sign of an ‘everlasting covenant’ – Genesis 17:10-14
2. In the case of circumcision, ‘everlasting’ (Heb., olam) did not mean ‘lasting forever’
a. BDB defines olam as “long duration, antiquity, futurity, for ever, ever, everlasting, ever more, perpetual, old, ancient, world”
b. The Complete Word Study Dictionary defines olam as “meaning a very long time.”
c. “The term also applies to many things associated with God, such as His decrees, His covenants, and the Messiah (Genesis 9:16; Exodus 12:14; Micah 5:2).”
3. If ‘everlasting’ always meant ‘lasting forever’, then we should still be observing:
a. The Passover – Exodus 12:14
b. The Feast of Unleavened Bread – Exodus 12:17
c. The priesthood of Aaron – Exodus 29:9
d. The Sabbath – Exodus 31:16-17
e. The sacrifices, with their portions for the priests – Leviticus 6:18; 7:34-36; 10:15
f. Fasting and animal sacrifices on the Day of Atonement – Leviticus 16:29-34
g. The Feast of Tabernacles – Leviticus 23:39-42
h. …and many other elements of the Law described as ‘everlasting ordinances’
4. From the context of the Scriptures, one discerns when ‘everlasting’ means ‘lasting forever’
5. Since circumcision is no longer binding, we should not be surprised such is true with other elements of the Law – cf. Colossians 2:16-17; Hebrews 9:10
D. WHEN TRADITION BECOMES SINFUL
1. Paul did not hesitate to use the tradition of circumcision when expedient – Acts 16:3
a. The same with other Jewish traditions – Acts 18:18,21
b. Even some that involved animal sacrifices – Acts 21:18-26
2. Yet he opposed circumcision (and other elements of the Law) when people attempted to:
a. Bind it on Gentiles, as in the case of Titus – Galatians 2:3-5
b. Use it for the purpose of justification – Galatians 5:2-4
3. Thus Jesus also condemned traditions of men when they:
a. Are taught as commandments to be bound on others – Mark 7:6-7
b. By their observance prevent keeping the commandments of God – Mark 7:8-13
4. Under the right circumstances, traditions may be observed – cf. Romans 14:5-6
Conclusion
1. The issue of circumcision may seem antiquated and unimportant
a. It certainly is not one of the ‘hot issues’ of our day
b. Yet lessons learned from studying the issue can be very helpful
2. Understanding the issue of circumcision can help us preserve the truth of the gospel
a. We are saved by an obedient faith in Christ, not by keeping the Law of Moses
b. The Law as a system of justification came to an end at the cross of Christ
c. Elements of the Law, such as circumcision, the Passover, Sabbath, etc., are not binding today
d. Traditions of the Law might be observed on a personal level, but it is a sin to base one’s salvation on them, or to bind them on other people
3. While circumcision of the flesh is nonessential, the circumcision ‘without hands’ is certainly necessary if we are to have our sins ‘cut away’ Colossians 2:11-13
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Galatians 01:06-10 Perversions of the Gospel
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Text: Galatians 1:6-10
Introduction
1. As soon as Paul began his epistle to the Galatians, he expressed concern
a. Marveling they were turning so soon to a different gospel – Galatians 1:6
b. Letting themselves be troubled by some perverting the gospel of Christ – Galatians 1:7
2. It is important to know the difference between the pure gospel and perverted gospels
a. To accept a different gospel is to be accursed – Galatians 1:8-9
b. To not obey the true gospel is to face condemnation – 2 Thessalonians 1:7-8
3. Today we need to be just as concerned about “Perversions of the Gospel”. Are we aware of how some have perverted the gospel of Christ?
Body
I. THE GOSPEL OF FAITH PLUS THE LAW
A. THIS PERVERSION EXPLAINED
1. This ‘gospel’ was the problem Paul faced in his day
2. Some Jewish Christians demanded that Gentiles had to be circumcised and keep the Law of Moses as well as obey the gospel of Christ – Acts 15:1-5; Galatians 2:1-5
B. THIS PERVERSION REFUTED
1. At the council in Jerusalem – Acts 15:22-31
2. In the epistle to the Galatians – Galatians 5:1-6
3. In other epistles of Paul (e.g., Romans, Colossians)
4. Note carefully that those who seek to be justified by the Law fall from grace (Galatians 5:4). This illustrates the danger of accepting a perverted gospel.
II. THE GOSPEL OF WORKS WITHOUT FAITH
A. THIS PERVERSION EXPLAINED
1. This ‘gospel’ developed later in the course of church history
2. It exalted the efficacy of certain ordinances to the exclusion of faith
3. Thus some believed you could baptize others without the need of faith
a. Such as infant baptism
b. Such as infidel baptism (e.g., at the point of a sword)
B. THIS PERVERSION REFUTED
1. Faith is essential to pleasing God and our salvation – Hebrews 11:6
2. Repentance of sins and faith in Christ are prerequisites to baptism – Acts 2:38; 8:35-37
3. It is faith in the working of God that results in rising to a new life – Colossians 2:12-13
III. THE GOSPEL OF GOOD WORKS ONLY
A. THIS PERVERSION EXPLAINED
1. Many have the idea that as long as you are a basically ‘good person’, you will be saved
2. Especially if your ‘good deeds’ outnumber or outweigh your ‘bad deeds’
3. Thus a good moral person, especially if religious, is assumed to be saved
B. THIS PERVERSION REFUTED
1. Good moral people, even devout, are in need of salvation
a. Cornelius was a good, moral, devout man – Acts 10:1-6
b. Yet he needed to be saved – Acts 11:14
2. Many examples of conversion in Acts involved religiously devout people
a. The 3000 on the day of Pentecost – Acts 2:5
b. The Ethiopian eunuch – Acts 8:27
c. Lydia of Thyatira – Acts 16:14
d. Paul – Acts 22:3
3. We cannot be saved by our good works – Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 3:4-7
IV. THE GOSPEL OF FAITH ONLY
A. THIS PERVERSION EXPLAINED
1. This ‘gospel’ proclaims that one is saved by “faith only”
2. I.e., no obedience is required, especially not baptism
3. An overreaction to salvation by works without faith, or to the gospel of good works
B. THIS PERVERSION REFUTED
1. The gospel of Christ requires obedience
a. Jesus is the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him – Hebrews 5:9
b. Paul proclaimed what he called “the obedience of faith” – Romans 1:5; 16:25-26
c. Paul and Peter warned of those who obeyed not the gospel – 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9; 1 Peter 4:17
d. We are not saved by “faith only” – cf. James 2:17,20,24,26
2. Many fail to distinguish between different kinds of works
a. Works of the Law (of Moses), by which one is not justified – Galatians 2:16
b. Meritorious works, done to earn salvation, which is impossible – Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 3:4-7
c. Works of God, commanded of us to please Him – John 6:28-29
3. Works of God are done, not to earn salvation
a. Faith in Jesus is a work of God – John 6:29
b. Repentance of sins is a work of God – Acts 17:30
c. Confessing Jesus is a a work of God – Romans 10:9-10
d. Such works in of themselves do not save us – Luke 17:10
4. So baptism is a work of God, not a work of man
a. Commanded by Jesus and His apostles – Mark 16:15-16; Acts 2:38; 22:16
b. In which God does the work of saving – Colossians 2:11-12; Titus 3:5
c. In which we put on Christ – Galatians 3:26-27
d. Which, when obeyed, causes others to thank God – Romans 6:17-18; 6:3-7
Conclusion
1. There have been other perverted gospels
a. Such as Gnosticism, which denied Jesus coming in the flesh
b. Such as Mormonism, which proclaims a different gospel based upon ‘angelic revelation’
2. We need to be careful to receive the gospel preached by the apostles
a. Even angelic revelations are to be rejected if different from what the apostles’ preached
b. Otherwise we will be accursed
3. The pure gospel of Christ may not be popular, but who are we trying to please?
a. If it is men, then we are not true servants of Christ – Galatians 1:10
b. If it is the majority, we are on the wrong path – Matthew 7:13-14
4. Is the gospel you heard, received, and obeyed, the same gospel proclaimed by the apostles of Jesus Christ? – Acts 2:36-41; 8:35-38
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Favoritism – Galatians 2:6-9
1. Does God show favoritism with matters of salvation?
Paul explained that God shows no personal favoritism to anyone, but wants both Jews and Gentiles to be saved (Galatians 2:6-9).
2. How did Peter learn this?
In Acts 10, Cornelius was a devout man who prayed to God always, gave much alms to the poor, and feared God. However, he did not know what to do to be saved until Peter was sent to him. Peter had a vision of unclean animals descending from heaven, and a voice said ‘Rise, Peter kill and eat (verse 13). After refusing, Peter was told, ‘what God has cleansed you must not call common (verse 15).’ Eventually Peter learned God was telling him the gospel is for more than just the Jews, but for every nation (verses 34-36).
3. Who is the gospel for?
The gospel is God’s power to save everyone that believes—the Jew first, but also the Greek (Romans 1:16).
4. Is there partiality in Christ?
Once all have obeyed the gospel, there is neither Jew nor Greek, neither male nor female, and neither slave nor free; all are one in Christ (Galatians 3:26-29).
5. Should we show partiality to one another?
Sadly, often times people are judged on how they look, what they wear, or how wealthy they are. It should not be this way! If we show partiality, we commit sin (James 2:1-9). Remember that God does not see as man sees; man looks at the outward appearance, but God looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7).
Content by Richard Dillon
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I Am Coming, Lord!
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Introduction
1. When a person comes to Jesus in response to the gospel…
a. They are responding to the call of the Lord
b. They will receive wonderful blessings in Christ
2. A familiar song that describes these truths is “I Am Coming, Lord”…
a. Words and tune by Lewis Hartsough (1828-1919)
b. Frequently used as an invitation song following a sermon
Body
I. FIRST VERSE
A. THE WORDS OF THE SONG…
I hear Thy welcome voice,
That calls me, Lord, to Thee,
For cleansing in Thy precious blood
That flowed on Calvary.
B. REFLECTING ON THE WORDS…
1. The first verse reminds us that God calls us, through the gospel – 2 Thessalonians 2:14; Mark 16:15-16
2. The gospel calls us to benefit from the sacrifice of Christ for our sins – 1 Corinthians 15:1-3
3. Chief among those blessings is the remission of sins through His blood – Ephesians 1:7
II. SECOND VERSE
A. THE WORDS OF THE SONG…
Though coming weak and vile,
Thou dost my strength assure;
Thou doest my vileness fully cleanse,
Till spotless all and pure.
B. REFLECTING ON THE WORDS…
1. The second verse tells us that we come to Jesus as we are (weak and sinful) – cf. Luke 5:27-32; 19:10
2. Blessings in Christ described are twofold: strength and cleansing – John 8:34-36; Philippians 4:13
3. Jesus offers freedom from both the guilt of sin and the bondage of sin – Romans 8:1-2,12-13
III. THIRD VERSE
A. THE WORDS OF THE SONG…
‘Tis Jesus calls me on
To perfect faith and love;
To perfect hope, and peace and trust,
For earth and heaven above.
B. REFLECTING ON THE WORDS…
1. The third verse describes our growth in Christ after coming to the Lord – cf. 2 Peter 3:18; 1:5-11
2. For we are not only to respond to His grace in conversion, but to bear fruit for God’s glory as well – Matthew 28:19-20; John 15:8
3. Our service will be both on earth and in heaven above – Revelation 2:25-27; 3:20-22; 22:1-5
IV. CHORUS
A. THE WORDS OF THE SONG…
I am coming, Lord!
Coming now to Thee!
Wash me, cleanse me in the blood
That flowed on Calvary!
B. REFLECTING ON THE WORDS…
1. The chorus expresses the appeal for cleansing one desires when they respond to the gospel
2. The cleansing comes as one is baptized into Christ
a. For in baptism they are buried and crucified with Christ – Romans 6:3-8
b. In which their sins are washed away by the blood of Christ – cf. Acts 22:16
3. Thus baptism is for the remission of sins, and is an appeal for a good conscience
a. As proclaimed by Peter on the day of Pentecost – Acts 2:38
b. As expounded by Peter in his first epistle – 1 Peter 3:21
Conclusion
1. Have you heard the welcome voice of the Lord…?
a. You have if you’ve heard the gospel of Christ!
b. He is calling you even now!
2. Do you desire cleansing in the blood of Calvary? Continued growth in the grace of Christ…?
a. Come to the Lord in faith, repentance and baptism! – Acts 2:36-38
b. You will receive Christ into your life by putting Him on in baptism! – Galatians 3:27
3. “Saved by grace through faith, you will then walk in good works ordained by God…” – Ephesians 2:8-10
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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1 Corinthians 02:01-05
Text: 1 Corinthians 2:1-5
1 Corinthians 2:1
Paul used what he was given in spreading the gospel. He reveals the testimony, or mystery, of God (Ephesians 3).
He has personal experience (Acts 9:1-20, 22:16) with Christ, as others do such as Peter and John (Acts 4:20).
Even if he does not have the gift of speaking (as Moses claimed in Exodus 3), he does what God called him to do.
1 Corinthians 2:2
The only thing that matters in this life is being obedient to the gospel.
Earlier Paul mentioned his preaching of the gospel to both Jews and Greeks (1 Corinthians 1:23), and both had to overcome obstacles.
Just as Paul was dead to the world and alive to God (Romans 6; Galatians 2:20), he glories in the cross alone (Galatians 6:14).
1 Corinthians 2:3
Paul shared with the Corinthians their weakness, fear, and trembling.
He had a thorn in his flesh (2 Corinthians 12:7-10), and knew what it was like to suffer. This reminds Paul that power is in God, and not man (2 Corinthians 4:7; Philippians 4:13).
After all, Christians will suffer persecution for the cause of Christ (2 Peter 3:12).
1 Corinthians 2:4
Paul does not use persuasive words of wisdom to share the truth.
Many New Testament writers warn us that people will be led astray by this (Romans 16:17-18; 1 Thessalonians 2:5; Jude 16).
Peter taught the truth, being an eyewitness of Christ (2 Peter 1:16), as was Paul (Romans 15:18-19).
1 Corinthians 2:5
Many preceding verses have referenced the Spirit, power, and the gospel. Here Paul reminds us that we should put our faith in the power of God, and not in man (Romans 10:17).
The gospel is God’s power to save (Romans 1:16).
Paul ties this together in 1 Thessalonians 1:5, saying that the gospel came in word, power, in the Holy Spirit, and in much assurance.
This reminds us what kind of man he was, and what kind of people we ought to be in the eyes of God.
Content by Richard Dillon
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