Historical Posts
How Long Has it Been? – Audio
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
How long has it been since you…
- had something to eat?
- have been to work?
- got a decent amount of rest?
These things may seem natural, and thus it likely has not been long at all since you may have done any or all of these.
How long has it been since you spent quality time in prayer?
Sure, we have just prayed a few moments ago as a congregation; however, how long has it been since you prayed individually? Does it seem as frequently as the aforementioned daily tasks?
Paul mentioned that prayer should be a frequent part of our lives. He wrote, “pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17).” He also penned, “praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit (Ephesians 6:18)…”
Does it seem tedious? It shouldn’t be; it is very rewarding! James wrote, “…the effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much (James 5:16).”
We need to go to God in prayer. We need to pray for ourselves, for each other, and even for our enemies. How long has it been since you truly prayed?
Are you righteous in the eyes of God, having been washed clean of sin by the blood of Christ? Are you praying?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
Return to the Home Page
Solitary Prayer
Jesus spent time in solitary prayer to refresh and strengthen himself. Follow His example. Be like Him.
Jesus often sought solitude after doing many good works. For example, on one occasion He cast an unclean spirit out of a man, healed Peter’s mother-in-law, and then healed all those who were soon brought to Him. What did He do after all this? “Now in the morning, having risen a long while before daylight, He went out and departed to a solitary place; and there He prayed (Mark 1:35).” He spent time in solitary prayer!
On another occasion, Jesus healed a leper. Upon doing so, “…the report went around concerning Him all the more; and great multitudes came together to hear, and to be healed by Him of their infirmities. So He Himself often withdrew into the wilderness and prayed (Luke 5:15-16).” No doubt Jesus was weary after great multitudes came near Him, seeking Him. Upon finding refuge, He again spent time in solitary prayer.
One Sabbath Day Jesus healed a man who had a withered hand. In those days, Luke records, “He went out to the mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God (Luke 6:12).” He spent all night in solitary prayer, preparing to select the twelve apostles (Luke 6:13ff.).
There was a time when Jesus took His “inner circle” to pray. Peter, John, and James accompanied Him as He was soon transfigured before them (Luke 9:28ff.).
There were times when Jesus prayed alone; there were times that He prayed with His close circle of friends. There may be times when we pray in solitary, and there may be times when we pray with our close circle of Christian friends. In either case our purpose must be to communicate to God, not to appear “religious” before others. Jesus said, “But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly (Matthew 6:6).”
God hears the earnest prayers of those who are His. Have you included yourself in that number?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
Return to the Home Page
An Abundant Life
God’s promise of an abundant life in Jesus
Jesus provides an abundant linfe. In John 10:10, Jesus said, “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” The context in which this verse appears is a discussion of the Lord’s role as the Good Shepherd (John 10:1-17). In this discussion, Jesus made many important points about how He interacts with His “sheep” (you and me).
- The Good Shepherd is not a thief, so He enters the sheepfold through the door.
- He knows the names of His sheep and His sheep recognize His voice (John 10:1-5).
- Jesus also described Himself as the Door through which His sheep enter into His fold (the church). Everyone else who pretends to be the Messiah is a thief and a robber, who wants only to destroy the sheep (John 10:7-10).
- The Good Shepherd cares about His sheep, and would lay down his life for them. A hireling (also a Messianic pretender) will not give his life for the sheep. That is something that only the Good Shepherd will do (John 10:11-14).
However, I want to focus on Jesus’ statement in the latter part of John 10:10. What is an abundant life? What did Jesus promise, when He promised to His sheep, life more abundantly?
The English word, “abundantly” is translated from a Greek word, which means, “exceedingly; above measure.” It is used again in Ephesians 3:20, which says, “Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us.” One of the central ideas of this passage is that God is capable of doing things that we haven’t even thought of yet. Why, then, should we limit our prayers to meager requests for God’s help with this, or that? Christians ought to learn to think big, dream big of an abundant life, and make bold requests of our God, who is able to exceed our expectations and bless us even beyond our capacity to receive blessing (Malachi 3:10).
The promise of an abundant life, therefore, is the promise of a life that exceeds our expectations and surpasses what we might think of as reasonably good. As Christians, we are blessed with certain assurances, which make life on Earth a much more pleasant prospect than it might be otherwise (Ephesians 1:3). For example, the assurance of eternal salvation gives us an inner peace, which the world cannot even comprehend (Philippians 4:7). Also, the assurance of God’s providence at work in our lives comforts us, when times are tough (Matthew 6:25-34). Finally, the assurance of knowing what will happen to us when we die helps us not be afraid of death, so that we can embrace all that life has to offer us (Revelation 14:13). These concepts all contribute to living an abundant life. Christians have much to live for, in this world, and they have much to look forward to, in the next (Philippeans 1:21).
Not only does living for Jesus benefit us here, but it also benefits us in the hereafter. What faithful Christians have to look forward to in eternity is such an abundant life it defies human description. John’s vision of Heaven, in the Revelation, was something that was unlike anything he had ever seen on Earth. He used the words “like” and “as” so many times in the book of Revelation, because he was trying to describe in Earthly terms something that transcends life in this world. “And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. And I John say the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.” (Revelation 21:1-4) John told us about Heaven by telling us what is not there: death, sorrow, crying, and pain. These are things which can make life on Earth miserable, therefore they do not exist in Heaven!
An abundant life is something that is promised to every Christian, so let us resolve to lay claim to our share of it. Let us rejoice in all the blessings with which the Father so abundantly blesses us (Philippeans 4:4). Let us trust in the blessed assurance of the promises that God has made to all who will yield to His will (2 Peter 3:9). Let us look forward to the prospect of an eternal home in Heaven, and allow this hope of eternal life to be the anchor, which keeps our souls steadfastly secured to our Lord and Savior (Hebrews 6:19).
May we all live an abundant life, victoriously, and triumphantly, in this present world!
Content by Russell Kline
Return to the Home Page
Lord, Teach Us to Pray
Many today do not properly understand what prayer is and how they ought to pray. Answers can be found in the words of our Lord.
Jesus taught His disciples how to pray on at least two occasions. These are recorded in Matthew 6 and Luke 11. Prayer is an important part of maintaining a good relationship with God. Just as God communicates with us through the teachings of His Word (Hebrews 1:1-2), we communicate with Him through our prayers (Philippeans 4:6). Yet, there are many today who do not properly understand what prayer is and how they ought to pray, so they do not pray as they ought (James 4:3). These people have questions, which deserve answers – and these answers can be found in the words of our Lord.
First, there is the question, “To whom should our prayers be addressed?” Some people pray to God, others to Jesus, others to Mary, or some other dead “saint,” while others pray to the spirits of departed loved ones. Are all of these Scriptural addressees of our prayers? What did Jesus say about this matter?
In Matthew 6:9, Jesus said, “After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven…” In Luke 11:2, Jesus said, “When ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven…” The Lord taught His disciples to pray to God, the Father. Our prayers should not be directed to anyone else. This, however, does not mean that Christ and the Holy Spirit have nothing to do with our prayers. Jesus instructed His disciples to pray to the Father, in His name (John 16:23). The Holy Spirit plays a role in our prayers, in that He “helpeth our infirmities” (Romans 8:26). Also, it must be noted that Jesus taught His disciples to keep the Father’s name “hallowed,” or “sacred” (Matthew 6:9). One way that we might do that today is to address God using the pronouns, “thee, thou, thine, etc.,” which are reserved in our language for references to deity.
Next, there is the question, “What should I include in my prayers?” In His “model prayers,” Jesus taught His disciples to include praise for God in their prayers (Matthew 6; Luke 11). He taught them to be submissive to God’s will, in their prayers, and to ask God for daily blessings. He taught them to pray, not only for themselves, but especially for others. Throughout the New Testament, Christians are encouraged to pray for all kinds of people: for enemies (Matthew 5:44), for friends (James 5:16), for the sick (James 5;14), for the authorities (1 Timothy 2:1-2), etc. Jesus taught His disciples to include the giving of thanks in their prayers. In fact, the concepts of prayer and thanksgiving are mentioned together many times, in the New Testament (Philippeans 4:6; Colossians 4:2). He taught them, most importantly, to pray for forgiveness for their sins and for the sins of others, as well. Christ warned His disciples that, if they refused to extend forgiveness to others, they would not be forgiven for their own sins (Matthew 6:14-15). All of these things ought to be found commonly in our daily prayers – although it is not necessary that every one of these be included in every one of our prayers.
Then, there is question, “How often should I pray?” The Bible does not specify a precise number of times per day that a Christian should pray. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 reads, “Pray without ceasing.” In essence, it means that every Christian should pray to God as often as he can. Many Christians pray every morning, as they are preparing to take on a new day. Most Christians pray before every meal, to thank God for His providence. Most Christians pray when they go to bed at night, as they reflect upon the events of the waning day. In between these occasions, there are countless opportunities for Christians to speak to their Father, in prayer. God wants us to make good use of every one of them. How many times per day to you pray? Did you know that the typical Muslim prays five times every single day? As Christians, we serve a God who is much more deserving of our time and attention.
Once, I was asked this question: “Why does God want us to pray to Him? Doesn’t He know what we need without our having to ask Him?” Of course, God knows us better than we know ourselves (Luke 12:7). It is His love for us, which prompts Him to solicit our prayers (John 3:16). Just as a parent longs to hear the voices of his children, God longs to hear from us. He may not need us in the same way that we need Him, but He wants our love and our fellowship – given of our own free will (Romans 6:16-18). He is our Father and we are His children. It really is just as simple as that!
It is my sincere hope and fervent prayer that no Christian will ever let the blessed rite of prayer go unused. It is truly a shame when Christians neglect to pray. James 5:16 points out that “The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” Prayer can make a big difference in the lives of individuals and in the world at large. Make a difference in your life and in the lives of those around you. “Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-17).
Content by Russell Kline
Return to the Home Page
Don’t Worry
Christians don’t worry the way the world does, even though God has not promised to shield us
As citizens of the United States of America, we are blessed beyond our capacity to appreciate it. We live in a time and place where life is easier and more convenient than it has ever been before. We get more done in less time than ever before, and we have much more time for leisurely pursuits. Yet, we also seem to be under much more stress than those who have come before us. Even the poorest Americans have a better quality of life than a tremendous percentage of the rest of the world, and we all worry about losing the things we have. Whether we are rich, poor, or somewhere in between, we all have to cope with the challenges that life presents us.
Christians have a tremendous advantage over those who are not Christians, we don’t worry when it comes to taking on the challenges of life. We don’t worry about things the way the world does, even though God has not promised to shield us from the problems that are common to all humanity. As Matthew 5:45 reminds us, “he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.” Still, God has equipped Christians with some outstanding mechanisms for dealing with life’s difficulties (John 9:31). However, many Christians fail to take advantage of the advantages that God provides. Of all people we ought to know how to manage the stresses of life on Earth so that we don’t worry!
The Lord has taught His children not to worry about things that are out of our control. In Matthew 6:27, Jesus posed this question: “Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature?” In essence, He is saying don’t worry. The words, “taking thought” translate a Greek term, which literally means to “be anxious,”or “to worry.” The point is that, just as we cannot make ourselves grow taller simply by worrying about our height, we also cannot deal with issues that are out of our control simply by worrying about them. That is why, in Philippians 4:6, Paul wrote: “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing…let your requests be made known unto God.” The word “careful” translates another Greek term, which refers to the concept of worry. The implication of this teaching is that it is a sin to worry about things we can do nothing about. That is what Jesus was getting at in the Sermon on the Mount. In Matthew 6:25-34, He used the phrase, “take no thought” three times and alluded to it in questions two other times. Clearly, the Lord wants us not to worry so much about things that are beyond our control. Don’t worry and trust that God is in control.
Still, it is natural for human beings to worry about all kinds of things. People worry about the economy, the environment, terrorism, and a host of other issues that are simply beyond the control of a single person. The Bible teaches us to take the worries and fears we do have and cast them upon God’s shoulders. In 1 Peter 5:7, it is written, “Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.” God will listen to His people; even at times when it seems like no one else will (Psalms 142:1-7). The thing is that, in order for our prayers to be most effective, we must listen to our Father’s counsel, which is found in His holy Word (Psalms 119:49-50). Remember that 1 Peter 5:7 teaches that we should cast our “care” (“worry”) upon God, because He “careth” (“worries”) about us. Some Christians have got the idea that their problems are too small and insignificant to be worthy of God’s attention. But, the Bible reminds us that our Heavenly Father loves each one of us, and He cares about the things we care about. That is why the Lord calls out to us from His Word to obey the gospel plan of salvation and become members of His church. “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9). It ought to be reassuring to us, to know that God worries about us, just as we worry about our own children.
Coping with the challenges of life is difficult, to be sure, but it ought to be much easier for faithful members of the Lord’s church than it is for those who have no relationship with God. That is why the rest of the world will always marvel at the serenity of the Lord’s people and how we don’t worry. The “peace of God, which passeth all understanding” comes only from the knowledge that God cares about us. We don’t worry because we know that He can help us face the challenges of life in this world (Philippians 4:7). If you are searching for peace on Earth, you need not look any further than the Bible. Turn to God and don’t worry anymore. In the pages of God’s Word, you may find the counsel you need to stop worrying about all the world’s problems and to start looking forward to what lies beyond this life!
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Russell Kline
Return to the Home Page
1 John 05:14-17 – Praying with Confidence and Compassion – audio
Old - G E L N D J J R 1S 2S 1K 2K 1C 2C E N E J P P E S I J L E D H J A O J M N H Z H Z MNew - M M L J A R 1C 2C G E P C 1Th 2Th 1T 2T T P H J 1P 2P 1J 2J 3J J R - Topical - All - Archive
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Text: 1 John 5:14-17
Introduction
1. Rapidly approaching the end of his epistle, John has a few words on the subject of prayer – 1 John 5:14-17
2. This is not the first time he has broached this subject, for he has already mentioned…
a. The value of confessing our sins, which is done in prayer – 1 John 1:9
b. Our Advocate in prayer, Jesus Christ the righteous – 1 John 2:1
c. One reason why we receive what we ask in prayer – 1 John 3:22
3. In his final words on this subject, John does two things:
a. Expands upon a theme in prayer already introduced praying with confidence
b. Brings in another theme in prayer that is harmony with his teachings on brotherly love, praying with compassion
Body
I. PRAYING WITH CONFIDENCE (1 John 5:14-15)
A. REQUIRES ASKING ACCORDING TO GOD’S WILL
1. This is the point emphasized in 1 John 5:14-15
2. Confidence in prayer is not based upon some assumption that we have carte blanche in regards to prayer
a. Some may improperly conclude that we do from Jesus’ statements in John 14:13-14
b. But even Jesus’ own example illustrates that answer to prayer depends upon whether or not it is in harmony with God’s will – Matthew 26:39, 42
c. Paul learned this same lesson when he prayed about his thorn in the flesh – 2 Corinthians 12:7-9
3. However, the more we learn God’s revealed will
a. The more likely we will pray according to His will
b. The greater confidence we can have that our prayers will be answered accordingly
B. REQUIRES KEEPING GOD’S COMMANDMENTS
1. This was stressed in 1 John 3:22
2. Even if we are asking something that would normally be within God’s will for us
a. If we are not keeping His commandments
b. …can we really expect God to favorably answer our prayers?
3. As Peter quoted from the Proverbs: “For the eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, And his ears are open to their prayers…” – 1 Peter 3:12
4. The righteous, of course, are those who “do those things that are pleasing in His sight” – 1 John 3:22b
5. Especially in regard to believing in Jesus and loving the brethren, two commandments given to us – 1 John 3:23
C. REQUIRES ABIDING IN JESUS, AND HIS WORDS ABIDING IN US
1. This was taught by Jesus Himself, and recorded by John – John 15:7
2. This should also help to clarify any misunderstanding from taking John 14:13-14 in isolation from its context
3. These words of Jesus actually summarize what we have already seen John to say
a. Confidence in prayer depends upon keeping the commandments, but keeping the commandments is the key to abiding in Jesus! – 1 John 3:24a
b. Confidence in prayer depends upon asking according to God’s Will, but if Jesus’ words abide in us, won’t that help us know what God’s will is, and what is proper to ask of Him?
D. Therefore, if we learn the words of Jesus, keep His commandments and thereby abide in Him, we will know what is in harmony with God’s will and pray accordingly. In this way we can have the confidence in prayer of which John writes!
II. PRAYING WITH COMPASSION (1 John 5:16-17)
A. FOR A BROTHER
1. This epistle of John has been one in which John has stressed “brotherly love“
2. He has told us that we “ought to lay down our lives for the brethren” – 1 John 3:16
3. He has said that if “one sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him?“- 1 John 3:17
4. Certainly, then, we should be willing and ready to pray for our brethren
B. SINNING A SIN NOT UNTO DEATH
1. This is a difficult passage, one that raises several questions
a. What is the “sin not unto death” versus the “sin unto death“?
b. What is meant that “He will give him life“?
c. Whatever conclusions we draw should be in harmony with the rest of the scriptures, and with other principles revealed therein, just as we do not draw conclusions about praying with confidence based upon John 4:13-14 alone
2. To understanding of this passage we must see:
a. The difference between “a sin which does not lead to death” and “a sin leading to death” is:
1) John says in 1 John 5:17a, “all unrighteousness is sin“, therefore all sin is not to be taken lightly
2) But there is sin “not leading to death“
a) That is, sin which does not progress to the point in which one experiences spiritual death, or separation from God
b) As indicated by James, sin does not produce “death” until it is “full grown” – James 1:15
c) Sin which does not produce (lead to) death would therefore be sin “repented of“
3) Sin “leading to death”, producing spiritual death and separation from God would be sin “unrepented of“
a) We cannot expect God to forgive one who refuses to repent
b) As John writes with some understatement: “I do not say that he should pray about that” – 1 John 5:16d
C. GOD WILL GIVE HIM LIFE
1. If the “death” in this passage is “spiritual death“, it is natural to assume the life is “spiritual life“
a. The “life” which God will grant our penitent brother in answer to our prayers could also be described as “forgiveness“
b. Which is a crucial element of the “eternal life” to which John has referred throughout this epistle
2. Thus the promise offered in 1 John 1:9 to the child of God who penitently confesses his own sin in prayer is offered in 1 John 5:16 to the penitent brother when prayer is made on his behalf by another member of the family of God
a. One might ask, “Why bother to pray for a penitent brother if his sins will be forgiven anyway,” as taught in 1 John 1:9?
b. One answer might be found in James 5:16, where we are taught to pray for one another: “The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.“
Conclusion
1. The privilege of prayer is a wonderful blessing, especially when we do so with:
a. Confidence
b. Compassion
2. Are we fulfilling the requirements to be able to pray with confidence?
a. Abiding in Jesus, and letting His words abide in us?
b. Keeping His commandments and doing the things pleasing in His sight?
c. Asking according to God’s Will?
3. Are we praying with compassion?
a. Praying not only for ourselves, but for our brethren in need?
b. Praying for brethren overtaken by sin, but who have demonstrated that their sin is not one leading to death?
3. As we all need the fullness of God’s blessings in our lives, let’s encourage one another to do whatever we can to be able to pray with both confidence and compassion!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
Return to the Home Page
2 Thessalonians 03:01-05 – Paul’s Confidence and the Thessalonians’ Prayer – audio
Old - G E L N D J J R 1S 2S 1K 2K 1C 2C E N E J P P E S I J L E D H J A O J M N H Z H Z MNew - M M L J A R 1C 2C G E P C 1Th 2Th 1T 2T T P H J 1P 2P 1J 2J 3J J R - Topical - All - Archive
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Text: 2 Thessalonians 3:1-5 (Reading by Steven Winland)
Introduction
A. Paul made a request of the Thessalonians that they would pray for him.
B. He prayed that He and others would carry the Word of God as commanded.
C. Knowing that God is faithful, he assured them that God would help them and achieve His purpose.
D. Paul then encourages them to do their part, just as he would do his.
Body
I. Paul requested prayer of the Thessalonians.
A. Paul often requested prayer for his boldness to proclaim the Word of God (Ephesians 6:18-20).
B. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man does avail much (James 5:13-18).
C. Paul prayed here for:
1) The Word of God would run swiftly and be glorified (Acts 6:7; 12:24; 19:20; 2 Timothy 2:9; Philippians 1:14; 1 Thessalonians 1:8). Others gained boldness and proclaimed it!
2) He and others would be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men (Romans 15:30-32; 2 Timothy 3:11; 4:17-18).
3) God assures us of our deliverance (Psalm 91:15-16; Matthew 6:13; 2 Peter 2:9-10).
4) Those that do not have faith (Acts 28:24; Romans 10:14-18).
II. The Lord is faithful to Paul, the Thessalonians, and to all Christians!
A. Many proclaimed the Lord’s faithfulness (Isaiah 49:7; Deuteronomy 7:9; Hosea 11:12; 1 Corinthians 1:9; 2 Corinthians 1:18; 1 Thessalonians 5:24; Hebrews 10:23; 1 John 1:9).
B. Christians are established through Christ (James 5:8; 1 Peter 5:10).
C. Christians will be kept from the evil one (John 17:15).
III. Paul had confidence in:
A. The Thessalonians (2 Thessalonians 3:4).
B. The Corinthians (2 Corinthians 7:14-16).
C. The Lord (2 Thessalonians 3:5).
1) He would direct the hearts of men into the love of God (1 Chronicles 29:17-18; Luke 8:15; 1 Thessalonians 1:3; 1 Timothy 6:11).
2) He would direct men into the patience of Christ (1 Timothy 6:11; James 1:2-4; Revelation 1:9).
Conclusion
A. As Paul prayed, we should pray for our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ.
B. God’s word must continue to spread!
C. He is faithful toward us, and we must be to Him.
D. We can have confidence in Him, ourselves, and others!
Content by Richard Dillon
Return to the Home Page
Jeremiah 32:16-23 – Jeremiah’s Prayer – audio
Old - G E L N D J J R 1S 2S 1K 2K 1C 2C E N E J P P E S I J L E D H J A O J M N H Z H Z MNew - M M L J A R 1C 2C G E P C 1Th 2Th 1T 2T T P H J 1P 2P 1J 2J 3J J R - Topical - All - Archive
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Text: Jeremiah 32:16-23
Introduction
Jeremiah was distressed. He was commanded by God to preach to the people, but they were not listening.
His prayer is a reminder for us that God is in control, and we must allow ourselves to put our complete trust in Him. As was recently discussed, “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).”
Jeremiah was called by God, and He had a purpose.
Body
Jeremiah 32:16-17.
God made the heavens and the earth (2 Kings 19:15; Genesis 1:1; Acts 17:24).
There is nothing too difficult for God (Genesis 18:14; Luke 18:27; Job 42:2; Matthew 19:26; Luke 1:37).
Jeremiah 32:18.
God shows His lovingkindness to thousands. It is described in the Psalms as better than life (Psalm 63:3), good (Psalm 69:16), always abounding (Psalm 92:1-2), etc.
God will also repay iniquity to those that continue to sin, yet show mercy to those that keep His commandments (Exodus 20:5-6; 34:6-7; Numbers 14:18-24).
Those that name Christ may depart from iniquity (2 Timothy 2:19); they are redeemed by Christ (Titus 2:14).
God and Christ are referred to as “Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace, Redeemer, LORD of Hosts, and the Holy one of Israel (Isaiah 9:6; 47:4; Jeremiah 10:16; 50:34).
Jeremiah 32:19.
God is great in counsel. He shows this through Joseph, Daniel, Solomon, and others.
He is mighty in works (providing manna, helping the Israelites to cross the Red Sea, et al.).
His eyes are open to all the ways of men, and nothing is hidden from Him (Hebrews 4:13; 2 Chronicles 16:9; Job 31:4; 34:21; Proverbs 15:3; Jeremiah 16:17).
He gives to man according to his ways and doings (Jeremiah 17:10).
Jeremiah 32:20.
God made a name for Himself by showing His power.
His name is everlasting (Isaiah 63:12), and He gave His Son a great name (Philippians 2:9-11).
Jeremiah 32:21.
God led the Israelites out of Egypt (Exodus 6:6).
Jeremiah 32:22.
This land flowing with milk and honey was promised, and it was given (Exodus 3:8,17).
Jeremiah 32:23.
People were still disobedient to God (Nehemiah 9:26ff.).
Conclusion
God heard the prayer of Jeremiah, and answered him. His response is in Jeremiah 32:31ff.
Jeremiah 32:31 – God would remove the city from them.
Jeremiah 32:36 – God would deliver the city into the hand of the king of Babylon.
Jeremiah 32:37-38 – God would gather His people from where they were driven, yet they would dwell safely; He would be their God, and they would be His people.
Jeremiah 32:39-40 – God would make a covenant with them, and cause them to fear [respect] Him.
Jeremiah 32:41ff – God would still do good to them.
Content by Richard Dillon
Return to the Home Page
Psalm 61 – audio
Old - G E L N D J J R 1S 2S 1K 2K 1C 2C E N E J P P E S I J L E D H J A O J M N H Z H Z MNew - M M L J A R 1C 2C G E P C 1Th 2Th 1T 2T T P H J 1P 2P 1J 2J 3J J R - Topical - All - Archive
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
(audio only)
Text: Psalm 61
1 To the choirmaster: with stringed instruments. Of David. Hear my cry, O God, listen to my prayer;
2 from the end of the earth I call to you when my heart is faint. Lead me to the rock that is higher than I,
3 for you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the enemy.
4 Let me dwell in your tent forever! Let me take refuge under the shelter of your wings! Selah
5 For you, O God, have heard my vows; you have given me the heritage of those who fear your name.
6 Prolong the life of the king; may his years endure to all generations!
7 May he be enthroned forever before God; appoint steadfast love and faithfulness to watch over him!
8 So will I ever sing praises to your name, as I perform my vows day after day.
Content by Donald W. Treadway
Return to the Home Page
God Does Answer Prayers
Ever prayed a prayer you didn’t really think God would answer?
Why do we do that?
Maybe it’s because we’ve focused so much on what God doesn’t do that we forget about what he does.
“Well,” we think, “I know he created the world and parted the Red Sea and raised Jesus from the grave, but now . . .”
I’m not suggesting God is still resurrecting people, but I wonder if perhaps we ought to focus more on his might and power and less on all the reasons why he won’t do something.
When we’re struggling, James tells us to ask God for wisdom to see his hand at work.
Then he adds this:
But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways. (James 1:6-8).
Another translation says, “But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt” (NIV).
Or, “But he must ask in faith without any doubting” (NASB).
Maybe that passage convicts you as it does me.
It reminds me that I ought to pray with confidence in the power of my God.
It helps me remember that God really listens to me, that he cares about my needs, my wants, my struggles.
And he can answer.
He can work in incredible ways to bring about what’s best for his children, and we ought to believe that he still does that.
Today, let’s focus on believing in the God to whom we pray.
Let’s ask him to convict us of his power and strength.
Let’s talk to him, fully believing that he will answer and accomplish his will in us.
Remember: the God we call Father is the same God who spoke the world into existence. Surely he can find a way to do whatever it is we need him to do.
Content by Donald W. Treadway
Return to the Home Page
Help! audio
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise (James 5:13).
I suppose we’re more likely to obey the first part of that verse than we are the second. It’s easy to let all of life’s stresses cause us to forget our need to praise God for everything good. If we’re not careful, talking to God can be more like a 911 call – something when do only when we find ourselves in a difficult spot.
Talking to God, though – praising him – ought to be what we do in every situation.
When we’re hurting or sad, we pour out our hearts to him.
When we’re joyful – when he’s blessed us – we praise him.
James recognizes that life has its ups and downs.
We’ll have problems like everyone else; when we do, we pray about it. But we should also recognize that God gives us so many joys.
What’s right in your life today?
Can you hear the birds singing outside? Perhaps you’ve already taken a walk in the cool springtime air this morning. God’s blessings surround us, and most of us have quite a few things to smile about.
A soft bed and a comfortable house. Water to drink and food to eat. A job that supports our families, healthy kids, faithful friends, a stable, peaceful country.
And most of all, of course, we’ve got Christ. Even if we have problems, which we do, nothing can dampen the fact that we’re forgiven.
Saved from sin. Washed in the blood. Justified, sanctified, and soon to be glorified.
So today, take time to praise.
List the blessings God’s poured into your life, and thank him for every single one of them.
But especially thank him for giving you hope in the crucified, buried, and risen Savior.
Content by Donald W. Treadway
Return to the Home Page
Does God Hear Our Prayers?
The Bible confidently affirms that God hears and answers prayer.
“If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land” (2 Chronicles 7:14).
“The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon him, to all that call upon him in truth” (Psalm 145:18).
“The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much” (James 4:16).
“And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask anything according to his will, he heareth us” (1 John 5:14).
I am convinced that there is power in prayer.
But I’m also convinced that many of us use it like we use the spare tire in the trunk of our car, just in cases of emergency. It should not be that way. Prayer ought to be the pulsation of the Christian faith. It should be an expression of reverence, gratitude, and the felt presence of God. Our God is not a distant God, but an ever present Father who not only hears, but also answers the prayers of His children.
I am also convinced that many of us view prayer much the way a six year old looks at his Christmas wish list.
“Dear Santa, I’ve been a good boy. Please give me a new baseball glove, a computer, a wagon, et cetera.” Wise parents never give their children everything they want, but they do seek to provide all that is needed. There’s an old Chinese proverb which says, “Give a boy and a hog all that they want and you will have a very good hog and a very bad boy.” As youngsters, what we think we need, and what we actually need, are not the same. I suspect that it is no different as adults.
I have no doubt God hears and answers our prayers. But, His answer is not always the one we seek.
Paul prayed three times that God would remove his “thorn in the flesh.” God’s answer to Paul was “No!” (2 Corinthians 12:7-9). On another occasion, Paul made four separate requests to the Father (Romans 15:30-33). When we examine what Paul sought, and how God responded, we find God saying to Paul, “No, wait a while, yes, and yes, but my way not yours.” Too often, when we don’t get what we want we think that God has not answered. It may be that He is telling us no, or not yet, or yes, but my way not yours. Remember, God knows best!
As Christians, we must keep on praying, and trust God to give the answer which is best for us!
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
Return to the Home Page
May The Lord Do What Seems Good To Him
During David’s reign, the Ammonites, assisted by the Syrians, confronted the army of Israel. Joab, captain of Israel’s army, with the Syrians on one side and the Ammonites on the other, divided his forces between himself and his brother Abishai. He then said to Abishai: “If the Syrians are too strong for me, then you shall help me, but if the Ammonites are too strong for you, then I will come and help you. Be of good courage, and let us be courageous for our people, and for the cities of our God, and may the Lord do what seems good to him” (2 Samuel 10:11-12).
I’m particularly struck by the phrase “may the Lord do what seems good to him.” In addition to their personal courage, they were dependent on God’s help, whatever that might entail. They simply asked that God do what seemed good to Him. Do you sometimes find yourself at a loss to know what to pray for, or how to put it into words?
Maybe we should just ask God to do what seems good to Him.
If you are like me, you have prayed many times for someone’s health to improve, only to watch them slowly decline. I know we should pray for the sick, and I know that God hears and responds to those prayers (James 5:14-16). Yet, His response is often not the one we were seeking. I don’t question it for I know He knows best.
It seems to me that Jesus and the early disciples had a pretty good grasp of this idea. It is repeatedly expressed in their plans and petitions. They sought the Lord’s will, and not their own. In the garden Jesus begged the Father for a way out of His impending crucifixion, yet said each time, “your will be done” (Matthew 26:39, 41, 44). Paul often spoke of his plans for ministry, but acknowledged that all such plans were subject to the will of God (Acts 18:21; 1 Corinthians 4:19). James admonished his readers to make all their plans submissive to God’s will (James 4:15).
God knows best, even when we cannot see it.
I look at the turmoil in our world, man’s inhumanity to man, wars, famine, disease and I am compelled to respond, “May the Lord do what seems good to Him.”
I look at those battling cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and a host of other physical problems and pray, “May the Lord do what seems good to Him.”
I look at those struggling with financial burdens, a lost job, a bad investment, a failed business and ask, “May the Lord do what seems good to Him.”
I look at a world similar to the one Paul confronted in the first century when men worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator (Romans 1:25), and can only respond, “May the Lord do what seems good to Him.”
I look at souls who are lost, some having heard the gospel repeatedly and others not at all, and I pray, “May the Lord do what seems good to Him.”
Yes, we must be strong and courageous, but remember that God is stronger, and He knows best.
May we always pray that God will do what seems good to Him!
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
Return to the Home Page
Pray for One Another
While visiting the nursing home this week a faithful member of the Lord’s church informed me that every night her neighbor would come into her room and visit with her. Then, after a good length of time, they would pray together. Finally, “Good night!” would then ensue.
I always enjoy hearing stories like that because even preachers do not always realize what goes on behind closed doors. It warms our hearts to know that every Christian is doing something worthwhile that not everyone knows about. “Your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly (Matthew 6:6).”
Prayer is something that can be done in secret, with brothers and sisters in Christ, or in public with people that we may not know. Just as Paul said to pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17), James said to “pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much (James 5:17).”
Just as a lot of good is being done between these brethren in the nursing home, think what good can be done with you! Let’s all pray for each other effectively and fervently; it avails much!
Content by Richard Dillon
Return to the Home Page
Ask and Ye Shall Receive
Jesus said, “Ask and it will be given to you (Luke 11:9).” There are a lot of things in this world we ask for, but do we get all of them? Is there something you wanted and asked for and didn’t receive? When you didn’t get what you asked for, did you think Jesus lied to you?
Well, there may be a reason we don’t get what we ask for. John writes, “and whatever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and do those things that are pleasing in His sight (1 John 3:22).” Next time you don’t get what you asked for, ask yourself: Am I doing what Christ commands me to do? Is He pleased with what I’m doing?
Maybe it’s not the fault of Christ if we don’t get what we asked for; maybe it’s ours! So, let’s always keep His commandments to show Him we love Him (John 14:15), and do that which is pleasing in His sight!
Content by Richard Dillon
Return to the Home Page
Prayer
Maybe you have occasionally wondered if there is any point to prayer. Does it work? Is God listening? We doubters ought to go back and reread James. Here’s James 5:16 in a few different translations:
- The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working (ESV).
- The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much (NKJV).
- The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much (NASB).
- The prayer of the righteous is powerful and effective (NRSV).
James apparently thought prayer worked, and you and I ought to believe him. He gives this example:
“Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed earnestly that it would not rain; and it did not rain on the land for three years and six months. And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth produced its fruit.” (James 5:17–18, NKJV)
Perhaps we think that of course God answered prayer back then, but we live in a different time: a more hands-off age. But that thinking does not work. There is nothing in the Bible that suggests God ever stopped hearing and answering prayers. Do you believe that?
A “non-answer” from God might be a couple of things:
It could actually be that He is not answering because I am walking outside of his will (and therefore not a “righteous” pray-er). For example, Peter wrote that a man who is not treating his wife well will have an impotent prayer life. (1 Peter 3:7)
It could also be that what we are asking is not according to his will; if so, we might not like His answer anyway. I have begged Him for things He later showed me that I didn’t need.
And it could be that He is already in the process of answering our prayers, but He is doing it according to his own timetable. Remembering that He exists outside of time helps us work through apparent delays. He knows the end from the beginning, and some things just don’t need to happen right now.
But does he answer? Absolutely. The prayer of a child of God who pours out his / her heart to Him is powerful and effective. Believe that, and then pray accordingly.
Content by Donald W. Treadway
Return to the Home Page
The Power of Prayer
James, the brother of our Lord, wrote: “…confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective” (James 5:16).
I am convinced there is power in prayer, but I’m also convinced that many of us use it much like we use the spare tire in the trunk of our car – just in cases of emergency. But prayer should be the pulsation of the Christian faith. It should be an expression of reverence, gratitude, and the felt presence of God. We can never pray too much (1 Thessalonians 5:17, 18).
Perhaps we don’t pray as often as we should because we’re not sure how to pray. Most of our prayers are offered in strange language (thee and thou), and filled with oft repeated words and phrases that lack real meaning in today’s world. Jesus offered some much needed direction regarding this matter (Matthew 6:5-7).
Prayer should be the expression of the heart, and the representation of our unique personality. I read somewhere that Sam Houston, before going into battle, stopped his troops and said, “Men, it will soon be morning and we will engage the enemy beyond those hills. I want each man to pray.” One old Texan knelt by his horse and said, “Lord, if it be your will, help us whip those Mexicans, but if it isn’t your will, lay low ’cause you’re going to see the biggest fight you ever saw.”
Then there was the little girl who heard a sermon entitled, “Is God Dead?” When she said her prayers that evening they included the following request, “And please, God, don’t die, because if you do we’re all sunk!”
The earnest and fervent prayer of a sincere heart is not without power. “More things are wrought by prayer than this world dreams of. Wherefore, let thy voice rise like a fountain for me night and day” (Tennyson). Remember, “The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon him, to all that call upon him in truth” (Psalm 145:18).
— Roger
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
Return to the Home Page
Peace of God – audio
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
I don’t know what your prayer life is like, but there’s a connection between how you talk to God and how much peace you have.
Have you been praying lately?
Is there restlessness, anxiety, in your heart?
If your answer to the first question is “no,” your answer to the second is probably “yes.”
Notice Paul’s connection between prayer and peace
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:6-7).
All of us want peace, but many of us don’t have as much of it as we’d like.
Paul makes three important points about it here:
I. Peace comes from God.
It’s the peace “of God,” not the peace “of us.” I think sometimes we miss that point. I find myself believing that if I could just get everything on the outside fixed (less stress, fewer problems, etc.), then I’d feel better on the inside. If I could do it. But it actually works the other way around . . . when I accept God’s peace on the inside—his gift—it helps fix the stuff on the outside.
II. Peace is inexplicable.
It “surpasses all understanding,” which implies that sometimes we won’t understand why things happen the way they do. Because it’s from God, though, it can overcome inadequate explanations.
III. Peace protects our hearts.
“Guard” is a military term, suggesting that peace “stands on duty to keep out anything that brings care and anxiety” (R.R. Melick, p. 150).
And most of us need that. We live in an anxiety-ridden world that’s overwhelmed by the search for something to get rid of the uneasiness we’ve got in our hearts.
The answer is right in front of us.
Paul urges us to turn everything over to God, accept the peace of Christ, and let him stand guard at the door of our hearts to ward off all anxiety and worry.
Content by Donald W. Treadway
Return to the Home Page
James 05:13-18 A Call to Prayer and Praise – audio
Old - G E L N D J J R 1S 2S 1K 2K 1C 2C E N E J P P E S I J L E D H J A O J M N H Z H Z MNew - M M L J A R 1C 2C G E P C 1Th 2Th 1T 2T T P H J 1P 2P 1J 2J 3J J R - Topical - All - Archive
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Text: James 5:13-18
Introduction
(Note on Bible Correspondence Course from Pakistan)
1. As is common in many of the New Testament epistles, we find various commands and exhortations as we draw near to the end of the epistle of James
2. In James 5:13-18, we find a call to pray and sing praises, with guidance as to what to do and when
Body
I. IN TIMES OF SUFFERING, LET US “PRAY” – James 5:13
A. WHAT KIND OF SUFFERING DOES JAMES REFER TO?
1. The word used refers to suffering of any kind
2. Such as sickness, bereavement, disappointment, persecutions, loss of health or property
3. Later, James will deal specifically with sickness
B. FOR WHAT SHOULD WE PRAY?
1. For the REMOVAL of the suffering, if it be the Lord’s will – 2 Corinthians 12:8-10
2. For STRENGTH to endure suffering, if it be the Lord’s will that we bear it – 1 Corinthians 10:13
a. God may not always remove the source of our suffering, for it may be for our ultimate good – Psalms 119:67, 71
b. But He promises to help us endure it!
C. FOR WHOM SHOULD WE PRAY?
1. Certainly for ourselves, as implied above
2. But also for those who may be the source of our suffering
a. As Jesus taught in Luke 6:28
b. Doing this can help greatly to endure the suffering
II. IN TIMES OF CHEER, LET US “SING PRAISES” – James 5:13
A. THE WORD “CHEERFUL”
1. Denotes pleasantness, agreeableness
2. It suggests a state of mind free from trouble, the opposite of affliction, happy!
B. IN SUCH A STATE OF HAPPINESS, ONE SHOULD SING PRAISES!
1. For singing praises is what God’s people have always done
a. Consider the attitude of David, the sweet singer of Israel – Psalms 92:1-2; 96:1-2; 101:1; 111:1; 113:1-3; 146:1-2; 147:1; 149:1
b. David was a man after God’s own heart, shouldn’t we be also?
2. For singing praises has the power to make a good situation even better – Ephesians 5:18-19; Colossians 3:16
C. WHY DON’T SOME CHRISTIANS SING PRAISES MORE OFTEN, MORE FERVENTLY?
1. Are they that “afflicted”?
2. Hasn’t God done enough in our lives to prompt us to praise Him fervently in song?
3. What excuse can we possibly give for refusing to praise God for His glory and goodness?
a. We cannot use the excuse that we cannot sing
b. God “commands” all to sing, and unless we are “mute” the command applies to us
c. Fortunately, God is not concerned with how it sounds, but that it is coming from the heart, therefore all who can speak can and should sing!
4. Heaven is described by John in the Book of Revelation as a place where singing praises to God and Christ is an on-going activity – Revelation 15:3
a. If we don’t sing praises to God on earth, though able:
b. Can we really expect to be allowed to praise God in heaven?
III. IN TIMES OF SICKNESS, LET US “PRAY” – James 5:14-18
A. ADMITTEDLY, THIS PASSAGE IS DIFFICULT
1. Questions abound concerning it
a. Is the sickness physical or spiritual?
b. Is the anointing with oil medicinal or symbolic?
c. Is the healing through providential means or miraculous?
d. Is the healing spiritual or physical?
2. First, I believe the sickness and healing in this passage is physical, though spiritual needs are taken into consideration
a. This is in view of the phrase “and IF he has committed sins, he will be forgiven”
b. This implies the sickness is physical, though it MAY be accompanied with spiritual sickness as well
c. But the conditional “IF” makes it clear that the illness may not be accompanied by sin, which if true, would mean the illness is not spiritual, but physical
3. With the assumption that physical illness is being discussed, then there are two feasible alternatives
a. This passage refers to MIRACULOUS HEALING
1) The elders were called because they possessed the gift of healing
2) The anointing with oil was symbolic, representing the influences of the Holy Spirit – Mark 6:13
b. This passage refers to PROVIDENTIAL HEALING
1) The elders were called because they were likely the most righteous in a congregation – James 5:16
2) The anointing with oil was medicinal, as was commonly practiced in those days – Luke 10:34
4. I lean toward the latter explanation
a. The first explanation must assume that the elders in every church possessed the gift of healing, which is not likely for two reasons:
1) We have no record of such in the New Testament
2) The qualifications for elders did not require this gift -1Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9
b. In illustrating the efficacy of prayer, James uses an example of God providentially answering prayer – 1 Kings 18:41-45
1) God was indeed answering Elijah’s prayer
2) But God did so, providentially, working through natural means
B. WITH THIS UNDERSTANDING, LETS MAKE THE APPLICATION
1. In times of physical sickness, call for the elders of the church
a. You want the prayers of the “righteous” working in your behalf, don’t you?
b. Notice: You are to call for them, not wait for them to call on you!
c. Have the elders pray with you
1) In faith (Trusting in the Lord’s power to heal, if it be His will)
2) Fervently (“the effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.”)
2. Elders should not only pray, but see that appropriate medical aids are provided
a. In a century where hospitals were non-existent, and physicians were rare, anointing with oil was a common treatment – Luke 10:34
b. In our present century, this would involve the elders making sure that the sick receive the treatment needed
3. The sick should also confess their sins, if they have any
a. Verse 15 makes it clear that sickness is not always the consequence of sin
b. But verse 16 and others (Like 1 Corinthians 11:29-32) suggests that illnesses may be God’s loving chastisement for sin, in an effort to direct us back to Him
c. In any case, sins need to be confessed and forgiveness sought if we hope to have God hear our prayers
Conclusion
1. However one interprets James 5:14-16, there is no dispute over the main thrust in this passage
a. Prayer and praise are very special privileges for the Christian
b. There is not a time in our life when we shouldn’t be doing one or the other
c. We must be careful not to underestimate:
1) The importance of praise
2) The power of prayer
2. But to truly benefit from these two spiritual exercises, we need to be in a right relationship with God
a. Which involves being open to God’s Word, “One who turns away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer is an abomination” – Proverbs 28:9
b. And being a doer of God’s will, “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven” – Matthew 7:21
Content by Donald W. Treadway
Return to the Home Page
What is Worship?
All of life is not worship.
In the modern era of religious pluralism, when anything that is offered to God with a modicum of sincerity is considered worship, many are left scratching their heads and wondering what worship really is. Some have come to the conclusion that all of life is worship and that we reverence God every time we put on our socks, or wash the dishes, or feed the cat. If people would just read the Bible, they could tell that all of life is not worship. Abraham understood this to be the case and expressed his understanding in Genesis 22:5. Worship is something that human beings do purposefully and deliberately. But, even this realization still begs the question: “What is worship?”
“Worship” in the Christian Age.
Gospel preachers of the Restoration Movement have long preached about the so-called “five acts” of worship. Like the “five steps” in the gospel plan of salvation, the five acts of worship are entirely derived from the New Testament. While they may not appear in any one passage, as a neatly compiled list, they are no less detectable, when Scripture is compared with Scripture. There is no particular order in which five acts must be done, but they all must be done, in order to constitute “worship” in the Christian Age (John 4:23-24).
The church is commanded to sing
We know that singing, for example, is one of the five acts of worship. We know this, because the church is commanded to sing in passages like Ephesians 5:19 and Colossians 3:16. We know that this singing is part of our worship because of passages like 1 Corinthians 14:15 and Hebrews 2:12. Furthermore, we know that this singing is to be done without accompaniment of mechanical instruments of music, because none of the passages that mention singing in the New Testament authorize us to do anything more or less than sing.
Prayer is mentioned as part of worship.
Also, we know that prayer is one of the five acts of worship. Christians are commanded to “pray without ceasing,” in 1 Thessalonians 5:17. Prayer is mentioned as part of worship in passages like 1 Corinthians 14:15. Passages like Matthew 6:5-15 teach how we ought to pray, both in public and in private.
Disciples came together and partook of the Lord’s Supper.
Additionally, we know that observance of the Lord’s Supper is one of the five acts of worship. When Jesus instituted this memorial feast, He said, “this do, in remembrance of me” (Luke 22:19b). In 1 Corinthians 11:26, Paul wrote, “For as often as ye eat this bread and drink this cup, ye do show the Lord’s death till he come.” Acts 20:7 shows us that, on the first day of every week, the disciples came together and partook of the Lord’s Supper, as they worshipped (Cf. 1 Corinthians 11:20-21).
Giving of our means is worship.
Furthermore, we know that giving of our means is one of the five acts of worship. Ancient Christians were taught to give of their means on the first day of every week, when the church was assembled for worship (1 Corinthians 16:1-2). Ancient Christians did not give “tithes” of their income, but rather they were taught to give an offering of their own free will, which might even exceed ten percent (2 Corinthians 9:6-7).
Preaching was part of the worship services of the ancient church.
Finally, we know that preaching is one of the five acts of worship. Preaching was part of the worship services of the ancient church (Acts 20:7). Preaching is the method that God has chosen to disseminate His message to the whole world (1 Corinthians 1:21). Whether one simply reads the Scriptures aloud, or expounds upon their meaning, it is essential that the Word of the Lord be heard in the congregation of His people.
The “Five Acts” of Worship:
1. Singing (Ephesians 5:19)
2. Prayer (1 Thessalonians 5:17)
3. Communion (Acts 20:7)
4. Giving (1 Corinthians 16:1,2)
5. Preaching (1 Corinthians 1:21)
On the first day of the week (Sunday).
Apart from the five acts of worship, it is equally important for us to understand that we may worship God only on the first day of the week (Sunday). According to Acts 20:7, this was the day when the ancient church came together for just that purpose. The Bible does not authorize us to worship God on any other day. The Bible does authorize us to sing (James 5:13), pray (1 Thessalonians 5:17), give (Galalatians 6:10) and preach (2 Timothy 4:2) on other days of the week, but the only day in which we may rightly do all of the five acts of worship together is the “Lord’s day” (Revelation 1:10).
God sets the standard.
Let there be no confusion about worship in anyone’s mind. Worship is a special event, in the lives of all of God’s children. Worship is not whatever we might imagine it to be. It is what God demands of us, and it is only right that He should set the standard of what is and is not Scriptural worship.
Content by Russell Kline
Return to the Home Page