Historical Posts
Psalm 67 – Audio
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Psalm 67 is praise to God for:
- Who He is
- What He has done
- What He will do for all nations.
Writers of the New Testament also remind us of who He is, what He has done, and what He will do. They help us get a clearer picture of what the Psalmist wrote about.
1. God is merciful to us and will bless us (Psalm 67:1, 6-7).
a. Jesus told how the tax collector prayed, “God, be merciful to me a sinner (Luke 18:13)!” This was a prayer that could be offered by all of us, who need the mercies of God.
b. He has richly blessed us through Christ (Ephesians 1:3).
2. His way is known on earth; His salvation is available to everyone everywhere (Psalm 67:2).
a. Jesus is the Way (John 14:6).
b. Apollos was instructed in the way of the Lord, but only knew of the baptism of John at the time (Acts 18:24-25).
c. We come to God by a “new and living way (Hebrews 10:19-20).”
d. Salvation is only found in Christ (Acts 4:12).
e. The gospel is God’s power to save (Romans 1:16-17).
3. Everyone will praise God (Psalm 67:3, 5).
a. We have obtained mercy, and proclaim His praises (1 Peter 2:9).
b. We sing praises to God (Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16).
c. Everyone will submit to Christ to the glory of God (Philippians 2:9-11).
4. God will judge people righteously (Psalm 67:4).
a. The Lord is the righteous Judge (2 Timothy 4:8).
b. The Father has committed all judgment to His Son (John 5:22).
Psalm 67 is a very comforting Psalm.
God has blessed us and saved us through Christ, and that is why we sing His praises! Have you accepted the salvation He has provided in Jesus?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
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1 Timothy 1:12-17 – The Salvation Pattern of Paul – Audio
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Text: 1 Timothy 1:12-17 (Reading by Andy Anderson)
Paul tells Timothy all that Christ had done for him, of his salvation pattern. Saul, as Paul was originally known, caused great havoc in the church (Acts 8:3). He was a great opponent of the cause of Christ! However, because of the exceedingly abundant grace and rich mercy of the Lord, he was able to become a great worker in the kingdom of Christ as his salvation pattern comes to a conclusion in Acts 9.
I. Paul received grace as the first part of his salvation pattern.
A. Saul became Paul by the grace of God (1 Corinthians 15:9-10).
B. Paul received grace in order to preach the gospel (Ephesians 3:7-8; Galatians 1:15-16).
C. Grace reigns through righteousness to eternal life through Jesus Christ (Romans 5:20-21).
D. Paul said we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins according to the riches of His grace (Ephesians 1:7).
E. God’s purpose and grace in Christ saves us (2 Timothy 1:8-11).
II. Mercy was included in his salvation pattern.
A. Paul obtained mercy because he persecuted Christ and the church ignorantly in unbelief (1 Timothy 1:13; Acts 17:30).
B. We are saved through mercy, poured out abundantly on us through Jesus Christ (Titus 3:5-7).
III. Paul was saved in baptism to complete his salvation pattern; We can be saved in like manner!
A. The grace of God brings salvation and has appeared to all men (Titus 2:11; 2 Corinthians 4:15).
B. We are all sinners, justified by the grace of God (Romans 3:23-26).
C. Grace accompanies faith and love in Christ Jesus (1 Timothy 1:14; 2 Timothy 1:13; 2:22; Acts 22:16).
D. Paul received grace and apostleship for obedience to the faith through Christ (Romans 1:5).
E. Though Christ we have access by faith into grace (Romans 5:2).
F. God, who is rich in mercy, saves us by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:4-8).
G. Christians have obtained mercy and proclaim the praises of God (1 Peter 2:9-10; 1 Timothy 1:12, 17).
Paul received grace and mercy. He was then saved when he responded by submitting to baptism in water to be added to the church. All Christians have followed that same salvation pattern. We have received grace and mercy; we are saved when we respond and complete the exact same salvation pattern we see demonstrated by Paul!
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
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God’s Desire for Man – Audio
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God’s Desire for Man is TwoFold
Even though man may have many desires, God has two connected desires for man. God’s desire for man is that man may be saved and that man may come to the knowledge of the truth. We can see God’s desire expressed for us in 1 Timothy 2:3-4: “For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” Let’s look closer at God’s desire and how he enables it to come about.
First, God’s desire is that all men may be saved.
- God desires that man will cease unrighteousness and begin righteousness (Ezekiel 18:20-28).
- God’s desire is that man will accept and follow His Son (John 3:17; 1 Timothy 4:10).
- God desires that man would accept His saving grace (Titus 2:11; Ephesians 2:5,8).
- God’s desire is that man will repent of sin (2 Peter 3:9; Luke 13:3,5).
Second, God’s desire is that all men will come to the knowledge of the truth.
- Jesus, God’s Son, said we can know what truth is (John 8:32).
- Jesus bears witness to the truth (John 18:37).
- There are three sources of truth:
1) Jesus is true (John 14:6),
2) God is true (John 17:3)
3) God’s Word is true (John 17:17).
God’s desire for you is clear – Learn and Obey His Truth to be Saved!
He desires for you to be saved and has provided the truth for you to know and follow unto salvation. This truth is shown to us in three ways: God has revealed Himself, sent His Son, and left His Word. These three aspects of truth lead us to salvation. Will we follow Him and accept it?
Is Our Desire Aligned with God’s Desire?
For us to grasp the salvation offered by God, our desire must align with God’s. Our desire must be to come to the knowledge of the truth and obey it, for the truth will set us free! When we learn the truth and obey it, our unrighteousness may cease, and our righteousness will begin.
Do you have a desire to be saved?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
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Antiquated or Outdated?
Is the Bible Outdated or Antiquated?
Times have changed since Jesus walked the paths of Galilee. How could his message be relevant in a modern, technological society? The Bible is outdated! You’ve heard the arguments before. At first these assertions sound plausible, but look more carefully. Is the Bible outdated?
Things aren’t that much different.
Sure, we’ve made enormous technological advances, but people are still the same, and we still have the same problems.
- From an Egyptian letter dated 256 B.C., someone wrote:
“I am in difficulty both summer and winter about my salary.” - Cicero, an astute Roman statesman (106-46 B.C.) observed:
“The first of June and nothing done by the Senate.” - Socrates (470-399 B.C.) complained:
“Athletics have become professionalized.” - And, one of the most interesting comments of all was made by Emperor Diocletian when he wrote:
“Who has not seen with his own eyes the present spirit which forces up the price of commodities to such a degree that human language cannot find words to express the transaction?”
The Bible is a book about men, not machines.
The Bible is a message from God to man. It addresses the one problem that has plagued every generation since Adam and Eve ate of the forbidden fruit. That problem is SIN! Science and technology cannot solve it. But, Jesus offers a solution. He was “made to be sin for us, who knew no sin, that we might be made the righteousness of God in him” (2 Corinthians 5:21). The world may have changed since Jesus traveled the roads of Palestine, but people are still the same.
As we enter a new age of technology in the 21st century, man must still confront the “age-old” problem of sin. The only solution will still be Jesus. He is “the same yesterday, and today, and forever” (Hebrews 13:8).
Some may ask, “If the Bible is still relevant, why is there so much sin in the world, and why does it seem that religion has failed?” The answer is quite simple. The solution to a problem will only work when it is followed. The message of Christ is ignored by millions. Many of the major denominations make no effort to be governed by the Bible and its authority. They have succumbed to the pressures of compromise, but God’s word is uncompromising.
Christ, His Word, and His Church are as relevant as ever.
He is every generation’s only hope. Today, and every day, we must remember him.
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Water and Salvation
Introduction
A. By having a better appreciation for the Old Testament, we may have a better understanding of the New Testament. In fact, the things “written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope (Romans 15:4).”
B. Thus, with a better appreciation of Noah’s relationship to God, we can have a better understanding of our relationship with Him.
Body
I. God saved Noah through water.
A. The wickedness of man was great; the intents of man’s hearts were only evil continually (Genesis 6:5).
B. God planned to destroy man from the face of the earth (Genesis 6:7).
C. Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD (Genesis 6:8-9).
1) He was a just man.
2) He was “perfect” in his generations.
3) He walked with God.
D. Noah built the ark according to God’s instructions, and gathered the right number and kind of animals (Genesis 6:13-22).
E. The floods came, and those on the earth perished; Noah and his family were saved (Genesis 7:1-24).
II. God saves us through water.
A. All men have sinned (Romans 3:23; Galatians 3:22).
B. God destroys those who serve sin, yet saves those willing to serve Him (2 Peter 2:4-5; Romans 6:23).
C. God’s grace has appeared to all men (Titus 2:11; 2 Timothy 1:9-11).
D. We are saved by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:1-8; Hebrews 11:6-7; Romans 4:13-16; James 2).
E. As eight souls were saved through water, so baptism saves us (1 Peter 3:18-21).
1) Christ sanctifies and cleanses the church with the washing of water by the word (Ephesians 5:25-27).
2) We must be born of water and the Spirit in order to enter the kingdom of God (John 3:5).
3) Baptism allows us to die to ourselves, to be buried with Christ, and to rise again in a newness of life (Romans 6:1-7; Acts 8:36-39).
Conclusion
A. Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD.
B. He had faith in Him, and did what God commanded of Him.
C. God’s grace that brings salvation has appeared to all of us.
D. Are we willing to do what He commands us?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
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Heed the Warning
Heed the Warning from God
There are many kinds of warnings that are available to us in this world. A siren sounds when a tornado has been sighted. A horn blows before an accident is about to occur. An announcement is made when there is a certain amount of time left in the game. Sometimes people warn us that if we do a certain thing, we will suffer the consequences. But these are not the most important warnings.
As Paul was on his voyage to Rome, he knew very well that the increased winds and other factors meant that the voyage would end in disaster. In fact, he told those in charge of him, “Men, I perceive that this voyage will end with disaster and much loss, not only of the cargo and ship, but also our lives (Acts 27:10).” Sure enough, the centurion was more persuaded by the helmsman and owner of the ship than he was by Paul. As they continued on their journey, a storm arose and they had to lighten the ship, losing their cargo. Thankfully their lives were spared.
Just as they did not heed Paul’s warning from God, many do not heed God’s warning today. Historically, many prophets warned the people to repent or disaster would strike. Some listened, yet others did not, and we can see the consequenses. Today we must heed God’s warning and be obedient to Him, or else we will suffer eternal consequenses. Remember the words of the song, “Careless soul, o heed the warning, for your life will soon be gone; o how sad to face the judgment, unprepared to meet thy God.” Are you ready to face the judgment? Prepare yourself now. Heed the warning.
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
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Make the Most of Today
Make the Most of Today
Dale Carnegie observed, “One of the most tragic things I know about human nature is that all of us tend to put off living. We are all dreaming of some magical rose garden over the horizon instead of enjoying the roses that are blooming outside our windows today.” In a sense, the Psalmist said the same thing. He wrote: “This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it” (Psalm 118:24, KJV).
Someone else has written: “Today is the day I have been looking for. All my life has been spent in preparation for it. Yesterday and tomorrow are faraway nothings – the one a faint memory, the other a vague promise. But this is my day. It offers all that God has to give, and I’m a laggard or a coward if I fail to make the most of it.” We need to make the most of today. We cannot afford to spend all of our time regretting the past or daydreaming about the future. If we do, we miss out on the present. Nor can we afford to live today in fear. Life is too brief and time too precious for us to do that.
Yet, there is a sense in which all of us must be vitally concerned about both the past and the future. A relationship with Christ will take care of both and enable us to make the most of today, to live today. Through obedience to the demands of Jesus Christ we can have all our past sins washed away (Acts 22:16). In this new relationship with Him, we can also live with heaven before us (John 14:1-3). As long as we walk in the steps of Jesus our future will remain secure (1 John 1:7). With the past forgiven, and the future secured, the present takes on greater significance. Jesus came so that we could live an abundant life (John 10:10). As a Christian we can face each day with confidence. With a smile on our face and a song in our heart life becomes an adventure. Each day offers new joys, rewards, pleasures and opportunities. Life is worth living and we can make the most of today.
But, if we remove Christ from the picture there is no hope and no forgiveness. The past will haunt us and the future will frighten us. The good news is that Jesus can make a difference, if we will let Him.
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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In The Likeness
Thanks to Al Parr, working with the Saline Church of Christ, for the content of this post.
Romans 6:5 – “For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection“
Therefore, those baptized for another reason – in another likeness – are not in the likeness of His resurrection – are not walking in newness of life (Romans 6:4), and have not crucified the old man (Romans 6:6), and are neither dead unto sin, nor alive unto God (Romans 6:11). The likeness of the death and the likeness of the resurrection are linked.
Sincere people often ask, and several have asked on FaceBook pages, “even though I was immersed in that other church, do I need to be immersed again?” Think on this, and then answer the question. Salvation is not based on immersion; it is the result of transforming conversion:
- When one is baptized because he believes (Mark 16:16)
- When he is baptized because he knows that is what God requires for his salvation (1 Peter 3:21)
- When he is baptized as a willing and submissive response to the authority of Jesus (Matthew 28:19)
When baptism is based on these things, one is saved by the grace of God, and not by his own choices and actions (Ephesians 2:8-9). Think on these things and determine your answer about being immersed again.
“IF we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, (THEN) we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection.” Did you only give your body to the water, or did you give your heart to Jesus Christ?
Al Parr works Confirming the Churches and preaches at the Saline Church of Christ
7300 East Michigan Avenue
Saline, MI 48176
734-429-4319
Content by Zachary Van Tassel
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Jesus Our Savior
We are all drowning spiritually. And, there is a Savior. But sadly, most reject his help. It makes no sense.
Have you ever been lost? It’s a frightening thing to be lost and alone and need a savior! Maybe as a child you were separated from your mother in a larger department store. Perhaps you were a hunter on new terrain. Unfamiliar with the topography, you became disoriented. Or, you took the wrong exit on the freeway and ended up in unfamiliar surroundings. Whatever the situation, we have all been there and needed help.
- The heart races.
- The palms sweat.
- Panic sets in.
- An overwhelming sense of helplessness and despair fills the soul.
- It seems hopeless.
- Something terrible is bound to follow.
Do you remember how relieved you were when a clerk calmly reassured you that everything would be all right and helped you locate you mother (or child)? Or, you saw a familiar landmark and found the path back to camp? Or, you saw a sign pointing you in the right direction, and were soon on track again? Whoever, or whatever the savior, there was a deep sense of relief and gratitude.
Now, imagine something even more frightening. Your boat has capsized in the middle of the Ohio river. You neglected to wear your life jacket, and you are a mediocre swimmer at best. You can stay afloat for a few minutes, but if help does not come soon, it will be over. Suddenly, out of nowhere, a boat pulls alongside and offers assistance. How would you respond? No right thinking person would reject such an offer, would they?
The fact is, we are all drowning spiritually. And, there is a Savior. But sadly, most reject his help. It makes no sense. He is the only Savior (Acts 4:12). Reject Him, and there is no hope. Death is inevitable without His help. Again, you would think no one would reject his offer, but they do. Millions do!
Let me urge you not to make the mistake of turning your back on the only Savior there is. John Rowe wrote: “I was sinking deep in sin, far from the peaceful shore, very deeply stained within, sinking to rise no more; but the Master of the sea heard my despairing cry, from the waters lifted me, now safe am I.”
Jesus came to rescue all of us, but He can only save those who reach out to Him. Do you believe (John 8:24)? Have you repented (Luke 13:3)? Have you been baptized (Acts 2:38)? Is He your Savior?
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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Good News for Everyone
Do you really believe the good news?
Somewhere not far from Bethlehem shepherds watched over their flocks at night. Suddenly the angel of the Lord appeared. The brightness of his glory struck terror in their hearts. Then the angel spoke good news: “Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:10-11).
The world would never be the same. Hope would be restored to the hearts of men. Salvation had been brought down. The Prince of peace, the Lord of lords, the King of kings had come. It was for this solitary life the world had been waiting.
His long anticipated coming was good news. But His birth was only part of the story. The babe in the manger was destined to become the Christ of the cross. He provided a foundation for ethics and morality which would never be surpassed. At the heart of His system was the idea that we should treat others as we desire to be treated (Matthew 7:12). He set an example in speech and conduct which was unassailable. He did no sin (1 Peter 2:22). He offered Himself as the sin bearer for mankind reconciling man and his Maker (2 Corinthians 5:18-21). This He accomplished at great personal cost (2 Corinthians 8:9). He was the Son of God. He was the way to God (John 14:6).
I am thankful that each year the world pauses to remember the good news of His birth. At this time of year the hearts of many are more open to the needs of others. Generosity, kindness, and compassion are all more noticeable. But, I would hope that we would look beyond His birth to the events of His life, death and resurrection, and that we would let Him draw out the best in us throughout the year.
If we give place to Jesus in our hearts but twice a year (at Christmas and Easter), I am convinced we have no real understanding or appreciation for the “good news” declared at His birth. However, if we believe the biblical narrative and acknowledge Christ to be the Lord, then His life will have a profound and positive impact on our lives every day of the year. Do you really believe the good news? Real belief takes action.
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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Jeremiah 32:16-23 – Jeremiah’s Prayer – audio
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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
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Mark 08:34-37 – Your Soul is Priceless – audio
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Text: Mark 8:34-37 (Reading by Andy Anderson)
Introduction
A. Prices are put on a lot of things in this world, but they are only temporary.
B. A price cannot be put on an eternal soul!
Body
I. God gave us a soul.
A. God breathed into man’s nostrils, and he became a living soul (Genesis 2:7).
B. God said all souls belong to Him (Ezekiel 18:4).
C. The LORD cares for the soul (Psalm 23:3).
II. God put us in charge of our souls.
A. The soul that sins shall die (Ezekiel 18:4); therefore a sinner must turn from the error of his way (James 5:20).
B. Lot tormented his righteous soul by seeing and hearing lawless deeds (2 Peter 2:8).
C. The Word of God is able to save our souls (James 1:21).
1) It pierces to the division of soul and spirit (Hebrews 4:12).
2) We must believe God’s Word (Hebrews 10:39).
3) We must obey God’s Word (1 Peter 1:22).
D. God sent Jesus Christ, who can save our souls.
1) As the blood makes atonement for the soul (Leviticus 17:11), so the blood of Christ cleanses our soul (Matthew 26:28; Hebrews 9:22).
2) He is the Shepherd and Overseer of our souls (1 Peter 2:25). Thus, we must be submissive to those who follow Christ, watching out for our souls (Hebrews 13:17).
3) We must commit our souls to Him, and do His will (1 Peter 4:19).
E. We must abstain from fleshly lusts that war against the soul (1 Peter 2:11).
F. We must give up our lives, and this world we live in (Luke 9:23-25; Mark 8:34-37).
III. The soul of man will be eternally saved or lost.
A. We must not fear those that can only destroy the body, but rather fear Him who has the power to destroy both body and soul in hell (Matthew 10:28).
B. We must not only fear Him, but also keep His commandments (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14).
C. Those that do not listen to Christ will be destroyed (Acts 3:20-23).
D. The soul that sins shall die (Ezekiel 18:4,20).
E. The rich man’s soul was required of him, as he made the wrong investment of the world instead of his soul (Luke 12:16-21).
Conclusion
A. Are you taking care of your soul?
B. If your soul was required today, where would you spend eternity?
Content by Richard Dillon
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Hebrews 10:22 – It is Good for Me to Draw Near to God – audio
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Scripture Reading: Psalm 73:27-28 KJV
Lesson Text: Hebrews 10:22
Introduction
A. In this message, it is my goal to encourage you to draw closer God that you might have a right relationship with God, instead of being alienated from Him – Psalm 34:18.
B. A broken heart, and a contrite heart are minds whom have allowed the Spirit of truth (to crush or bruise their spirit), to convict them of their sins with sorrowful remorse.
C. Discussion concerning Peter and his remorseful spirit – Matthew 26:75.
D. Many people fail to draw closer to God because they have an obscured view of God.
(1) Some have a transcendent only view of God as being far, distant, and uninvolved, due to God’s power and his infinite knowledge – Psalm 147:5.
(2) Others do not draw close to God because they blame him (God) for all the thorns and briars in their lives – James 1:17; John 10:10.
(3) A great number will not draw near to God because they have become friends of the world and enemies of the cross of Christ – James 4:4; Philippians 3:18-19.
a. It is always difficult to get close to someone whom you are at odds with!
E. It is good for me to draw closer to God:
(1) because it is through the sacrifice of Jesus, that I can be reunited with God and have everlasting life – 2 Corinthians 5:17-18
(2) I can have my sins forgiven and be made whole through Jesus – Ephesians 1:3, 7.
Body
I. Let Us Draw Near with a True Heart in Full Assurance of Faith
A. One of the essentials of becoming a Christian and drawing closer to God is having a pure heart – Hebrews 10:22.
(1) This is a heart free from, or mixed with anything which defiles or contaminates the mind such as the sinful things of this world – Matthew 6:24; James 4:4.
(2) In Psalm 24:3-5, the word of the Lord describes the type of character who will dwell with the Lord – James 4:8.
a. This type of character, having a true heart, will require you to deny yourself and follow Jesus to gain the blessing of having a right relationship with God – Mark 8:34-38.
b. In (Matthew 19:16-22), the rich young ruler wanted eternal life but he fail to deny himself and follow Jesus.
B. We draw closer to God by having true heart in full assurance of faith in God – Romans 10:17; Hebrews 11:6.
(1) This is a complete trusting in what God says is true, and acting on it by obeying God (You know what you know is right because God said it).
(2) Noah and Abram trusted God and obey Him and where blessed – Proverbs 3:5-10.
II. You Hearts Must be Sprinkled from an Evil Conscience and Washed in Pure Water
A. The Hebrew writer says to draw closer to God your hearts need to be sprinkled from an evil conscience (repentance) – 2 Corinthians 7:9-10.
(1) In the Old Testament the blood of an animal was sprinkled by the priest on the altar to make atonement (Leviticus 1:1-9;1:10-13).
(2) In the New Testament your sins are made clean through the blood of the Lamb – Revelation 1:5-6.
B. To draw closer to God, we must recognize there is a barrier called sin keeping us separated from God.
(1) You and I can be brought near to God through the blood of Jesus Christ – Ephesians 2:13.
(2) We do this by having our bodies washed in pure water being baptized (immersed) into Jesus death, the place where His blood was shed – Romans 6:3-4; I Peter 3:21.
Conclusion
A. If you are not a Christian, you can draw closer to Him by faith, repentance, and baptism – Acts 2:38.
B. If you are a Christians whom has drift far away from God, why not get closer to Him – James 4:7-10.
C. Now is the time to get closer to God because tomorrow is not promised.
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Harry (Andy) Anderson Jr.Return to the Home Page
Noah’s Faith and Ours
Noah was saved through his faith; will your faith save you?
Recently, Brother Brian Giselbach conducted our gospel meeting on “Foundations of Faith.” His last lesson was centered on helping us when our faith becomes weak. One person that came to my mind who had his faith often challenged was Noah. Just imagine how Noah was mocked, ridiculed, and ignored while building the ark God instructed him to make. Imagine the possible doubts. Would it really rain? What indeed was rain? Did God know what He was talking about?
“By faith Noah, being divinely warned of things not yet seen, moved with godly fear, prepared an ark for the saving of his household, by which he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness which is according to faith (Hebrews 11:7).” Noah knew it was going to rain based on God’s warning, and did what God told him. Because he found grace in the eyes of God (Genesis 6:8), Noah showed he was willing to listen and obey Him. When the rains came down, the ark went up! Noah and his family were saved by water and the unrepentent and sinful world was lost.
Today, God warns us of things not yet seen. The Bible, God’s Word, tells us what will happen to those that obey Him; it also tells us what will happen to those that do not obey Him.
We, too, must be moved with godly fear. We cannot come to God without faith (Hebrews 11:6), and that faith must work (James 2:17,20). Noah was saved in water, and today the waters of baptism help us be saved from our sins through the blood of Christ. Jesus said, “He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned (Mark 16:16).” Baptism is for the remission of sins (Acts 22:16).
Noah was saved through his faith; will your faith save you? Will you act in faith and accept the salvation offered in Christ?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
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FOF – Jesus Christ: The Way, The Truth, and The Life – audio
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Foundations of Faith |
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· Why Should I Have Faith When Evil And Suffering Are In The World? |
Jesus Christ: The Way, The Truth, and The Life
Introduction
1. John 14:1-6
2. It is the evening before the crucifixion, and Jesus still has so much to say to His disciples. Important things!
3. Part of His discourse to the disciples is recorded in John 13-16. He is going away, but He assures them that they know where He is going and that they know the way.
a. Thomas answered Him abruptly: “Lord, we do not know where You are going, and how can we know the way?”
b. Jesus said to Him in that amazing statement for the ages: “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6).
4. Today we will investigate this amazing statement in view of appreciating its unequaled value to men and women in need of a Savior.
Body
I. Let us observe some of the implications of the statement:
A. The words of Jesus imply that all people fit into two basic groups (John 3:16; Matt.25:31-46; Matt.13:36-43; Matt.7:13-14; Matt.25:1-13; John 5:28-29).
B. The words of Jesus mean that the way to God is absolute and singular (Matt.7:13-14; Acts 4:12).
C. The words of Jesus propose that we are out of touch with God, that we need to come to God, and that we can come to God (Heb.10:20).
II. One of the messages to be derived from the words of this text is the tragedy and ruin of life without Christ!
A. Why Jesus came.
1. There are many ways the Bible describes our wayward and sinful condition before God. Here’s the way Paul said it: Ephesians 2:12. Jesus said it this way: John 15:5.
2. Being without Christ is the worse thing in the world to happen to us because of who He is. He came to be our Lord, our Counselor, our Savior, our Shepherd, and our Friend. He wants to be all of these things to you.
3. Consider three points from Jesus’ description of Himself (as our bridge to God):
B. Because Jesus is the way, without Him we are lost!
1. A lost dog, a lost car, a lost ring, a lost billfold, a lost child, a lost cause – all of these things excite and alarm us because they all have to do with things that are valuable to us.
2. Jesus came into the world because – by Heaven’s valuation – we have lost the most valuable possession we have: our souls.
3. See Matthew 16:26. This question was asked by the One who came to save the soul. He asked it in order to make us think; to remind us of the value of the soul.
4. What is the soul? It is your essence as a human being (minus your physical body). You are a spiritual being with thoughts, and memory, and personality. And God has ordained you to live forever.
5. Nothing is more valuable than your soul, and Jesus is the way to find it!
C. Because Jesus is the truth, without Him we are in error!
1. Truth is that which corresponds to reality. Sadly, truth and reality have fallen on hard times. The very idea of truth is often rejected. Sometimes people say, “You have your truth, and I have my truth!”
2. And yet, even as we deny truth, we meet it everyday.
3. You need to know: Jesus was not a speculator in the world of think-so, uncertainty, or subjectivity. Based on the reality of God, the reality of sin, and the reality that God is going to judge the world in righteousness (Acts 17:31), Jesus came to bring us to God! We need to know this, and be sure of it, because it is true!
4. Jesus said: “And where I go you know, and the way you know” (John 14:4). Jesus was going to the Father. Can we go to the Father also? Yes…”and the way you know.” Thomas asked: “Lord…how can we know the way?” One of the things Jesus said in reply was: “I am…the truth…”
5. Here is what this means: Jesus Christ is the source and embodiment of all that we need to know to reach Heaven (John 8:32; Col.1:3-6; Rom.6:17-18; John 8:46; Gal.3:1).
6. This is one of the most important things you need to consider when it comes to understanding and accepting the truth about something: The process depends as much on the integrity of the listener as it does the veracity of the message!
7. Jesus Christ is the truth. He can save you from error and deception. But you have to “love the truth” (2 Thess.2:10). And that requires a sincere and noble heart.
D. Because Jesus is the life, without Him we are dead (John 1:4; John 10:10; John 11:25-26).
1. Before Jesus was our Savior, He was our Creator. As our Creator, He is our source of life (“in Him we live, and move, and have our being”; Acts 17:28).
2. Jesus is the only way to reach God! When a man or woman is baptized into Christ, there is an infusion of life (so that the soul is no longer dead to God; Rom.6:5).
3. In Jesus Christ, whatever we lack, one thing is certain: We will never be short of life!
4. Do you know what it means to be a Christian? It means new life (2 Cor.5:15).
5. Live or die, come what may, Jesus is our life. And because He is our life, we count not our lives dear to ourselves (Acts 20:24). Only in Jesus Christ is there power to overcome death (and we become more than conquerors; Rom.8:37)!
6. Jesus said (after calling us to commitment): “Whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.” (Matt.16:25)
Conclusion
1. Thomas a Kempis, commenting on John 14:6, wrote these immortal words in honor of Jesus: “I am the way, the truth, and the life. Without the way there is no going; without the truth there is no knowing; without the life there is no living.”
2. Our absolute and inescapable dependence on Jesus Christ is affirmed! Never forget what He said: “No one comes to the Father except through Me!”
3. It was a powerful thing to say. But you have power too! You have the power to obey Him or reject Him!
4. Some are angered by the exclusivity of His words (and want nothing to do with Him)! How much better, and wiser, to consider the possibility that He is, in fact, the only way to the Father!
5. It should be to our surprise and amazement that access to God has been graciously provided at all! Who are we to place God under our judgment and reject His grace?
Content by Brian Giselbach
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Let Freedom Ring
Let freedom ring. Freedom in our country and, even more importantly, freedom in Christ, freedom from sin.
On July 4th this nation again celebrated Independence Day. I am grateful for the holiday and what it represents. I have difficulty imagining what it would be like to grow up in any other environment. It is the longing of the human heart to be free.
But, there is a freedom even more precious than that we know as citizens of the United States, where we let freedom ring in our physical world. It is the spiritual freedom we find in Jesus Christ. He said, “You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:32).
Apart from Christ, all men are enslaved to sin. Sin is the great burden of a man’s heart. We are helpless to remove it. We are condemned by it. Its consequences are both immediate and eternal. Paul cried out, “Wretched man that I am! Who will set me free from the body of this death?” (Romans 7:24). And then he proclaimed, “Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Romans 7:25).
On the Lord’s Day Christians gather around the world to remember His sacrifice and the freedom it made possible – freedom from the condemnation of sin. “There is therefore no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death” (Romans 8:1-2). It is ony through Jesus that we can let freedom ring spiritually, freedom from sin.
The cost of freedom is never cheap. The blood of many a native son has been shed to provide and maintain our freedom. To secure our deliverance from sin required an even greater sacrifice – the blood of God’s own Son.
On the 4th we let freedom ring loudly. As the bells of freedom ring throughout our land in celebration of Independence Day, let them also remind us of the greater freedom we have through Christ.
The freedom we enjoy as citizens is ours by birth. The freedom we have in Christ is ours by choice. It is truth, believed and acted upon, which secures for us the freedom Christ provides. Have you let freedom ring spiritually? Have you been set free from the bondage of sin? Do you believe that Jesus Christ was the Son of God? Have you repented of your sins? Will you confess His blessed name? Will you be born again (baptized)?
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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Wrong On So Many Levels
Former New York City Mayor, Michael Bloomberg, made a 50 million dollar donation to a program to promote gun control. He then said in a speech following the announcement:
“I am telling you, if there is a God, when I get to heaven I’m not stopping to be interviewed. I am heading straight in… I have earned my place in heaven. It’s not even close.”
The former mayor’s statement is one of the most arrogant things I’ve heard or read. Imagine, being so bold as to declare ones place in heaven on personal merit. Does he not know that we are all sinners? All sin and come short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). Contrast his attitude with the words of Jesus when He said: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:3).
Bloomberg seems to express some doubt about the existence of God, but he has no doubt about his own importance, or his place in heaven. Perhaps a little less faith in himself and a little more in the Almighty would be in order. Peter tells us to humble ourselves under the mighty hand of God that He might exalt us at the proper time.
Like most politicians, he seems to think that money can buy anything, and this is just wrong. Jesus once asked: “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his life? Or what shall a man give in return for his life?” (Matthew 16:26). I guess Mayor Bloomberg believes $50 million is sufficient. Somebody should tell him it doesn’t work that way. There isn’t enough money in the world to purchase a single soul’s salvation. Only the blood of Jesus can atone for sin (Ephesians 1:7).
The mayor totally misunderstands how God measures the size of ones gifts. God looks at the sacrifice rather than the sum. That is what Jesus taught when he contrasted the poor widow’s two mites with the sum of all the rich men’s gifts. In the eyes of God, her two mites were greater than the combined contributions of all the wealthy men (Mark 12:42-43). According to Forbes, as of April 18, 2014, Michael Bloomberg’s net worth was 32.1 billion dollars. After subtracting his $50 million contribution he was still left more than 32 billion dollars. I’m not a mathematician, but the way I figured it, his contribution wasn’t even 1 percent of his net worth, but a measly .0015576324 percent. Really, he sacrificed nothing, but he did get a lot of attention. Sadly, that may make him happy now, but it won’t help him in eternity.
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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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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Luke 13:22-30 – Lord, Are There Few Who Are Saved?
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Text: Luke 13:22-30
Introduction
A. One individual asked Jesus a question that a lot of people want to know: “Lord, are there few who are saved (Luke 13:23)?”
B. Everybody would like to be saved; in fact, many believe they are saved.
1) Some believe that God saves them no matter what
2) Others believe they cannot do anything to be saved.
C. Jesus’ answer is very eye opening. He said, “Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I say to you, will seek to enter and will not be able (Luke 13:24).”
D. Jesus encourages this individual to be saved, but then admits the reality is that not everyone will.
Body
I. Many have the ability to enter into everlasting life.
A. The gospel of Christ is the power unto salvation for everyone who believes (Romans 1:16).
B. Every creature must hear, believe, and obey the gospel in order to be saved (Mark 16:15-16).
C. From the beginning, God chose us for salvation through sanctification by the Holy Spirit and belief in the truth, to which He called us by the gospel (2 Thessalonians 2:13-14).
II. Few will be saved.
A. Many are called, but only few are chosen (Matthew 20:16; 22:14).
B. Some will die in sin, and cannot be where Christ is (John 8:21-24).
C. Jesus taught a parable in which not everyone the bridegroom invited were prepared to meet him (Matthew 25:1-13).
D. Jesus also taught that only those serving Him, the righteous, will inherit eternal life (Matthew 25:33-46).
III. We must commit ourselves to God, in order that we might be saved.
A. We make a commitment to do good (1 Peter 4:17-19).
B. We must strive to enter the narrow gate and the difficult way (Matthew 7:13-14).
C. We must do the Father’s will (Matthew 7:21-23).
D. We must life a faithful life, and endure to the end to be saved (Revelation 2:10; Matthew 10:22; 24:13; Mark 13:13).
Conclusion
A. Are there few who are saved?
1) Absolutely! God has called us all to have eternal life
2) But only has chosen those that are obedient to His will.
B. You can be one of the chosen few!
1) Choose to hear the gospel, believe it, and obey it.
2) Live faithfully to God until the very end.
Content by Richard Dillon
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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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